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Family and Kid-Friendly Safaris in Africa

Africa's best authentic tailor-made safaris.

By Megan Warrington

Safari Travel Planner

In our fast-paced, technology-driven world, finding opportunities to truly connect with family has become increasingly rare. A family safari in Africa emerges as a serene oasis, offering families a chance to step away from the digital clutter and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. Going on a family safari tour is not just a vacation; it’s an immersive experience that combines the thrill of adventure with the invaluable lessons only nature can teach.

Africa’s diverse landscapes serve as the backdrop for a variety of family-oriented safaris. Imagine witnessing the grandeur of the wildebeest migration across the plains of Kenya’s Masai Mara or coming face-to-face with the gentle giants of the forest during a gorilla trekking expedition in Uganda. Each kid-friendly safari is designed to provide thrilling encounters that captivate the young and the old alike.

The experiences on a family safari in Africa extend far beyond the wildlife sightings. It’s about the shared moments of discovery and wonder, from the exhilaration of spotting a pride of lions during a game drive to the simple joy of listening to stories around a crackling campfire under a canopy of stars. These moments, free from the distractions of everyday life, allow families to forge deeper bonds with one another.

Popular Family and Kid-Friendly Safaris in Africa

Each of our popular itineraries can be tailor-made to suit your budget as well as your specific interests..

Cape Town to Kruger Luxury Holiday

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From $ 7100 /USD

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From $ 1575 /USD

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Faqs about family and kid-friendly safaris in africa.

• Children under the age of five are advised not to travel to areas at high risk of malaria.
• Complications and death due to malaria are high among children, pregnant women and people with compromised immune systems.
• Mefloquine is prescribed to babies and children as well as are also available in syrup form - which makes it easier for children to take. Doxycycline should be taken by pregnant women or by children younger than 10 years since it can interfere with growing teeth and bones. Malanil is not licensed in South Africa for use in children and the paediatric dosage is therefore not available in South Africa. However, it is advised that Malanil may be used by children weighing more than 40 kilograms. Paediatric must be prescribed by a medical professional, as an overdose of the medication can be fatal. The dose is calculated according to the weight of the child - and a medical history must be taking into account to determine contra-indications.
• Family safaris in Africa are a worthwhile and meaningful experience. Aside from spending quality time with your nearest and dearest under a wide blue African sky, a safari in Africa offers invaluable experiences including unique cultural experiences, memorable wildlife sightings, and the opportunity to learn more about nature.
• Some areas won’t suit the family and it's also wise to be aware of malaria in others, however, South Africa has a few malaria-free safari locations and there are other safari lodges and bush camps throughout Africa that cater to young children and toddlers, just do the research beforehand.

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9 Best African Safari Lodges for Families

Jul 2, 2010

See recent posts by Andrea M. Rotondo

Can you imagine waking up to a brilliant sunrise over the savannah before heading out on a real African safari? Africa is a beautiful and diverse continent, and choices abound when it comes to game-viewing destinations for families.

If planning a trip there, you’ll want to select a location with easy access (close to an airport) and facilities designed with children in mind. You’ll want to stay in a Malaria-free region, too, so that your family doesn’t need to take preventative medication. You’ll want to confirm any age requirements before booking your safari accommodations, as well, since many lodges set an age limit on game drives. Still, many offer kids’ programs with age-appropriate activities so your little ones can get the most out of this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

1. Madikwe Safari Lodge

Located in the Malaria-free Madikwe Reserve in the North West Province of South Africa,  Madikwe Safari Lodge  gets top ratings from families for the accommodations and age-appropriate introductions to the African bush. The lodge also welcomes children as young as 2 years old.

Book one of two spacious family suites in the Lelapa Lodge that can accommodate up to two children under the ages of 10. The suites even have private pools that are covered with a safety net when you’re not using them.

Many of the lodge employees have children themselves so they know what kids like. But, the lodge will also take your kids’ food preferences into account. Just let them know what works best for your family and the staff will do their best to accommodate.

“Adult” safaris in open vehicles are available for those ages 6 and older, while “Family” safari drives—also in open vehicles—can accommodate children between the ages of 2 and 6. There are also a ton of fun activities for kids, like Bug CSI with a field ranger; painting and coloring; making pizzas in the lodge’s new pizza oven at the boma; impromptu soccer games; and viewing the night sky. Best of all, Madikwe Safari Lodge doesn’t charge for children 6 years or younger.

2. Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti

Family safari vacations are an expensive proposition and the Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti is a no budget option. However, it’s a fabulous destination in Tanzania that is ideal for families with deep pockets. The lodge and its 77 guest rooms are tucked into the plains of the Central Serengeti.

East Africa is home to places your kids have read about in school—Mount Kilimanjaro, the Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Victoria. The Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti is located in the homelands of the Maasai people. Known originally as warriors, the indigenous population now survives as craftsman, farmers and ranchers. They wear distinctive brightly colored traditional clothing.

Most impressively, this lodge is smack dab in the middle of the path of the annual Great Migration of millions of animals, including wildebeests, antelopes and zebras; it takes place between July and September. You’ll also have no trouble viewing the Big Five here.

In addition to the Four Seasons’ top-notch service, families can take advantage of the Discovery Centre. It’s the gathering place where guests learn about the Maasai people and Africa’s history, and take part in programs that support local schools and wildlife conservation.

Finally, the Kijana Club is open to kids ages 8 to 17 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. Here, children can work on arts and crafts projects, take part in environmental programs, learn about the animals of the Serengeti, or simple enjoy some downtime playing videogames or watching a movie. This is a nice option in case your kids get tired and don’t want to go on every single game drive during their stay.

3. Camp Jabulani

Magic happens every day at Camp Jabulani , located nearKruger National Park in South Africa’s Kapama Game Reserve. Here, your family will meet a herd of very special elephants that live on the property.

In 1997, a 4-month-old elephant was found abandoned. He was taken to the nearby Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre, where he was hand-reared and named Jabulani. Later, in 2002, HESC launched a rescue mission for a dozen Zimbabwean elephants whose lives swung in the balance when they were tagged for meat after the war. When the elephants arrived in South Africa, it was clear that Jabulani would become part of their family. Camp Jabulani was created as both a home for the elephants and a place were visitors could come to spend time with them. Fifteen elephants now reside on the property.

This is a high-end Relais & Chateaux property, and staying at this all-inclusive lodge doesn’t come cheap. But the elephant-back safaris and time spent interacting with the herd is priceless. Kids must be 12 years or older to stay at the main lodge.

A few days at Camp Jabulani’s Zindoga Presidential Villa is a must for families who can afford it. This is a camp-within-a-camp, and includes two spacious suites connected by a living and dining area. There’s also a private heated plunge pool and roomy wooden deck for game viewing. You’ll have your own safari team, including a ranger (and private 4×4 vehicle), and a chef and butler. Children of any age are welcome at Zindoga.

Young guests are also invited to take part in the camp’s excellent children’s program, Team Tusker. Activities include storytelling, dress-up parties, arts and crafts projects, tracking tutorials, bird watching and bug catching, as well as survival basics.

4. Giraffe Manor

While not exactly a game lodge, Giraffe Manor in Nairobi, Kenya, is an incredibly child-friendly small hotel that is home to a herd of very playful Rothschild giraffe. You can even hand feed them at the kitchen table or at the front door of the hotel, which was originally built to resemble a Scottish hunting camp.

There are 10 bedrooms here, along with two suites with direct access to the courtyard, ideal for families. Rates are all-inclusive and even include transportation to and from the airport, along with admission to the AFEW (African Fund for Endangered Wildlife) Giraffe Centre on property. Children of all ages are welcome.

The hotel is just outside Nairobi and is surrounded by forest with views of Mt. Kilimanjaro in the south. The resort’s giraffe population shares its home with many different types of birds, warthogs and even the rare bushbuck.

5. King’s Camp

King’s Camp is one of the best-kept secrets when it comes to affordable luxury while on safari in South Africa. Located in the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, this is one of the only places in the world where you can see rare white lions in the wild. The “Big Five” (elephant, lion, leopard, Cape buffalo and black rhinoceros) and many other species are spotted here, pretty much on a daily basis.

This camp, which accepts children 6 years and older, harkens back to Colonial days and strikes the right balance of elegance and comfort. You can book one of 11 standalone thatched-roof bungalows, or Waterbuck Private Camp, a four-bedroom villa that comes with its own safari vehicle, ranger, butler and chef. The camp is roomy enough for a family of eight and is situated on a dry riverbank that offers fantastic game viewing. In-room decor includes beautiful and functional mosquito nets, claw-footed tubs, indoor and outdoor showers and a private patio decked out with a hammock. The rangers, trackers, camp managers, chef and staff create a family-like environment, and guests feel welcome the moment they arrive.

An on-property watering hole draws the attention of animals all day long, and guests either relax by the camp’s pool or in the shade of the thatched viewing deck to watch the elephants and impala stop for a drink or dip.

6. Luangwa Safari House

Here’s an option for reticent safari-goers: a private house in  Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park that offers the comforts of home. Luangwa Safari House , one of the accommodations offered by Robin Pope Safaris, can comfortably house up to eight people in four bedrooms and a spacious dining/living area. A chef, house manager and private guide (and vehicle) are all at your disposal. Meals and activities are carefully matched to your family’s interests, too.

There’s also a solid children’s program that extends from game drives to guided nature walks to trips to the Kawaza Village School and Chimpembele Wildlife Education Center. Back at the camp, kids can help collect eggs from the hen house and bake cookies in the kitchen with the chef. Children age 7 and up are welcome at Luangwa Safari House.

7. Richard’s Camp

In southwestern Kenya, look no further than family-owned and operated Richard’s Camp, where you’ll find traditional tented accommodations near the Masai Mara Game Reserve. Forest Camp sits on the edge of a riverine forest with grass plains stretching away from it. This means game drives easily sight elephants, big cats and herbivores like zebra and impala that graze the plains each day.

Six tented suites are available with either twin or double beds, and extra beds can be brought in for families sharing accommodations. The tents operate via solar power and offer 24-hour light, heated showers and flushing toilets. Meals are enjoyed outdoors or in the camp’s sitting area in front of a roaring fire. There is also a private camp on the property that can accommodate up to 10 individuals; this is ideal for families who want complete privacy. There are also additional lodgings at River Camp located about a half-hour away.

Game drives and escorted bush walks are the core of the experience here, but you can also go on a day trip to nearby Lake Victoria, visit a Maasai village, go on a hot air balloon safari, or flight-see over the gorgeous Masai Mara. The camp’s owners are raising their own child right on the property and can expertly answer questions about age-appropriate safari activities.

8. &Beyond’s WILDchild Program & Family Suites

&Beyond is an African safari specialist offering accommodations throughout southern and East Africa. The company recently devised its WILDchild program that’s available at all lodges. Rangers trained in working with children keep kids engaged throughout their vacation with special programs about wildlife, conservation, and African culture.

The company also installed new family suites at select lodges in South Africa and Tanzania. &Beyond recommends many lodges for families, including Kirkman’s Kamp, Phinda Zuka Lodge, Ngorongoro Crater Lodge, and others.

