african safari safe for families

An African Safari With Kids: All You Need to Know 2023 Guide

It’s no secret that one of the best holidays with kids we’ve ever had was taking an African safari with kids . We absolutely rave about it whenever anyone asks us about our family-friendly South Africa safari holidays .

Something we didn’t initially pick up on, however, is that people weren’t just asking how our safari holiday was. What they really wanted to know, amongst other things, was ‘ Is it safe to take young kids on safari? ‘.

Before we dive into the ins and outs of taking kids on safari in Africa, you might like to read about the best safaris in Africa for some inspiration.

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Our two-year-old on safari in South Africa

Here’s what you need to know about taking an African safari with kids

It seems that people like the idea of an African safari with kids, but aren’t sure whether it’s possible.

We’re by no means safari experts but before we had kids we visited some of the top national parks in Africa on a 3-month overland trip through Africa.

We love the whole safari experience and so on a family holiday to South Africa, we decided to take our then 2 and 4-year-old boys on safari. We’ve never looked back.

If you’re keen on the idea of a family safari holiday but aren’t yet 100% sure, our FAQs will help answer the most common questions we get asked.

You can also ask experts, Go2Africa , an award-winning travel company who curate amazing African safari packages for families.

Can you take young kids on safari?

The short answer is yes. We took our kids on safari in South Africa when they were 2 and 4 years old and we all had an unforgettable time. Safari holidays are one of the best holidays for families with young children and here’s why:

• Going on safari with kids is easily one of the most educationally rewarding and fun experiences we’ve had.
• Seeing African animals on safari up close in their natural habitat is such a thrilling experience.
• Watching an African sunset and going to sleep to the sound of a lion roar is like no other family camping experience you’ve ever had.
• Helping kids gain a better understanding of animal conservation by seeing these beautiful animals on safari is so important.

Whilst we’re on the subject of animal conservation, we love the getting kids involved in educational experiences while travelling.

Learning through travel is one of the biggest and most important benefits of family travel. If you are also interested in your kids learning through travel, you should take a look at Field Trip by Black Tomato.

They offer some amazing and truly unique family travel experiences like joining the Kenya Wildlife Service in their mission to conserve the Black Rhino, one of the most endangered species on the planet.

Spotting the elusive leopard on safari

When choosing a safari, just check that the lodge you like the look of caters for young children. We’re not just talking about family-friendly accommodation.

If they don’t allow children on game drives and don’t have babysitting services, then you won’t be going on a game drive yourself.

Look for lodges that are family-friendly with a kid’s club, child-friendly game drives and/or babysitting.

We’ve pulled together a list of the most family-friendly Kruger National Park accommodation that have these facilities.

You might also like to take a look at the family accommodation in Timbavati or read our experience of Thornybush Game Lodge .

How old do kids need to be to go on Safari?

There’s no official age limit for taking kids on safari so you will ultimately need to make the call as you know your children best.

Some places don’t allow kids under a certain age either for safety reasons or because they’re considering their other, child-free guests but there are plenty of options that cater for kids of all ages.

We found that from 2 years old was an excellent time to go because they have an understanding of which animal is which by this age and if not, they will definitely learn on safari!

Where are the best places for safari in Africa with kids?

Before we had kids, we travelled for 3 months through Africa and went on every type of safari you can imagine.

We covered self-drive cheap safaris in the Kruger National Park in South Africa (see here for the best time to visit the Kruger ) and Etosha National Park in Namibia (see best time of year to go on safari in Etosha ).

We took mid-range guided safaris in Tanzania and Kenya and a luxury safari holiday in the Okavango Delta in Botswana.

In our opinion, the best African countries to visit for a safari with young children are South Africa and Namibia  for a few reasons.

• they offer great wildlife viewing in national parks where you can self-drive. Self-drive safaris are easier as you can do them at your own pace. You’re missing the knowledge of a local guide, but you can set challenges to get the kids spotting their own wildlife and have a wildlife spotting book to hand.
• they are mostly malaria free which means you don’t need to to take malarial medication. Always check the guidelines before you go as malarial zones can change.
• they are the most western countries in Africa which makes communication easy. You’ll also find familiar foods in their stores, including the all-important snacks for the kids. They’re among the safest countries in Africa too, although you should continue to remain vigilant as with travelling in any foreign country.

See here for our epic 2-week Namibian self-drive itinerary which includes visiting Etosha National Park.

Spotting zebra on safari

Is it safe to take an African safari with kids?

The main question we get is about safety. Is it safe to take young children on safari in Africa? Before we had kids we had heard that kids needed to be 12 and over to go on safari.

We thought this was because it would be annoying for guests to have loud kids in camp and also on vehicles scaring animals away. In fact, we found out that children under 12 are the perfect size prey for the big cats.

Don’t let this put you off. Many family-friendly lodges offer game drives tailor-made for families with small children in enclosed vehicles.

If you are doing a self-drive safari, make sure you read the rules very carefully. Don’t open windows to take pictures. Don’t stop for a toilet break anywhere other than a designated (safe) toilet area. It’s about being sensible.

If you still aren’t convinced that it will be safe for young children, you can always opt to stay on a game reserve that doesn’t have the Big 5.

We actually love any type of safari. We really enjoyed hunting for the Little 5 on a living desert tour in Swakopmund in the Namibian desert.

You can stay in tents and have the safari experience but feel comfortable that there are no predators. It’s still just as thrilling seeing elephants and buffalo up close.

Some places also have wildlife viewing from the safety of camp so you don’t even need to go on a game drive. Watering holes are the ideal place to spot wildlife.

One of the other considerations for taking kids on safari is the risk of malaria. As mentioned above, we recommend South Africa for family safaris because of the large number of non-malaria areas in South Africa for a family safari .

Spotting wildlife from our accommodation at Onguma Fort in Etosha National Park

Is a safari with kids expensive?

Going on safari can be expensive, like a high-end, all-inclusive, once in a lifetime safari honeymoon. These safari holiday packages include a super luxury resort with all food and game drives included and are pretty pricey.

Don’t get me wrong. If money is no object, they are out of this world and completely worth the splurge. Look at Go2Africa for amazing African safari packages.

If you’re on a budget, however, you can still have amazing cheap safari holidays in places like the Kruger National Park and Addo Elephant National Park in South Africa or Etosha National Park in Namibia.

We’ve done budget safaris in Addo, the Kruger and Etosha by self-driving and staying in campgrounds. It’s the best way to keep the cost down.

You just pay the Kruger National Park park entrance fee (or Etosha or Addo) and a small amount to camp overnight. This is very easy to organise yourself without the need for a third party tour company.

If you don’t want to do a self-drive safari, you can try to keep the costs down by booking direct with local agents.

In Tanzania we had a local guide drive us through the Serengeti, Ngorogoro Crater and Lake Manyara and we stayed in mid-range accommodation.

We have also done luxury African safaris and while it’s nice to have the added extras, the wildlife viewing is no less spectacular on a cheap African safari.

If you do want a luxury family holiday, we highly recommend specialised safari consultants that we have used before: Go2Africa organise the most amazing African safari package holidays.

How long is the ideal safari for kids?

We love going on safari but even we draw the line at more than 5 consecutive days on safari with small kids. We like to make the safari a feature of our holiday, not the sole focus of it.

If you don’t want to do a week of daily safaris, you can find safari and beach package holidays where you spend part of the holiday on safari and the rest at a beautiful African beach resort.

In terms of the safari drives, the younger the children are, the shorter the game drives should be.  For children under 7, we would recommend about 2 – 3 hours.

Most safaris are taken in the early morning or late afternoon as these are the best viewing times.  Animals tend to escape the heat of the midday sun and spotting them will become difficult.

Between these times you might want to make the most of the pool (if you have one) or have a family siesta.

If you’re doing a self-drive safari, you have complete control over how long your safari drive is which is another reason we love self-drive safaris with young children.

What to pack for a safari

We’ve written a post on what to take on safari but in summary, your safari packing list should include :

• Take layers. Early morning or early evening game drives can get chilly.
• Take sunscreen, hat and sunglasses and mosquito spray, especially if you’re in an open vehicle.
• Take binoculars to help you spot animals. The kids love them and they’re better than any toy. They don’t need to be specifically kid’s binoculars. You’ll be amazed how much more focused they will be on the safari. No pun intended!
• Take snacks and water.
• Take your camera with a decent zoom lens. We have a beginners Canon 250D DSLR with a Tamron 70-300mm lens .
• Take a wildlife-spotting book if you’re doing a self-drive safari.
• Take a headtorch in case your safari camp doesn’t have electricity at night.
• Sturdy shoes in case you do a walking safari. Trainers should be fine, but we would not recommend flip flops.

Binoculars are popular with kids on safari

What to wear on Safari?

When you think of safaris, you might conjure up images of people dressed in khaki clothes. This would be the stereotypical safari outfits of years gone by.

That’s not to say that people don’t still wear that sort of African safari clothing, but these days you can wear pretty much what you want, as long as it’s not too bright.

And depending on which country you are visiting, you may want to avoid dark colours (blue and black) as they can attract Tsetse Fly.

Aim for neutral colours. If you’re doing a self-drive safari, it won’t matter what safari clothes you choose to wear.

Neutral coloured safari clothing

Can we see animals without doing a safari drive?

If the idea of driving around for hours spotting wildlife with small kids does not appeal to you, there are other options. We have stayed in places where you can watch wildlife from your accommodation.

In this case, you can treat the accommodation just as a base to explore other things in the area with the added bonus of seeing wildlife.

We have stayed at the incredible and very family-friendly Onguma Bush Camp just next to Etosha National Park in Namibia. You can watch animals from the pool area or while enjoying a meal at their restaurant.

Onguma Bush Camp in Etosha

We’ve also stayed at Okaukuejo Camp where we watched endangered black rhino come at dusk to the illuminated waterhole. It was an incredible experience.

Mother and baby black rhino at the Okaukuejo Camp waterhole

If you can’t make it to Africa just yet, why not start with one of the UK safari parks? Try searching for ‘safari parks near me’. We were surprised at how many animal safari parks there were in the UK.

Whilst it’s not the same as spending your holidays in Africa, it will give you a taster and might also give you an idea as to whether your kids might be interested in a safari or not.

Any other questions?

We’d love to hear if you have any other questions about taking kids on safari. Leave a comment and we’ll get back to you.

We also have more information on visiting South Africa with kids , including fun things to do with kids in Cape Town . Or check out our South Africa section on the blog.

If you found this post useful, why not bookmark it, share it with friends or pin it?

I am thinking about taking my kids too!

That’s great news! It’s an amazing experience for them!

I enjoyed this post.I read your blog site fairly frequently, and you aree always bring out some terrific material. I shared this on my Facebook page, and a lot of my followers liked it. Keep up tthe great work

Thanks so much for your comment. This is lovely to hear.

Hello. Thank you…Great article

Thanks so much. I’m glad you enjoyed it.

That’s a wonderful! thank you for sharing such a great information!

Fact: More people get bitten by spiders and snakes in their homes than while on safaris. … Yes, Africa does have dangerous animals but most fatalities have been caused by people disobeying the park rules by getting out their vehicles and harassing the animals.

This is very true

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Family safari: the ultimate guide to going on safari with kids

By Lydia Bell

Is it suitable to go on safari with kids?

Yes. “The great outdoors is the best classroom of all,” Chris Wain of Africa Travel says. If your children love nature and trips to the zoo, then going on safari in Africa will blow them away. As well as seeing the stars of The Lion King , they will spot animals from whales and meerkats to dolphins and elephants.”

It’s great for adults to have children around on safari – a bit like at Christmas. As Anita Powell (of Small World Marketing, a long-time safari goer with kids) says, “I have been fortunate to experience many safaris but seeing the bush through the eyes of my own children added a completely new dimension. There is nothing like the amazement on a child’s face when giraffes and zebras are so close that you can smell them.”

Being with children can bring out the child in us, too. As Dereck Joubert, CEO of Great Plains , says, "We can all remember the liberation, as kids, of having the freedom to be outside all day, making stuff from sticks, catching tadpoles and climbing trees. We were all explorers of some kind, and we still are.”

Also, it’s all set up. Kyle de Nobrega, Maun-based explorations specialist and pro-guide for Journeys By Design in Botswana , comments: “Africa is a continent for families. Logistics are easy and there are loads of options for stays and experiences.”

Last but by no means least, taking children on safari instils in them the significance of the natural world – and the need to protect it – and teaches them about conservation tourism as a force for good rather than destruction.

What’s the best age to bring kids on safari?

The jury’s out on this. On paper, there tends to be a minimum age of six. Most lodges tend to allow children from this age, though some may insist on a private vehicle (a good thing – you won’t have to worry about them disrupting others). Adriaan Erasmus, Group GM for Cheetah Ridge and The Homestead on Nambiti Reserve in South Africa suggests eight years and up as a good age. “Before that, they can’t always listen to or take instructions, plus you certainly want them to remember such an expensive holiday.” Henrietta Loyd, founder and director of Cazenove+Loyd , agrees with that. “They are long tiring days on safari, and it is an expensive holiday for the whole family not to benefit. I speak from experience having taken a five-year-old who did one game drive and then spent most of the time in the pool or playing with the manager’s dog.”

Other experts take the opposite view. “The notion that there’s a specific right age is a great misconception,” says Kyle de Nobrega. It’s not necessarily the memories you need, but what happens inside you that builds character and embeds a spirit that you’ll carry consciously or unconsciously for the rest of your life.

Lisa Johnson, a travel writer who’s tried different ages and stages of safari with children, points out, “If it’s a one-off, I will wait until secondary school when kids can fully process and learn from the experience. Being in such vast, wild environments can be profound and even life-changing for teenagers. Otherwise, it depends on how relaxed the family is being in the wild and entrusting their children’s safety to others – and whether a child is able to be quiet and sit still when told to. At five, my daughter loved interacting with our Maasai hosts: beading with the women, riding on the shoulders of our guide on a walking safari, holding a baby goat on a visit to a local village, and dancing with the Maasai in the firelight. By seven, she was wowed by the immensity of the landscape and the majesty of the big cats and delighted by the monkeys. Now 11, she is a huge Africa fan.”

Which are the best countries for family safaris?

The classic picks are the big five habitats, including South Africa, Kenya , Tanzania , Namibia, Botswana , Zimbabwe, and Zambia. It depends if it’s your first rodeo – South Africa is unanimously advised if so. “Not only does your budget go further,” comments Anita Powell, but often the game is more plentiful and relatively easy to spot, meaning no bumping around for hours. You can also easily combine it with Cape Town, the Winelands, and the coast.”

CNT Editors

Anita Bhagwandas

Olivia Morelli

Lily Bonesso

Cazenove+Loyd’s owners and destination experts vote for the “fabulous wildlife reserves, craggy mountains and powdery beaches” of South Africa, too.

Co-founder and Director of Mahlatini Luxury Africa Safaris Greg Fox agrees. He advises sticking to the Great Kruger Area, where “most private reserves have children’s programmes. Alternatively, South Africa’s Eastern Cape includes a few more budget options and is malaria-free.”

Chris Wain of Africa Travel advises the malaria-free spots. “In Namibia , there’s the Namib-Naukluft National Park, the world’s oldest desert, and the Etosha National Park, the country’s premier wildlife hotspot, whilst the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park offers Botswana’s only malaria-free safari experience. In South Africa, there’s the Eastern Cape, where the Shamwari, Amakhala, Kwandwe and Samara Private Game Reserves are all found, and the Western Cape, which plays host to the Sanbona, Aquila and Gondwana Game Reserves. In the north-west is the Madikwe Game Reserve, which has a number of superb family-friendly safari lodges.”

Wain has a few special mentions in South Africa. “The Amakhala Game Reserve in the Eastern Cape leads the way with special family programmes and activities promoted at their Hlosi and Woodbury Lodges,” he says, “then the Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, two hours outside Cape Town, is not traditional Big Five territory but has the Marine Five – with whales, sharks, dolphins, penguins and seals.”

For teenagers and second-timers, Kenya comes up trumps. Kyle de Norbrega suggests: “Kenya is extraordinary for older children in their teens. You can explore some extremely remote areas in the north and interact with tribes like the Samburu, an amazing way to show young minds the planet’s cultural diversity.”

Anita Powell seconds this: “I always think Kenya is perfect for second-timers. I love the human cultural element of Kenya. Meeting the tribes and learning about their lives is so fascinating for kids.” For third-timers, she says, “Zambia and the Lower Zambezi is unbeatable due to the variety of activities on offer. There’s fishing daily, walking safaris, canoeing, river lunches on a sandbar in the middle of the Zambezi – the game viewing is phenomenal whether from a boat or from land.”

Which are the best operators for a family safari?

The best operators know how to meld parents' wishes with what will work better for a family group that may encompass a huge age range, from grandparents to grandchildren.

Whilst a few operators specialise in the confluence of travel and families, such as Coral Tree Travel , there are some family operators that also do safari, such as Stubborn Mule (which does gorilla trekking in Rwanda, fly camping in wild Northern Kenya, and more).

But all the best safari operators are adept at curating family-centric safaris. These include the likes of Journeys by Design , Aardvark Safaris , Africa Travel , Green Safaris , Yellow Zebra Safaris , Expert Africa and The Explorations Company . Major lodge operators – also booked by the operators – include the likes of Great Plains , African Bush Camps , Wilderness , andBeyond , Natural Selection , Ultimate Safaris , and Asilia Africa . Most top lodge operators operate as ground handlers too, booking their private air and ground transfers.

What are the accommodation options for a family safari?

Built lodges or tented camps under canvas – though mobile tented camps and pop-up tents on walking safaris led by private guides and trackers are also gaining in popularity for the adventurous.

When choosing between lodges, Kyle de Nobrega suggests opting for those “that cater for families and have spacious family room setups, preferably with a pool, to enjoy those midday hours between activities.”

“There are also plenty of camps and lodges with interconnected family rooms,” says Alice Gully, owner of Aardvark Safaris.

Think about picky eaters. “Make sure the lodge has flexible dinner times and menus for children,” says Will Bolsover of Natural World Safaris . “A head’s up to the lodge on dietary or meal preferences for kids is very helpful for them.”

