West Midland Safari Park launches animal-viewing lodges for overnight guests

West Midland Safari Park in Bewdley, Worcestershire, UK, has launched an "immersive overnight wildlife experience", offering guests the opportunity to view the zoo's animals from the comfort of their beds.

The attraction has opened its long-awaited Safari Lodges, which overlook cheetahs and African elephants in their newly-updated animal habitats.

There are eight lodges in total, with six of them offering overnight stays.

The double-story elephant lodges are themed with thatched roofs, accommodating up to five people.

They have large, open-plan living spaces with lounge, dining area and kitchenette.

The spacious balcony with outdoor seating offers views to watch elephants approach the pool in front of the lodges.

Meanwhile, the two single-story, detached cheetah lodges sleep up to six guests.

The living spaces feature large windows, spanning one side of the building offering panoramic views of the cheetahs in their new habitat.

A floor-to-ceiling window enables guests to watch cheetahs run and play.

Each lodge will offer free Wi-Fi, TV, coffee machine and mini bar, filled with local produce.

Safari Lodges short breaks will include breakfast and dinner, exclusive views of the animals in their natural setting and admission to the Safari Park and its attractions.

Wristbands for the Adventure Theme Park will also be included for those staying during the Park’s summer season.

The brand-new development forms the first phase of the Park’s Safari Lodges proposition, with more phases expected to start later this year, including a Red Panda Cottage experience, which will be the first of its kind.

Project Manager Neil James said: “It’s been thrilling to watch this amazing project grow into something so spectacular, and to have done it with conservation at the forefront of our minds when it came to the design and build throughout, has been hugely important.

“This development will leave an incredible legacy, not only for the guests who come to stay; but also in the form of the long-lasting support it will provide our amazing animals through revenue to continue to improve their facilities here at the Park.”

Chris Kelly, Managing Director at West Midland Safari Park, said: “It’s been a long journey, but we are absolutely delighted to have finally opened our doors and welcome guests to our Safari Lodges experience.

"I’m incredibly proud of what we have achieved, in delivering beautiful accommodation to offer guests the opportunity to stay onsite for the first time, but also in upgrading stimulating and enriching environments for the wonderful animals we have in our care.

"Our lodges are going to offer a special and unforgettable Safari-stay right here in the Midlands.

"Guests will be able to get closer than ever before to our wildlife and make friends with their animal neighbours.

"Being located on our reserves, guests will also have the chance to spot some of our other species and experience all the great attractions we have to offer, making it the perfect retreat for all the family."