&Beyond Kirkman’s Kamp is a favorite with families due to its location in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve next to Kruger National Park. It’s an easy 90-minute charter flight from Johannesburg and yet the animal viewing is exquisite. That’s because there are no boundary fences between the Reserve and National Park. Animals—and game drive participants—roam across that invisible line. It’s not unusual to see leopard, lion, elephant, buffalo, and rhino here. This area also allows off-road driving so your guide will get you as close to the wildlife as possible.

9. Shamwari Riverdene Lodge

The Riverdene Lodge in the Shamwari Game Reserve in South Africa’s Eastern Cape is an ideal spot for your family’s first safari adventure. Located in Port Elizabeth, in a Malaria-free area, the lodges here—Riverdene in particular—happily welcome families with children as young as 4 (although kids must be older in order to go on a game drive).

There is so much to do here beyond normal game drives, including visits to the Born Free Foundation Big Cat Rescue Center that houses lions and leopard that have been saved from circuses and zoos, and the Shamwari Wildlife Hospital that nurses wounded wild animals back to health before releasing them back into the wild.

Riverdene Lodge features nine interconnecting, air-conditioned rooms, satellite television, a lounge area, private balconies leading to the garden and BBQ area, and a swimming pool. An onsite children’s coordinator is on hand to suggest activities custom-tailored for your family’s unique interests.

What to Pack for Your Next Trip

Mom’s/women’s camping outfit, shop the look.

Organic Donegal Sweater

Rambler 20 oz Tumbler

Long-Sleeve Waffle Tee

Aberdeen Jogger

GEL-Contend® Walker

Dad’s/men’s camping outfit.

Super Deluxe Book Pack

Streamlight 88052 ProTac HL USB 850 Lumen Professional Tactical Flashlight

Flannel Shirt

Trailhead Pants

Outline Hiking Sneaker

Boy’s camping outfit.

Galaxy Superbreak Backpack

Thermos Funtainer 12 Ounce Bottle

Fleece Crewneck Sweatshirt

Everyday Chino Shorts

Jr Alonisso 41 Sneakers

Girl’s camping outfit.

Mini Sleepy-Eyes Backpack

Big Long Sleeve Solid Cardigan

Glitter Best Dad Graphic Tee

Warrior Knee Joggers

Wicked Good Slippers

Our team of parents and travel experts chooses each product and service we recommend. Anything you purchase through links on our site may earn us a commission.

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Africa Safari Tours & Vacations

• Africa Safari Tours & Holidays

Take a walk on the wild side on an African safari.

The word “safari” means “journey” in Swahili. And a safari in Africa is all about the journey. While seeing a leopard munch on a freshly caught gazelle or spying a curious lion cub venture away from its mother’s protective embrace will be highlights of your trip, you’ll discover the journey is as much a part of your trip as the destination.

The road-trip games you play with your new travel mates, the feeling of the wind (and maybe a little dust) in your hair when you’re travelling down long, winding roads, and the young Maasai boy who waved at you as you passed him along the road will stay with you long after you return.

Our African safari tours

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Africa safari h ighlights

Spot the Big 5 in South Africa

Go on safari through Kruger National Park, one of the largest game reserves in Southern Africa . This massive park is one of the premier safari spots in all of Africa and for good reason; it’s home to over 500 bird species, 100 species of reptile and 150 mammal species, including the Big Five and the endangered African wild dog.

Go gorilla trekking in Uganda

Venture deep into the steamy jungles of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in search of the rare mountain gorilla. With a local guide to lead you, you’ll trek into the forest to spend one unforgettable hour watching and hanging out with a family of gorillas. A close encounter with these gentle giants is an extraordinary African experience that will always stay with you.

Float over the Serengeti

The only thing more magical than witnessing the great wildebeest migration across the Serengeti? Seeing it from the sky in a hot air balloon. As the herds of wildebeest and thousands of other animals travel from Serengeti National Park to the greener pastures of the Masai Mara National Reserve, you can watch their journey and enjoy incredible views from a unique perspective.

Canoe in the Okavango Delta

The Okavango Delta has a unique system of waterways that are home to an immense array of wildlife. The best way to explore it is in a mokoro, a traditional dugout canoe. Visit in May to September, when animals are confined to small islands created by the annual flood, making it easy to spot great herds of elephant and antelope, hippos, crocodiles, lions, cheetahs and more. 

Popular safari destinations

Kruger National Park

Serengeti National Park

The Okavango Delta

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Where we stay on safari.

On our safari trips you’ll stay in billion-star accommodation. That’s our way of saying you’re sleeping under the night sky, camping in the great outdoors. On our Basix and sections of Original trips, you’ll stay in two-person canvas tents that our crew will help you set up. And on our Comfort trips, you’ll be staying in permanent tented camps and lodges (think glamping instead of camping).

Campsite facilities can sometimes be basic, but wherever possible, we make sure there are Western-style toilets and warm water available. But you’ll find it’s worth sacrificing a warm shower or two when you’re waking up to sunrise over the Masai Mara.

How we get around

On our safari trips, your main mode of transport is an overland truck, a purpose-built vehicle made for driving through Africa’s winding, and sometimes bumpy, country roads. While the trucks don’t have air conditioning, they do have sliding windows which let in the breeze and make it even easier to take spectacular snaps of the local wildlife. The trucks are also equipped with power outlets to charge your camera, phone and other devices on the go.

For more info on our overland trucks, see our Africa overland page .

African Safari FAQs

When is the best time to go on safari.

Generally speaking, January, February and June to October are the best times to go on safari in Africa. This is the dry season, so animals tend to come out into more open spaces in search of water, making them easier to spot. However, you’ll be able to spot animals all year round and you’ll enjoy fewer crowds if you travel outside peak season.

Read more about the best time to go on safari .

Where is the best place to go on safari?

The best place to go on safari depends on what kind of animals you’d like to see and what other activities you’d like to do in destination. We offer safaris to some of the best safari destinations in eastern and southern Africa, like Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia and more.

Read more about how to choose your ideal African safari . 

Am I guaranteed to see animals on safari?

While we can’t guarantee you’ll spot the Big 5, you’d have to be profoundly unlucky to see no animals at all. On our trips, you’ll explore some of the best game parks and national reserves in the world. These protected areas are filled with a huge variety of different species and your expert driver and local leader will help you spot animals.

What are the “Big 5”?

The “Big 5” used to refer to the five big game animals that were the most difficult to hunt. Now that most shooting is done on a camera, the Big 5 are the most exciting animals to spot while on safari: the lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo.

What should I pack for safari?

Loose, light clothing in neutral colours is the best attire for a safari (dark colours will get hot in the sun and can attract the Tsetse fly). You’ll also want a sun hat, some good walking shoes, a camera, sunscreen and bug spray. For more details, check out our ultimate Africa packing guide . 

What type of food will be served on safari?

On our Basix trips you’ll have a cook travelling with you while you are on safari who will whip up a variety of local flavours and Western-style dishes. Along your route, your cook will stop to purchase fresh, locally sourced food for your meals. You can expect a variety of things for breakfast like fruit, eggs, toast and cereal; lunch is often sandwiches and salads; and dinner is usually a hearty meal like pasta, curry or a BBQ.

On our Original and Comfort trips there will be more meals at camps and lodges along the way. No matter what you’re craving, you definitely will not be going hungry on safari.

What are the toilets and showers like on safari?

Most of the permanent tented camps will have a private bathroom with flushing toilets and showers with warm water. 

Many of the campsites we stay at have communal facilities with flushing toilets and showers with warm water. However, in some of the more remote areas, there may only be basic facilities (toilets and cold running water). 

Can you accommodate accessibility requirements on your safari tours?

We are committed to making travel accessible to everyone, so we will work with you to assess whether you will be able to complete an existing itinerary, or whether we will be able to make reasonable adjustments to meet your needs before you book. Please see our accessible travel page for more information. 

What is internet and phone access like on safari?

Some of our hotels and campsites will have Wi-Fi, however Internet and phone access may be limited in more remote areas. But you won’t miss it when you’re watching a pride of lions prowl through long grass or enjoying a drink around the campfire with your group. 

Responsible travel

Our stance on Animal Welfare

This world and the animals that call it home are precious, and we believe it’s our responsibility to help preserve them. We do not include or condone any activities that exploit animals on our safari trips, including hunting, feeding or interacting with animals in any way. We believe that wild animals should be observed in the wild, from a respectful distance. 

Some tips for being a wildlife-friendly traveller include never buying animal products, not participating in activities that include contact with the animals, and not including location tags on social media posts (some poachers have gone high-tech and use social media to track rare animals’ locations).

Read more about our Animal Welfare Policy here . 

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African Safari Inspired by You

Handcrafted, luxury Africa vacations. Inspired by you, designed by our experts.

Discover the ultimate trip to Africa…

…inspired by you and designed by our team of passionate luxury safari experts . We delight in sharing our love of Africa through perfectly tailored, transformative journeys to earth’s purest, wildest, and most spectacular destinations.

Our Africa safari vacations are all about discovery. Before we can help you discover Africa, we must discover you —your personality, your passions, your inspiration. Then, through our firsthand knowledge of Africa’s hidden gems and close relationships with our partners on the ground, we’ll arrange your life-changing safari experience.

The result? A trip to Africa that fits perfectly with your idea of comfort, luxury, and adventure—plus some unique surprises that will make you fall head-over-heels in love with this incredible part of the world.

Looking for a private experience in Africa ? We have cultivated this list of off the beaten path experiences you and your partner or family can enjoy in Africa. From private safari adventures to private houses, let the experts at Africa Endeavours find the once-in-a-lifetime vacation for you.

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Our team consists of experienced travel experts who are passionate about good, old-fashioned service and about exploring the world’s exotic destinations. We travel overseas every year to ensure you have the most up-to-date and unbiased information.

Featured Trips

Africa Family Vacations: Namibia Highlights Package

Tour Namibia’s top attractions with a private guide. Explore ancient deserts and towering sand dunes; go on safari in the famous Etosha National Park; and enjoy family adventures like sandboarding, sea kayaking, and hot air ballooning!

East African Safari: Kenya and Tanzania Luxury Tour

This luxurious Great Migration safari takes you to the top highlights and hidden gems of Kenya and Tanzania. Enjoy unbelievable wildlife sightings in the Masai Mara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and beyond while staying in Africa’s best 5-star safari lodges!

Namibia Highlights Vacation

Discover the scenic highlights of Namibia on this incredible vacation! Explore red sand dunes, purple mountains, and ancient rock carvings; track cheetahs on foot and see rare desert-adapted elephants; and see an aerial view of the desert on a scenic flight.

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African Family Safaris & Tours

An African family safari is never less than a magical experience. Seeing the wonders of Africa through the eyes of your children might be the best family holiday you’ll ever take. Many people think that taking children on holiday to Africa is loaded with risks, but the truth is there are few safety concerns. Here are the answers to some key questions to ensure that your family safari is a trip you’ll all talk about for years to come.