Lodges with open spaces where kids can run around freely without the constant threat of predators are a dream, and a lodge with a kids’ programme is ideal. Endless game drives don’t work for younger children who may see one elephant and then say: “Can we go now?” Walking, swimming in rock pools, sleep-outs under the stars, fly-camping, quad-biking, tracking on foot with a guide and breaking up the days works better than constant game drives. Most of the major players take families into account. Wilderness has planned programmes for six- to twelve-year-olds, with activities from treasure hunts and Masaai football to drumming and walking safaris. Great Plains offers the Young Explorers Programme at camps where specially trained guides teach younger guests about tracking wildlife, creating local dishes and African jewellery, basic survival in the wild skills and more. Ker & Downey has the Young Explorers Programme in Botswana – each family group is hosted by a specialist family guide with a specially-designed programme.

Are exclusive-use safaris with kids a good idea?

Private safari villas are on the rise for those for whom privacy and creature comforts are the focus. This means safari villas with their own guides, vehicles, chefs and sometimes spas. These will almost always be separate from, but associated with, a wider lodge. There’s also the possibility of exclusive-use booking of micro-camps. With these setups, it may be possible to flout the minimum age policy.

House in the Wild in Kenya was a pioneer, and Nomad’s Mkombe’s House in the Serengeti was designed for families with young children. Last Word Madikwe Bush House in the Madikwe Game Reserve is malaria-free and the former homestead with five rooms is ideal for a family or multi-generational takeover. The Bush House camp is fenced so children can roam freely (it also has an underground hide which steals up to the on-site waterhole!) Journeys by Design suggests Sirkoi cottage in the Laikipia or Laragai House .

Private safari villas are becoming ever more smart. Onduli Enclave encompasses three exclusive-use stilted suites in Nambia’s Damaraland – linked to Onduli Ridge, nearby. Singita Milele offers five private suites in Tanzania’s Grumeti Reserve, and Melote House in South Africa’s Lapalala Reserve is a magnificent new private option. “Private family safaris are also very possible in Zambia,” says Chris Wain. “ Luangwa Safari House , Chongwe House and Tangala House all come fully loaded with private guides, staff and vehicles.”

Can safari teach kids about conservation?

The top lodges have amazing guides and trackers who know how to bring the experience alive for kids. Cottar’s 1920s Camp in Kenya’s Masai Mara has zoned in on kids with their “Budding Conservationist” project, which “trains” kids to be guides, teaming them up with patrollers, teaching them how to identify species and showing them the lodge-sponsored projects that benefit local communities.

How should I pack for kids on safari?

Refer to our comprehensive safari packing list. Beyond the essentials, pack light. Safari lodges tend not to wash underwear, but their laundry services are efficient. More than on any other holiday, safaris are a good time to take the materials for a scrapbook, as these are memories worth setting down. Anita Powell recommends walkie-talkies. “Normally the rooms will have phones in them, but sometimes, if it’s a bush camp, the rooms can be located quite separately, and it's useful for the kids to communicate...especially if they hear a lion roar late close to their room.” Chris Wain suggests “an old-fashioned species identification book – it’s always a winner with a pair of binoculars and basic camera bound to keep the young occupied.” He also advises taking gifts for local school children – “stationery, books, games, sporting equipment, discarded iPads and laptops will always be appreciated and will allow children to engage with their African peers in the local schools.”

Any more tips for taking children on safari?

A private vehicle is ideal for flexibility (and the freedom to behave in a relaxed manner). Lodges may also insist upon it.

If you want a malaria-free destination, refer to the NHS’s Fit For Travel web pages to check the malaria maps of each country. Malaria is a shifting scenario region by region so ask the lodge, rather than the operator, for advice, and take responsibility for your own decisions.

Adriaan Erasmus, Group GM for Cheetah Ridge and The Homestead on Nambiti Reserve in South Africa, suggests that longer stays in each destination with kids might be more relaxing rather than packing and moving every few days.

Nicky Coenen, Last Word Managing Director, says: “Encourage your children to watch a wildlife documentary or two or look through wildlife photography books so they can have a taste of what they will be seeing in person.”

But “limit their expectations”, too, suggests Chris Wain. “Children need to know that some species are harder to spot. Giraffes, zebras and springboks are easy, but lions, leopards and cheetahs are harder work.”

And finally, Maun-dwelling Kyle de Norbrega has some salient advice. “Travel with an open mind, and don’t be scared to show your kids, of any age, the place we all came from. These can be some of our children's most educational experiences.”

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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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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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A private, tailor-made safari is within your reach. Experience all of your bucket-list safari related items on a budget now.

African Safari With Kids: First-timer’s Guide & Tips

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 13, 2023

Are you thinking of going on safari with kids , but not sure what to expect? This post should answer all your questions about taking your kids on safari. Read on!

There is a common belief that safari and family travel doesn’t go well together. Let me tell you that it’s not true. I decided to write this post because of all the emails I get from readers asking me about taking their kids on safari. I hope this will help to answer some of your questions, ease your fears, and most important – show you that you can have an unforgettable African safari experience, also with young children.

We are in no way experts of traveling to Africa with kids. We are just a family who likes to travel, take the kids along, and share our experiences hoping to inspire others to do the same.

It just so happens that South Africa was our first far trip with all three kids. And so the twins went on their first safari game drive when they were just 2 years old. Our oldest was 4. A year and a half later, when our kids were 3, 3, and 5, we made a beautiful four-week road trip in Namibia .

We attended as many sundowners and game drives as we possibly could, we made self-drive wildlife viewing trips, watched animals at the waterholes, and had so many unforgettable safari experiences with kids.

So here is some practical information you may want to know when planning an African safari with young children. I have compiled all kinds of questions that I have received from my readers about taking kids on safari in Africa.

If you don’t find an answer to your question below, please feel free to leave a comment at the bottom of this page, and I will try my best to help you out.

Which African countries are best for a safari with kids?

In my opinion, South Africa and Namibia are the best countries for families traveling to Africa. There are several reasons for this.

First, both countries have good wildlife viewing that is easily accessible . You can visit Kruger National Park or Etosha National Park with your rental car. This is not the case in most other African countries, where you need to have a guide/driver to visit national parks. Self-drive safari is always cheaper and it allows you to take kids of any age on safari.

Second, Namibia and South Africa both have very small malaria risk in certain periods. So you can take your kids on safari without having to take malaria pills. See question 4 for more information.

Third, both countries are relatively safe for an individual family trip . I say ‘relatively’, because, well, bad things can happen anywhere. As everywhere else in the world, you have to use common sense. We never felt unsafe anywhere in Namibia. As for South Africa, most places are completely safe, just be cautious around townships next to the big cities, like Johannesburg.

How old do my kids have to be to go on safari in Africa?

While most organized safari trips and game drives have various age restrictions, there is no age limit for a self-drive safari. Our kids’ first safari experience was when they were just 2 years old. It was a guided game drive in a private game reserve on the Garden Route in South Africa. Here you can read more about our South Arica trip with young kids .

In Namibia, we could join several safari rides with a guide, but there were also other places that wouldn’t take kids under 6 years. Some others would allow young kids on safari rides, but would warn you from the start that they would not stop anywhere near the ‘cats’ (lions, leopards, cheetahs) with such young kids in an open vehicle.

If you are thinking of taking a longer safari trip with nothing but animal viewing for a few days in a row, you better check with the organizing company what their policy is in regard to kids’ ages. For Kenya or Tanzania safari trips, I think usually kids have to be at least 6 years old.

How many days do we need for safari with kids?

This will depend on the destination of your choice. In Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana, and many other African countries, the purpose of the whole trip is often nothing else but animal viewing. So you are in a safari vehicle for days and days in a row.

Honestly, I think that these kinds of trips are too long and too boring for young kids. Even most adults will probably have seen enough wildlife after 7 days, let alone children…

That’s why – again- South Africa and Namibia are excellent choices to take your kids on safari. Both countries have so much more to offer than just animal viewing. So you can combine safari drives with many other sightseeing possibilities.

I think that 3-4 days of safari in a row is more than enough for any child. If you can add some variation to your trip and go watching animals every couple of days rather than a week in one go, you will have a much more relaxing and fun trip.

Can we go on safari with a 2 – 3 year old? 4, 5, 6 year old? And for how long?

I wouldn’t advise long safari trips with kids younger than 6. Here is a breakdown per age of what I think is best when considering safari with young kids.

• 2-3 year old kids: Half-day game drives, self-drive safari and wildlife viewing at waterholes. You can do this for several days, but don’t take a 2-year-old on a 3-day safari experience with nothing else on the program than wildlife viewing.
• 4-5 year old kids: Half-day to full-day safari drives, either with your own vehicle or on guided safari tours. I would advise against a long safari trip with nothing else than wildlife viewing at this age.
• 6-8 year old children: I guess it depends on your child, but most kids at this age should be able to sit still in a car for a day, and so a longer safari trip is possible. You have to be aware though that safari involves lots of driving and searching for animals, which is not always as exciting as the actual viewing of the animals.

Is it dangerous to take young kids on safari?

As with everything, if done with caution, safari is perfectly safe with kids.

For self-drives, remember to stay in your vehicle at all times. It’s not because you don’t see animals, that they are not there. Don’t make too much noise in the car when animals are nearby, and certainly don’t stick your arms outside the window, not even to take a picture.

For guided game drives with kids, you have to remember that you are in an open vehicle. Kids shouldn’t make noise, and the same rule applies here too – you shouldn’t stick your head or arms outside the vehicle. Follow the instructions of your guide.

What about malaria pills for young kids?

I can’t really answer this question, because we have always chosen to visit malaria-free areas with our kids up to now. I always read that malaria pills aren’t advisable for young kids under 5-6 years old. And since there are perfectly nice malaria-free areas to take your kids on safari, why would you take the risk…

We visited Kruger NP and Etosha NP in July (African winter), when malaria risk is very low. We used mosquito sprays with DEET, but that’s it. The southern part of South Africa is malaria-free all year round. There are several private game reserves in that area, and also Addo Elephant National Park is malaria-free. All perfect places for the first safari with kids.

If you are traveling to an area that has high malaria risk, make sure to talk to your doctor before the trip. For more medical information you can check the website of the Institute of Tropical Medicine in Antwerp, Belgium . You can find medical advice for any country you are traveling to.

Do we need any special vaccinations when going on safari with kids?

In most African countries you do need some type of vaccine, both for kids and for adults. Make sure to check the medical information for the country you are visiting before the trip.

Some countries require a yellow fever vaccination. It’s not the case in South Africa and Namibia.

What to pack for kids on safari?

In one of my older posts, you can find safari tips , including a complete safari packing list.

You don’t really need to pack anything special for kids on safari. Except – my best tip – pack one pair of binoculars for each child. It keeps them interested and engaged during the rides. Safari involves lots of driving and lots of patience. Binoculars are better than any toy. Just don’t waste your money on toy binoculars, there are plenty of affordable decent quality binoculars that kids can use.

If your kids can read already, it might be interesting to take a book or an African wildlife guide , so that they can look up in the book what kind of animals they saw, etc. But don’t count on doing much reading on the bumpy roads in Africa’s National Parks.

Always take a sweater on safari, mosquito spray, sunscreen lotion, a sun hat, and sunglasses. Leave all the toys at home, unless you are doing a self-drive safari, in that case, pack whatever you would normally pack to keep the kids busy and happy in the car . For our kids, audiobooks do wonders!

Do we need khaki color clothing when going on safari?

It’s popular to think that you need to buy a whole new garderobe in khaki colors when going on safari. But in most cases, it’s really not necessary.

It might not be such a good idea to go on a walking safari wearing a red t-shirt, but for a self-drive safari in a closed vehicle colors don’t matter at all. After all, you are sitting in the car all the time.

For open-vehicle safari drives I would advise against bright colors, but then again – you don’t need to buy ten new t-shirts for every kid. Just pick the ones that are less bright and that’s it.

If you buy one thing, then it might be wise to invest in a light-brown safari shirt with long sleeves . You can wear it several times, also over other t-shirts, it protects against mosquitoes, and also against the sun.

As for the colors of sweaters and jackets. Our kids had very bright rain jackets that we packed for our trip to Namibia. I wasn’t going to buy three new jackets just for that trip. And you know what, the only time we needed those jackets was early in the morning or late in the evening, when it was dark, so the color didn’t matter at all.

If you are visiting Kruger in winter (July-August), you may need to wear a sweater or a jacket during the day as well. In that case, it might be wiser to pack something in a light brown or dark color. But you will see people wearing all kinds of colorful clothing on the game drives in Africa.

What kind of shoes to pack for kids on safari?

It doesn’t really matter what kind of shoes you or your kids wear, as you will be sitting in the car all the time anyway. I would advise wearing closed shoes at all times if you are going in an open vehicle. It can get really cold during early morning and sunset game drives.

What if my child has to go to the bathroom during a safari drive?

In some areas, this may be a problem, yes. If you know that you are going to drive in an area where it’s forbidden to get out of the car, make sure that the whole family goes to the bathroom before you leave. Also, be sure to plan some stops in the rest camps along the way.

For example, in Etosha NP, there are some fenced picnic areas with toilet facilities. They are indicated on the map of the park that you get at the entrance. Plan a bathroom stop every two hours or so. And always make your kids go to the bathroom when you can, even if they tell you they don’t have to.

Having said all this, I know that sometimes kids ‘just have to go’. In a way, it’s easier with young kids who still have diapers. Ours were at a difficult age (3) when we were in Etosha. At one moment we just stopped and let our son pee through an open door of the car, while we were watching the area to make sure there were no animals nearby.

Once again, animals can be very well camouflaged, so try to avoid toilet stops in dangerous areas.

What about food – can we take snacks on safari?

Most organized safari trips have some kind of meal included. Usually, the guide will stop the vehicle in a safe area, set the table outside, and you will have an unforgettable meal in an African savannah.

Most guided safaris will include water and other drinks. But you should always take some water with you. I would definitely take some snacks for the kids. There is nothing worse than a tired, bored hungry kid, isn’t it? Favorite snacks can be a life-saver during long safari drives with kids.

Are there better ways to see African animals with kids than sitting in a dusty vehicle driving on bumpy roads for hours?

As a matter of fact, there are. But you will need to do some research before the trip. One of the best ways to see African animals is by visiting waterholes or rivers.

Some lodges, hotels, or rest camps have beautiful waterholes with lots of animals visiting them during the whole day. Some others might have a waterhole where you hardly ever see any animals at all. And many others don’t have waterholes at all.

One of the best waterholes we came across during our trips in Africa is the Okaukuejo waterhole in Etosha National Park in Namibia. Animal viewing was so good there that we stayed by the waterhole the whole day, in the evening, and also at night.

It’s by far the most luxurious way to see safari animals with kids! They could even go to a nearby shop and get some ice cream to eat while watching hundreds and hundreds of animals. The best part is that Okaukuejo rest camp is a government-run place and the prices are really reasonable.

Another place that has a really good active waterhole is the Old Traders Lodge in Erindi private game reserve (also Namibia). Staying at the lodge is quite expensive though, but day visitors can sit on the terrace and watch the waterhole too. Still, if your budget allows it, I would advise staying at least one night in Erindi. It’s one of our favorite lodges in Namibia, and no, this mention is not sponsored.

I am sure there are many more lodges that have good waterholes with plenty of wildlife viewing. So do some research and you might be rewarded with the most unforgettable experience!

If you are driving around a national park looking for animals and your kids get tired or car sick, why not take a break and stop by the river or at any waterhole you come across. If you just sit and wait, you might see more animals than by driving around and looking for them.

How expensive is it to go on safari with kids?

As with any trip, the cost can be just as low or as high as you want it to be. As I said, one of the cheapest ways to go on safari with a family is by doing a self-drive road trip in South Africa or in Namibia. Flights, rental car, and hotels are all you need. Park entrance fees are usually very reasonable, and often free for kids.

Here you can find the best accommodation deals for visiting Kruger NP , Etosha NP , and Addo Elephant NP .

You can also opt to do an organized   day game drive , in combination with the self-drive safari. This is what we usually do. The price of these game drives depends on location and duration, and also if you are sharing the vehicle with others. It’s really impossible to give an estimate of the price because so much depends on the location and the tour that you book (the duration, private or with a group, etc.).

Here you can find some organized game drives for Kruger National Park (South Africa),  Etosha National Park (Namibia), or Addo Elephant National Park (South Africa). It will give you a good idea of the cost.

The good news is that very often kids under 6 travel free (if they are allowed). Older kids get discounts. We were often lucky to pay a shared rate for just 2 adults and have the whole safari jeep to ourselves.

This is not guaranteed (unless you pay the higher rates for a private trip), but from all the game drives we did, we only had to share a jeep with another family once. While most other vehicles departing at the same time usually had 8-12 passengers, we had the luxury of a private game drive for a very low price. You see, traveling with kids has some benefits .

If you are thinking of booking a private safari with a guide/driver in Kenya or Tanzania , then it can quickly cost you 2-3,000 EUR/week/person and even more (it all depends on the accommodation choices and the season when you travel). On the other hand, everything is then organized and arranged for you.

Do you have more questions about taking your kids on safari?

So, these are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about taking young kids on safari. My intention is to update this post with any other questions/answers in the future. So don’t hesitate to let me know if I left something unanswered. You can do so by leaving a comment below.

READ ALSO: South Africa with Kids and Namibia with Kids

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Thursday 9th of November 2023

Thank you Jurga for information concerning traveling with kids for a safari. But it would be great to travel in a destination whith diverse experiences clustered together to avoid long traveling hours and early waking up of kids. Kenya can be one of the those destinations.

Friday 10th of November 2023

Of course, Wilson, I'm sure that Kenya is amazing. We looked at it more than once but haven't gotten there yet. Maybe one day. There is just one main concern for families with younger kids - the risk of malaria and yellow fever vaccinations. For that, South Africa or Namibia are simpler, especially if traveling in certain seasons/areas where you have minimal malaria risk.

Tuesday 19th of November 2019

South Africa and Namibia are the best countries for families traveling to Africa. For Kenya or Tanzania safari trips, I think usually kids have to be at least 6 years old.

