Children’s Escape Game in Ghent: The Marsupilami Adventure
Exploring Ghent with kids can often mean navigating museums or busy streets, but this urban escape game offers a fresh, interactive way to discover the city. For about $23.16 per group, you and up to five others will spend roughly an hour and a half following clues, solving puzzles, and helping the adorable Marsupilami family avoid their hunter, Bring Mr. Backalive. The start point is at Saint Michael’s Bridge, a perfect central location with scenic views, and the game wraps up back where you began.
What we really love about this experience is how it blends treasure hunt excitement with light storytelling, making it appealing to both children and adults. Plus, the mobile app guides you clearly through each step—no need for a tour guide to hold your hand—so you’re free to explore at your own pace. Also, the game includes 24/7 online support and a three-year validity, giving you flexibility for a future visit or a rainy day.
On the flip side, there’s no food or drinks included, and you’ll need to have your smartphone charged and ready. Still, these small considerations are minor compared to the fun and educational value of solving puzzles while soaking in the sights of Ghent. This experience is best suited for families, groups of friends, or school outings looking for an active day that mixes sightseeing with problem-solving in a playful way.
Key Points
- Interactive Exploration: Combines city sightseeing with puzzle-solving for an engaging experience.
- Family Friendly: Perfect for children and adults, with an adventure that sparks teamwork.
- Flexible & Long-Lasting: Valid for up to 3 years, with 24/7 online support.
- Central Location: Starts at Saint Michael’s Bridge, offering picturesque views and easy access.
- Cost-Effective: At just over $23 per group, it offers a fun, value-packed activity.
- Authentic Discoveries: Encourages close observation of Ghent’s streets and monuments.
An Authentic, Fun-Filled Way to Explore Ghent
If you’re looking for a way to see Ghent beyond its usual tourist spots, this escape game offers a playful approach that keeps everyone engaged. Unlike traditional city tours, where you might just listen to a guide or read signs, here you’re actively involved in a story—helping Bibi, Bobo, Bibu, and their mom evade a hunter while uncovering the city’s secrets.
The game’s narrative, centered around the adorable Marsupilami family, adds a layer of charm. As you stroll through Ghent’s streets, you’ll encounter some characters who are your allies, and others who try to block your progress. The puzzles are designed to make you pay attention to your surroundings, which is a wonderful way for kids to develop observation skills while having fun.
For broader city exploration in Ghent, we've covered these other tours
The Itinerary and Experience
The experience begins at Saint Michael’s Bridge, from which you’ll explore Ghent’s vibrant streets. While the exact stops aren’t detailed, you can expect to explore notable landmarks, hidden corners, and perhaps some lesser-known spots that the game incorporates into its storyline.
The app serves as your guide, providing clues, challenges, and story snippets that keep the pace lively. The challenge is to solve puzzles, complete missions, and identify clues scattered across the city. Some characters will assist you, adding humor and warmth to your journey, while obstacles test your problem-solving skills.
Highlights and Why Travelers Love It
One of the biggest pluses, based on reviews, is the knowledgeable support from the provider, Coddy. Even though you’re navigating on your own, help is just a click away if you get stuck. The game also introduces a tiny slice of Ghent’s history, turning a simple puzzle hunt into an educational experience.
The review from a recent visitor sums it up: “A great family time. The game for children and parents and a little history around the monuments encountered during the investigation. We didn’t know the city of Ghent and we saw beautiful places with their description. Great value for money.” This underscores how well the game combines entertainment and learning, making it ideal for families wanting to keep children engaged while sightseeing.
Practical Details and What to Expect
You’ll need to bring your smartphone and ensure your battery doesn’t run out, as the entire experience relies on the app. The activity lasts roughly 90 minutes, giving enough time to enjoy a leisurely walk without feeling rushed. The meeting point at Saint Michael’s Bridge is centrally located, making access via public transportation straightforward.
The tour is available every day from noon to late evening—a flexible schedule for most travelers. Since it’s a private activity, only your group participates, allowing for a personalized experience.
Pricing and Value
At $23.16 per group, the cost is quite reasonable, especially considering it’s suitable for up to six people. For what you get—a guided adventure through Ghent that combines sightseeing with interactive storytelling—it offers excellent value. Plus, the game’s three-year validity means you can plan another visit or gift the experience to friends or family.
Who Will Benefit Most?
This escape game is perfect for families with children, especially those who enjoy puzzles and stories. It’s also great for couples or friends wanting a different way to see the city and share an adventure. If you’re on a budget but want a memorable, active sightseeing experience, this activity ticks all the boxes.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Your Time?
If you’re seeking a family-friendly activity that combines sightseeing with interactive fun, this game in Ghent ticks the box. The storyline involving the Marsupilami, the stunning street views, and the opportunity to discover hidden corners make it special. The cost is reasonable, and the long validity gives you peace of mind to plan around weather or other sightseeing plans.
The support and flexibility offered by Coddy add to the appeal, ensuring you won’t feel stranded if puzzles become tricky. And the authentic local experience—plus the chance to learn a bit about Ghent’s monuments—makes it more than just a game; it’s a mini-adventure immersed in the city’s charm.
This activity suits families, puzzle lovers, and curious explorers alike, especially those who want an active day with an added story element. If you’re tired of conventional tours and want something memorable, this is a playful, well-structured way to enjoy Ghent.
FAQ
Is this activity suitable for young children?
Yes, the game is designed to be family-friendly, engaging children alongside adults. It encourages teamwork and observation.
Do I need my own smartphone?
Yes, you must bring your smartphone and ensure it has enough battery life, as the game relies on the app.
How long does the game last?
The adventure takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, but you can take your time exploring Ghent at your own pace.
Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Full refunds are available if you cancel within this window.
Where does the activity start and end?
It begins at Saint Michael’s Bridge and ends back at the same point, making it easy to plan your day around it.
Is it a guided tour with a person?
No, it’s a private, self-guided activity using the mobile app, with online support available if needed.
Do I need to pay extra for anything during the tour?
No, food, drink, or other expenses are not included, so be prepared to bring snacks or plan to find a place to eat afterward.
Is this experience suitable for non-Belgians visiting Ghent?
Absolutely. The game is primarily based on exploring and solving puzzles, making it engaging for international visitors who want to see Ghent uniquely.
Embark on this playful adventure and discover Ghent in a way that’s tailored for families and curious explorers looking for a memorable, interactive experience.
More City Tours in Ghent
- Departure Private Transfer from Ghent City to Brussels Airport by Luxury Van
- Ghent: Guided City Tour with Chocolate Tastings
- Ghent: City Walk with Audio Guide in 7 Languages on your Phone
- Ghent Walking Tour – City Highlights and Beyond Tradition
- Ghent: Guided City Highlights Walking Tour with Light Meal
- Walking Tour – Ghent City Highlights and Beyond
More Tour Reviews in Ghent
More Ghent experiences we've covered
- Ghent: Discover Belgium’s Beer World with a Young Local
- Ghent : Comedy AudioGuide Ghent
- Explore Ghent’s Old Docks
- From Brussels: Private Tour of Bruges, Ghent and Flanders
- Departure Private Transfer from Ghent City to Brussels Airport by Luxury Van
- Private Tour to Belgian Architecture Gem: Ghent
- Ghent: Guided City Tour with Chocolate Tastings
- Private Guided tour Ghent and Bruges From Brussels
- Discover Ghent while playing! Escape game – The alchemist
- Ghent: Private Walking Tour with a Local
- Ghent: 40 Minute Medieval Center Guided Boat Tour
- Ghent Running and Sightseeing Tour