4-Day Tanzania Safari with Two Nights at Serengeti

$1,881 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Serengeti NP, Central Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Arusha (End)

Meijo Safaris

4.9 /5  –  149 Reviews

4-Day Taste of Kenya - Mid-Range

$1,100 to $1,590 pp (USD)

Kenya: Private tour Mid-range Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Masai Mara NR, Lake Nakuru NP, Nairobi (End)

Spirit of Kenya

4.9 /5  –  483 Reviews

7-Day Safari (Including Serengeti) & Zanzibar Extension

$2,230 to $2,910 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Mid-range Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Lake Manyara NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Zanzibar (End)

Unlimited Expeditions: The Soul of Tanzania

4.9 /5  –  438 Reviews

6-Day Mid-Luxury Highlights of Tanzania

$2,657 to $2,987 pp (USD)

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara NP, Arusha (End)

Lion King Adventures

5.0 /5  –  1018 Reviews

8-Day Tanzania Safari & Zanzibar Adventure Mid Range

$3,410 to $3,456 pp (USD)

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Lake Manyara NP, Central Serengeti, Northern Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Highlands, Ngorongoro Crater, Zanzibar (Beach) , Arusha (End)

RO Scavenger Safaris

5.0 /5  –  21 Reviews

7-Day The Big Five Safari in Tanzania

$2,363 pp (USD)

You Visit: Moshi (Start) , Arusha (City) , Tarangire NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara NP, Moshi (End)

Serengeti Smile

5.0 /5  –  209 Reviews

8-Day Great Migration Safari

$3,135 pp (USD)

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Central Serengeti, Northern Serengeti NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Foothills of Mt Kilimanjaro, Arusha (End)

Safari Soles

5.0 /5  –  246 Reviews

7-Day Mid Range Tour to Serengeti Wildebeest Migration

$2,310 pp (USD)

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Kilimanjaro Airport (End)

Meru Slopes Tours & Safaris

5.0 /5  –  306 Reviews

7-Day Kenya North to South Big Five Wildlife Safari

$1,430 pp (USD)

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Samburu NR, Lake Nakuru NP, Amboseli NP, Tsavo East NP, Mombasa Beaches, Mombasa (End)

Africa Starpal Safaris

4.9 /5  –  108 Reviews

11-Day Northern Tanzania Safari and Zanzibar

$7,672 pp (USD)

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Lake Manyara NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti NP, Zanzibar (End)

Wayfairer Travel

10-Day Best of Tanzania Safari and Zanzibar Beaches

$2,519 pp (USD)

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Central Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara NP, Stone Town (Zanzibar) , Zanzibar (Beach) , Zanzibar Airport (End)

See Endless Adventures Tanzania

5.0 /5  –  27 Reviews

4-Day Amboseli, Tsavo West and Tsavo East Safari Tour

$1,060 pp (USD)

Kenya: Private tour Mid-range Lodge

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Amboseli NP, Tsavo West NP, Tsavo East NP, Nairobi (End)

Kibera Holiday Safaris

5.0 /5  –  66 Reviews

4-Day Private Safari to Tsavo East, West and Amboseli

$866 pp (USD)

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Tsavo East NP, Tsavo West NP, Amboseli NP, Nairobi (End)

Africa Vacation Safaris

5.0 /5  –  28 Reviews

7-Day Murchison Falls, Chimps & Gorilla Trekking

$2,572 pp (USD)

Uganda: Private tour Lodge & Guest House

You Visit: Entebbe (Start) , Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch, Murchison Falls NP, Kibale NP (Chimps) , Queen Elizabeth NP, Bwindi NP (Gorillas) , Entebbe Airport (End)

Tubale Safaris

5.0 /5  –  31 Reviews

9-Day Customized Uganda Holiday and Tour to See Gorillas

$3,061 pp (USD)

Uganda & Rwanda: Private tour Mid-range Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Kigali (Start) , Kisoro (Town) , Bwindi NP (Gorillas) , Queen Elizabeth NP, Kibale NP (Chimps) , Murchison Falls NP, Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch, Entebbe (End)

Home To Africa Tours and Travel

4.9 /5  –  278 Reviews

8-Day Beach & Safari Trip Zanzibar & Serengeti

$3,092 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Mid-range Tented Camp & Resort

You Visit: Zanzibar (Start) , Zanzibar (Beach) , Tarangire NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Northern Serengeti NP, Serengeti NP, Zanzibar (End)

Paradise & Wilderness

4.9 /5  –  129 Reviews

15-Day Classic Kenya & Tanzania + Zanzibar Beach Holiday

$4,620 to $5,531 pp (USD)

Kenya & Tanzania: Private tour Mid-range Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Amboseli NP, Lake Naivasha (Naivasha) , Masai Mara NR, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire NP, Zanzibar (End)

Right Choice Tours & Safaris

5.0 /5  –  237 Reviews

7-Day Big Five Safari - Serengeti, Ngorongoro & Others

$2,750 pp (USD)

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Lake Manyara NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Karatu District, Arusha (End)

Savannah Explorers

5.0 /5  –  484 Reviews

7-Day Gorilla Chimpanzees and Wildlife Tour

Uganda: Private tour Mid-range Lodge & Guest House

You Visit: Entebbe (Start) , Lake Victoria, Kibale NP (Chimps) , Bigodi Wetlands, Queen Elizabeth NP, Ishasha Sector (Queen Elizabeth NP) , Bwindi NP (Gorillas) , Lake Mburo NP, Entebbe (End)

Dav Safaris

5.0 /5  –  84 Reviews

3-Day Safari to Queen Elizabeth National Park

$880 pp (USD)

Uganda: Private tour Mid-range Lodge

You Visit: Entebbe (Start) , Queen Elizabeth NP, Entebbe Airport (End)

Lulu Safaris Uganda

5.0 /5  –  75 Reviews

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6 Questions About Family Safari Tours

Answered by

Stuart butler.

Is it safe to bring children on a safari?

“First-time safari-going parents are often worried about how safe a safari is with children. A primary concern is whether there’s any risk of their children having a potentially dangerous encounter with wild animals. The truth is that it’s very safe taking children on a safari as long as you to abide by park rules. In fact, it’s probably one of the safest kinds of family holidays you can go on with kids. That said, it’s important to keep a watchful eye on younger children to avoid them wandering off. This is especially the case with unfenced camps and lodges. Otherwise there are very few health and safety issues to consider.”

How old should children be to go on a safari?

“Many parents are keen to show their children the wilds of Africa at the earliest possible age. We first took our two children on a Kenyan safari when they were four years old and 18 months old. Our older child has hazy memories of the trip, while the younger one doesn’t remember anything about it. Our children are now aged eight and five. We have just returned from another safari with them, and this time it was far more rewarding for both them and us. If I were to recommend a suitable age to start taking children on safari, it would be from age eight upwards. From this age, they begin to appreciate the activities on tour, and get as much enjoyment out of watching the wildlife as you. Plus, they are starting to understand the concept of patience and silence, though whether they’ll stick to it is another thing entirely! Teenagers typically find the idea of going on holiday with parents intensely boring. However, parents of teens have commented on how an African family safari was the one holiday that their children seemed excited to go on.”

How do I prepare the kids for an Africa family safari?

“There’s little in the way of pre-trip planning required for children. Give them African wildlife books to read or show them African wildlife films. Beyond that, chances are the children will be even more excited than you about the prospect of a family African safari. Before setting off, make sure that the children know a safari is unlikely to be a non-stop roll call of thrilling animal sightings. Explain to them that patience and stealth are essential to spotting wildlife. The quieter they are and the more they wait, the more likely they will be to see something truly exciting. Try and get them excited about seeing the little creatures, or even the unusual plants and trees.”

Will we be able to stay in family rooms?

“Most rooms in safari camps and lodges are set out for couples. Some of the top-end, exclusive places do have a family room or tent, normally comprised of interconnecting rooms. These places can be very expensive. Keep in mind that not all these places accept younger children. Larger, mid-range lodges used by big tour groups invariably have a few rooms suitable for families and will usually take children of all ages. If a place doesn’t have dedicated family rooms, they might be happy to put an extra mattress on the floor. Budget accommodation is rarely kitted-out for families. However, South Africa’s national park-run cottages are often suitable for families. Camping safaris are fun for children but you do need to keep an eagle eye on them to stop them wandering off.”

Do we need to take precautions for malaria?

“This depends on the countries and regions you will be visiting. Malaria is present in Africa so it is highly recommended that you consult a travel doctor before departure. Above about 1,500m/4,921ft, malaria isn’t an issue. Even if a park is malaria-free, you should consider what other regions you will be visiting and whether these are also malaria-free. Your travel doctor will be able to advise. General precautions recommended for the whole family: use insect repellent, wear long sleeves and trousers in the evening and sleep under nets. Equally, adults and children should ensure all standard vaccinations are up to date. ”

What should I consider when choosing an Africa family safari?

“Not all safari camps and lodges will accept children below a certain age, usually 12 years. This rule is most likely in low-capacity, exclusive, unfenced camps. It’s very important that you confirm before booking whether a place will accept children. You also need to consider transport and safari vehicles. On a safari package, you will be expected to share a safari vehicle with other people. This should be fine if your children are teenagers. If you have younger children, you should consider hiring a vehicle on an exclusive basis. In fact, you might find you are obliged to do so. Including younger children in a safari vehicle with people you don’t know can lead to a stressful game drive for everyone involved. Other paying travelers are unlikely to want to compromise their safari experience for the benefit of younger children. Consider your schedule carefully. It’s easy to try and cram far too much into too short a time. Do this and you will end up spending more time traveling between parks and lodges than enjoying the wildlife. On a family safari, concentrate on one small area and mix in plenty of other activities alongside the classic safaris. Many camps offer options such as walking safaris, though often there are age restrictions on these as well. Other options may include ‘warrior’ training, learning how to track wildlife and village visits. In our experience, village visits are often a child’s favorite experience on a safari. ”

The Best Destinations for a Family-Friendly African Safari

TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald

Going on a family safari will be one of the most rewarding and exciting vacations you'll ever take. However, traveling on a shoestring is more difficult when you have kids in tow and as such, your African adventure is unlikely to be cheap. Because of this, it's something you may only do once - so choosing the best destination and itinerary possible is important. In this article, we take a look at Africa's most family-friendly countries along with itineraries and lodges that cater specifically to children.

Choosing Your Destination

The first step to planning any safari is deciding where you want to go. If you're traveling with children, there are several things you need to consider. Safety is always the top priority for parents, so a politically stable country with access to decent medical care in case of an emergency is a good idea. The fewer vaccinations required the better, while malaria-free destinations win top marks for obvious reasons.

Cost is another factor when you have more people to pay for, so choose a country with reasonable accommodation and tour prices. Destinations that lend themselves well to self-drive safaris are another great choice for families on a budget and give you the benefit of being flexible with your travel plans. For all of these reasons, we recommend Southern African nations like South Africa, Namibia and Botswana over the iconic safari destinations of East Africa .

South Africa for Families

With its first world infrastructure and world-class national parks, South Africa is the obvious choice for a family safari. There are game-viewing destinations for every budget, ranging from exclusive private reserves like Shamwari and Ulusaba to national parks like Kruger and Addo . The latter are a great option for families on a budget, as they allow self-driving and offer affordable accommodation in the form of campsites and self-catering chalets.