Wednesday 20th of November 2019

Agree with you on South Africa and Namibia - both wonderful choices for a family trip. I think that taking kids younger than 6 to malaria areas isn't the best idea anyway, so we never visited Kenya or Tanzania when ours were that young.

Thursday 4th of April 2019

Hi Jurga! Enjoyed reading your posts, definitely helpful information when travelling with kids. I know how difficult it can be sometimes to do so. I was wondering if you ever thought of packing meals for your kids while you're on a day safari adventure. I've come to realize how often and quickly kids can get hungry so packed meals are definitely helpful. I've looked into sustainable packed meal options because I'd like to be able to enjoy an eco-friendly travel and be sustainable at it. I think it's important to consider this kind of things because it'll helpful the location we're visiting in terms of preserving its beauty and the life there.

Hi Ana, yes, of course, we always pack some food when traveling with kids - on safari or not. It's not like you can just go to the restaurant when you get hungry in the middle of safari, so it's essential to take a picnic lunch. As for sustainable packing solutions, most hotels will pack a lunch for you and it's usually just some paper bags - not much waste at all. If you travel with an organized safari day trip they will usually foresee meals for everyone and those are packed in reusable containers. Africa never struck me as a place where people pollute too much - unfortunately, that can't be said about the packaging of meals in the US or most countries in Asia.

Susana Portocarrero

Thursday 27th of December 2018

Hi Im planning to come in July or August with my nephew will be 12 next year, I dont know what park is the best with more animals to see, we both are animals lovers and my dree is to see a Giraffe in its habitat we are coming all the way from mexico, so I have to see if those months are ok, what park because of the miration of the animals etc... Please help

Saturday 5th of January 2019

Hi Susana, yes, July and August are perfect months for safari in Africa. As for where to go, there are SO MANY options. Do you want a self-drive trip, then I'd suggest South Africa. Kruger NP is great, but there are also several private game reserves, as well as Ado Elephant National Park. Namibia is also wonderful and it's quite doable to drive to Etosha NP on your own. Otherwise, if you are taking a tour, your options are pretty much unlimited. Some of the most popular places for safari are Kenya and Tanzania, but both these countries have malaria risk and require yellow fever vaccination. That's why we personally opted for Namibia and South Africa when traveling with our kids. As for giraffes, they are very common in Africa, so I think it's safe to say that you'll see them no matter which country or which park you'll choose. I'm sorry but I can't really help more. You should first decide which country you want to visit and how (self drive trip vs a tour) and then you can start looking closer at what options you have.

Saturday 1st of September 2018

Hi Jurga. What a really fantastic post! So comprehensive and spot on. I'm South African and married to a Namibian with 3 kids incl twin boys! We haven't been been on a proper safari yet with all 3 yet but will def go soon. We went with my daughter but not since the boys were born. Love Etosha and Kruger! I've just started a family travel blog.

Monday 3rd of September 2018

Hi Julie, thanks a lot for your kind words. It's nice to e-meet you and good luck with your new blog! Another African safari is also my dream trip, I love African trips. There is something so special about that beautiful continent that you call home..

The Ultimate Guide to the Best African Safaris for Families

An African safari is more than just a holiday—it's a life-changing experience filled with adventure, wildlife, and rich cultural interaction. For families, it's an opportunity to step out of the daily routine and into a world where nature sets the pace. This ultimate guide to the best African safaris for families will help you navigate through the options, ensuring your family holiday becomes a treasure trove of unforgettable memories.

Why Choose Africa for Your Family Safari?

African safaris provide a thrilling and educational experience for families, offering an incredible chance to explore some of the world's most stunning natural landscapes teeming with wildlife. Here's a more detailed look at why they stand out:

Unforgettable Wildlife Encounters: Nothing can match the sheer excitement and awe of watching wild animals in their natural habitats. Whether it's witnessing the powerful roar of a lion, observing a playful herd of elephants, or spotting the elusive leopard resting on a tree, these are moments that will captivate children and adults alike. African safaris bring you face-to-face with nature's splendors, fostering a deep appreciation and respect for wildlife in the younger generation.

Rich Cultural Immersion: Africa is a continent steeped in history and culture, and a safari presents opportunities for the entire family to engage with its rich cultural tapestry. Interactions with local tribes like the Maasai in Kenya or the San Bushmen in Botswana are not just fascinating; they are also educational. Children will get a chance to learn about different traditions, lifestyles, and beliefs, broadening their horizons and fostering an understanding of global diversity.

Interactive Learning Experience: An African safari is more than just a vacation; it's an outdoor, immersive learning opportunity. Instead of learning about wildlife and ecosystems from books or documentaries, children get to witness these wonders firsthand. This type of learning sparks curiosity and inspires a lifelong passion for nature and conservation. A safari will let your children see the practical application of concepts they learn in school, such as ecology, biology, geography, and social studies, making their educational journey fun and exciting.

Best African Safaris for Families

Masai mara, kenya.

The Masai Mara Reserve is one of Africa's most famous safari destinations, renowned for its remarkable density of wildlife and the annual Great Migration. What makes it perfect for families are:

Unmatched Wildlife Viewing: The wildlife density in the Masai Mara is exceptional, with the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino) spotted regularly on game drives. The spectacle of the annual Great Migration, where over a million wildebeest, zebra, and antelope traverse the plains in search of fresh grass, is an unforgettable sight that can ignite a child's wonder and curiosity about the natural world. Whether it's the thrill of a lion chase or the gentle grazing of a herd of elephants, every moment here is a lesson in nature's drama and diversity.

Deep Cultural Experiences: A safari in the Masai Mara offers more than just wildlife encounters. It's also an opportunity to engage with the local Maasai culture. Many lodges can arrange visits to nearby Maasai villages, allowing families to interact with the community, learn about their age-old traditions, and understand their deep connection with the environment. This cultural immersion provides a rich, hands-on learning experience that complements the wildlife adventures.

Family-Oriented Accommodations: The Masai Mara is home to a wide range of accommodations that cater specifically to families. These lodges and camps offer family-friendly facilities such as spacious family tents or cottages, child-friendly meal options, and even babysitting services. Moreover, they often organize special activities designed for younger guests, such as bush survival skills workshops, animal tracking sessions, and educational games, keeping children entertained and engaged throughout the safari experience.

Kruger National Park, South Africa

Kruger National Park, one of Africa's largest game reserves, is a fantastic destination for a family safari. Here's why:

Wide Range of Accommodations: Kruger National Park provides a diverse selection of accommodations suitable for families of all sizes and budgets. From luxury lodges offering family suites and private pools to budget-friendly rest camps with self-catering facilities, there's something for everyone. Several lodges also feature enclosed gardens or playgrounds, providing a safe space for children to play and unwind after a day of adventure.

Abundant Wildlife and Easy Accessibility: Home to the iconic Big Five and a plethora of other wildlife, Kruger guarantees exciting wildlife encounters that will delight children and adults alike. The park's extensive, well-maintained road network allows for exceptional game viewing, whether on a guided safari drive or a self-drive adventure. This accessibility, coupled with excellent chances of Big Five sightings, makes Kruger an appealing safari destination for families.

Engaging Children's Programs: What sets Kruger apart are the specialized children's programs offered by many of its lodges. These programs aim to entertain and educate, providing activities such as bush walks, animal tracking lessons, and interactive wildlife talks. Under the supervision of experienced guides, children can engage in these fun and educational activities, cultivating an appreciation for wildlife and nature from a young age.

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

One of the most celebrated wildlife destinations globally, the Serengeti offers an authentic and thrilling safari experience that can be captivating for families. Here's why:

The Great Migration: Nothing quite prepares you for the spectacle of the Great Migration in the Serengeti. This annual phenomenon sees over a million wildebeests, zebras, and antelopes trekking across the vast plains in search of fresh pastures. This awe-inspiring event is not just a lesson in wildlife behavior but also in the circle of life, making it a captivating experience for both children and adults.

Diverse and Abundant Wildlife: Besides the spectacle of the Great Migration, the Serengeti boasts a rich biodiversity, hosting the Big Five (lion, elephant, rhinoceros, buffalo, and leopard) along with hundreds of other species. This incredible animal density offers families numerous opportunities to witness wildlife in their natural habitat, from playful lion cubs and towering giraffes to swift cheetahs and large elephant herds.

Family-Oriented Accommodations and Activities: Family-friendly accommodation is another aspect where the Serengeti shines. Many lodges and tented camps are designed with families in mind, providing spacious family units, babysitting services, and kid-friendly menus. Furthermore, they organize special activities for their younger guests such as wildlife-themed games, nature walks, and Maasai cultural visits. Some lodges even offer enriching educational programs that combine fun with learning, giving children insights into conservation, local culture, and the Serengeti's unique ecosystem.

If you have any questions for the Odyssey Safaris team, please don’t hesitate to contact us .

Uncover the Magic of Africa: Your Guide to African Safaris for Seniors

Kruger national park: your ultimate safari guide.

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How to Plan an African Safari for Kids of All Ages

A T+L A-List travel advisor weighs in on how to plan the perfect African safari for the whole family.

At Extraordinary Journeys , we believe it is important to explore the world with our children , but we are also aware that traveling with kids can be less vacation and more work. For everyone to enjoy the adventure, it's important to plan ahead.

The right hosts, the right pace, the right guides, and the right activities based on your kids interests and ages are critical. With so many considerations, I've broken down some expert tips for ensuring your family African safari adventure is an actual vacation for everyone.

Related : 10 Mistakes to Avoid on a Safari, According to Experts

Essential tips for all ages

• Think activities, not countries: Match the safari destination that's right for your family and kids by first thinking about the activities that your family enjoys. Rather than tick off multiple counties in one trip, consider planning your adventure all within one country.
• Have a private guide: A private guide is essential for going on safari with kids. Not only will your kids connect with the staff, but the adults will get a well-deserved break from 24/7 parenting duties. If a private guide is out of reach for your budget, private vehicles at each camp will give you the flexibility to make sure everyone is always having fun.
• Talk before the trip: Describe where you will stay, what animals you can expect to see, how you will travel around, what activities are available. Get their input and make sure your kids feel every bit a part of planning the adventure.

For young kids (under age 6)

Many safari camps only accommodate kids ages 5 and up, so if you're traveling with the preschool set on safari, identify camps that do take the little ones. I recommend South Africa or Tanzania for families with younger kids. Accommodation is typically free for children under 5, so the only costs are park fees and flights.

• Slow it down : Consider four nights in each safari camp to give your kids some time to warm up to the place and the people (especially if your little ones are shy around new people). Settling in will make the camp feel more like home, so your family will have the chance to fully relax.
• Build in non-safari activities : Activities like making pizzas, building bows/arrows, and following tracks are the norm at most camps. But be on the lookout for accommodation that goes a step beyond, like an interactive farm or an evening river cruise to count hippos.
• Always bring your swimsuit : Swimming pools are a godsend in the afternoons, but not every camp in Africa will have one. Double check with your specialist if this will be a key to your family's happiness.
• Factor in your kid's personality : What makes them tick? Would they love playing soccer with other kids in the village or doing arts and crafts? Picking vegetables for your next meal from the garden? Watching penguins play on the beach? The more you can tell your specialist about your family, the more it will feel personalized.

Related : The Top 10 Safari Outfitters

For elementary kids (ages 7-11)

For this age group, you can also look a little farther beyond traditional locations as they have more patience with travel and can start to enjoy the journey, and not just the destination. I would add these destinations to the list:

Kenya: I was born in Kenya, and it has a special place in my heart. Here, you can explore with a little more adventure in mind. Kenya's private conservancy options can take the conventional bush experience and personalize it to your family's day-to-day needs. Unlike national parks, conservancies and privately-run camps and lodges offer flexibility and more exclusive activities. Many of our favorite Kenyan lodges are owned and run by families raising their own kids in the bush.

Zambia: Are your kids keen on more intrepid adventures? The Zambia wildlife experience is incredible, and we recommend it as much for first time safari-goers as seasoned veterans. Although some of Zambia's open-air bushcamps won't be a fit for everyone, they pay off in offering uncrowded parts of the park in game-rich areas for travelers seeking that 'original' safari experience. And because it isn't as commercialized as other destinations in Africa, Zambia offers more value for your family safari budget than neighboring Botswana. Mix up game drives and walking safaris (for ages 12 and up) with some time in the Lower Zambezi for boating, fishing, and canoeing.

Zimbabwe : Somalisa Acacia has no age restrictions and offers tailored nature walks around camp with dedicated child specialists. Zimbabwe is home to five World Heritage sites, including Mana Pools National Park, Matobo Hills, the Great Zimbabwe Ruins, and Khami Ruins National Monument. Not to be missed among the five is stunning Victoria Falls. For kids and adults alike, the Elephant Express might just be a dream come true. If you have little ones who adore trains, this dual-engine single tram through Zimbabwe's Hwange National Park is a guaranteed delight.

For tweens & teens (ages 12+)

It's one thing to take "kids" on safari, and another to keep a brooding, smartphone-addicted teen or tween on safari and keep them excited about quality family time with little-to-no WiFi. These are some amazing activities that will keep you all captivated in the present moment.

Fly Camping : Sleeping in the bush under no more than a flysheet (traditionally a thin mesh fabric pitched like a rudimentary tent) may be old school, but it will never go out of style. No walls separating you from the great outdoors or the star-studded skies here. This is the ultimate escape.

ATV Quad Biking : Race across Botswana's lunar salt pans or cruise Namibia's desert-scapes in a rough-and-tumble 4×4. If your teen can't wait to get behind the wheel, here is their access across Africa's endless dramatic landscapes. Age restrictions vary by country and camp, though 16 is a common base age. In much of Botswana, ages 12+ are welcome to get behind the wheel of ATVs, provided they get the approval from camp management and parents.

Cultural Interactions : As your teens and tweens are learning about the world in school, safari for middle school and high schoolers can bring lessons to life. Some areas invite you to join in ancient traditions like leaping with Maasai warriors to compete for the highest jump, or learning the Samburu women's traditional methods of beautiful, vibrant beading.

Conservation Activities : A great treasure of going on African safari with your tweens and teenagers is the opportunity to engage in conservation education and activities, like pump runs in Hwange, Zimbabwe or going out with anti-poaching dog teams. If you are traveling with conservation-minded teens 16 and old who are ready for an experience that will leave an indelible mark, consider adding rhino darting to your safari.

The bottom line is, kids and adults of all ages can have a once-in-a-lifetime experience on a family safari in Africa together, but it takes expertise and careful planning. Transformative travel on African safari will inspire a passion for wild places while creating an unforgettable once-in-a-lifetime adventure for the whole family .

Elizabeth Gordon , of Extraordinary Journeys, is a T+L A-List advisor who specializes in East and Southern African safaris. Contact her at [email protected]

The best family-friendly African safari for kids

An elephant makes its presence known at Phinda Private Game Reserve.

Last updated . 27 February 2020

Taking the whole family with you is the ultimate way to see wild Africa and give kids childhood memories they’ll never forget.

A stubbornness of rhinos. A thunder of hippos. A stretch of giraffes.

I never realised quite how entertaining the collective nouns for Africa’s incredible wildlife could be. Nor did I know that leopards (a leap, in case you’re wondering) and cheetahs (a coalition) have almost identical footprints, except for the claws.

Or that elephants (a parade or my favourite, a memory) show their stress levels by swishing their tails when they’re relaxed or having them protrude horizontally from their rumps when they’re stressed and likely to charge, so get out of the way.

We’re on a safari holiday in the Okavango Delta and every incredible moment is teaching us something new. Our trip – to Botswana and South Africa and including two contrasting safaris plus time in Johannesburg and Cape Town – is the realisation of a long-held bucket list dream.

A stretch of giraffes graze on the Okavango Delta, a vast swathe of wilderness that’s teeming with life.

And in celebration of a significant birthday we decide to do it in comfort and with a dash of style, travelling with &Beyond to Sandibe Camp in the Okavango and later to Phinda Private Game Reserve in South Africa’s KwaZulu Natal.

Travel with a tour group

It pays to travel with experts in Africa; the logistics of getting to the national parks of Botswana and South Africa can be tricky.

From Johannesburg we fly to the town of Maun in Botswana, where we transfer straight on to a Mack Air single-engine Cessna Grand Caravan, which operates like a bush taxi in these parts.

We fly low over sandy floodplains peppered with shrubs and trees, shimmering waterholes, rivers and creeks that snake through the landscape, and the occasional grey moving dot, which we realise are elephants.

We arrive at the remote Chitabe airstrip (which services Sandibe and one other camp in the Delta) to be greeted by Gift, our ranger for the next three days. The welcoming committee includes giraffes (a ‘stretch’ to those in the know) languidly chomping their way through bushy shrubbery.

A herd of zebra bolts across the Botswana grasslands

Camp or lodge in Sandibe, Botswana

We bump and roll over sandy tracks – a motion to which we’ll become very accustomed during our stay – to Sandibe. There’s been a camp on this site for decades, but a recent redesign has created a stunning, more permanent bush lodge, nestled among wild palms and gnarled fig trees.

The guest area resembles the form of a pangolin (or scaly anteater) with a shingled roof mimicking its scales and one side completely open to expansive views of the Delta.

The organic design of timber, bamboo, indigenous basketware and carvings continues into the guest suites, with beds framed by romantic nets, pot-bellied stoves for the cooler months and indoor and outdoor showers.

Our family suite is, in fact, two separate rooms connected by a long covered passageway. In their own room the kids feel far enough away to be independent but close enough to be safe.

They baulk at the idea of skinny dipping in their private plunge pool, but the water becomes a blessing in the intense summer heat.

Safari in style; the curving form of Sandibe’s main lodge.

Family safari in Okavango Delta, Botswana

The excitement is palpable as we prepare for our first game drive, donning the long-sleeved pale khaki shirts and netted fishing hats I’d bought to fend off both the raging African sun and mosquitoes.

Dressing right is part of the safari experience. Not only does it guarantee fabulous photos but the natural tones – taupes, greens and browns – mean safari vehicles are seen by the wildlife as a single object so they’re less likely to bolt.

We set off with Gift behind the wheel and tracker Sama seated at the front of the van looking for tell-tale tracks. Impala and their larger cousins tsessebe are prolific and we spot several clans of skittish warthogs.

