The much-loved WildED Holiday Camp returns to the Crocworld Conservation Centre in Scottburgh from 15 to 19 December, offering children aged 8 to 13 an unforgettable week of outdoor adventure, exploration, and hands-on learning. Early-bird specials have been extended to 28 November, saving families more for a full week of this nature-based experience – with single-day options also available.
This year, WildED is excited to introduce Keren Worlock, the camp’s lead outdoor educator, whose extensive international experience brings a new dimension to the programme. Her passion for the outdoors began before she could walk: “Swimming in the ocean before I could walk, face down in the dirt, exploring all the little critters we share our world with… my love for nature began as a toddler!”
Raised on the East Coast of South Africa, Keren went on to study Conservation and Marine Sciences with the aim of sharing her knowledge with children around the world. After more than 12 years of teaching in classrooms across multiple countries, she answered the call of the outdoors once again, moving to Bali to direct an outdoor education and ocean-awareness organisation that welcomed students from across Southeast Asia.
Today, she divides her time between South Africa – supporting Project Rhino and WildED Africa – and Southeast Asia as a specialist outdoor educator. Commenting on the upcoming camp, she said: “With our incredibly passionate WildED team, we help kids unplug, get their hands dirty, explore safely, connect with nature and each other. They will return home happily exhausted, giving parents a well-earned break too!”
Professionally Designed for Fun and Safety
The camp is planned alongside Matt Machell-Cox, co-owner of WildED Africa and Programme Director, who has over 20 years of local and international experience organising adventure camps. His expertise ensures the perfect balance of safety, structure, and high-energy fun.
“This year’s camp promises even more adventure and excitement,” says Machell-Cox. “We’ve added new activities like the Jikaleza Outdoor Adventures treetop rope course, along with all the favourites that keep kids engaged. It’s a fantastic opportunity for children to reconnect with nature, make new friends, and learn valuable conservation skills.”
For working parents, the WildED Holiday Camp offers a meaningful and practical solution during the busy December period. Children are kept busy outdoors and away from screens!
WildED Holiday Camp Programme
From 9am to 3.30pm daily (ending at 12.30pm on Friday), campers will participate in a range of exciting nature-based and adventure activities, including:
● Orienteering and outdoor navigation challenges
● A lighthouse hike exploring Scottburgh’s scenic coastline
● Helping the Crocworld team care for the centre’s fascinating animals
● Tree planting and conservation activities that give back to nature
● The Jikaleza Outdoor Adventures course to test balance and bravery
● A fun and challenging Adventure Race that ties all their skills together
All activities are supervised by trained facilitators and held in a safe, guided environment at the WildED Learning Hub @ Crocworld Conservation Centre.
Crocworld Conservation Centre Manager, Susan Badat, says the partnership continues to make a meaningful impact:
“This is such a great opportunity for youngsters to get out in nature and experience the lasting impact they can have in conservation. It’s time for kids to make lasting connections that positively shift how they view the world.”
WildED Holiday Camp Details
● Location: WILDED Learning Hub @ Crocworld Conservation Centre, Scottburgh, KZN South Coast
● Dates: Monday 15 to Friday 19 December
● Time: 9am to 3.30pm (Ends at 12.30pm on Friday)
● Ages: 8 to 13 years
● 5-Day rate: R1 970 for all five days | Early bird rate of R1 850 for sign-ups before 28 November
● Daily rate: R435 per child per day
● Sign-up link: https://forms.gle/eKoGXPoNTPLZ6kocA
● Follow: Instagram: wilded_africa
The fee includes Crocworld Annual Membership, all activities, and specialist equipment. Excludes transport, lunch, snacks, and medical insurance. Spaces are limited, so parents are encouraged to book early to secure a spot for their child.
More Festive Fun at Crocworld
Throughout December, visitors to Crocworld Conservation Centre can enjoy a host of festive fun, including:
● Two daily crocodile feedings at 11am and 3pm
● A surprise from the Secret Santa Pop-Up between 16 and 24 December
● Unique holiday gifts at the Curio Shop
On Monday, 16 December, Crocworld will celebrate Reconciliation Day and Henry’s 125th birthday with free cupcakes, local curio vendors, a jumping castle, and face painting. The festivities will also include a Parkrun Colour Run with prizes for the 2km and 5km races, as well as a Best Dressed award, making it a lively and unforgettable outing for the whole family.
The fun doesn’t end there because on New Year’s Day, the first 100 entrants into Crocworld will get a free Slushie from the Fish Eagle Café.
For more information about Crocworld Conservation Centre, call 039 976 1103, visit www.crocworld.co.za or Crocworld Conservation Centre on Facebook and Instagram. Visit Jikaleza Outdoor Adventures Facebook page for more information or call 068 255 7200 to book.