Self-driving is an excellent option for families, giving you the flexibility to stop whenever you like, cut game drives short if your kids get tired and deal with tantrums without worrying about other guests. South Africa is made for independent exploration, with good roads and car rental services in every big city. Many South African game parks are malaria-free and you don't have to worry about other tropical diseases like yellow fever or Zika virus.

Finally, there's more to South Africa than its incredible game reserves. If a full two weeks of wildlife-viewing sounds like a stretch for your kids, there are countless other activities for children . Consider township tours in Joburg, breathtaking Cape Town beaches, whale-watching off Hermanus or ostrich-riding and caving trips near Oudtshoorn.

Recommended itineraries: Best of South Africa for Families , Cape & Kruger Family Holiday , The Ultimate South Africa for Families

Recommended lodges: The Motse, Tswalu Kalahari, Ant's Nest, Waterberg

Namibia for Families

Namibia offers many of the same benefits as South Africa. With the Namibian dollar pegged to the South African rand, you can expect to pay similarly low prices for accommodation, park fees, fuel and day-to-day living. Though they're often gravel instead of tarmac, the roads are exceptionally well-maintained and many travelers claim that they feel safer in Namibia than anywhere else on the continent. Much of the country is malaria-free (except for the magnificent Caprivi Strip ).

Namibia's most famous national park, Etosha, is one of the best wildlife-viewing destinations in Southern Africa with almost guaranteed rhino sightings. In between game drives, there are plenty of other attractions to keep kids interested, from dune surfing in the Namib Desert to visiting traditional Himba villages in Damaraland and exploring Sossusvlei's otherworldly landscapes. Bear in mind that Namibia is a huge country and kids will need to be able to cope with long journeys.

Recommended itineraries: Namibia Family Camping Safari , Northern Namibia for Families , Namibia Self-Drive Family Safari

Recommended lodges: Sossusvlei Desert Lodge , Mushara Bush Camp

Botswana for Families

Botswana is another excellent option for a family safari. It offers the perfect balance of safety and adventure, with good infrastructure, a stable government and some of the most rewarding game parks on the continent. It's probably best for families with a bigger budget, however, because it's more geared for fly-in safaris than self-drive itineraries, especially if you want to visit the Okavango Delta (and trust us, you do). You'll also need to fork out for malaria prophylactics , the most child-friendly of which are expensive.

The need to take malaria medication is one reason why Botswana is suited to slightly older kids. Older kids will also be able to enjoy walking safaris and traditional canoe or mokoro trips which are two of the country's best experiences. Game parks like Chobe , Moremi, Kgalagadi and Savuti are arguably better for wildlife-viewing than those of Namibia or South Africa, but bear in mind that there are fewer alternative activities for kids that are easily bored. Unlike in the other two countries, you can't divide your time between the bush and the beach.

Recommended itineraries: Classic Botswana Family Safari , Northern Botswana Family Explorer Safari , Botswana Family Safari Adventure

Recommended lodges: Footsteps Camp , &Beyond Sandibe Okavango Delta Lodge

South Africa Guide: Planning Your Trip

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Safari for You

Malaria Free Safaris in Africa

10 of the Best Places to Visit in Botswana

Top 5 Self-Drive Safari Destinations in Southern Africa

How to Plan an Affordable African Safari

Africa Highlights: What to Do and Where to Go

A Guide to Southern Africa's Four Corners Region

The Best Time to Go on Safari

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The Top 12 National Parks to Visit in Africa

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11 of the Best Places in Africa for an Unforgettable Family Safari (for families with kids)

Posted by Sue Maude on April 15 2024 in Family Safari Enquire Now!

Let's face it, theme parks are great but can't compete with a family safari in Africa. Wouldn't you love to give your kids a chance to form lasting memories watching actual wildlife on exciting adventures in the African bush? Imagine their wide-eyed wonder as a giraffe stretches its neck across the jeep, or the squeals of delight when a playful troop of monkeys swings through the trees.

An African safari isn't just for adults anymore! Sure, the thought of long journeys and limited Wi-Fi might have you picturing tantrums instead of zebras. But fear not, intrepid parents! Your children will gain a newfound respect for nature, a curiosity about the world, and maybe even a lifelong love of wildlife documentaries (goodbye to endless cartoons!). We bring you 11 of the best places in Africa to embark on a family safari designed to keep your little adventurers engaged and enthralled!

1. Victoria Falls Family Safari – Zimbabwe or Zambia

Victoria Falls is one of Africa's most iconic destinations and one of the world's largest and most awe-inspiring waterfalls. The area offers plenty of activities that cater to all ages, making this a perfect family safari destination. The Victoria Falls waterfall can be visited from either Zimbabwe or Zambia .

Victoria Falls Tour Tour Length — 4 days

Children of all ages are welcome on this excellent 4-day Victoria Falls Tours, staying either in Zimbabwe or Zambia – the choice is yours. Our Victoria Falls guide explains the difference .

This family-friendly Victoria Falls Tour includes three nights of hotel accommodation and activities - a Zambezi River Sunset Cruise, a Cultural Village Tour, a 15-minute Helicopter Flight over Victoria Falls, and a Chobe National Park Safari. It also includes a half-day Canoe Trip on the Upper Zambezi, but the minimum age for canoeing is 10 years old.

• Zimbabwe Victoria Falls Safari Package
• Zambia Victoria Falls Safari Package

2. Cape Town Family Safari – South Africa

If you are visiting Cape Town, South Africa, there is a great selection of family safari packages to choose from. These are family-friendly and malaria-free wildlife safari options located a short drive from the city. They make a perfect addition to a family holiday in Cape Town and offer a range of activities to keep your little people occupied.

Cape Town Safari to Sanbona Wildlife Reserve

Tour length:.

• 2-Day Sanbona Safari
• 3-Day Sanbona Safari
• 4-Day Sanbona Safari

Encounter an array of wild animals, birds, and small creatures in the 58,000-hectare Sanbona Wildlife Reserve, which hosts Africa's Big 5 (leopards, rhinos, elephants, buffalos, and lions).

Sanbona is an ideal South African destination for a family safari. It offers a "Kids on Safari" package where your kids receive an explorer kit and undertake a range of fun activities, from treasure hunts, day and evening mini bush walks, fascinating rock art tours, insect catching and nighttime "frogging" expeditions. The family-friendly lodge also has interactive activity books, educational DVDs, and a selection of puzzles, board games, and books to keep curious minds occupied. Child minding services are also available (at additional cost).

Big 5 Cape Town Safari to Aquila Game Reserve Tour Length:

• 1-Day Aquila Safari Daytrip
• 2-Day Aquila Safari
• 3-Day Aquila Safari
• 4-Day Aquila Safari

Aquila Private Game Reserve is a 10,000-hectare conservancy close to Cape Town. It is home to the Big 5 – elephant, lion, buffalo, rhino, and leopard - as well as a host of other birds and animals and dramatic Karoo landscapes.

Aquila, another top destination for a family safari in South Africa, welcomes explorers of all ages. There is an exciting Junior Ranger Programme, perfect for youngsters aged 4 to 12. This educational program lets them learn about amazing animals, track animal footprints, and discover the secrets of the Karoo wilderness.

Many Reserves have an age restriction for children on game drives, but in Aquila, children can enjoy the game drives with their parents. The family-friendly lodge also has a dedicated Kids Adventure Zone for indoor and outdoor fun. Here, your little ones can enjoy the mini golf course, challenge you to a game of giant chess, build sandcastles, swing on the jungle gym, or unwind with electronic games. Come nightfall, the family can gather around the fire for a marshmallow braai (barbecue) and do stargazing under the star-studded Karoo sky. Child minding services are also available (at additional cost).

Check out other family-friendly  Cape Town safari options to malaria-free Big 5 game reserves near the city.

3. Garden Route Family Safari – South Africa

The Garden Route is one of the most scenic stretches of land in Southern Africa, with beautiful beaches and bays, lakes and mountains and indigenous forests. See our Garden Route travel guide for all the highlights .

These Garden Route Tours depart from Cape Town in South Africa.

Accommodated Garden Route Tour, South Africa Tour Length:

• 3-Day Garden Route Safari
• 4-Day Garden Route Safari

This family safari takes you through the beautiful Robertson Valley with its mountain scenery and vineyards. Then to Oudtshoorn to learn about ostriches and the astonishing Cango Caves. You take a hair-raising drive up the mountains of the Swartberg Pass and through breathtaking scenery and more beautiful mountain passes en route to the popular coastal town of Knysna, and then a safari in the private Botlierskop Game Reserve en route back to Cape Town.

The 4-Day Garden Route Tour spends 2 nights in Knysna with visits to the indigenous forests of Tsitsikamma National Park and breathtaking Natures Valley, with an option of visiting Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary and Tenikwa Wildlife & Rehabilitation Centre. Children of all ages are welcome on this family safari with accompanying parents or guardians. The Garden Route tours involve quite a bit of time on the road, so children need to be up for this.

4. Addo Elephant Park Safari & Gqeberha – Eastern Cape, South Africa

Port Elizabeth (renamed Gqeberha) lies on the coast, with golden beaches lapped by the warm Indian Ocean. As you travel inland, the landscape transforms into a diverse wonderland of the rugged mountains of the Zuurberg range rising majestically above pockets of thick bushveld and sprawling grasslands that host the Addo Elephant National Park and other game reserves close by.

Addo Elephant Park Safari in South Africa

Tour length — 1 day.

Full-Day Addo Elephant Park Safari - South Africa

Experience Africa's iconic marine and land animals on this full-day family safari - a rare and unique wildlife adventure for children aged 5 & over.

This family-friendly tour begins with a boat trip in Algoa Bay (weather dependent) in the marine section of Addo Elephant National Park where you can spot whales, sharks, large dolphin pods, seals and the massive penguin colony of St Croix Island. In whale watching season (June to November ) southern right whales and humpback whales are often spotted here! This marine adventure is followed by a guided game drive in the inland section of Addo Elephant Park. The game drive takes you in search of the Big 5 – elephant, lion, buffalo, rhino, and leopard - and an abundance of other African wildlife and birds. Home to almost 700 elephants, Addo is one of the best places in Africa to see elephants in the wild.

Tour Length — 5 days

• Addo Park & Kariega Big 5 Safari

Kariega family safari

Starting and ending in Port Elizabeth, this affordable and malaria-free Big 5 Safari explores Addo Elephant Park and Kariega Private Game Reserve in the Eastern Cape.

Spend the first two nights in Addo Elephant National Park, one of the most popular malaria-free Big 5 safari parks in South Africa In between game drives in the tour vehicle, relax at the rest camp that has a swimming pool, shop and restaurant, as well as a floodlit waterhole where wildlife can be viewed, even after dark. There is also an underground wildlife hide at the waterhole and a bird hide. There is an option of night drives in the SANParks open-sided game viewing vehicles but with a minimum age restriction of 7 years.