It’s not long before we come across a parade of elephants marching and chomping their way determinedly through the scrub.

Due to the drought that’s raging across southern Africa, the Delta, which is known for its waterways and waterholes, is exceptionally dry on our visit but we still see abundant wildlife.

Elephants are plentiful – the Delta is one of the best places in Africa to see these magnificent pachyderms – and the birdlife is extraordinary. Our favourite winged creatures are the brilliant blue Burchell’s starling and the pretty lilac-breasted roller.

Elephants cool off at one of the Delta’s many waterholes in Botswana.

What each day looks like in Sandibe

Our days at Sandibe settle into a lovely rhythm. Our butler Gora delivers tea at 5am, we head out on a drive having a picnic breakfast as we go, returning for lunch and a siesta or swim, afternoon tea, evening game drive, then back for dinner, which in typical &Beyond style is always impressive and never in the same place twice.

It’s more tiring than I had envisaged – given we’re effectively doing nothing but sitting in a van – and tougher on the kids than I’d expected. But the Sandibe staff pay great attention to them, with Gift and Sama joining Archie in bushveld games of palm frond and berry cricket, and elephant poo footy.

Sundowners become a highlight for all, with Sama revealing he can mix a gin and tonic just as well as he can track elephants or lions. They even teach the kids some African songs so that when the staff break into their spine-tingling tunes each evening, they can join in too.

Gin and tonics in one hand and binoculars in the other. Safari in the Okavango.

Family-friendly highlights

Our list of star attraction sightings grows daily: African wild dogs, chacma baboons, zebra, warthogs, majestic kudu, a lone cheetah, a male and female ostrich, a lioness with four juvenile males, and a young female leopard with an unusually pink nose.

The kids’ knowledge about this extraordinary environment grows with every new creature we see. Animal droppings, tracks and other remains tell their own stories of bush movements and survival.

A watchful leopard rests in the Okavango.

Cape Town and Phinda Private Game Reserve, South Africa

From Botswana we travel to South Africa, spending a few days in and around Cape Town before hitting the safari trail again at Phinda Private Game Reserve, three hours north of Durban. After the wildness of Botswana I am slightly concerned that the tamer Phinda won’t stack up.

I needn’t have worried: the kids find the bush lessons here even more engaging.

Our ranger Amy brings Phinda’s diverse ecology to life. She has the kids cleaning their teeth with the splayed branches of the so-called magic worry tree, like Zulu bushmen have done forever, and introduces Archie to a bird call app that has our digital native enthralled.

Her knowledge of the bush and its wildlife is extensive, and if she can’t answer a question she researches it to inform us on the next drive.

Our tracker Malusi is a gentle soul whom we nickname the peregrine falcon because he can spot anything, even kilometres away; when we realise one of our cameras has bounced out of the van on rocky off-road terrain where we’d been following a leopard, we return there, hours later in the dark, and miraculously he manages to locate it.

A bath with a view at Phinda Mountain Lodge in South Africa.

Family safari in Phinda Private Game Reserve

There’s great excitement on our first game drive as we head to the reserve’s airstrip to find elephants, a giraffe kneeling in the dirt, and a coalition of playful cheetahs that gets alarmingly close to the wheels of our vehicle.

Phinda is a renowned habitat for the heavily poached and endangered white rhino, with a successful breeding program of world renown.

We see several of them, and learn that they were originally named ‘wide’ rhinos because of their square upper lip, which morphed into ‘white’ over time. The rarer, smaller black rhino is more difficult to find so we’re elated on our second day when we get a clear view of two of them.

We see a lion pretending to be a leopard, climbing up the lower trunk of a tree, and just miss catching a mating pair of leopards in flagrante.

Amy explains how lions mate – quickly and multiple times, before lying spent for hours – and how females are known to spread their favours with several dominant males, so that each of them believes the resulting offspring are their own progeny and so allow them to live.

It’s a real privilege to get so close to an apex predator like this in the African wild.

Along the way Amy teaches the kids how to operate the radio and has us doing Mexican waves as the 4WD negotiates hills and bumps. Lulu records animal sightings in a notebook that she will treasure forever.

One afternoon as we set up for sundowners, Amy brings out poster paints and we graffiti the safari van while listening to African tunes.

If I were planning this trip for other families I’d advise them to go to South Africa first, before taking on the wilder, more remote Okavango. But the contrast is enlightening and the wildlife, collectively, is phenomenal.

On our return to reality, a friend asks whether children need to be wildlife nuts to enjoy a safari. “No, but they will be by the end of it,” I reply. As well as being experts in those collective nouns.

The details: Family safari, Botswana & South Africa

Staying there.

Beyond Sandibe camp prices include all safari activities, food and beverages. Additional charges for air transfers and conservancy fees.

&Beyond Phinda Mountain Lodge prices are per person per night or per night in a family cottage (sleeping up to five).

Safari perks; a shower with a sunset view at Sadibe Lodge.

 We think you might like…

• How to choose the best African safari for you
• First-hand advice to exploring Africa with kids

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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

Road-Tripping Through South Africa’s National Parks with a Toddler

The Top 12 National Parks to Visit in Africa

18 Top Things to Do in South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal Province

Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, South Africa: The Complete Guide

The Top 18 Things to Do in South Africa’s Eastern Cape Province

18 Top Things to Do in North West Province, South Africa

Okavango Delta, Botswana: The Complete Guide

[email protected]

The Best Family Safaris in Africa

Family safaris in Africa are a fantastic choice for an unforgettable vacation , and it’s easy to understand their enduring popularity. These extraordinary adventures provide bucket list experiences that cater to every member of the family.

When planning a family safari in Africa, it’s important to consider the practical aspects, particularly when bringing children along. The age of the children will determine the most suitable activities and accommodations to ensure that everyone has a wonderful time. So, before you jump into booking an African family safari, it’s important to do your homework. This way, you can craft an itinerary that suits your family’s unique needs and preferences.

Along with the captivating wildlife, many family-friendly safaris offer interactive activities and educational opportunities . Here, your kids can learn about the fascinating cultures of local tribes , get involved in wildlife conservation projects , or even try their hand at traditional African crafts.

Whether you dream of exploring the vast Serengeti plains , the lush Okavango Delta , or the breathtaking Masai Mara National Park , there’s a family safari waiting for you. So read on, and we’ll help you discover the best family Safari in Africa for you.

SKIP TO A SECTION

Safaris for young children

Top safaris for early teens

Safaris for teenagers (over 15)

10 Best African destinations for families

Safaris with young children

If you’re traveling with young children under the age of 8 , it’s a good idea to consider a shorter family safari combined with a relaxing beach trip .

Since many organized game drives have a minimum age requirement of 6, opting to visit the stunning African beaches along the Indian Ocean ensures a safe and enjoyable experience where everything is taken care of for you. Alternatively, you can plan a self-drive adventure and explore the national parks at your own pace.

Combining a beach trip with a family safari allows you to have an exciting wildlife experience while also enjoying a laid-back beach vacation. Diani Beach is famous for its pristine white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters , offering a variety of family-friendly activities. You can enjoy water sports, go snorkeling to explore vibrant coral reefs or take a boat trip to spot dolphins.

You can also immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions. Take leisurely walks through nearby villages, visit local markets, and savor delicious Swahili cuisine.

If you’re planning a safari adventure with kids aged 9 to 15 , it’s important to choose a trip that caters to their needs.

When it comes to accommodations, look for lodges or camps that offer private vehicles for their guests. This means you won’t have to travel long distances to reach the safari sites, which is especially convenient for kids. Having the vehicles close by allows for more time to enjoy wildlife viewing and exploration, so you can avoid lengthy journeys.

What’s more, accommodations with private vehicle hire provide plenty of flexibility. Your guides can tailor the activities and game drives to suit the interests and attention spans of younger travelers. They can focus on exciting sightings like elephants , zebras , and monkeys , or go more in-depth about wildlife and ecosystems , turning the safari into an educational experience for older teens .

Many safari operators even have special programs. specifically designed for kids under 15 . These programs give young adventurers the chance to participate in age-appropriate activities that teach them about nature, wildlife conservation, and bushcraft skills. They might go on guided nature walks , try birdwatching , or learn wildlife photography from experienced guides .

1. Serengeti Safari - A 6-day exploration (Including Serengeti National Park tour)

Perfectly suited for young teens, this 6-day safari offers an incredible adventure that your kids will cherish. Prepare to be captivated by the diverse wildlife, including zebras, predators, elephants, and even flamingos. The highlight of this journey is the awe-inspiring Serengeti National Park, home to the largest lion population in Africa.

2. Family safari for pre-teens in Kenya - Exploring the Masai Mara

This 6-day excursion is designed to create lasting memories for everyone. Explore the magnificent landscapes of the Masai Mara Game Reserve, renowned for its stunning vistas and jaw-dropping sunsets that paint the sky in vibrant shades of orange. Keep your eyes peeled for the majestic Big 5, including lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and rhinos. You’ll also have the opportunity to witness a plethora of other fascinating species.

As part of this amazing tour, you’ll also visit Hell’s Gate National Park, a true gem in Africa’s wilderness. Prepare to be captivated by the abundant wildlife, including over 100 species of birds, as you navigate the park’s diverse landscapes – such as dramatic cliffs an awe-inspiring volcanic formation.

Unforgettable safaris for teenagers over 15

If you’re traveling with older teenagers, you’ll probably be worried about how you’ll keep them engaged throughout the safari.

One thrilling option is a gorilla trekking tour in the breathtaking Ugandan mountains. This trip is specifically only for children aged 15 and over. Or, explore the iconic Serengeti, where they can witness the epic drama of the Great Wildebeest Migration firsthand.

You may also want to factor in other aspects such as choosing accommodations that offer Wi-Fi, as well as a variety of activities that cater to their age range, such as boating, horseback riding, and archery ranges.

1. 5-day wildlife sighting trip to Uganda including gorilla trekking

Embark on a remarkable 5-day adventure through the diverse landscapes of Uganda, where you and your family can spot incredible wildlife, including chimpanzees and gorillas. Begin your journey with chimpanzee tracking in the Kyambura Gorge, where you’ll also encounter other primates, baboons, and a vibrant array of bird species. Explore the enchanting Bwindi Forest, with its lush rainforest terrain and natural animal trails. Observe gorilla groups within this captivating forested area before visiting Lake Bunyonyi, surrounded by majestic green hills that reach heights of up to 2,400 meters.

2. 14-day vacation to Uganda

Head on a breathtaking 14-day adventure through Uganda’s remarkable national parks and landscapes. Encounter captivating wildlife in Murchison Falls National Park, witness enchanting primates in Kibale Forest National Park, and come face-to-face with awe-inspiring gorillas in the Bwindi Forest. Conclude your journey on the serene Ssese Islands, where your family can unwind by the tranquil shores of Lake Victoria. This expedition offers thrilling encounters with monkeys, elephants, tree-climbing lions, diverse bird species, and mighty buffalos.

Need a custom safari experience?

Just let us know what you have in mind and we’ll do the rest.

or call +256 (0) 393 254 368

10 Best African safari destinations for families

Are you and your kids fans of the zoo? Well, get ready for an unforgettable adventure because an African safari will take their love for animals to new heights! The vast African plains provide the perfect backdrop for children of all ages to witness majestic lions, playful hippos, and gentle elephants while learning about conservation.

With so many safari destinations to choose from, finding the best African safari for your family can be a challenge. Join us as we unveil the top destinations you should consider for your upcoming family vacation to the lands of Simba and friends!

1. Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Crater

Ignite the imaginations of your family as you embark on a remarkable journey to the ancient ridges formed by an extinct volcano. Behold the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater , a mesmerizing sight within the Great Rift Valley and a revered UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spanning 100 square miles, this natural wonder shelters approximately 25,000 remarkable animals. From mighty elephants to majestic lions, spotting iconic wildlife becomes effortlessly thrilling in this extraordinary location.

The Ngorongoro Crater perfectly complements a family safari to its neighboring Serengeti, doubling the adventure. Moreover, it offers a window into the earliest chapters of humanity’s history at Olduvai Gorge, where evidence of human existence dating back two million years has been unearthed. Meet residents from Maasai pastoralist communities, who graciously welcome visitors eager to learn about their captivating culture. It is from these communities that the very name “Ngorongoro” originates, adding an intriguing layer of heritage to this unforgettable experience.

2. Kenya’s Maasai Mara

While sharing the Maasai culture with Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Crater, Kenya’s Maasai Mara holds its own special place among the best African safari destinations for families. Here’s why: The Maasai Mara boasts excellent infrastructure and a remarkable diversity of wildlife, rivaling any protected area on the continent. With regular direct flights to Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, accessibility is a breeze. Furthermore, the reserve’s compact size means shorter driving times, perfect for younger children.

As a renowned Big Five safari destination, the Maasai Mara offers thrilling encounters with lions, elephants, leopards, Cape buffalos, and rhinos. Let’s not forget the awe-inspiring annual Great Wildebeest Migration, where around two million animals embark on a grand journey through the Mara’s vast landscapes.

3. Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

If your teenagers are seeking a unique adventure, consider swapping the traditional safari game drive for an extraordinary experience in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest . Here, anyone over the age of 15 can embark on an exhilarating trek in search of mountain gorillas.

These majestic creatures, wild yet fairly used to human presence, reside just a veil of greenery away. With the guidance of expert ranger guides, you’ll have the privilege of encountering gorilla families up close.

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest can be seamlessly combined with vehicle-led safaris, allowing you to explore the continent’s beloved animal species. While Queen Elizabeth National Park is often recommended as a top African safari destination for families, we personally favor the enchanting mix of wonders found in Murchison Falls National Park. Here, you’ll not only encounter a diverse array of wildlife but also witness the breathtaking sight of the River Nile cascading through the rocks of Fajao Gorge.

4. Rwanda’s Akagera National Park

Rwanda’s Akagera National Park is emerging as a top destination on the African safari scene. With the reintroduction of rhinos to its vast grasslands, it has become one of the continent’s newest Big Five safari destinations – and especially for families.

Rwanda is widely recognized as a safe country for international visitors, including children. The towns and cities are known for their cleanliness, and the country boasts an excellent road infrastructure, making domestic travel a breeze.

Moreover, Rwanda offers another incredible opportunity for a life-changing experience: gorilla encounters at V olcanoes National Park .

5. South Africa’s Kruger National Park

When it comes to organizing and traveling with ease, South Africa’s Kruger National Park rivals top safari destinations like Kenya and Rwanda. Although Kruger may not offer the chance to trek and see mountain gorillas, its expansive size presents a wealth of diverse habitats to explore.

With an impressive collection of nearly 150 mammal species, including beloved favorites such as African wild dogs, as well as black and white rhinos, Kruger National Park delivers an extraordinary wildlife experience. What sets Kruger apart is its allowance of private vehicles, making self-drive excursions a viable and attractive option for families seeking flexibility and independence during their safari adventure.

6. Botswana, Okavango Delta

Embark on a captivating safari adventure in Botswana’s Okavango Delta , where you can witness the magnificent waterways and wetlands. Glide through the delta’s serene channels in a traditional mokoro canoe, marvel at the sight of majestic hippos and crocodiles, and be enchanted by the diverse array of bird species that call this region home.

The Okavango Delta’s private concessions offer an exclusive safari experience, with luxurious accommodations that blend harmoniously with the surrounding wilderness. Delight in guided game drives, led by knowledgeable experts who will unveil the secrets of the delta’s ecosystem and help you spot extraordinary wildlife encounters.

Experience the thrill of walking safaris, where you can explore the delta’s hidden wonders and discover its smaller inhabitants, often overlooked during traditional game drives. As the sun sets, try out thrilling night drives, venturing into the nocturnal world of the delta. The private concessions in the Okavango Delta provide a sanctuary of seclusion, allowing you to unwind in luxury camps and lodges nestled in the heart of this pristine wilderness. Fall asleep to the symphony of the wild and wake up to extraordinary wildlife sightings just beyond your doorstep.

7. South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

South Luangwa National Park is renowned for its extraordinary walking safaris and remarkable leopard sightings, making it a thrilling destination for safari enthusiasts.

Explore the park’s diverse ecosystems, from dense woodlands to expansive plains, as you embark on guided walks that bring you closer to nature. Along the meandering Luangwa River, catch glimpses of graceful hippos as they wallow in the water, while the skies above are filled with vibrant birdlife. You’ll also witness one of Africa’s most elusive predators – leopards.

8. Etosha National Park, Namibia

Explore the captivating world of Etosha National Park in Namibia , where you’ll be amazed by the vast salt pans that seem to stretch forever. Get ready for incredible wildlife encounters as you spot majestic elephants gracefully roaming the savannah. Keep your eyes open for magnificent rhinos munching on vegetation and lions taking shade under acacia trees.

To make the most of your safari experience, choose to stay in one of the park’s camps or lodges. As the sun starts to set, hop on an exciting game drive led by knowledgeable rangers who will show you the park’s hidden treasures. From the comfort of your vehicle, observe the wildlife in their natural habitat, capturing amazing photos and creating lifelong memories.

9. Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe

Prepare for an unforgettable safari adventure in Hwange National Park , the largest and most magnificent national park in Zimbabwe. This incredible destination offers an abundance of exciting game-viewing opportunities that will leave you in awe. Get ready to embark on an extraordinary journey filled with close encounters with majestic elephants, as well as sightings of powerful predators like lions and cheetahs. Hwange National Park is also a haven for bird enthusiasts, with its incredible array of avian species.

Whether you choose to go on exhilarating game drives or immerse yourself in the tranquility of a walking safari, Hwange National Park guarantees an extraordinary wildlife experience that will leave you completely captivated.

10. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania10. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Get ready to embark on an extraordinary adventure in Serengeti National Park , the crown jewel of Tanzania and a paradise for safari enthusiasts. This remarkable destination is famous for its vast savannahs and the breathtaking Great Wildebeest Migration, where you’ll witness the mesmerizing spectacle of thousands upon thousands of wildebeest and zebras on their annual journey across the plains in search of greener pastures.

As you delve deeper into the heart of the Serengeti, be prepared to be enthralled by the presence of the mighty lions that reign over these lands. The Serengeti is home to a diverse array of iconic African wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, leopards, and rhinos.

