Family Encyclopedia >> Travel

Africa by Light at Beekse Bergen: A Magical Illuminated Safari Adventure

Love a family day at the zoo? Whether you're traveling with kids or indulging your own passion for wildlife, Beekse Bergen Safari Park now offers enchanting evening visits. Afraid of the dark? They've lit it up spectacularly with Africa by Light. After a successful debut last year, this year's event surpasses expectations. My family and I experienced it firsthand, and it's an absolute highlight—read on to discover why we were thrilled.

Table of contents

What is Africa by Light?

Africa by Light is a captivating collaboration between Beekse Bergen Safari Park and China Light. If you enjoy dazzling light displays, exotic animals, and festive winter vibes, this is the perfect outing. Explore a 2.5-kilometer illuminated walking route along the park's standard paths, now transformed by glowing animal and plant installations. And that's just the beginning...

The Big Five, from lion to (light) snake

Wildlife never fails to thrill. At Africa by Light, marvel at stunning luminous sculptures—no sharp claws or teeth to fear. Rhinoceroses and elephants bid you goodnight, including the mother and calf we recently watched arrive via special transport.

Read also: Special elephant transport Beekse Bergen

The park's live animals rest in their night enclosures, though we spotted a cheeky hyena still awake! 😊

The inner man

Hunger strikes? Food stalls offer glühwein, hearty stews, and African-inspired Christmas meals at open restaurants. Warm up with roasted marshmallows over fire pits or indulge in fresh waffles. Catch Djambo, Beekse Bergen's mascot, performing—paired perfectly with hot chocolate (or cappuccino for adults). Fun fact: Elephants fear mice!

Fantastic laser show

Start your visit with a breathtaking laser show: beams dance through the air amid projected clouds, synced to dynamic music. As a family who's seen many spectacles, we were mesmerized—the kids too! Check our video for more.

A must-see for photographers

Photography enthusiasts, this is unmissable. Even as hobbyists, we captured endless stunning shots and struggled to pick favorites. Professionals will thrive here.

Princess Fantasia and the skating rink

No winter event is complete without royalty. Princess Fantasia, resplendent in blue, holds court for photo ops with little princes and princesses. 😊

A covered skating rink adds fun, though it's synthetic plates rather than real ice—tricky for gliding. Still, it didn't dampen spirits; we're here for the lights!

Africa by Light: time for a light safari

Planning a zoo visit? Extend it into evening magic or come solo for Africa by Light (December 9 to January 22). Tickets from 5:00 PM—pair with daytime safari or enjoy standalone. We spent over 3.5 hours immersed, park closing at 9:00 PM. Dress warmly; evenings chill quickly! 😊