The next two nights are spent at Kariega Game Reserve, near Kenton-on-Sea about one and a half hours' drive away. Close encounters with lions, elephants, buffaloes and rhinos are relatively common here. Kariega Game Reserve's Main Lodge caters to families with a dedicated "Kids on Safari" program offering a range of exciting adventures for the little ones. The energetic and knowledgeable staff lead children on guided trails within the lodge grounds, teaching them about the plants, insects, and animal tracks they encounter. They'll even get to make cool souvenirs by creating animal track moulds and "Bushman paintings." The playroom is stocked with toys, books, and even wildlife DVDs to keep all ages entertained. Older children (16+ years) may join the guided bush walk alongside experienced rangers. Child minding services are also available (at additional cost).

See more Addo Safari options for a malaria-free family safari in South Africa.

5. Pilanesberg Safari & Johannesburg – South Africa

Less than a three-hour' drive from Johannesburg, Pilanesberg is one of the best family safari destinations in South Africa, and it's home to the Big 5 animals.

Pilanesberg Safari in South Africa 

Tour length: 1 day.

• Pilanesberg Safari Day Tour in South Africa

The Pilanesberg National Park is South Africa's fourth-largest game park, covering approximately 55,000 hectares (135,908 acres). It is one of the best Big 5 game reserves near Johannesburg and one of the country's most easily accessible safari parks. This malaria-free game reserve features unique geology because it is in an extinct volcano. Spend a day on a safari game drive, or stay over at Bakubung Bush Lodge, where children of all ages are welcome.

Pilanesberg Safari in South Africa – Bakubung Lodge Tour length:

• 2-Day Pilanesberg Safari  
• 4-Day Pilanesberg Safari

Bakubung Bush Lodge overlooks a large waterhole where you can sit back and watch the resident pod of hippos wallowing, while other animals come down to the water's edge to drink. The lodge offers daily game drives as well as a bush braai (barbeque) on a Wednesday and Saturday evening. They have both tennis and volleyball courts, as well as a children’s playground and board games. The Junior Ranger program is a week-long programme teaching children about the wild, with different activities each day. At the end of the week, children are awarded a certificate at a graduation ceremony. Each day of the programme can also be taken on its own. Child minding services are also available (at additional cost).

• Pilanesberg Safari to Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge

​Tour Length — 4 days

This Pilanesberg Safari includes easy pick-up and drop-off options from any Johannesburg hotel and spends 3 nights at Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge. The lodge boasts a dedicated playground with a trampoline while budding naturalists can embark on guided bush walks or learn about animal tracking alongside experienced rangers. There is an underground hide for a unique perspective on animals visiting the lodge's waterhole, two swimming pools, one perfect for tiny tots, mini-golf, tennis courts for friendly family matches, and a selection of board games for cosy evenings. And for those aged 6-12, the exciting Junior Ranger program is a week-long programme teaching children about the wild, with different activities each day. At the end of the week, children are awarded a certificate at a graduation ceremony. Each day of the programme can also be taken on its own. Child minding services are also available (at additional cost).

6. Kruger National Park – Family Safari South Africa

The Kruger National Park is South Africa's largest, most popular game reserve. It has a wide variety of habitats and many rest camps with conveniences to suit every family. Read more in our comprehensive Kruger National Park safari guide . 

Most Kruger National Park tours depart from Johannesburg.

• Kruger Park Lodge Safari to Timbavati

Tour Length — 3 days

This Kruger National Park Safari spends two nights at a safari lodge inside the renowned Timbavati Private Game Reserve, sharing unfenced boundaries with Kruger Park. Timbavati is world famous for its legendary pale lions (the White Lions of Timbavati) and today hosts a healthy pride of these unique lions, considered to be the ancestors of all white lions worldwide. The tour includes Timbavati game drives and a morning game drive in Kruger National Park proper. In the heat of the day, retreat to the lodge, where the kids can enjoy the swimming pool, relax in a shady spot or play board games and pool on the upper deck overlooking a bustling watering hole watching animals coming to drink. After high tea at the lodge, head back into the game-rich bush in search of more of the wildlife! Children aged 2 & over are welcome.

• Kruger Safari in South Africa -Thornybush Nature Reserve

Tour Length — 3 days 

Children of all ages are welcome on this budget-friendly Kruger National Park Lodge Safari. Spend two nights at a safari lodge located in a private nature reserve bordering Thornybush Nature Reserve, 400 hectares of prime bushveld in the Greater Kruger Park area.

Enjoy game drives in the reserve and then relax at camp and enjoy views from the lodge's viewing decks as animals come to drink at the nearby watering hole. There is a swimming pool for cooling off, a lush garden perfect for exploring, and evenings spent by the campfire in the outdoor boma area, enjoying refreshments under the African sky. Spend a day inside the Kruger National Park in search of its many animals.

7. Namibia Family Safari

Namibia is a country of vast open spaces and the oldest desert in the world. It is home to an incredible array of wildlife specially adapted to live in these desert environments. Fascinating Etosha National Park is one of the largest national parks in Africa. Read more in our comprehensive Namibia travel guide.

• 3-Day Etosha Namibia Safari - Budget Camping Tour

This camping adventure starts in Swakopmund, finishes in Windhoek, and is suitable for children aged 5 & over. It is a full participation Namibia Camping Safari which means that guests are responsible for putting up and taking down their own tents and cleaning their own dishes.

Etosha National Park is over 22 000 km² (8494 mi²) in size, located in northern Namibia. At its heart is Etosha Pan, a massive salt pan, fringed by sparse bush that hosts an incredible array of wildlife. You can look forward to two nights camping at Okaukuejo Rest Camp which has a swimming pool, shop & restaurant, and a floodlit waterhole that allows for watching wildlife inside the camp, day and night. Spend a full day on a game drive safari in Etosha Park, viewing all sorts of animals like lions, elephants, rhinos, giraffes, and more. Then head back to camp to spend unforgettable evenings around the campfire under the most breathtaking star-studded skies.

8. Kenya Family Safari 

Kenya promises a safari adventure for your whole family with some of the most famous 'Out of Africa' safari destinations and fascinating culture, with opportunities to visit traditional Maasai villages and learn about their way of life. The Masai Mara is world-famous for its incredible concentration of animals, from the Big 5 (lion, elephant, leopard, rhino, and cape buffalo) to zebras, giraffes, and wildebeest. Seeing these animals in their natural habitat will be a magical experience for children of all ages. See our comprehensive Kenya travel guide .

• Masai Mara Kenya Safari (Luxury Camping)

Tour Length — 4 days   This exciting 4-day Camping Safari adventure, starting and ending in Nairobi, is available to children of all ages, travelling with accompanying parents or guardians. The adventure takes you to Kenya's legendary Masai Mara Reserve via the scenic Great Rift Valley . You spend three nights at a tented Camp set on the banks of the Oloirigynyisho River where zebras, wildebeest, elephants and other wildlife regularly come to drink. The camp boasts a swimming pool to cool down in between game drives. Epic Masai Mara balloon trips can be arranged at extra cost (and must be booked in advance), as well as cultural tours for your children to experience local Masai culture.

• Kenya Wildlife Small Group Camping Safari

Tour Length — 12 days

Children of all ages are welcomed on this small group tour travelling in a small private group of 6 people at most, starting and ending in Nairobi. This is the ultimate Kenya Wildlife Safari exploring a diversity of world-class game parks, including the famous Masai Mara, Samburu National Park, Lake Nakuru, Amboseli, and Tsavo West.

Travel through incredible African scenery, from the Great Rift Valley to open savannah plains and views of Africa's tallest mountain, Mt. Kilimanjaro. Apart from Masai Mara, highlights include viewing hippos swimming beneath the surface of the water from the underwater viewing chamber at Tsavo West National Park. Stay in an authentic tented safari camp inside Amboseli Park near the Tanzania border that has fantastic views of Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance. Visit Sweetwater's game ranch near Mount Kenya that is a chimpanzee rehabilitation sanctuary. The Samburu area is also home to interesting people with a rich indigenous heritage. At Lake Nakuru, get the chance to see one of the largest concentrations of white and black rhinos in the country, together with vast flocks of flamingos and other birds.

9. Tanzania Family Safari 

Tanzania offers a range of family-friendly adventures. It boasts some of the most definitive African Safari destinations, particularly the wildlife-rich 'Northern Safari Circuit' which includes the famous Serengeti plains and the fascinating Ngorongoro Crater. Along the balmy Indian Ocean coastline lies exotic Zanzibar Island, a perfect tropical beach destination. Read more about this fascinating country in our Tanzania travel guide .

• Private Tanzania Safari - Lodge & Camping Tour

Tour Length — 7 days

The tour begins and ends in Arusha, the gateway to Tanzania's Northern Safari Circuit. This is a small group tour, travelling with 6 people at most and staying at a combination of private tented camps and well-selected safari lodges. The itinerary may have some long travelling days, so we would not recommend this trip for children under the age of 6 years.

This family adventure of a lifetime explores the famous Northern Safari Circuit of Tanzania, game viewing in four of the country's best safari parks in just one week! Spend the first two nights in Tarangire National Park, one of East Africa's best places to see elephants up close. The third night is spent in tented rooms at a comfortable safari lodge set on the ledge of the Great Rift Valley  with stunning panoramic views of Lake Manyara and the Great Rift Valley floor below. Lake Manyara is a shallow alkaline Great Rift Valley lake attracting huge seasonal flocks of flamingos and various other waterfowl. Then to Serengeti National Park  - the highlight of our Private Tanzania Safari! The Serengeti aptly derives its name from “Siringitu”, the Maasai word for endless plains that truly appear to stretch onto infinity, providing prime hunting territory for Africa's big cats, especially cheetahs. Spend two nights at a private camp in the Serengeti where you get to explore top areas for wildlife, visit the best viewpoints to get fantastic photos, and enjoy the scenic landscapes teeming with animals with your knowledgeable guide. Last, but not least, your adventure takes you to Ngorongoro Crater , known as the Eden of Africa. Spend the last night at a coffee plantation nearby and drive to the rim of the crater to be met by the spectacular sight of the huge caldera below. Take a last game drive through the crater, home to a dense population of Africa's Big 5 (lions, elephants, buffalos, rhinos, and leopards) and many other animals and birds.

10. Zanzibar Family Holiday

• Zanzibar Beach Resort Package

Tour Length — 4 days

Enjoy a family beach holiday after your safari adventure or for a perfect escape from regular life or the cold weather! This short Zanzibar Beach Resort Package is one of the most affordable Zanzibar vacation packages to this true tropical paradise. Read our comprehensive guide to Zanzibar Island .

Zanzibar has a treasure trove of experiences for the family! The resort offers beautiful beaches, a range of water sports & land-based activities, and delicious meals at various restaurants. Children will enjoy excursions like exploring the Jozani Forest with its playful Red Colobus monkeys or visiting the Zanzibar Butterfly Center. Historic Changu Island is home to giant Aldabra tortoises, while a snorkelling trip offers a peek into Zanzibar's vibrant underwater world teeming with colourful fish. Kids may also enjoy a spice farm tour, sail on a traditional wooden dhow, or a fascinating reef walk at low tide, discovering hidden marine life exposed by the retreating ocean. And when it's time to cool down, the resort's massive swimming pool, just steps from the beach, awaits!