Frequently Asked Questions

Curious about taking your kids on a safari?

We’ve got you covered with answers to the most common questions.

Absolutely!

An African safari is a wonderful experience that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Whether your children are toddlers, young kids, or teenagers, there are plenty of suitable safari options available, including family-friendly safaris.

For younger children, there are activities and programs designed to engage and entertain them, such as wildlife spotting games, nature walks, and educational sessions about animals and conservation. Older children and teenagers can participate in more adventurous activities like guided bush walks, learning bushcraft skills, and even photography workshops.

It’s important to consider the specific interests and energy levels of your children when planning the safari. Some children may prefer shorter game drives, while others may enjoy longer wildlife encounters. It’s also advisable to choose accommodations that provide family-friendly amenities, such as interconnecting rooms or family suites.

Children of all ages can go on safari, as there are options available to accommodate them. Many safari operators offer family-friendly safaris that include activities and experiences suitable for children. However, it’s important to note that some activities, such as gorilla trekking may have age restrictions or limitations due to safety concerns or regulations.

The cost of an African safari for a family of 4 can vary depending on the package and the level of accommodation chosen. On average, it can range from $500 to $3,000 per night, with prices varying between $125 and $750 per person per night.

The best safari location for kids is all dependent on age. If you’re traveling with children above the age of nine, Kenya offers excellent safari options. For younger children, it’s advisable to choose malaria-free regions to prevent them from getting sick on your travels.

Yes, it is generally safe to take kids on safari in Africa. Governments in African countries invest heavily in generating the safety of visitors by taking the relevant precautions. Tour vehicles are often designed to keep animals out and children in, so no one gets hurt.

It’s also highly advisable to follow the guidance of the safari operator and adhere to the safety protocols in place. This may include staying in designated areas and keeping a safe distance from animals. It’s also recommended to choose destinations that have a good track record of safety and security, and to check travel advisories and consult with local authorities before your trip.

Certain activities, like gorilla trekking, may have age restrictions due to safety concerns, but there are plenty of alternatives that the whole family can enjoy.

Children should pack lightweight clothing that covers their skin to protect against sun exposure and insect bites. It’s important to dress them comfortably and include long-sleeved shirts, long stockings (if wearing shorts), comfortable pants or trousers, a hat or cap, comfortable shoes, and a rain jacket. If you’re also planning a beach trip, don’t forget to pack appropriate swimwear and clothing for warmer weather.

Book your family safari to Africa today!

When it comes to choosing a family African safari vacation, you’ll be spoiled for choice with the options available. Whether you opt for the iconic Serengeti in Tanzania, the magical Okavango Delta in Botswana, or the family-friendly Kruger National Park in South Africa, each destination offers a unique and awe-inspiring experience for all ages.

From thrilling game drives to unforgettable encounters with majestic wildlife, these carefully curated safaris are designed to create lasting memories and foster a deep appreciation for the natural world in your children. With expert guides to educate and entertain, you can enjoy an unforgettable African adventure that will leave your family with amazing memories.

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Customize your safari.

Create your own safari experience with a bespoke itinerary.

5-Day Masai Mara Safari Package Including Lake Naivasha

18-Day Rwanda and Uganda Tour Including Gorilla Trekking

18-day safari package in uganda -big 5 & gorilla trekking.

9-Day Big 5 Safari Vacation Including Zanzibar Island Tour

15-day safari holiday in uganda including gorilla trekking, 15-day gorilla trekking tour and safari holiday in uganda, 14-day uganda vacation package and tour to see gorillas.

14-Day Customized Safari Holiday & Tour of Rwanda, Uganda

9-day customized uganda holiday and tour to see gorillas.

9-Day Uganda Vacation -Big 5 Safari and Gorilla Trekking

8-Day Custom Safari (Big 5) & Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

6-day budget friendly african safari and gorilla trekking.

7-Day Tailor-Made Holiday and Tour in Uganda via Rwanda

7-Day Kenya and Tanzania Safari to Masai Mara, Serengeti

6-Day Big 5 Safari in Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Tarangire

8-Day Safari in Kenya Featuring Masai Mara and Samburu

5-Day Short Holiday Package to Uganda – Gorilla Trekking

4-Day Kenya Big 5 Safari Package to the Masai Mara Reserve

4-Day Short Vacation to Uganda – Gorilla Trekking Bwindi

3 Day Gorilla Trekking in Uganda: A Safari Experience in Bwindi Forest

12-Day Gorilla Tour and Safari Vacation in Rwanda, Uganda

12-Day Customized Tour Package, Safari & Gorilla Trekking

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8-day tanzania big 5 safari and zanzibar holiday package.

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Foster a Love of Wildlife With These Family-Friendly Safaris

If recently released “the lion king” has you and your brood yearning to witness savannah animals up close, or if you have always dreamed of an all-ages african adventure, these outfitters can make that dream a reality..

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Make the Topi House your family’s base camp in Kenya’s Maasai Mara with Asilia Africa.

Courtesy of Asilia Africa

The visual effects in the new Lion King movie have been touted for their awe-inspiring ability to bring a digitally-animated animal kingdom to life in a way that has never been done before. If the movie’s African animals and landscapes have inspired you and your family to see the real-life versions, or if you are intent on motivating the next generation of travelers to be more engaged with and educated about wildlife, there’s no better way than to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitats.

Thankfully, more safari outfitters than ever are creating itineraries designed to engage animal lovers of all ages. From a family-friendly safari with a strong focus on spotting beautiful beasts, to a more active adventure that will get everyone in your crew moving, there is an African safari that is right for you and your band of intrepid explorers.

Support lion conservation with andBeyond

A portion of andBeyond’s Kings of the Jungle bookings go to the Lion Recovery Fund.

Courtesy of andBeyond

Africa expert andBeyond has developed a new Kings of the Jungle itinerary that aligns with Disney’s Protect the Pride campaign in support of the Lion Recovery Fund, a global initiative dedicated to the future of Africa’s lions. For every Kings of the Jungle booking, a donation will be made to the Lion Recovery Fund.

Africa’s lion population has decreased by nearly half over the past 21 years, according to the African Wildlife Foundation , and the lion is regionally extinct in 15 African countries. To help raise awareness about this issue and about African wildlife in general, andBeyond’s 10-day journey takes travelers old and young through the Maasai Mara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater where they will experience daily game drives.

Guests will stay at andBeyond’s Bateleur Camp in the Maasai Mara plains. The exploration then continues in the western corridor of the Serengeti, known for its dense lion population and for its hippos, where travelers will stay at andBeyond’s Serengeti Under Canvas, a mobile tented camp. During a stay at andBeyond’s Ngorongoro Crater Lodge in Tanzania, travelers will be on the lookout for elephants and rhinos.

Prices start at $10,095 per person, based on double occupancy. Rates for children between the ages of six and 16 start at $5,265 per child, based on double occupancy. Children aged five years and younger will be charged adult rates.

Stay in your own bush house in the Mara with Asilia Africa

Familes can set their own schedule when they stay in a six-person bush house with Asilia Africa.

Create a customized family safari with a stay in one of three bush houses with Asilia Africa . This intimate experience in Kenya’s Maasai Mara comes complete with a full staff that helps families design their own itinerary at their own pace. Asilia offers three homes —the Mara House, Acacia House, and Topi House (pictured)—that can each accommodate up to six people in three double rooms. The homes have a pool where the whole family can relax and take a dip, and the added privacy allows families to enjoy their stay without worrying about disturbing other travelers. Families of six or more will have their own private vehicle and guide for their morning and evening game drives (and private vehicles can be requested for smaller groups as well). Asilia recommends its family safaris for children aged five and up, although younger children can be accommodated by special arrangement.

For those eager to embark on a more active safari with the family, there is a series of Asilia Adventures , which include multi-day walks across wildlife areas. While these would be too difficult for smaller children, older kids and teens might be up for the challenge, and the Maasailand Walking adventure is a cultural immersion option that is suitable for the whole gang.

Fun Lion King fact: Members of the movie’s crew stayed with Asilia during filming in Kenya.

Asilia’s bush homes are priced from $322 to $895 per person per night, including meals and activities.

Tanzania with Tauck

A father and son on a game drive with Tauck

Courtesy of Tauck

Tour outfitter Tauck has an entire portfolio of trips devoted to family travel called Tauck Bridges . Within that portfolio is the 10-day Tauck Bridges Tanzania: A Grand Family Safari trip, intended to immerse safari-going clans in life in the African bush. Families go out on morning and afternoon game drives in open-air safari vehicles for the chance to spot lions, wildebeest, gazelles, and elephants, among other native animals. For an exciting overhead view, the trip includes a private hot air balloon ride over Serengeti National Park. Families will also visit a Maasai community and a local primary school. Accommodations range from cottage-style lodges to the posh Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti.

The recommended age range for children on Tauck’s family tours is between eight and 18, although travelers as young as five can participate in the safari trip. (Kids must be at least eight, however, for the balloon ride.)

Prices start at $7,740 per person, based on double occupancy. Children age 12 and younger get a $500 discount off the adult fare.

Cycle, hike, and soar on Zicasso’s East Africa safari

Zicasso offers families the option to take an early morning hot air balloon ride above the Serengeti.

Photo by hongissi/Shutterstock

Luxury travel agency Zicasso has created a Lion King– inspired 11-day family safari called Pride of Africa . The itinerary brings travelers through Tanzania and Kenya in search of lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and Cape buffalo. But it also offers some less typical experiences, including cycling and walking safaris in Hells Gate National Park in Kenya. Travelers will journey to Tanzania’s Olduvai Gorge, the site where fossilized bones have provided the earliest evidence of human life, and to Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest point in Africa. Families will also have the option to fly high above the Serengeti on a hot air balloon ride. The recommended minimum age for these trips is 12 years old. Prices start at $5,625 per person, based on six people traveling together, with two per room. Children ages 12 to 15, sharing a room with an adult, can expect to be quoted about 30 percent below the adult rate, according to Zicasso.

>> Next: Where to Go in Africa After a Safari

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Planning A Memorable Family African Safari: Tips And Destinations

The vast savannas, sprawling deserts, and lush jungles of Africa beckon adventure seekers to immerse themselves in nature and witness magnificent wildlife up-close. Planning an African safari with your family can create a trip of a lifetime, making priceless memories. However, with countless destinations and logistics to manage, preparation and research are key. Use this guide to plan your memorable African safari adventure.

Choosing the Perfect Destination

Africa is the only continent on Earth where you can see “the Big Five” – lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos – roaming freely in the wild. With 54 countries and a variety of ecosystems like rainforests, mountains, deserts, beaches, and more, deciding where to go in Africa can be overwhelming. Focus your destination choice based on your interests and ideal wildlife encounters.

East Africa

Countries like Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda offer superb wildlife-viewing and are ideal for first-timers. The East African region is home to over 1200 bird species and iconic wildlife like the Big Five. The Great Rift Valley and savanna grasslands provide a dramatic backdrop for your safari.

Southern Africa

Botswana, South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Namibia compose Southern Africa. This region boasts diverse landscapes, including deserts, savannas, and wetlands, providing habitat to a wide range of species. From the Okavango Delta to Kruger National Park, experience diverse ecosystems and unique wildlife.

Unique Wildlife and Landscapes

Africa’s diverse landscapes offer unique safari experiences across the continent. In Kenya, witness wildebeest crossing the Mara River during the Great Migration or spot the Big Five on the savanna. Trek to see endangered mountain gorillas in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park or chimpanzees in Uganda’s Bwindi Forest. Walk with elephants in Botswana’s Okavango Delta or track rhinos on foot in Zimbabwe’s Matobo Hills. Photograph giraffes and lions in South Africa’s Kruger Park or ride camels on a desert safari in Namibia’s dunes. Cruise along the Zambezi River to see hippos in Zambia’s national parks or snorkel to spot whales and dolphins on a beach safari in Mozambique. Let your family’s safari dreams guide you to the perfect destination.

Planning Your Safari Itinerary

Embarking on an African safari is an extraordinary adventure filled with awe and discovery. From the vast plains of Kenya to the pristine landscapes of Tanzania, the African continent offers a diverse array of wildlife encounters and breathtaking scenery. To make the most of this journey, meticulous planning is key. 

Tanzania – The Land of Wonders

When planning your Tanzanian family safari, consider a 10 to 14-day itinerary to fully immerse yourselves in this enchanting land. Tanzania beckons families with its unparalleled safari experiences. Embarking on a family safari tanzania adventure promises a journey filled with awe and discovery for all ages. In the Serengeti’s natural beauty and the Ngorongoro Crater’s majesty, a family’s exploration is inspired by the curiosity of their children. From witnessing the Great Migration to enjoying intimate wildlife encounters, each cherished moment solidifies Tanzania as the ideal destination for a family safari, leaving lasting memories for years to come. 

Kenya – Where the Wild Roams Free

Planning a family safari in Kenya reveals diverse ecosystems and awe-inspiring wildlife. The Maasai Mara’s sweeping plains, Amboseli’s elephants, and Samburu’s unique species provide a variety of experiences. Consider a 7 to 10-day itinerary to explore major reserves, ensuring you witness the Great Migration between July and October.

Uganda – A Primate Paradise

For families with a fascination for primates, Uganda is an ideal destination. Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and chimpanzee encounters in Kibale Forest National Park are unparalleled experiences. Consider a 10 to 14-day trip to explore the habitats of these primates and savor Uganda’s unique landscapes.

Zambia – The Hidden Gem

Zambia offers an off-the-beaten-path adventure, perfect for families seeking a more exclusive safari experience. The South Luangwa National Park is famous for walking safaris, offering a close connection to nature. A 7 to 10-day itinerary in Zambia allows for a deep exploration of this hidden gem.

Duration and Timing

Most experts recommend at least a week-long safari, preferably 10-14 days. The dry season from May to October is ideal, as wildlife gathers near scarce watering holes, improving visibility. Avoid the rainy season’s dense vegetation. Plan your safari during school breaks for easy family participation.

Accommodation Selection

Africa offers varied accommodation, from luxury lodges to mobile tented camps. Choose based on your budget and interests. Kids will love sleeping in a tent and listening to wildlife sounds! Make sure to account for long travel times between stops. Book well in advance for popular lodges during peak seasons.

Guided vs. Self-Drive Safaris

Guided safaris allow you to sit back while expert guides navigate logistics and maximize wildlife sightings. They share valuable insights into ecosystems and animal behaviors. Self-drive safaris offer flexibility and independence. Consider your budget, skills, experience, and interests. Travel with an outfitter for complex multi-country itineraries.

Packing Essentials for Your African Adventure

While packing light is wise, an African safari requires some key clothing and gear essentials:

Clothing and Footwear

Prioritize lightweight, breathable, neutral-colored clothing that minimizes insect attraction and blends into the landscape. Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots are a must for walking safaris and rough terrain. Bring a hat, sweaters for cold morning game drives, and a light waterproof jacket.

Safari Gear

Equip your family with binoculars and a high-quality camera with a telephoto zoom lens to capture close-up wildlife shots. Pack a power bank to recharge devices in remote areas without electricity. Consider walkie-talkies to communicate during self-drive safaris. A headlamp allows you to see at night.

Travel Documents and Health Precautions

Confirm visa/entry requirements for all countries and book with ample lead time. Visitors to many African countries will need to take prescription malaria medication during and after travel. Check if yellow fever or other vaccinations are mandatory.

Navigating Safety and Health Concerns

While rewarding, taking a family into remote wilderness comes with inherent risks. Take these steps for a safe, healthy African adventure.

Vaccinations and Medications

Yellow fever vaccinations are mandatory across much of Africa. Hepatitis A, typhoid, and meningitis vaccines may also be recommended or required. Talk to your doctor about malaria pills’ safety for children. Carry a first-aid kit with basic medical supplies.

Staying Safe in the Wild

Adhere to all instructions from guides and rangers for safe wildlife viewing. Do not exit vehicles unless in designated safe areas. Give animals plenty of space and do not feed them. Keep kids close and noise levels down. Prepare kids on safety before encountering large animals up-close.

Local Customs and Etiquette

Research appropriate dress and behavior for rural communities you’ll interact with. Show respect for cultural traditions and sacred places. Support conservation by following park rules. Hire local guides to boost community benefits. Photograph people only with their consent.

Budgeting and Cost Considerations

While not cheap, an African safari can work for most budgets with careful planning:

Setting a Realistic Budget

All-inclusive packaged safaris ease planning but can be expensive. Allow $200-$500 per day for budget options or $500-$1000+ for high-end. Flights, visas, gear, and insurance will add to costs. Consider experiences vs amenities to control expenses.

Hidden Costs to Be Aware Of

Factor in vaccinations, malaria medication, flights within Africa, visa fees, tips, airport transfers, and other related trip costs. Some hotels and parks have high fees for kids. Allow for souvenirs!

Value vs Luxury Safari Options

Luxury safaris offer an indulgent adventure, while budget safaris focus on wildlife encounters. Seek a balance that maximizes your experience while ensuring your family’s comfort. Be willing to compromise on lodging but not on activities.

Creating Unforgettable Safari Memories

Apart from epic wildlife sightings, it’s the magical moments that will stay with you forever.

Photography Tips

Capture your unique safari perspective with your camera. Shoot early morning and at sunset for ideal light. Experiment with angles, compositions, and details. Use the rule of thirds for eye-catching images.

Interacting with Wildlife Responsibly

Encourage children’s interest in conservation. Set an example of respect for wildlife by refraining from littering, feeding animals, or disturbing their habitats.. Support eco-lodges and sustainable practices on safari.

Engaging with Local Communities

Deepen cultural understanding via village visits, school exchanges, and purchasing local handicrafts. Stay at community-owned lodges. Have kids teach local children games and songs. These moments often become the highlight.

With dream destinations, expert planning, and lifelong memories waiting to be made, an African safari is the ultimate family adventure. Follow these tips to craft a custom trip rich with wildlife, culture, and bonding moments. Just be sure to book early – after hearing your family’s unforgettable tales, everyone you know may want an African safari too.

1. What’s the best time of year for an African safari, and does it vary by region?

The ideal time for most safari spots is during the dry season between May and October. This is when animals tend to gather near watering holes, making them easier to spot. But East Africa has a couple different wet and dry cycles, so be sure to plan based on the specific parks and regions you want to visit. Some places offer awesome safaris all year round though, so consider the climate and experiences you’re interested in too when choosing your timing.

