TIPS FOR PHOTOGRAPHING JAGUARS OF THE PANTANAL IN BRAZIL
11 December 2024
TOP 5 FIRST TIME SAFARI DESTINATIONS
21 December 2024TIPS FOR PHOTOGRAPHING JAGUARS OF THE PANTANAL IN BRAZIL
11 December 2024TOP 5 FIRST TIME SAFARI DESTINATIONS
21 December 2024FAMILY FRIENDLY AFRICAN SAFARIS
The best safari destinations for families
A family safari is an adventure like no other—imagine watching your child’s face light up as they spot their first elephant in the wild or listen to the distant roar of a lion under a starlit sky. But planning a safari with kids requires careful thought to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable experience. Choosing the right destinations, accommodations, and activities is key to making the most of your adventure. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best kid-friendly safari destinations and offer practical tips for an exciting and stress-free journey with your little explorers.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT DESTINATION
SOUTH AFRICA
South Africa is the perfect destination for a family-friendly safari, offering diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and lodges specifically designed to accommodate children. With excellent infrastructure, easy access to top reserves, and expert guides skilled in engaging young explorers, South Africa ensures a smooth and enriching experience for families. Many lodges provide family suites, kid-friendly meals, and educational activities. Madikwe Safari Lodge and Marataba Safari Lodge offer interactive bush walks, wildlife tracking, and cultural experiences tailored for children.
A South African adventure isn’t complete without visiting Cape Town, a vibrant city where families can explore Table Mountain, see penguins at Boulders Beach, and visit the Two Oceans Aquarium. Combining a safari with Cape Town’s attractions creates the perfect balance of adventure, wildlife, and cultural discovery for an unforgettable family getaway.
KENYA
Kenya is a top choice for families, with the iconic Maasai Mara providing spectacular wildlife viewing. The Laikipia region, particularly conservancies like Lewa and Ol Pejeta, offers more interactive experiences, including horseback safaris, camel rides, and conservation programs that engage kids in learning about wildlife protection. Enhance your trip with a coastal escape to Watamu or Malindi.
Family-friendly lodges such as Ol Pejeta Bush Camp and Lewa Safari Camp offer specialized programs for children, where they can track animals, learn bushcraft, and interact with local communities. The Maasai Mara’s Emboo River Camp is another fantastic choice, providing comfortable accommodations and eco-friendly safaris perfect for families.
TANZANIA
The Serengeti’s Great Migration is a breathtaking experience for all ages, while the Ngorongoro Crater offers a concentrated wildlife experience with relatively short drives—perfect for younger children. Tanzania also has some great family-friendly lodges with pools and engaging activities. Extend your safari with a beach holiday in Zanzibar, known for its white-sand beaches and clear blue waters.
Accommodations like Sayari Camp and Gibb’s Farm offer luxury and family-friendly features, including junior ranger programs and nature walks. The Ngorongoro Crater Lodge is another fantastic choice, providing awe-inspiring views and a range of interactive experiences designed to educate and entertain kids throughout their stay.
BOTSWANA
For families with older children, Botswana’s Okavango Delta offers an immersive safari experience. Mokoro (canoe) rides through the waterways, guided nature walks, and luxury camps provide a thrilling but safe adventure. Combine your safari with a visit to Victoria Falls, one of the world’s most stunning natural wonders.
Ker & Downey’s Footsteps Across the Delta camp is ideal for families, offering private guides and flexible activities tailored to kids. Machaba Camp in the Khwai Concession provides a blend of adventure and comfort, with family tents and exciting wildlife encounters. Additionally, the Moremi Game Reserve’s Okuti Camp is well-equipped for families, ensuring an educational and fun-filled safari experience.
ESSENTIAL TIPS FOR A FAMILY SAFARI
Choose Family Friendly Lodges and Camps
Opt for accommodations that cater to families with spacious rooms, pools, kid-friendly meals, and activities like bush walks, storytelling around the fire, and junior ranger programs. The right lodge can enhance your safari experience by providing entertainment and learning opportunities for children while ensuring parents have a comfortable and relaxing stay. Many lodges also offer babysitting services, allowing parents to enjoy evening game drives or private dinners while knowing their children are in safe hands.
Plan Shorter Safari Drives
Long drives can be tiring for younger children, so opt for reserves with dense wildlife populations where you can see a variety of animals without spending hours on the road. Private reserves and conservancies often allow more flexibility in tailoring game drives. Choosing lodges that offer short, engaging game drives—such as Madikwe Safari Lodge in South Africa or Gibb’s Farm in Tanzania—ensures children stay excited and interested without getting too exhausted. Additionally, having breaks for snacks and stretching helps maintain energy levels and enthusiasm throughout the safari.
Keep Kids Engaged with Interactive Activities
Many lodges offer hands-on activities like animal tracking, meeting local tribes, and learning about conservation. Giving kids their own safari checklist or a camera to document their experience can make it even more exciting. Camps such as Ol Pejeta Bush Camp in Kenya and Ongava Lodge in Namibia provide interactive programs where children can learn about the environment, animal behaviors, and conservation efforts. These experiences create lasting memories and help cultivate a deeper appreciation for nature and wildlife in young travelers.
Pack Smart for Comfort and Safety
Bring lightweight, neutral-colored clothing, a good hat, sunscreen, binoculars, and insect repellent. If traveling to a malaria-prone area, consult your doctor about preventive medication. It’s also important to pack entertainment for children, such as coloring books, small games, and journals for documenting their adventures. Packing layered clothing helps with temperature changes, and having snacks and reusable water bottles ensures that kids stay hydrated and comfortable throughout the trip.
Prepare for Flights and Transfers
Many safari destinations require small-plane transfers. If traveling with young kids, check airline policies on baggage limits and ensure you have entertainment and snacks for longer journeys. Lodges such as Lewa Safari Camp and Kulala Desert Lodge provide convenient access from nearby airstrips, reducing long travel times and making the transition to your safari experience smoother and more enjoyable for the entire family.
Consider the Best Age for Safari
While some lodges welcome all ages, many have a minimum age requirement for game drives (typically around six or seven years old). Younger children can still enjoy safari activities around camp, guided nature walks, or cultural experiences. Lodges like Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti and Kwandwe Ecca Lodge provide excellent options for families with younger children, offering flexible schedules and engaging alternatives such as nature walks, storytelling sessions, and junior ranger programs.
A family safari is an extraordinary way to introduce your children to the wonders of the natural world. By choosing the right destination, staying at family-friendly lodges, and planning wisely, you can create lifelong memories together. Whether it’s spotting a pride of lions, listening to the calls of the wild at night, or learning about conservation efforts firsthand, a safari is an adventure your family will treasure forever. Ready to plan your dream family safari? Let Wild Eye help you create an unforgettable journey filled with adventure, comfort, and incredible wildlife encounters.
READY TO PLAN YOUR FAMILY SAFARI?
Start planning your African safari today—contact Wild Eye to find the perfect itinerary for your next great adventure!