11. Okavango Delta – Botswana Family Safari

The Okavango Delta in Botswana is one of the world's most unique safari destinations. It is a river delta with no route to the sea, so it empties into the vast Kalahari desert. The year-round water supply makes it a magnet for wildlife, large and small and is a true bucket list safari destination.  Read more about the Okavango Delta in our comprehensive guide .

Botswana Safari: Okavango Delta Mokoro Safari

The tour begins and ends in Maun, Botswana, travelling into the idyllic Okavango Delta by road and returning in a light aircraft. The first two nights are spent at Xaoo Safari Camp, a family-friendly safari camp nestled on a forested island overlooking the Okavango Delta flood plains. Each day you explore more of this fascinating area, embarking on a morning and afternoon activity of your choosing - a mokoro ride in traditional-style mokoro canoes, a walking safari, a 4x4 game drive, or a cultural village tour.

Then fly by helicopter over Moremi Game Reserve to the northern floodplains of the Khwai River where an impressive variety of wildlife gathers. The next two nights are spent at Camp Khwai, a well-positioned tented camp overlooking the Khwai River floodplain. Elephants, antelopes, and predators all concentrate in and around the Khwai River Area, making it a great place for wildlife spotting. Note: The family unit tent sleeping 5 carries no age restrictions - but a private vehicle must be booked for activities. The return transfer to Maun is in a small plane  – this offers sweeping aerial views over the fascinating Okavango Delta.

Plan your Family Safari

With so many incredible destinations to choose from, Africa awaits your family! The best safari for you will depend on your children's ages, interests, your budget, and the wildlife you'd most like to see. Think about the activities offered beyond game drives, like kid-friendly camps with amenities and experiences that will keep them engaged. This list gives just a taste of the many fantastic adventures that are available.  Chat to one of our friendly consultants at African Budget Safaris who will help you pick the African family holiday that would suit you best. By choosing locations and activities that cater to everyone, you're sure to create lasting memories that will ignite a lifelong love of nature and wildlife in your entire family.

If you liked this post, these trips cover similar ground…

• 11 Day Budget Kenya & Tanzania Family Safari
• 8 Day Kenya Family Safari to Masai Mara Lodge & More

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Your stunning fusion of city, safari, and beach will take you on a 15-day family-friendly adventure to South Africa and Mauritius. Your custom-tailored excursions will connect you to three distinctive landscapes, taking you from Cape Town to the African Savanna and Mauritius. Enjoy guided bush walks, luxury spas, pristine beaches, and big five safaris as you experience two weeks of adventure and relaxation perfect for children of all ages.

Share a remarkable journey through Africa with your family of teenagers on this 9-day tour of Cape Town, Johannesburg and the exclusive Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve. Learn first about South Africa’s pulsing history as you visit the landmarks surrounding Table Mountain, Robben Island and Soweto. Then, move out into the bush for the adventure of a lifetime - a South Africa safari. Follow lions, leopards and rhinos through the raw and untrammeled bush Coupled with moments of sheer indulgence from some of South Africa’s most prized lodges, this trip will expose your family to the full magic and wonder of the continent.

Dynamic pricing from  $8,445

Take a journey through Southern Africa like no other, encompassing the scenic wonders of Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, the majesty of the Panorama Route in South Africa and the incomparable wildlife areas of northern Botswana and the Kruger Park region of South Africa. Combining incredible landscapes and thrilling Big Five wildlife encounters by safari vehicle and on foot, while staying at world-class luxury lodges, this is a family adventure that will create memories to last a lifetime.

Dynamic pricing from  $13,515

From Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Crater, to Kenya’s Masai Mara and onwards to the Rwandan highlands, this two-week adventure will profile East Africa’s most impressive landscapes and most celebrated wildlife. Traversing the Serengeti and the Masai Mara will give unprecedented opportunities to watch the Great Wildebeest Migration, as lions, leopards and cheetahs escort the two million ungulates. In Rwanda stand in the midst of mountain gorillas, observing them, and they you. You will experience comfort in the bush by staying in intimate mobile camps away from the crowds. These are some of the continent’s most fantastic properties, offering an experience akin to that of the early explorers

12  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $7,639

From island life to big game safaris, East Africa kindles images of a unique family adventure. Over 12 days, you will lounge on beaches, come face to face with elephant herds, learn how to track animals, and meet with tribal Masai families. From recreating  Lion King movie scenes to watching wildebeest gallop past you, this family safari is imbued with the intimate experiences that are possible in Zanzibar, Tanzania, and Kenya.

Walking safaris with indigenous guides, kayaking with dolphins, standing on Table Mountain, and connecting with local people; South Africa's playground of experiences provide a thrilling destination for families with teenage children. Using three diverse destinations, this 2-week South Africa tour is packed with adventure and filled with allure. Take the whole family on a tailored teenager safari in the Sabi Sands, then to Cape Town and finally the coastal utopia of Plettenberg Bay.

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Family Tours & Trips in South Africa

What kid doesn't love animals? From creatures of the sea in  Hermanus  to the prehistoric-like rhinos of  Kruger National Park , South Africa hosts the world's biggest game of hide-and-seek. Perhaps you prefer a beach escape at  Durban's  Golden Mile instead, where inviting waves make for a great surfing lesson, or the world-famous  Garden Route  dotted with vineyards, caves, and wildlife hotspots. South Africa guarantees a family-fun adventure the whole family will love!

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250+ family tour packages in south africa with 991 reviews.

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South Africa: Family Cape Adventure

Family South Africa’s Garden Route and Safari

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Family Safari, Madikwe Game Reserve, Big Five

Southern Africa Family Journey: In Search of the Big Five

6 Day Classic Kruger Park Safari

Best Safari with Viva safaris from start to finish it was one of the best things I have experienced in my life absolutely amazing the staff the accommodation at Tremisana lodge the home cooked meals the safaris in the open sided vehicles the other friends you meet and make and to Rocky and George my favourite guides rangers we saw all the big five and more hundreds of animals birds etc and even a huge Black mamba snake on one of the safaris that good the Adrenaline rushing which is a pretty rare sighting but always felt extremely safe at all times these guys are professional. Totally recommend Viva Safari thanks Piero.

5 Day Classic Kruger Park Safari

Excellent program really well run safari by Viva Safari. Accomm was basic but clean and comfortable, scheduling ran like clockwork, food was excellent, staff charming and efficient and we saw loads of animals.

Family South Africa Safari and Beach Adventure

South Africa Family Safari with Teenagers

5-Day Kruger National Park Big 5 Safari & Panorama Route Tour

This was such a wonderful experience and the crew there treated us so special. We saw lots of animals, the lodge is beautiful and the people are wonderful.

• €30 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

7 day Garden Route, Cape Point and Winelands Combo

Isaac was caring, attentive and kind to all of the guests on the tour no matter how long the days were.

Cape Town and Garden Route Adventure Tour

Awesome Kruger National Park & Panorama Route Safari South Africa

Such an amazing tour with a big mix of variety. The panorama route and then kruger park where most animals are see, as the guide know where which species approximately are. Sure to recommend!

5 day Best of South Africa Highlights: Garden Route with Addo National Park

Great fun trip. Very busy but we had a good crew and guide which made it fun. GG was excellent and talked at length about the SA he loves. Recommended

4 Day Cape to Addo Safari Tour (Return)

The tour itself was fantastic! Lourens, our guide was one of the best guides i have had the privilege of doing a tour with. He knew all the best spots to see, and things to do and even gave us some extra insights that only someone truly passionate would take the time to learn about. I would highly recommend to anyone looking for a great tour of the Garden Route.

Wonders of the Western Cape (10 Days)

What people love about family tours in south africa.

Het was voor ons de eerste ervaring met Tour Radar , het mooie was dat alles klopte , het contact , antwoord op vragen , informatie aanbod , vervoer met de shuttle bus was goed , doordat alles goed georganiseerd was , hadden we een geslaagde vakantie .

The tour was really awesome. Each day we got to see so much and we were so lucky to get to see the Big 5! The only thing that let the experience down was the accommodation which was pretty dated and felt damp. But it had been wet and we were reluctant to overuse the aircon. The food was generous and the staff were very friendly and accomodating. Next time we go safari, we will spend a little more now that we know what to experimenter. Thank you for a great tour.

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• 10 Best Family Travel Agencies 2024
• South Africa Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best Time to Visit South Africa 2024/2025
• 10 Best Family Safari Holiday Packages 2024/2025
• Best 10 Day South Africa Itineraries (with Reviews)

5 Places to Travel Abroad With Your Kids This Year

London, lapland, and tanzania are on the cards in 2024..

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TAASA Lodge offers a walking safari among several other singular experiences.

Courtesy of Go2Africa

Is it worth traveling abroad with your kids, especially with so many great options in the United States? Short answer: yes. That’s especially true if you consider one of these family-friendly destinations our writers have visited in recent months. They’ve been roaming with their children in the United Kingdom, Japan, Tanzania, Greece, and Swedish Lapland and have unearthed some great spots for the whole fam for 2024. Just try not to think about the flight there (and especially the flight home) . . .

Osaka, Japan

Theme parks and enticing street food are among the highlights of a visit to Osaka.

Photo by Usa-Pyon/Shutterstock

Wandering through Osaka’s neon-clad neighborhood of Shinsekai with my son—a hard-to-impress tween with a thirst for photo-worthy culinary creations—we passed takoyaki stands advertising their octopus-based wares with 3D tentacle-covered displays and a conveyor belt sushi joint adorned with an enormous rotating nigiri platter. Ultimately, we were drawn into Jumbo Tsuribune Tsurikichi , a restaurant boasting expansive pools of fish that you can catch with provided bait and rods. Here, they’ll cook and serve whatever you reel in—which, in our case, was a beast large enough to feed a family twice our size.

Memory-making experiences like this are only the beginning here, where maximalist signage beckons hungry travelers at every turn. And despite rising food costs across the globe, affordable eats are still easy to find in Osaka, making it an enticing choice for anyone looking to test their taste buds without breaking the bank. Even the pickiest of eaters will find something to love in this dynamic destination, and fun-loving families will find a variety of singular eateries. Dine alongside Pikachu at the popular Pokemon Café or enjoy impossibly cute Mario-inspired meals at Super Nintendo World at Universal Japan , which will soon offer even more options in its new Donkey Kong–themed land , slated to open in 2024.

Where to stay

For an immersive experience, families can sleep on traditional tatami mats at Ukiyoe Ryokan . The Cross Hotel Osaka , meanwhile, provides comfy digs located steps from the bustling food stalls in the Dotonbori area.— Amanda Adler

“I spy” gets a whole lot more interesting when there are leopards, hippos, and warthogs to peep.

Taking a toddler on safari is not for the faint of heart; I knew if I was gonna do it, I needed serious help. Enter Go2Africa , a seasoned tour operator staffed by specialists who’ve traveled extensively with small children throughout East and Southern Africa. These experts knew exactly which camps were the family-friendliest and how to safely travel between them. They arranged private safari drives for us in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area , a UNESCO-protected World Heritage site with Africa’s densest population of large animals, and a quiet corner of Serengeti National Park. Over multiple game drives in the two regions, we spotted lions, leopards, hippos, ostriches, flamingos, warthogs, and roughly a gazillion wildebeest, but it was a dazzle of zebras lingering within arm’s reach of our 4x4 that really had my son clapping up a storm.