2. Is it safe to bring young kids on a safari, and what precautions should I take?

African safaris can be amazing adventures for children of any age. Just take some basic safety steps like: 

• Think about distances for drives and activities each day that work for young travelers. With some thoughtful preparation, an African safari with kids can make incredible memories!

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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 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

6-Day Mid-Luxury Highlights of Tanzania

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

Tanzania: Private tour Lodge & Tented Camp

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

Lion King Adventures

5.0 /5  –  1018 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

5-Day Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro & Manyara Journey

$1,752 pp (USD)

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

Serengeti Smile

5.0 /5  –  209 Reviews

4-Day Wonder Safari

$994 to $1,592 pp (USD)

Kenya: Private tour Lodge & Hotel

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

Kameraz of Afrika

4.8 /5  –  98 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

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

5-Day Explore Famous Parks with Private 4 X 4 Jeep

$1,915 to $2,405 pp (USD)

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

Morning Star Tours & Travel

4.9 /5  –  165 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

11-Day Northern Tanzania Safari and Zanzibar

$7,656 pp (USD)

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

Wayfairer Travel

4.9 /5  –  149 Reviews

4-Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking

$3,570 pp (USD)

Rwanda: Private tour Mid-range Lodge & Hotel

You Visit: Kigali (Start) , Volcanoes NP (Gorillas) , Kigali Airport (End)

Ranger Buck Safaris

5.0 /5  –  27 Reviews

7-Day Comfort Northern Circuit Best Safari Experience

$2,668 to $2,822 pp (USD)

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

African Big Cats Safaris

5.0 /5  –  358 Reviews

8-Day In the Wild Safari with Zanzibar Extension

$1,980 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Mid-range Lodge & Hotel

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Zanzibar (Beach) , Matemwe Beach (Zanzibar) , Zanzibar Airport (End)

Amshar Serengeti Adventures

5.0 /5  –  66 Reviews

9-Day Customized Uganda Holiday and Tour to See Gorillas

$3,061 pp (USD)

Uganda & Rwanda: Private tour 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 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

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

$1,060 pp (USD)

Kenya: Private tour Lodge

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

Kibera Holiday Safaris

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 Lodge

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

Lulu Safaris Uganda

5.0 /5  –  75 Reviews

5-Day Gorillas, Chimpanzees and Tree-Climbing Lions

$2,079 pp (USD)

Uganda: Private tour Lodge & Resort

You Visit: Entebbe (Start) , Queen Elizabeth NP, Kyambura Gorge (Chimps) , Bwindi NP (Gorillas) , Lake Bunyonyi, Entebbe (End)

Nature Connect Safaris Uganda

4.9 /5  –  38 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 safest safari in Africa: how to plan your African holiday for maximum enjoyment

Is it safe to travel to africa.

Many travellers are keen wildlife enthusiasts and have added an African safari to their bucket list; yet one of the biggest concerns that is holding them back from planning that authentic safari experience is; "Is it safe to travel to Africa?" Our answer; a resounding yes!

If you are looking for the safest African safari tours, it can be highly beneficial to work with a trusted travel company with local knowledge. Our team at Wild Wonderful World lives in the African bush and most of us have spent our entire life in Africa. We’ve made it our mission to share the love we have for our home, Africa, with travellers from all over the world, curating safe safari experiences and memories that will last a lifetime! ‍

We are here to guide you; from deciding where to go, to planning the activities most suited to your wishes. And if you so desire, we will travel side-by-side with you from the moment you step off the plane until you climb back on to return home. This blogpost aims to provide some insider-tips into how to ensure a safe trip to Africa.

Preparations: Passports, Health & safety

As with any holiday, pre-trip planning is essential to ensure you have everything you need for travel, from valid passports, visas, required vaccinations etc! Some African countries require certain vaccinations for entry, e.g. Yellow Fever, so it is vital you check this information prior to travelling.

The Wild Wonderful World team have travelled the African continent extensively, and are connected with all national travel advisory groups and fully up-to-date with current regulations and local customs. That means you can leave on holiday with full confidence that you are fully prepared before arrival. As part of our service when travel planning with guests, we send detailed country information guides, packing guides and country entry requirements to ensure you are fully prepared for your trip.

For those who like to research, here are some helpful sites online that can help you gather this information;

• ‍ Great for vaccines / health regulations. ‍
• Great for visa info (US).

Being well-prepared will leave you free to enjoy a carefree, happy holiday under the vast and beautiful African sky.

Know where to go (and where not to go)

Not all African countries are the same, and not all regions within those countries are equal either!  While most travellers visiting Africa are looking for the classic safari experience, Africa’s cities are vibrant and colourful and well-worth tagging on to an African safari! In terms of destination planning, as with any country in the world, there are some parts of Africa that are best avoided (for now) and some parts that are a must!

If you are unsure which country to visit, we’ve listed our top safest African safari destinations here . Our entire team has travelled Africa extensively, and our founders even spent a year living in their 4x4 vehicle during their African overlanding journey .

Top tips for Africa traveling

While all African destinations are unique, here are some top tips to ensure your safety whilst on holiday anywhere Africa:

1. Be aware of your surroundings and know where you are going before you head out. Use reputable guided services where possible and if not, at least seek advice on where is safe to visit and where is best avoided.  Africa travel experts like Wild Wonderful World safaris also offer specialised services, like our 24/7 on-call travel advisors available for questions at any time during your travels.

2. Do not leave valuables or cash on display and don’t wear expensive jewellery in an ostentatious way. Besides the safety aspect (best to avoid unwanted attention), it is also considerate to the local population whilst traveling in or through poorer regions.

3. Keep important documents such as passports and travel documents in your in-room safe provided at your lodge or hotel. It is advisable to have multiple physical and digital copies of all important travel documents. Special requirements may also apply to families traveling with children, as some countries require original birth certificates.

4.. Only use reputable taxi or transfer companies for road and air transfers . Through our personal network, we have several reputable partners in all major African destinations, whose experienced drivers and pilots will make sure you are safe and looked after during your travels. .

5. If you are worried about safety on safari, book a guided safari experience . In our opinion, having an experienced guide and tracker team makes all the difference to optimise your chances of seeing the Big Five up-close. Not only do they know how to keep you safe on safari but they will also be able to help you get the most out of your game-viewing adventures. Good safari guides and trackers are experts at finding wildlife and have a wealth of knowledge (not to mention hilarious campfire stories!) which will add immeasurable value to your experience.

6. If it is your first time travelling to Africa, you feel unsure about certain aspects, or you just wish to optimise your entire trip and activities, why not travel with a private safari guide ? Our team has a combined 20+ years of active safari guiding experience, having lived and worked across Africa and in Africa’s top-safari industry. A private guide will travel with you wherever you go, ensuring that you can fully relax and enjoy your African holiday without having to worry about logistics and safety. Contact us to explore this unique add-on.

Safety on game drive

For most, an African safari (known locally as a ‘game drive’) is unlike any other holiday activity they’ve ever experienced. Other than the unique way in which the African safari is conducted from an open-top vehicle, the climate and wildlife are also unlike anywhere else in the world. These are our 5 quick-fire tips on how to stay safe whilst on safari:

• Your safari guide is experienced and knowledgeable - make sure to always obey his or her instructions.
• Going on a game drive in an open vehicle leaves you exposed to the elements. Make sure to take hats, sunscreen, and a warm top in winter , to prevent heat or sun stroke and ensure your comfort.
• In most game reserves, the wildlife has become habituated to the sound, sight and smell of the open game drive vehicles. While this allows us to watch them in their natural habitat and behaviour, it also means that you are much closer and more exposed to these wild animals. Remember that you are not at a zoo, so don't stand up or dangle arms or legs out of the vehicle , as this could frighten the animals and may result in them retreating or attacking.
• Watch out for low-hanging branches or those that are close to the sides of the vehicle. Trees in Africa tend to be thorny! Another good reason not to dangle those arms or legs over the sides of the vehicle, especially while driving.
• Never try to interfere – in any way – with the animals you encounter . This includes talking loudly, feeding the wildlife or trying to change their behaviour for a good photo. Trying to influence the animals’ natural behaviour is very dangerous and often-times, life-threatening.

For most travellers, travelling to Africa will mean moving outside of your comfort zone. However, if you are well-prepared and follow the advice of reputable, local guides, travel advisors and service providers, it may very well be the most enjoyable, comfortable, eye-opening and life-changing experience you’ll ever have . If you have any doubts or are unsure where to start, contact us for a free 30-minute discovery call to explore how we can help you create your dream African safari. If you thereafter choose to plan your safari with us, we will help you decide on your ideal safari destination (if you haven’t already), plan your custom itinerary, and answer any questions you may have, all the while ensuring your safety so that you can enjoy your African safari to the fullest.  

Written by Evelyn Poole & Michelle Pengilly

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Namibia, Botswana, Zambezi

Top Safari Adventures for Young Explorers

Experiences

Your Guide to Africa

Melissa Siebert

Going on safari with your kids, or even with your parents and your children, promises to be one of the most memorable journeys of your lives. What’s more wonderful than a child’s excitement at first spotting an elephant, or sharing African tales around a fire with the next generation? Bonding in and through nature can last a lifetime.

For every family safari booking, we donate USD20 to our Children in the Wilderness non-profit partner, enriching the lives of children in the rural areas where we operate, through leadership and conservation training. Creating an army of young eco-warriors.

We have endless adventures in store for you and your cubs. Wild creatures feature of course – on game drives, walks, in our libraries and research centres. Much to marvel at zoologically. Botanically, ecologically, and culturally, too. The bush is the best classroom, and our guides are incomparably trained to teach not just the facts, but the appreciation. The love. Our staff can also share special moments with your children making pizzas and other culinary delights; drawing and painting; learning their way around Olympus camera equipment; identifying constellations in awesomely starry skies; finding the beat on a djembe drum; and so much more. Age restrictions apply in some cases, but ultimately there’s something for everyone.

Here’s a taste of what awaits you, in some of our camps in Namibia, Botswana, and the Zambezi region (Zimbabwe and Zambia). We’ll keep you safe and happily occupied. Entertained. Enthralled. Engaged. Together with your children, and sometimes apart, to give you a break and them some extra youth-orientated attention on an African safari for families.

Namibia Family Safaris

Namibia will wow your children, and you as well. With its landscapes of rust-coloured desert, plains, canyons, mountains, edged to the west by a wild coast where the desert meets the sea, it’s otherworldly.

At Little Kulala , race up and down 300-metre high dunes at Sossusvlei, like ‘Big Daddy’. Our exclusive-use access point gets you there faster, keeping everyone more content (fewer ‘are we there yets?’). On game drives or walks, spot desert-adapted wildlife such as ostriches, springbok, gemsbok, brown hyaenas, black-backed jackals, bat-eared foxes, perhaps an aardwolf, or the endemic dune lark. Age permitting, explore the sands by e-bike or eco-sensitive quad bike. At dusk hear geckos bark; set out for a fairy circle dinner in the desert, prefaced by a ‘critter night walk’. Later, follow a guide and UV light on a scorpion safari. Stargaze in one of the darkest places on Earth, counting the constellations by laser.

Damaraland Camp offers guided nature walks for the young ones (and their elders), taking in fascinating desert-adapted life such as strange plant species and elephants almost camouflaged by the dust.  A visit to Tywfelfontein introduces your children to astounding San rock art and engravings dating back 6 000 years. In camp at Damaraland, fireside boma evenings of song, dance, and local stories will captivate all of you.

More desert-adapted wildlife is seen at remote, stunning Hoanib Skeleton Coast , where you can treat your team to a private dinner at the in-camp research centre as a scientist regales you with ‘lion tales’ – stories of the desert-adapted predators they’re studying, along with elephant and hyaena. An uber-highlight for the family: take a rollicking guided 4X4 drive over the floodplain and dunes to the Skeleton Coast, a wild stretch of the Atlantic where the cold Benguela current collides with the warmer sand, sending miles of mist upwards. Where white beaches are dotted with whale bones and shipwreck remains. Picnic on the sands to the cry of seabirds and Cape fur seals. Discover the remnants of Strandloper – Beachcomber – lifestyle from centuries past. Fly back to camp for an aerial view of what seems uninhabitable, but is full of life. Walk with a guide to witness that life, including the smaller creatures, an impressive variety of birds, and unusual flora.

Serra Cafema , our camp in Namibia’s far north, lies in one of the most untouched places on Earth – along a river incongruously rushing through an ochre desert. Explore the local geological wonders, like the phenomenal rocky outcrops of ancient metamorphosised granite at Bogenfels. A wonderland of natural crevices, caves, and bizarre rock formations that your young ones can investigate with a guide while you ease into your sundowners. Meet with a community of Himba, Namibia’s last semi-nomads still living traditionally, and local custodians of the land. Hear their stories, and share yours. When water levels permit, boat on the Kunene, with Angola’s craggy mountains in the distance and plenty of aquatic life all around.

Explore the dunes on foot and in game vehicles, perhaps spotting oryx, springbok, Hartmann’s mountain zebras, or tiny desert chameleons. Along specially allocated, low-impact pathways, quad bike across the untamed, lunar landscape. Disconnect and connect at the same time.

Botswana Family Safaris

Botswana spoils for choice, whatever age you are. Most of our camps in the Okavango Delta and the Linyanti Wildlife Reserve offer both land- and water-based game viewing, so the family-friendly adventures just keep coming. Private game-drive vehicles are booked for families with children younger than 12 years of age. At our Delta camps, children upwards of six years old can learn the art of poling in a  mokoro ( traditional dugout) along safe, shallow channels. Watch their faces light up as they glide across the deep-blue water, spying reed frogs, colourful water birds and huge waterlilies.

Enjoy boating and catch-and-release fishing at our water-based camps in Botswana 

Our camp in Botswana’s Central Kalahari, Kalahari Plains , offers a complete contrast – and unforgettable encounters with desert-adapted wildlife, like the iconic black-maned lion, and with a local San community. Africa’s ‘first people’ strive to preserve their culture, one of great indigenous wisdom, invaluable to the planet. A cultural walk with a San family will stay in your family’s hearts forever.

For foodies of all ages – at Seba Camp , aside from a classic Delta safari, you’ll get to make pizza in an unused termite mound.  DumaTau in the Linyanti, sited between two wildlife corridors and boasting one of the largest elephant meta-herds in Africa, delights with evenings on the floating firepit, serenaded by hippos and other creatures, brunch or supper on a barge, and bush breakfasts where children can play sous-chef. Our flagship camp in the Delta, Mombo , promises not only some of the best game viewing in Africa and lessons in impactful tourism (rhino conservation, leaving a light footprint, etc.), but also stages harvest table meals in the bush, where your family can feast to your hearts’ content. At lovely Vumbura Plains , you can loll about on cushions, picnicking on a Delta island perhaps, while your children enjoy supervised play.

Zambezi: Zimbabwe & Zambia Family Safaris

The legendary Zambezi River – slow-moving, vast, and a significant piece of African history – is a destination on its own. It separates Zambia to the north and Zimbabwe to the south, flowing like a giant silvery ribbon through gorgeous, game-rich wildernesses. Victoria Falls, a must-see natural wonder and the world’s largest water curtain, sits midway along the river’s course from north-west Zambia to the Indian Ocean. Thrills await the entire family: getting pleasurably drenched by the Falls’ mile-high spray and immersing yourselves in the endless plains of some of Africa’s most pristine reserves, bristling with wildlife.

Reading animal tracks with our expert guides excites just about any child, teen – or adult. Our camps in Hwange, Zimbabwe’s largest national park – Linkwasha , Little Makalolo , and Davison’s – offer exceptional tracking experiences. Stop at a pan or waterhole; shoes off; start deciphering the latest creature ‘news’, the stories in the sand. Hwange’s Ngamo Plains, dotted with vleis and ilala palms, serves up a never-ending wildlife parade. On a guided walk or game drive, find uncountable dust-kicking buffalos; some of the 40 000 local elephants; herd after antelope herd, with predators like lions, cheetahs, or African painted dogs in their wake; the more elusive pangolins, lesser bushbabies, and honey badgers; more than 400 bird species, including raptors, which fill the skies once the rains start. At night, a simple white sheet and flashlight or lantern attract dozens of weird bugs; identifying them is a hit with the young ones. As is roasting marshmallows over an open fire, to deep lion roars and hippo grunts. Or a sleepover in a Star Bed, up in a tree.

Zimbabwe’s Mana Pools – a World Heritage Site that is home to our camps Chikwenya , Ruckomechi , and Little Ruckomechi – mesmerises with its albida forests bathed in golden light, where elephants stand on tiptoe foraging for seed pods. While the hours away catch-and-release fishing in the shallows of the Zambezi, trying to catch little bream, imbiri, and chessa. Your littlest ones will love to ‘dobba-dobba ’, catching the tiniest fish and letting them go, to grow.

Many call Zambia ‘the real Africa’, and rate its safari experiences above all others. Our camps Shumba and Busanga Bush Camp , sited in Kafue National Park’s renowned Busanga Plains, do not disappoint. For five months each year, before the rains return, watch a wildlife extravaganza play out on the infinite floodplains. Witness hundreds of red lechwe, puku, and other plains game, often fleeing predators. Like the famous ‘flying lions’ leaping across the channels after prey – the area’s show-stealers. Boating, game drives, catch-and-release fishing, and an engrossing introduction to birding are just some of the unforgettable activities that can be tailored to younger guests.

Finally, a shout-out to our Bush Buddies – throughout your journey they’re there to help with the younger set, both children and teens. Highly trained in child care and education, our team ensures the best safari experience. Customised activities, co-ordinated by staff between camps to avoid duplication, include:

• Guided walks in camp, pointing out the miraculous minutiae often missed on game drives;
• Tracking lessons and competitions, and making plaster casts of tracks to take home;
• Bird and animal-call identification;
• Collection and identification of leaves, insects, dung, etc.;
• Scrapbooking;
• Treasure hunts;
• Soccer and volleyball games with staff;
• Popular board games;
• Assisting a camp chef;
• An assortment of arts and crafts (painting, sculpture, drawing, jewellery-making, basket-weaving, writing and telling stories, etc.);
• Dancing and drumming lessons;
• Stargazing and astronomy lessons.

