I'm also staying at AKL for the first time this X-mas. I'm pretty sure you can only book those safaris if your staying at AKL , so I would take advantage now unless your planning on staying there again on another vacation. I'm a big cirque fan, but getting up close to these animals will make great memories. If you like cirque you should try Vegas.....I've seen 4 different shows and think there are 7 in total out there.