Check out TAASA Lodge , a boutique bush camp in a 15,000-acre concession north of the Serengeti, and Gibb’s Farm , an 80-acre organic farm and coffee plantation less than an hour from Ngorongoro Crater. Both properties hire guides, trackers, and staff who truly love children, as opposed to merely tolerate them. Both also have swimming pools—a fantastic way for kiddos to spend some time in between game drives. —Ashlea Halpern, contributing editor

Athens, Greece

Ancient history comes alive in Athens.

Photo by Sven Hansche/Shutterstock

While history and ancient ruins may seem boring for little ones at first, Athens is actually an entertaining and educational family destination. Before you even leave, get your kids into Greek mythology and history—there’s the graphic novel series Olympians that reinterprets the mythologies and a funny and engaging podcast by National Geographic called Greeking Out that my eight-year-old son loves. Once you land, kids will be eager to see the sites that otherwise might look like crumbling dirt. When I visited last summer with my husband and two young kids, I booked a private tour with Be a Greek specifically meant for families. Our guide kept both of my children (and my husband and I) engaged with a scavenger hunt, trivia, games, and dynamic storytelling as we traipsed around the city, ticking off sites like the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Panathenaic Stadium, and Syntagma Square to see the changing of the presidential guard.

Visiting the Acropolis is a bit more challenging, so be sure to go in early morning or evening when it’s cooler and less crowded, and leave the stroller behind (way too many steps!). Kids will also enjoy the Acropolis Museum (request a “family backpack” for educational resources, puzzles, and more); riding the bright red Athens Happy Train ; going up Mount Lycabettus via cable car; and strolling around the picturesque Plaka neighborhood. When you need to escape the heat, head outside the city center to the Athens Riviera for some time at Astir Beach or to the still-in-progress Ellinikon , which already features an incredible playground and park, with more to come.

To be in the center, stay at the new boutique Apollo Palm Hotel , which offers triple rooms perfect for a family of three (or four if one child is in a crib, which can be provided) while still boasting a chic design, gorgeous rooftop bar, and delicious breakfast buffet. For a resort experience, complete with a kids club, beach, and pool, the Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens has spacious rooms and an incredibly friendly and helpful staff who clearly love children.— Devorah Lev-Tov

The Jokkmokk market has been around for hundreds of years.

Photo by Tommy Alven/Shutterstock

Swedish Lapland

My kids were just toddlers when we visited Swedish Lapland’s Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi, where I pushed them in strollers as they teetered across packed-snow floors in rooms carved out from river ice by artists from around the world. (We sanely slept in the warm accommodations on site.)

On a visit this past winter on my own, I found several other reasons to plot a trip back soon with my now-older crew. The best winter adventures in this part of Sweden come with experiential elements that go beyond chasing the northern lights. At Arctic Bath in the small hamlet of Harads, I watched a British family with elementary school–age kids brave cold plunges together following a sauna session, stepping down a metal ladder straight into the frozen Lule River and whooping it up before beelining it for the outdoor hot tubs.

Nearby, the whimsical variety of cabins on stilts at Treehotel —including one shaped like a bird’s nest and another like a UFO—were pure fantastical fun, with ice fishing and snowshoeing among the activities. Sapmi Nature Camp offers three-night packages to stay with Sámi hosts in private lavvu tents on the family’s grazing lands for reindeer while learning about their modern way of life. And if you’re here in early February, the excitement of the annual Jokkmokk Winter Market draws hundreds of Indigenous people from all over the Sápmi region of Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Russia for an outdoor festival with live music, shopping for silverwork and traditional clothing, and many more activities.

All of the aforementioned stays are a treat worth planning a trip around. But I’m dreaming of a multi-generational winter adventure at Fjellborg Arctic Lodge , where you can arrive via dogsled from nearby Jukkasjärvi. Families stay in a luxurious four-bedroom cabin with its own sauna and outdoor hot tub overlooking Lake Väkkärä. (Smaller cabins can accommodate more people right nearby.) The lodge’s wilderness guides lead all manner of excursions—including snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and ice fishing.— Terry Ward

London, U.K.

With musicals, green spaces, and seemingly endless restaurants, no two days in London are the same.

Courtesy of One Aldwych

From a wickedly funny Yeoman Warder guide at the Tower to a bike tour with London Bicycle and a visit to the Harry Potter studios (where all eight movies were filmed), my family’s weeklong trip across the pond proved to be equal parts educational and fun. We also adored the Matilda musical, based on Roald Dahl’s beloved book, in the West End, with all four of us singing along to its catchy tunes as we left the theater. The city’s many green spaces (Hyde Park; Kensington Gardens, with the Princess Diana Memorial Playground; Battersea Park) also allow ample opportunity for little legs to stretch, run, and stop to smell the roses. With a food scene that’s the stuff of legend, eating at Indian street food chain Dishoom and plant-based Mallow in Borough Market were also musts and didn’t disappoint.

London has many great hotels . I liked the elegant 101-room One Aldwych in the heart of Covent Garden, within blocks of theaters, restaurants, and museums, such as the fantastic London Transport Museum (where kids can see double-decker buses and grown-ups can marvel at the history of the Tube). Along with spacious suites, thoughtful touches like the daily replenished complimentary mini-bar (with biscuits and chips to keep little ones happy) and a “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” themed afternoon tea make the hotel truly perfect for families.— Tanvi Chheda

Africa Safari Trip: A Comprehensive Guide To Crafting Unforgettable Memories

H ave you witnessed a lion’s roar echo across the savanna or watched a herd of elephants lumber by? An Africa safari trip is an otherworldly experience, but where do you even begin? This guide will equip you with all the essentials to plan your unforgettable adventure . Even though it can seem overwhelming at times, if you’re equipped with the right guidance and information, the procedure is rather easy.

To help you plan the perfect safari tour in Africa, in addition to answering the majority of your frequently asked questions, we’re put together some of the greatest tips and useful suggestions.

Choosing the Location of Your African Safari Trip

An Africa safari trip promises an enchanted world of discovery, where each expedition and place holds the potential to reveal a captivating tale. Every area of this enormous continent, from the lush deltas of the south to the brilliant savannahs of the east, offers a different fabric of fauna and culture. This is more than just a journey—it’s an exploration of the core of nature, where opportunity abounds at every turn.

African safaris are unique among travel experiences because of the authentic, natural spectacle of the wild. These excursions aim to fully immerse you in the world of animals, not just observe them. Planning your destination is among the most crucial aspects of preparation for any holiday, including this one. Africa is vast, so it’d be helpful to start with a “where to go on an Africa safari trip” Google search if you have no idea what to do.

To select the ideal safari destination, you must consider the things you wish to see. Are there any specific animals or cultural events you would like to see? Kenya and Tanzania from July to October are your best choices if you’ve always wanted to see the Great Wildebeest Migration. Visit either Botswana or South Africa to see a huge herd of African elephants throughout the year.

In East Africa and the majority of Southern African nations, the “Big Five” are also widely distributed. Travel to Uganda, Rwanda or the Congo for gorilla trekking; these countries are all in Central Africa. If you want to see chimpanzees on your Africa safari tour, Uganda is the ideal place to do it.

Top 5 Choice Destinations for Your Africa Safari Trip

Here are our top five African wildlife safari destinations to help you plan your trip.

Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve

At the Maasai Mara Reserves, the Big Five roam free, and boundless plains extend into the horizon on a wildlife safari. Traveling off-road and appreciating the lack of fences and lodging at any of the Mara conservation areas allows you to experience the breathtaking sight of countless wildebeests roaring across the East African savanna around the Great Migration.

From open safari vehicles, watch as lions hunt their prey with unparalleled subtlety. Elephants socialize within their close-knit groups, and elegant giraffes peruse acacia trees with grace. A fascinating insight into the Maasai people’s dynamic local culture, which is entwined with the land, its profusion of wildlife, and the natural beauties of the wildness itself, is provided by Maasai Mara.

Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park

Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park is home to a large environment that is brimming with life. See the boundless plains packed with antelopes, zebras, and wildebeests as they migrate in a never-ending dance of survival throughout your Africa safari trip. It’s what you anticipate seeing on game drives following your viewing of National Geographic or PBS programs. You might be amazed watching the big cats lounging in the shade following a good hunt, or you might experience the exhilaration of seeing a cheetah racing across the landscape in a flurry of speed.

There are other methods to observe wildlife, such as taking a hot-air balloon flight across the savanna for breath-inspiring, all-encompassing views of this iconic African terrain. Seasonality is essential when thinking about visiting the Serengeti; never schedule an unplanned online vacation.

Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park

You can feel the African wilderness in Zambia, not just see it. In contrast to safaris that are limited to metal enclosures, South Luangwa encourages you to stroll among the animals rather than drive by them. Imagine your heart racing as you make your way through verdant riverine forests full of leopards hiding in their disguises, only to be astounded by vast herds of buffalo crossing wide-open savannas.

As you approach elephants bathing, listen to the Luangwa River’s rushing waters, which will lead you to the echoes of night safaris. You can unwind in the unexpected comfort of fly tents or treehouse retreats when the stars adorn the sky.

South Africa’s Greater Kruger National Park

You can journey across acacia woodlands and tour places with sun-filled savannas along the rushing waters of the Sabi River in South Africa’s Greater Kruger National Park. Hear the echoes of prehistoric existence and see the exhilarating dance of adventures amidst the rare species. Renowned for its almost assured Big Five meetings, you get to experience the exhilarating thrill of seeing elephants trumpeting by a waterhole or lions relaxing in golden light—you don’t have to imagine it.

There is more to Kruger’s artistry than the Big Five. Higher populations of predators and a more varied array of species can be found in the superb private game reserves found in the Greater Kruger National Park. Wander along the river where crocodiles and hippos sunbathe before becoming lost in the rainbow of more than 500 different bird species.

Botswana’s Okavango Delta

Emerald islands emerge from the reflecting waters of the spreading waterways of Botswana’s Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A mokoro is a native dugout canoe in which you may sail softly and intimately while spotting sleeping hippos afar and thirsty elephants sipping at the riverbanks .

Search among the trees for one of the greatest spots to see leopards or take in the aerial views of storks, eagles, and pelicans.

In such a distant location, the Okavango Delta boasts one of the largest concentrations of upscale safari resorts in Southern Africa, providing you with exclusive access to convenience and uncrowded rivers for a singular embrace of unspoiled wildlife.

Tips For An Outstanding African Safari Adventure

The foundation of a great African safari is effective communication. It makes sure you get the best possible experience out of your trip by bridging the gap between what you expect and the actual conditions of the environment. There are three communication techniques to help you receive the experience you want by interacting with an Africa safari trip guide or travel advisor .

Clearly state your demands and desires. Tell us about your ideal speed, cultural attractions, the wildlife you hope to see, and any unique interests you may have, such as birdwatching or photography. This enables your guide to customize your safari adventures based on your interests and budget. Mention any possible restrictions. Any physical restrictions or sensitivity should be disclosed to your guide to guarantee a fun and safe trip.