Let’s do it together - book your luxury family safari at a Wilderness camp today!

Let’s plan your next journey

When we say we’re there every step of the way, we mean it, literally. From planning the perfect circuit, to private inter-camp transfers on Wilderness Air, and easing you through Customs. We’re with you on the ground, at your side, 24-7, from start to finish. Ready to take the road less travelled? Contact our Travel Designers to plan an unforgettable journey.

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"All you need to know about travelling to Africa with kids..."

Enquire now.

An African family safari can be an incredibly rewarding and exciting vacation for everybody involved when done in the right way. African family safari tours offer a unique opportunity to expose children to societies and cultures that are completely different from their own at a young age, which can have a profound impact on their upbringing.

In a world where we seem to place children in hyper-protective boxes and attempt to shield them from every possible negative, it’s understandable why some families with children might veer away from an African safari for a holiday.

We understand it might seem scary to know that your children will be close to potentially dangerous animals, but at SAFARI FRANK we believe in exceptional standards of safety while still providing an adventure and experience that will glow for years within the minds of the young. 

Why Safaris are a Great Choice for Families: 

These days there are plenty of choices for family holidays, ranging from the tried and tested beach break within the cosy confines of an all-inclusive resort, to something altogether different – African safari vacation packages. They involve rugged adventure, wild animals roaming the African bush, and activities galore to suit the entire family no matter the age or preferences. 

Common Misconceptions About Family Safaris

Family safari vacations might not always be parents’ first choice, but the benefits and life experiences gained by families from African safari tours make it something every family should consider.    

The Benefits of Family African Safaris for Family Bonding

Safaris are packed with healthy outdoor fun, make great learning environments, and foster family connections away from the screens and Wi-Fi. You will feel more alive and connected than ever as you create shared experiences off the grid and well out of the rat race.

Why Africa is the Ultimate Family Safari Destination

When it comes to picking an unforgettable family holiday destination, you can’t beat Africa. Elephants stride across the grassy plains, chimpanzees and gorillas can be found in the precious remaining jungles and the unspoiled reefs team with aquatic life. 

There is no nature channel program that can beat the real thing and this is better than any classroom can ever hope to be. Getting to see your child experience their very first lion sighting, or experience just how large elephants actually are is a moment you won’t forget – and neither will they. 

The Joy of Discovery: Game Drives and Animal Tracking

There are few things as fun as shouting: ‘I see something!’ when out on a game drive during your family safari holidays. Even a dung beetle in action becomes a worthy sighting. 

Every game drive comes with a map of wild creatures you may encounter, and your kids will delight in carefully learning about and then following animal tracks. At the end of the day, they’ll love ticking off their sightings, while already trying to mentally piece together what they’ve experienced to tell their friends about it back home. 

They can even go and put a pin on the sighting board to help other tourists find an elusive leopard or that hyena that makes its appearance around the game park entrance at dawn.

At SAFARI FRANK we always put your family’s safety and comfort first and only recommend operators whom we know and trust.

Our favourite Family Safaris

Namibian family safari adventure.

Perfect Botswana Family Safari

Private Houses for Families in the Masai Mara

Affordable Kenya Adventure Safari for Families

Greater Kruger Family Safari

What Type of Family African Safari is Best for Children?

If you’re thinking seriously about a safari for your children, the best place to start should be choosing what kind of safari would be best. Do you want to experience Africa’s jaw-dropping national parks, or perhaps its beaches – or maybe even a mix of the two?

Do you think a private safari would be best or do you think they should be part of a group that might include other children? There’s plenty to consider carefully before jumping.    

The Beach Experience with SAFARI FRANK

What kid doesn’t love the beach? From South Africa’s Boulders beach in Cape Town dotted with penguins to the tropical coastline of Zanzibar, there is much for the kids to explore. Think sandcastles, snorkelling in clear turquoise waters, and spending a lazy afternoon in a hammock. This is the version of ‘beach vacation’ that SAFARI FRANK specialises in.

Luxury and Local Flavors at Beach Lodges

Many of the beach lodges offer a luxurious but just remote enough getaway destination, that you feel like you practically have a private beach. 

In Mozambique or on the Kenyan coast you are encouraged to indulge in locally caught seafood prepared by the chef, and sip coconut water directly from coconuts completing the quintessential beach experience. You can snorkel in the undisturbed reefs, go on a private fishing trip, or take a scuba diving course. And we haven’t forgotten those much-needed cocktails for the parents.

Timing Your Safari: Why Seasons Matter

Picking your season to travel is an important aspect of any bush adventure. On the plains of the Mara, the recent rainfall transforms the plains into a lush landscape full of new wobbly legs, and predators waiting on the sidelines for a calf to wander from its mother’s protective gaze. With a particularly high density of lions, visiting at this time of year won’t disappoint.

The Camps and Lodges  

The much sought-after tented camps in the Mara are ideal for families and provide the perfect setting for a range of activities to create that perfect African Safari Experience. 

Family-Friendly Guides and Activities

Many of the guides, being parents themselves, love hosting families and caring for your children as they would their own. The family-friendly lodges offer a host of kid-friendly fun activities, including, bow and arrow shooting with the Maasai, starting a campfire with elephant dung and sticks, and educational bush walks around the camp.

Camp Safety and Entertainment

Many camps have been designed to ensure the safety of little ones, and keep them entertained, while still offering the grown-ups maximum game viewing experiences and often some much-needed alone time. 

SAFARI FRANK makes a point of forging relationships with the most experienced locals Africa has to offer who know how to make a safari with kids a memorable experience. 

These lodges understand that kids don’t want to sit in a game drive vehicle for too long, and would rather be romping through the bush surrounding the lodge and poking at anthills.

Kid-Friendly Lodges and Activities for Family Safaris

We have lodges that are as kid-friendly as it can get with a river rope swing, raft paddling around a safe pool, boating and fishing in the river, as well as a host of other activities to keep the kids entertained. Laikipia safari holidays in Kenya is a firm favourite for adventurous family safaris. 

A Classroom Experience Out of School

Taking children on safari can be a hugely rewarding experience, with the bush offering a magnificent classroom and an in-built playground. The guides are used to answering an endless stream of questions from their smallest explorers and hearing an actual lion roar tends to beat any Disney movie. 

Tailoring Your Safari with Private Vehicles

If you are travelling with very small children – a private vehicle either self-driven or with a private guide is often the best option so you can set your own pace and stop the car as often as needed.

Children’s Programs at Family-Focused Lodges

Family-focused lodges are known for their children’s programs. Your young ones can learn everything from drumming to making crafts, and from animal tracking to identifying local plants. 

Some of the programs partner with the local schools, organising sporting activities with the local children or even an opportunity for your kid to visit an African school.

Making New Friends and Finding Adventure

Being a part of the kids’ activities at the lodge also gives your children the opportunity to make new friends. Whether you are looking for an adrenaline-rushing adventure or lazy beach days, you can find it in Africa. 

For the members of your clan that need their days to be action-packed, there are the options of quad biking along dirt roads and gliding along the water in a canoe. 

Leisurely Options for a Slower Pace

If you prefer a slower pace, there is the lodge pool overlooking the bush, a hammock swinging by the beach, or even board games with that dazzlingly African night sky above you. 

Educational and Cultural Benefits

As a parent, there is an added satisfaction to knowing your child is not only having fun but learning the importance of nature in the process. Africa offers a multitude of opportunities for cultural immersion and witnessing and interacting with traditional African cultures in the flesh has a habit of teaching children life lessons that never appear in their classroom.

Lasting Impressions and Conservation Lessons

A child standing before a Maasai warrior or visiting the small simple home of a large multi-generational family will provide a deep imprint that may well stay with them for the rest of their lives. Being out in the bush every day and seeing wild creatures in their natural habitat helps to cultivate an appreciation for conservation. 

The shrinking natural world and the dire need for us to save the last wild places can be put in age-appropriate terms for the kids. A safari done well can ignite a passion for conserving our natural world and the wildlife that calls it home.

The Personal Touch of a Privately Guided Safari

Choosing a privately guided safari means you get to tailor-make your children’s very first bush experience. Breakfast out in the bush with no one but your family and the guide means quality family time. Sitting down for dinner in the restaurant at night and getting to sample the local cuisine – have your kids tried bobotie before? How about malva pudding?

African Safaris for All Ages

Ready for a safari adventure that’s perfect for every age? From tots to teens to grandparents, we’ve got tips and tricks to make your African journey unforgettable. 

Toddlers on Safari

With little ones in tow, it’s important to prioritise going to a malaria-free area until they are about 5 years old and can take malaria medication. But this hardly means you’re out of options. Large parts of South Africa are considered a safe zone with beautiful beach safaris . It has many incredible malaria-free BIG 5 parks to visit including game reserves in the Eastern Cape, Welgevonden in the Limpopo region, Madikwe, and the portion of the Kalahari in South Africa . 

Some lodges have an age restriction and may accommodate children under 5 years of age while others offer child-minding services and private vehicles for game drives greatly enhancing the family’s experience.

A private safari geared towards small people means a guide who is talented at making this one big educational adventure. You can expect family-friendly lodges to offer a host of kid-friendly activities such as fireside story time for children and arts and crafts activities.

Professional lodge nannies are often around meaning you can sneak off for an hour or two at the spa. Not having to worry about malaria in large parts of South Africa means you can safely combine your BIG 5 adventure with a trip to Cape Town and explore the vibrant city at the bottom tip of Africa. Another good option is to combine the safari with a beach destination like Mauritius.

Tweens on Safari

Tweens often have the most fun on safari. They are old enough to understand this is the trip of a lifetime and often want to get a taste of it all without having those awkward hangups that tend to arrive during their teenage years. They are usually our most curious adventurers, and our guides enjoy fielding all their questions. 

Moving around and visiting different camps is a good way to keep your tweens entertained. Each lodge is inspired by a different local culture, and cultural experiences are a huge bonus to being on safari in Africa that quickly add up to unforgettable experiences. 

Camping and self drive adventures in Namibia and Botswana ’s safaris might just be the best thing they have ever done. For kids from 5 to 10 years of age, areas with a low risk of malaria can be visited with due care, including taking appropriate anti-malarial drugs. 

Teenagers on Safari

 And so we come to those peculiar creatures collectively known as teenagers. We’ve all experienced the sense of confusion, irritation, and disconnect that usually arrives with the teenage years, and yet when it comes to our own kids, it can be just as bewildering for parents.   

An African family safari gives teenagers the perfect excuse to look up from their phones, though that said, they probably won’t get a signal anyway. Africa is itself packed with enough adrenaline to keep any teenagers’ attention, from getting within metres of black rhinos on a walking safari to sitting on the edge of your seats as thousands of wildebeest stampede through crocodile-infested waters.

Quad bikes, sand boards, and mountain bikes all allow them to stay on the move and we find that’s hugely important for teenagers who have places to be and things to explore. If a horse is too mainstream for them, how about riding camelback? And if they want to get up in the air there are hot air balloons and microlights.

For teenagers, almost all options and locations are available to you including most walking safaris and mobile camping trips. This opens up an exciting world of experiences and a private mobile safari in Botswana is the family adventure of a lifetime. 

This is a great time to engage with your teen while doing activities they want to do, to find common ground, and strengthen bonds. Who knows, perhaps you’ll even get to that heart-to-heart you’ve been meaning to do for a while now. 

Intergenerational Safaris

In recent years we have seen a rise in intergenerational safaris where grandparents travel with their children and grandkids or sometimes just with their grandchildren.

The bush is something that can be enjoyed at any age, and with a safari expert helping you organise your trip you can be sure to meet everyone’s expectations. 

Intergenerational safaris can require a mix of activities, whilst the kids are at bush school and the parents are out on a guided walk, the older generation might enjoy the comforts of the lodge. If easier access to vehicles and specialised lodges with wheelchair access is required, some lodges specialise in accommodating all abilities.

5 Tips For Planning a Family Safari 

Why plan a family safari? Simple. It’s the adventure of a lifetime that’s fun for all ages. But the key to a trip everyone will rave about? Planning. Consider the tips below to make planning a family safari a breeze.

1. Tailoring Your Safari to Your Child’s Age

Building your safari around the age of your child will ultimately serve everyone. If you have a toddler on a schedule, try to build the safari experience around that schedule. Morning game drives can be before bath time and meals can be scheduled before anyone gets too hungry and cranky. 

Game drives can also be scheduled around short attention spans with lots of breaks to stretch your legs and climb the closest tree with the ground squirrels watching.

2. Involving School-Aged Children in Planning

School-aged children may benefit from being the masterminds behind the trip (with some adult supervision of course). Our trick for five years and older is to make them feel that the adventure was of their making. 

Looking at maps and cottages beforehand and showing them pictures of the lodge options can make them feel like they are a part of the planning.

3. Engaging Teenagers in the Safari Experience

Teenagers can take an even more active role in the organisation and plan a day or two of the itinerary, something which is bound to score a few points with them. This could include choosing specific activities or wildlife they’re interested in seeing, or even selecting a particular route for a game drive. 

Giving them this level of involvement not only makes the trip more engaging for them but also provides a learning opportunity in planning and decision-making.

4. Navigating ‘Voluntourism’ Options

Some areas offer ‘voluntourism’ options to older children and families. We recommend extreme care be taken with these as many are profiting from such activities rather than truly giving back. In the worst cases, some organisations exploit the very animals they say claim to be helping. That being said, we are working with a fantastic organisation in Namibia which aims to protect the desert elephants in Damaraland. 

5. Alternative Activities for Conservation Enthusiasts

For those who want to be active and involved whilst travelling, we suggest training programs as part of the safari such as an EcoQuest course , which imparts knowledge that will set participants up for a lifetime in conservation.

FAQs about Family Safaris in Africa

Is a safari safe for families with children.

Absolutely, safety is our top priority at SAFARI FRANK. We only recommend operators we know and trust. Many lodges have been designed with family safety in mind, offering a secure environment for kids while still providing thrilling game-viewing experiences for adults.

What Type of Safari is Best Suited for Children?

The best safari for your family depends on various factors like the children’s ages and interests. Private safaris offer flexibility, while group safaris can provide social interaction with other kids.

Are There Educational Benefits to Taking a Family Safari?

Absolutely! A safari is a living classroom for children. They’ll learn about wildlife, ecosystems, and even local cultures. Many lodges offer educational programs and activities tailored for young explorers, making it a learning experience they’ll never forget.

How Much Does a Family Safari in Africa Cost?

The cost of a family safari in Africa varies based on destination, accommodation, and activities. Budget options start at a few hundred dollars per person per day, while luxury

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Are African Safaris Safe? Top Tips and Facts for a Safe Adventure

January 23, 2024

In this article...

Are African Safaris Safe: Tips and Facts for a Safe Adventure An African safari can be an exhilarating and unforgettable experience, offering the chance to witness majestic wildlife in their natural habitat. However, many travellers often question the safety of such an adventure. Understanding the potential risks and equipping oneself with the proper knowledge and precautions are essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable safari experience in Africa. Is it Safe to Go on an African Safari? Before setting off on an African safari, it’s crucial to comprehend the potential wildlife risks you may encounter. While game drives and walking safaris provide incredible opportunities to observe animals such as lions, elephants, cheetahs, and leopards in their natural environment, they must remember that these are wild animals and should be treated cautiously and respectfully. Following safe safari practices is paramount for a secure journey. Whether in Tanzania, Kenya, Botswana or Zimbabwe, always adhere to the instructions of experienced safari guides. They are well-versed in navigating the African wilderness and can ensure your safety during encounters with wildlife. Choosing between a guided tour and a self-drive adventure is important when considering a safari. Guided safaris often provide a safer option as the trained guides are equipped to handle any potential dangers, enhancing the overall safety of the journey. What Are the Safety Tips for African Safaris? Interacting with wild animals is undoubtedly one of the most thrilling aspects of an African safari. To ensure everyone’s safety, always maintain a safe distance from the animals and never exit the safari vehicle unless instructed by the guide. These precautions are essential when encountering potentially dangerous animals like lions or elephants. Choosing safe accommodations is imperative when planning an African safari. Opt for lodges and camps that prioritize guest safety and are in secure areas. ... Read more

Are African Safaris Safe: Tips and Facts for a Safe Adventure

An African safari can be an exhilarating and unforgettable experience, offering the chance to witness majestic wildlife in their natural habitat. However, many travellers often question the safety of such an adventure. Understanding the potential risks and equipping oneself with the proper knowledge and precautions are essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable safari experience in Africa.

Is it Safe to Go on an African Safari?

Before setting off on an African safari, it’s crucial to comprehend the potential wildlife risks you may encounter. While game drives and walking safaris provide incredible opportunities to observe animals such as lions, elephants, cheetahs, and leopards in their natural environment, they must remember that these are wild animals and should be treated cautiously and respectfully.

Following safe safari practices is paramount for a secure journey. Whether in Tanzania, Kenya, Botswana or Zimbabwe, always adhere to the instructions of experienced safari guides. They are well-versed in navigating the African wilderness and can ensure your safety during encounters with wildlife.

Choosing between a guided tour and a self-drive adventure is important when considering a safari. Guided safaris often provide a safer option as the trained guides are equipped to handle any potential dangers, enhancing the overall safety of the journey.

What Are the Safety Tips for African Safaris?

Interacting with wild animals is undoubtedly one of the most thrilling aspects of an African safari. To ensure everyone’s safety, always maintain a safe distance from the animals and never exit the safari vehicle unless instructed by the guide. These precautions are essential when encountering potentially dangerous animals like lions or elephants.

Choosing safe accommodations is imperative when planning an African safari. Opt for lodges and camps that prioritize guest safety and are in secure areas. This will minimize the risks of wildlife encounters and provide peace of mind throughout the journey.

While navigating potential danger zones, you must stay vigilant and follow your guide’s instructions. This includes understanding the behaviours of animals and avoiding any actions that may provoke them. You can significantly reduce the likelihood of dangerous encounters by respecting the animals’ territory and adhering to safety protocols.

What to Do in Case of Wildlife Encounters?

