Norway is known for its breathtaking landscapes and majestic fjords, but it also offers exciting family-friendly activities like seal safaris. During our vacation in Southern Norway, we booked a selsafari (seal safari) with Kote Null. While we initially planned to explore the fjords by kayak, strong winds meant switching to a boat—a change that turned out to be perfect for a relaxed yet adventurous experience.
As we cruised along, the real magic began when we spotted the first seals basking on the rocks. The kids were thrilled, their eyes glued to the playful animals. Seal spotting in Norway became one of the most memorable experiences of our family trip, blending adventure, learning, and relaxation.
Sailing Through Fjords in Search of Seals
Originally, we had signed up for a kayaking tour, hoping to spot seals from up close while enjoying the surrounding nature. However, just a day before the safari, we were informed about the unfavorable wind conditions. The organizers recommended switching to a boat safari instead, as kayaking with children might be too challenging in such weather. Initially, I felt a bit disappointed, but once we boarded the boat the next day, I was grateful we didn’t have to paddle against the wind!
As we sailed out of the harbor, the serenity of the fjord surrounded us. The captain’s stories and the spectacular views kept us entertained throughout the journey. After some time, we finally saw them—seals lounging on the rocks, their sleek bodies glistening in the sunlight. We managed to approach quite closely without disturbing them.
The kids watched in awe, fascinated by the seals' relaxed behavior. The captain added humor to the experience by sharing fun facts, joking that the seals were so good at fishing that they were lowering the local fish population. His lightheartedness didn’t overshadow the fact that these animals have a real impact on the ecosystem.
Stories of the Fjord and Return to the Harbor
On our way back, the captain continued to share intriguing details about the region. He pointed out old houses along the shore, noting that homes with five windows at the front once belonged to successful sea captains. When our eldest noticed a house with six windows, the captain grinned, explaining that such homes belonged to shipowners—those with even greater wealth. The kids had fun spotting smaller houses and guessing that they must have belonged to the "poorer" locals.
The journey lasted about 90 minutes, which was perfect for the children. Just as the youngest was getting restless, we returned to the harbor. From there, we drove back to our campsite at Sørlandet Feriecenter, where the kids quickly returned to their favorite playground. The day was filled with new discoveries and adventures—highly recommended for families exploring Norway.
A Relaxing Stay at Sørlandet Feriecenter
Sørlandet Feriecenter is the perfect base for a laid-back family vacation on the beautiful coast of Risør, in Southern Norway. This family-friendly campsite offers a range of accommodations, including cabins, apartments, and camping spots for tents, caravans, and motorhomes. With modern amenities such as family bathrooms and communal kitchens, it provides everything you need for a comfortable stay.
There’s plenty to keep kids entertained, including playgrounds with trampolines, a mini-golf course, and a sandy beach for sunny days. For older children and adults, there are hiking and biking trails, beach volleyball courts, and opportunities to rent boats for fishing or exploring the fjords. One of the most popular day trips nearby is to Jettegrytene, a stunning natural swimming pool.
After a day of activities, families can relax in the heated pools or enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant, which serves pizza and other dishes. Sørlandet Feriecenter truly has everything for a fun and relaxing stay by the Norwegian coast.
A Final Stop: Den Lille Dyrehage
As our time in Norway came to an end, we decided to squeeze in one last adventure before catching the ferry in Larvik. After some debate, we settled on visiting Den Lille Dyrehage—a small zoo known for its hands-on experiences and unique animal encounters. Located in a charming village along the highway, the zoo features playgrounds, towering slides, and a variety of animals.
Our kids were so excited by the playgrounds that they barely noticed the animals at first! We eventually dragged them away to join a feeding session with kangaroos and emus, which quickly became another highlight of the day. The children delighted in giving the emus fruit and wandering among the friendly kangaroos.
Play, Explore, and Discover
Beyond the animal encounters, Den Lille Dyrehage offers an array of activities for children, including rope courses and trampoline nets scattered throughout the grounds. Although some obstacles were challenging, the kids enjoyed testing their limits with a little help from us. After burning off all their energy, we stopped at the zoo’s restaurant for a quick bite—jungle burgers for us and chicken nuggets with fries for the little ones.
One of the zoo’s hidden gems is a tropical greenhouse tucked behind the restaurant. As we entered, we found ourselves surrounded by exotic creatures, including lemurs, snakes, and even crocodiles. The kids couldn’t believe their luck when they were invited to pet a baby crocodile and pose for photos with a snake draped around their necks—an experience they won’t soon forget!
Practical Tips for Seal Spotting in Norway
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Book in Advance: We arranged our selsafari through Kote Null. Be sure to check the weather forecast and confirm the type of tour, as conditions may require changes from kayak to boat.
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Stay at Sørlandet Feriecenter: This family campsite in Risør offers heated pools, playgrounds, and easy access to nearby attractions.
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Visit Den Lille Dyrehage: This small zoo is perfect for a fun family outing, featuring Norway’s largest crocodile and plenty of play areas for kids.
If you’re curious about Norway’s maritime history, consider adding the Sjofartsmuseet in Aust-Agder or the Vitensenteret Arendal to your itinerary for more cultural insights.
Our trip to Southern Norway was a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, with unforgettable experiences like seal spotting and exploring a unique zoo. Whether you're traveling with young children or older ones, the region offers something for everyone. As we boarded the ferry home, the kids were already talking about their favorite moments—from seals in the fjord to holding snakes around their necks. Norway truly delivered a family vacation to remember!