Pose inquiries. Never be afraid to ask questions about anything that piques your curiosity, be it local customs or the behavior of animals. Your guide holds a wealth of information that is just waiting to be discovered.

African safaris are an ode to the diversity and grandeur of nature. Every excursion offers a chance for a profound and intimate connection with nature. However, in a world full of breathtaking locations, the real art of travel is in how you take in each one. Each destination has a spirit of its own, and you can make transforming vacation experiences with the correct itinerary in addition to ones that are simply memorable.

Whether you’re traveling to the wild African savannahs or the charming countryside of Tuscany, creating a one-of-a-kind, dreamlike trip requires careful planning and vital information. It all comes down to creating a seamless, stress-free, and uniquely personalized tapestry of memories.

People Also Ask

How far should my Africa safari trip be scheduled? It’s advisable to make reservations eight to twelve months in advance of when you wish to go or depart for your selected African safari location. Enough time guarantees availability and your place at the top of the line for the most desirable experiences that Africa presents. It is always better to schedule your safari trip earlier than undergo a last-minute rush.

When is the ideal time to go on an Africa safari trip? The dry season, which runs from June to October, is the ideal time to go on a safari. Since it’s a warmer period of the year, there’s a greater chance that you’ll spot creatures looking for water. You can also witness the famous Masai Mara migration during these months.

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Our Africa tours and safaris are compelling and unique – travel experiences unlike any other. View the amazing Big Five on safari drives led by expert trackers, drivers, rangers, and Tauck Directors... stay in Africa's national parks and private reserves in accommodations that reflect their cultural and natural landscapes... experience local traditions, gaining rich cultural insights... and return home forever changed.

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Welcome to Africa

African landscapes parading with the circle of life promise magical moments unlike any you have imagined before. You'll find them...

Mountain gorillas in rwanda, a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with endangered mountain gorillas... on safari in rwanda with tauck.

On two safaris in wildlife-rich game reserves in Tanzania and Kenya, you'll spend the last three nights of your journey in Rwanda – home to the last remaining mountain gorillas on Earth. After gaining insights on gorilla behavior at private lectures and a visit to the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund Museum, you'll be ready to begin your gorilla trek. Imagine hiking into the wilderness with a private porter and an expert guide for a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with mountain gorillas in the wild… watching them interact with each other – and, if they so choose, perhaps with you!

Africa's "Big Five"

Meet the "big five".

Lions (Panthera leo) are often seen in Masai Mara National Reserve (Kenya), Serengeti & Tarangire national parks, and Ngorongoro Conservation Area (Tanzania). Buffalo (Syncerus caffer) can weigh as much as 1,500 lbs. – big and dangerous enough to keep most predators at bay. Buffalo roam the Sabi Sands Game Reserve (South Africa) and Serengeti National Park (Tanzania). black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis) may be spotted in Ngorongoro Crater and the Masai Mara. leopards (Panthera pardus) are prevalent in most parks and reserves in east and southern Africa; you'll often need to look up to spot one... since they spend much of their time in trees. African Elephant (Loxodonta africana), the world's largest land mammal, is a fixture throughout the Masai Mara, as well as Amboseli and Serengeti national parks. Although they are not among the "Big Five," a gorilla trek in Rwanda is one of life's memorable experiences.

Namibia: Epic Safari

Starlit skies, desert dunes, game reserves and wildlife safaris.

Embark on an epic 11-day journey to Namibia, home to desert landscapes alive with oryx, bat-eared foxes, zebras, lizards and more. Explore the red-tinted dunes of Sossusvlei. Star gaze in one of the naturally darkest places on earth. Enjoy a hands-on personal encounter with baby baboons. A truly unforgettable adventure in every way.

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Safaris at a Glance

Which safari is right for you.

Each Tauck safari is unique, with its own spectacular destinations and experiences. Whether this is your first time or you're a seasoned pro, it can be difficult to pick the right one with so many to choose from. So, we created a helpful guide highlighting the important details and differences between our safari options to make your decision as easy as possible.

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Dinner in the desert, Berber-style

Travel by 4x4 vehicle to a berber-style dinner in a desert camp.

In the desert outside Marrakech, ancient Berber villages preserve time-honored folkways and rituals – like the traditional Moroccan tea ceremony – that have survived for centuries. Ride aboard a 4x4 vehicle to one of these villages for tea with the village chief and a crash-course in Berber culture. Then it's on to our desert camp, where dinner is served Berber-style under a tent with musical entertainment. Experience local customs like riding a camel... smoking shisha (using a hubbly-bubbly pipe, or hookah, to smoke flavored tobacco)... or having your hands or feet decorated with traditional henna designs!

Historic Safari Lodges... Legendary Hotels...

Accommodations as important as the experience....

We've carefully selected your accommodations – Africa's finest safari lodges, private game reserves, tented safari camps, classic hotels and premier resorts... many are sought-after destinations in themselves, authentically capturing the essence of their surroundings. From classic safari lodges to luxury tented safari camps... "old world" grand hotels to premier resorts... you'll experience the best of Africa, sunrise to sunset.

Cultural connections

Get to know the maasai in tanzania and kenya.

Discovering cultural legacies leads to life-changing discoveries. Visit tribal villages on the slopes of mighty Kilimanjaro, in the African bush and on plains that move with an endless procession of migrating beasts and nomadic tribes. Meet Maasai warriors, artisans and school children eager to share their customs and homeland with you in moments so heartwarming you'll return home transformed. The pulse of South Africa is, of course, in its people... in the streets and squares of Jo'burg and Cape Town where a multitude of cultures (Zulu, Xhosa, Afrikaans, European, Malaysian and Indian, to name a few) collide and mix in dazzling displays of art, music, dance and cuisine... and in the bushveld, where you'll encounter tribal traditions that sustain a proud and irrepressible people... always ready to share their customs, language, dances and songs with a warm welcome.

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The Big Five... if you want to experience a travel moment unlike any other, meet the Big Five in the land they call home – because nothing compares to your first sighting on safari... Discover the Big Five in Tanzania, Kenya, South Africa, Botswana... where lions, elephants, water buffalo, leopards and rhinos live large in lush, unspoiled private reserves and national parks...

Wildlife odyssey: south africa, botswana & zimbabwe, kenya & tanzania: a classic safari, tanzania: serengeti to zanzibar, south africa: an elegant adventure.

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Safari with kids itinerary recs - Kenya Forum

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Safari with kids itinerary recs

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What we’re looking for:

-lots of wildlife opportunities

-Mara river crossing migration

-areas with less people maybe conservancies?

-private game drives that will be with just our families in a 4x4 not a van

-maybe include a visit to see the Masai, guided walks, maybe canoe safari, campfire, maybe a pool at one of the locations

-we also plan to spend a week or so in Madagascar

Our questions

-Do you have any tour companies you recommend to help with an itinerary, booking accommodations, and activities?

-Any itinerary suggestions?

-Any must do recommendations?

-Are flights recommended to get between the different safari locations?

Thank you for any and all recommendations! Also please feel free to suggests other options.

Thank you kindly!

7 replies to this topic

Hi, I've left you a private message with details of a tour operator called Kenan travel and tours whose tour manager Jane could answer all your questions.

These two requirements "Mara river crossing migration" and "areas with less people maybe conservancies?" are rather at odds. To see river crossings you'd need to be in the main reserve, not the conservancies, or take a trip into the main reserve from a conservancy. But I'd have a think about whether you really want to make river crossings a priority. To see one, you might have to sit and wait for a long time surrounded by dozens of other vehicles. With small children, will they really have the patience, and is this what you want to be doing with your time? It will also be an expensive exercise given the recent increases in park fees for the main reserve, and if you stay in a conservancy and visit the reserve for one day, you will be paying conservancy fees on top.

Your group is pretty large, I'd probably try and find somewhere you can book exclusively. Saruni Basecamp has some bush houses that might work- you'd need more than one of them but I think they all share a pool area so are next door to each other. They also have Saruni WIld which is a small tented camp that you could have exclusively.

You also mention guided walks, canoeing etc. I would look at Laikipia Wilderness as a second stop as well as the Mara. They now have a camp that you book on an exclusive basis which would be great for your party. The owner is a very experienced walking guide who brought his own kids up in the bush, and they specialise in family safaris and can do lots of fun things like sleep outs, tubing/rafting in the river, fishing etc..

Thank you John! I will definitely check them out.

Thank you Stoneygirl! I think you make some really good points about seeing the migration across the Mara River. We've heard so many wonderful things about watching the migration that despite the crowds we wanted to see it. However, I wasn't aware of the increased park fees and I do think the time sitting and waiting to see the migration might be best spent somewhere else.

I will check out the Saruni options and the Laikipia Wilderness options they sound like great options.

Thank you so much for taking the time to help!

An overland trip will definitely work best for you.

I suggest you look at Olpejeta conservancy/Lewa in addition to the Masai mara reserve, Lewa Conservancy offers more wildlife variety than Ol Pejeta but both are good options.

In a nutshell, 2 Nights Lewa/Olpejeta, 1 or 2 Nights L. Naivasha and 3 Nights Masai mara.

For Kenya , I would suggest you talk to Nancy at Excel Getaways, she will be able tailor something good for your group. https://excelgetaways.com/ or a direct e-mail to [email protected]

I have never been to Madagascar, hopefully someone who has will chip in.

Thank you so much Karcey! I really appreciate this itinerary suggestion it’s so helpful! As I look into more about Madagascar there is so much to do there. We may have to separate the trips so we can fully explore both places. Thank you so much again for your help!

I think you really need to consider what your budget might be as this can really determine what's going to make sense, how you get around, how much safari you can do etc.

If you're looking towards the higher end I and have the budget to fly and stay in conservancies, I'd go for a combination of Lewa and the Masai Mara. Personally as Stokeygirl mentions, waiting around for a river crossing might not be all that fun. The conservancies however have far fewer people- just dipping into the main reserve for a day, depending on where you stay, could be a great option. Lewa also has spectacular game viewing, it's especially good for seeing rhino and the lodges there are all extremely family friendly. If you're on a bit of a tighter budget, Ol Pejeta is another spot that's fabulous for seeing rhino and there are quite a few few very kid-friendly activities that the conservancy offer, so though it's not as wild feeling as the Mara, it is a great option for families.

On which note... as I also know Madagascar really well you definitely want to consider how you do that with kids. Unlike Kenya , or indeed any of the other mainland Africa safari countries where things basically work, in Madagascar you do need to plan really carefully. Flight delays by *days*, not just hours are not uncommon and the best laid plans often fall apart. Annoying when you're an adult, but can be a real pain when kids are involved. So this is one to plan really carefully and limit your ambitions a bit so you can build in a lot of leeway in order to take the stress out of things (or throw a lot of money at logistics!). Of all the countries I have travelled in, which include places like Mauritania and Pakistan which I think people would expect to be trickier, Madagascar is easily the most challenging. You can definitely do a fab trip with kids, but I'd look at maybe either just a few days in Andasibe or if you have the budget for it, Anjajavy (upto a week) or planning for a longer trip there and doing the road trip south, in which case you'd want more like 10 days for Madagascar, maybe a bit longer.

Alexandra- Extraordinary Africa

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