In predatory animal encounters, such as lions or leopards, it’s crucial to remain calm and follow the guide’s directions. Avoid making sudden movements or direct eye contact with the animals, as this may be perceived as a threat. By staying composed and trusting your guide’s expertise, you can effectively navigate such encounters while prioritizing safety.

Similarly, when encountering elephant herds, it’s crucial to maintain a respectful distance and avoid any sudden or startling actions. Elephants are brilliant and protective animals, and respecting their space is key to ensuring a safe and harmonious encounter.

Be cautious of potential hippopotamus encounters near water sources, such as rivers or lakes. Despite their seemingly docile appearance, hippos can be aggressive and territorial. Always adhere to the guide’s instructions and avoid approaching or provoking these animals to prevent potential confrontations.

Is Traveling to Africa Alone Safe?

Embarking alone on an African safari raises questions about safety and the potential risks. While solo travels offer a sense of independence and exploration, opting for a guided tour is often safer. Guided safaris provide the expertise of knowledgeable guides adept at navigating the wilderness and ensuring the safety of all participants.

When travelling solo, incorporating safety measures into your itinerary is essential. This includes informing local authorities or safari operators about your itinerary and ensuring regular check-ins for added security. Solo travellers can enhance their safety during an African safari by taking proactive steps to stay safe and informed.

Understanding local safety precautions and respecting cultural and environmental norms are crucial for a safe and respectful journey. Being mindful of local customs and heeding the advice of experienced guides can contribute to a secure and enriching experience while travelling alone in Africa.

What Are the Safest African Safari Destinations?

Choosing the right destination is pivotal in ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience when considering an African safari. Several countries in East Africa, such as Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda, offer top wildlife-safe destinations known for their diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife.

Game drive locations within national parks and game reserves provide ample opportunities to observe wildlife while maintaining a safe distance. Countries like Botswana and South Africa also boast secure safari lodges within protected areas, offering a serene and secure base for exploring the surrounding wilderness.

By selecting secure safari lodges and prioritizing destinations renowned for their wildlife conservation efforts, travellers can stay safe and keep wildlife encounters respectful and harmonious. Prior research into the safest safari destinations can ensure a memorable and secure safari adventure for all participants.

Dink is a seasoned explorer with a profound passion for Africa, calling the continent home for the last quarter-century. From the vibrant cultures of West Africa to the breathtaking landscapes of southern Africa, Dink's journey is marked by an insatiable curiosity and a love for the untamed.

Through years of travel, Dink and family have mastered the art of mapping the uncharted, and embracing each new discovery. Dink's narratives are not just stories but windows to experience Africa, offering readers a glimpse into its profound beauty and complexity. Dink’s expertise and unique perspective make for an invaluable guide for those eager to explore the continent's hidden treasures.

Join Dink and be inspired to embark on your own adventures.

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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..

Botswana Redefined - A Slow Safari Concept

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From $ 6700 /USD

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From $ 6025 /USD

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Southern Africa Botswana Moremi Zimbabwe Victoria Falls

From $ 5150 /USD

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South Africa Johannesburg Sun City Pilanesberg

From $ 1490 /USD

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Southern Africa South Africa Cape Town Hermanus Eastern Cape

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Southern Africa Windhoek Sossusvlei Twyfelfontein Damaraland

From $ 6290 /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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12 Best African Resorts For Family Vacation

Nothing beats the experience of the best African safari resorts for families. For the lucky ones to visit Africa as a family, all they have is a beautiful tale of the continent.

It is this charm that brought some of the best footballers in Europe here for vacation during their summer break. Among those who vacationed in various African destinations include Sergio Busquets , the former Captain of FC Barcelona who vacationed in Kenya. Others include PSG Star Mauro Icardi flanked by his wife Wanda Nara. Last but not least is PSG midfielder Ander Herrera who flew to Tanzania for a holiday accompanied by his wife Isabel Collado.

Essentially, Africa gives you extraordinary destinations fused with luxury and unlimited greatness to wilderness experience and much more. With a harmonious blend of relaxation, excitement, and natural wonder, the best African safari resorts for families will always give you unforgettable memories.

Table of Contents

Where Is The Best Place To Go For A Family Safari In Africa?

Every corner of Africa has an enchanting resort for your family. However, some African countries have better family-oriented resorts than others; therefore they have a higher reputation. They include the following.

Singita Sasakwa Lodge, Tanzania

Singita Sasakwa Lodge in Serengeti National Park. Photo/Robb Report

Located in the heart of the Serengeti, this lodge offers luxurious accommodations and a dedicated family villa. Families can enjoy game drives and walks in the Serengeti plains, as well as educational programs for kids.

Londolozi Game Reserve, South Africa

Known for its exceptional leopard sightings, Londolozi provides family-friendly accommodations and tailor-made activities. The Cubs Den program engages children in wildlife experiences, making it a great choice for families.

Lewa Wilderness, Kenya

Situated within the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, Lewa Wilderness tops among the best African safari resorts for families. This resort offers family cottages and a wide range of activities such as horseback riding, camel treks, and visits to a local school, providing an immersive experience for all ages.

Chobe Game Lodge, Botswana

Chobe Game Lodge. Photo/TripAdvisor

Set on the Chobe River, this lodge presents diverse wildlife experiences, including boat safaris and game drives. The family-friendly atmosphere includes spacious accommodations and child-focused activities.

MalaMala Game Reserve, South Africa

Renowned for its wildlife density, MalaMala offers a family-friendly camp with interconnected rooms. Experienced guides ensure both children and adults have an enriching safari experience.

Saruni Samburu, Kenya

With its “Warrior for a Week” program, Saruni Samburu invites families to bond with the Samburu tribe and engage in conservation efforts. The lodge’s family villas offer comfort and captivating views.

Madikwe Safari Lodge, South Africa

Catering to families, this lodge in Madikwe Game Reserve provides family suites and tailored activities like bush orientation and bug CSI. Kids are entertained by the Eco House program.

&Beyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge, Botswana

Nestled in the Okavango Delta, this lodge offers family-friendly suites and a WILDChild program, focusing on interactive and educational activities for young explorers.

Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge, South Africa

Family-friendly suites and the EleFun Centre await at this lodge. Children engage in bushveld activities and wildlife-themed crafts, while parents enjoy luxury and relaxation.

Ol Pejeta Bush Camp, Kenya

Situated within Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Laikipia , this camp offers a unique experience with activities such as lion tracking and visits to a chimpanzee sanctuary . Family tents provide comfort in the midst of nature which characterizes the geographical setting of Laikipia County.

Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti, Tanzania

Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti. Photo/Micato Safaris

This is a luxurious lodge located in the Serengeti National Park. It offers stunning views of the savannah, as well as a variety of family-friendly activities, such as game drives, hot air balloon rides, and bush walks.

Madikwe Safari Lodge in South Africa

It is a luxurious lodge set in a 75,000-hectare game reserve in South Africa. Madikwe offers spacious suites with private plunge pools, as well as a variety of family-friendly activities, such as game drives, bush walks, and swimming.

Where Is The Best Place To Go On A Safari With Kids?

Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, South Africa, Ghana, Senegal, The Gambia , Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Morocco, and Egypt have the best African safari resorts for families. These resorts are kids-friendly and they feature some of the best holiday programs for children when on holiday. They understand and execute the ‘family holiday concept’ to detail which is why you should not have any qualms in planning your vacation to Africa.

Can You Take Kids To Safari In Africa?

Africa is safe to take your kids on holiday throughout the year. In fact, it is on the premise of safety that the best African safari resorts for families exist. A lot of young children from every corner of the country visit Africa for vacation every year. Most national parks in Africa allow children of below the age of six years free entry.

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About the author.

Teresa Mwangi

Teresa is a journalist with years of experience in creating web content. She is a wanderlust at heart, loves travelling and telling stories about tour and travel in Africa by every angle.

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12 Top African Safari Tours

Cross this must-do activity off your bucket list.

Courtesy of Micato Safaris

Spot the big five on your safari adventure.

Safari tours in Africa are just as diverse as the continent itself, though these types of trips typically require a large sum of money. Whether you want to spend a few days gorilla trekking in Uganda or a couple weeks spotting the "big five" – lions, leopards, African elephants, rhinos and Cape buffalos – in South Africa, you'll find an array of tours to best suit your needs. To help you narrow down your options, U.S. News compiled a list of 12 can't-miss African safari tours. Read on to find your once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Note: Some of the African countries in this article may require travelers to get an entry visa and certain vaccinations in order to visit. Jump to the list of visa and vaccination requirements by country at the bottom of this page for more information.

&Beyond

Courtesy of &Beyond

Visitors who don't want to sacrifice creature comforts while on safari will appreciate &Beyond's offerings. During the tour operator's 10-day Kings of the Jungle safari – which starts at $11,340 per person – travelers will see breathtaking natural wonders like the Ngorongoro Crater and the Maasai Mara savanna. But the highlight of this journey is its four-night stay at Tanzania's Serengeti National Park . After watching animals like wildebeest and zebras partake in the great migration while also spotting lions, giraffes and more, vacationers retreat to high-end tents and lodges with private bathrooms.

[See more of Serengeti National Park: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Wilderness Safaris

Courtesy of Wilderness Safaris

For some of Africa's most jaw-dropping scenery, opt for the seven-night Namibian Adventure Safari tour offered by Wilderness Safaris. This weeklong trip features visits to the Namib Desert's dune-filled Sossusvlei region (which you may recognize from the film "Mad Max: Fury Road") and the mountainous Palmwag Concession – a protected area with springboks, giraffes, black rhinos and more. The package's per person fee starts at $6,725, which covers most meals, park entrance fees, and transfers from Namibia's capital Windhoek and between the safari destinations. It also covers your stay at properties like the fully solar-powered Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp and the five-star Little Kulala lodge amid the stunning desert.

Wild Rwanda Safaris

Courtesy of Wild Rwanda Safaris)

Adventurous travelers sticking to a more conservative budget should consider Wild Rwanda Safaris' Bwindi Gorilla Safari. The three-day package features a full day in southwestern Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (a haven for silverback gorillas) and an adjacent Batwa Pygmy community. Wild Rwanda Safaris allows guests to choose between midrange, luxury and super luxury accommodation, which can help keep costs down if necessary. The company's packages include the $700 permit required to visit the gorilla park. The round-trip journey by safari vehicle to and from Kigali, Rwanda, and English-speaking guide services are also covered in all rates. The tour can begin from Kampala, Uganda, as well, although you'll spend longer on the road to the park.

Nomad Tanzania

Courtesy of nomad-tanzania.com

Sign up for Nomad Tanzania's Southern Tanzania safari and you're bound to get an up-close look at Tanzania's diverse wildlife. Offering eight days of activities, including game drives and boat trips in Ruaha National Park and Nyerere National Park, this safari gives you prime opportunities to spot lions, cheetahs, leopards and elephants, among other species. What's more, lodging at the company's campsites, select meals, and flights to and from Dar es Salaam are factored into the package's prices. Expect to pay a minimum of $5,700 per person; prices vary depending on the time of year, and the tour isn't offered in April and May.

Micato Safaris

If you want to explore multiple destinations while on safari with plenty of comfort (but a price tag to match), book the 15-day Micato Grand Safari. This outing by Micato Safaris starts with a two-day visit to Nairobi, Kenya, before continuing to the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, Maasai Mara National Reserve, and the Amboseli and Serengeti national parks for wildlife-viewing excursions. During your trip, you'll see Mount Kilimanjaro as zebras, gazelles and more roam in the foreground. The package costs at least $22,450 per person (based on double occupancy rates) and includes a hot air balloon ride, a camel tour led by members of the Samburu tribe, and lodging at upscale properties like Serengeti's Four Seasons outpost. The company also offers various extensions allowing you to explore other parts of Africa, from the island paradise of Zanzibar to the deserts of Namibia.

Rothschild Safaris

Courtesy of Rothschild Safaris

If your ideal safari vacation consists of customizing your trip from start to finish, consider an outing with Rothschild Safaris. The company offers itineraries in locales like Zambia and Madagascar , but if you're hoping to catch a glimpse of the big five animals, the Essence of Tanzania safari is a good bet. This nine-day experience, which embarks from Arusha and returns there by plane, includes game-viewing drives in Tarangire National Park and accommodations like canvas tents and farmhouse lodges. Elephants, zebras and lions are just some of the animals you may spot during your journey. You'll also have the opportunity to go on a nighttime safari to spot nocturnal wildlife.

Lion World Travel

Courtesy of Lion World Travel

As the trip name implies, Lion World Travel's 10-day Best of Cape Town & Botswana vacation package combines sightseeing in Cape Town, South Africa , with a classic safari in Botswana. During the latter half of the itinerary, visitors will explore Botswana's Okavango Delta (home to cheetahs, crocodiles, hippos and more) and Chobe National Park, which is believed to have Africa's largest elephant population. Prices start at $4,299 per person and cover game drives; many of your meals; and stays at luxury hotels, camps and lodges. You'll need to pay an extra charge for the flights within the tour (Cape Town to Botswana as well as Botswana to Johannesburg ).

[See more of Cape Town: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Bearded Heron Safaris

Neil Heron | Courtesy of Bearded Heron Safaris

Travelers keen on seeing South Africa's Kruger National Park through the eyes of a local naturalist will appreciate the 15-day safari with Bearded Heron Safaris. Led by Neil Heron, a nature guide and wildlife photographer and writer, Bearded Heron Safaris' longest option features small game drives that may include lion, rhino, zebra and leopard sightings throughout all corners of Kruger. Rates are inclusive of in-park cottage accommodations and all breakfasts, dinners, snacks and drinks. Flights and park fees are not included. For a 15-day safari, expect to pay 76,900 South African rand (about $4,500) per person.

[See more of Kruger National Park: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Discover Africa

Getty Images

For an inside-out trip through the natural wonders of Botswana, Discover Africa's nine-day Epic Botswana Adventure is a formidable option. You'll start out at a riverside lodge on the Chobe River – a great location for elephant spotting – before moving onto the marshy Okavango Delta, a wildlife-rich area where you can spot a huge range of animals from leopards to rhinos. The safari ends at the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, a good place to admire wildlife like zebras and buffalo on the savanna as well as salt pans from a former lake. You'll stay in upscale lodges and campsites within close reach of the wilderness. All meals and transport along the tour are included in the price tag (which starts at $4,800 per person), but international flights are excluded.

Wild Wings Safaris

If you're looking to have a broader experience that mixes in some history and beach time, consider Wild Wings Safaris' eight-day Battlefields, Bush and Beach Safari. You'll start off visiting some of South Africa's historic sites from the Boer wars, before moving on to the Phinda Private Game Reserve, which doesn't allow day visitors, so you should be able to look out for the big five without too many crowds. The tour wraps up at Thonga Beach Lodge, where you can snorkel or scuba dive near coral reefs in the Indian Ocean. As far as safaris go, this one is an affordable option, starting at about $2,795 per person with all meals included as well as a rental car; for the cheapest price, you will need to drive yourself between the destinations, but it's possible to pay an additional fee for a driver to guide you instead.

Cuckoo Safaris

This tour company kicks off its tours from the majestic Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, with a host of safaris that range from two days to nine, across Zimbabwe, Zambia and Botswana, including some family-friendly choices. For an affordable option, there's the four-day Discover Victoria Falls, Chobe and Hwange Park safari, which will take you on two full-day tours to Chobe National Park (across the border in Botswana) and to Hwange, Zimbabwe's largest national park, where you should keep your eyes peeled for lions, elephants and more. This safari also includes a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. The price starts at $900 per person, which includes the tours plus breakfast, lunch and lodging in Victoria Falls; travelers will need to pay for entrance fees to the parks and dinner.

Compass Odyssey

Courtesy of Compass Odyssey

Explore the savanna and deserts of southwest Africa with Compass Odyssey's eight-day Namibia Wildlife Safari. You'll visit a community-based conservation area in Damaraland – known for its desert-adapted elephants, oryx, giraffes and other wildlife – while staying in the rustic-chic Doro Nawas Camp. You'll also spend two days in Etosha National Park, seeking wildlife at the park's bustling waterholes by day and embarking on an evening game drive as well. Starting at $3,750 per person, the tour includes most meals and all park entry fees, but not flights; the company does allow the tour to be customized on request.

Vaccination and visa requirements for African countries

Some popular safari destinations may require you to have received certain vaccinations in order to enter the country as a tourist. Inoculation requirements can include vaccination against COVID-19 and yellow fever, and you'll need to get these vaccines before departing on your trip. Be sure to bring proof of vaccinations with you. If you are transiting through another country en route to your safari tour, you must check that you also meet immunization requirements for the stopover location.

Note that, outside of what's required, there are a number of other vaccinations that are recommended, so ensure you're up to date and fully protected before you travel. In addition, many safari locations are prone to malaria; you should consult with your doctor to see if you need to bring anti-malaria medication on your trip.

Safari countries have varying visa requirements for travelers from the U.S. – these are detailed below. Depending on your itinerary, you may need a single- or multiple-entry visa, and some visas require you to apply in advance of traveling and/or have a certain number of blank pages in your passport. Regardless of your destination, your passport should be valid for at least six months before you leave for your trip.

Here are the vaccine and visa requirements for major safari destinations as of November 2022:

Botswana: If you have recently visited a country where yellow fever is common, you will need to be vaccinated against this illness. This does not include the U.S. but does include a number of countries in Africa, Central and South America. Consult the World Health Organization's website for a list of countries with risk of yellow fever transmission, including Kenya and Uganda.

U.S. citizens and nationals can stay in Botswana for 90 days without a visa.

Kenya: Travelers to Kenya must have been vaccinated against COVID-19 with the last shot administered more than 14 days before arrival in the country. Unvaccinated visitors can enter with a negative PCR test, conducted no more than 72 hours before departure. Proof of COVID-19 tests or vaccines must be uploaded to an online system called Panabios. Kenya is a country where you'll be at risk of yellow fever transmission; it also requires those traveling from other places with yellow fever or cholera outbreaks to be vaccinated against these illnesses. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that you protect yourself against yellow fever before your trip here.

Americans need an e-visa to enter Kenya. You should apply online at the eVisa government website no more than eight weeks before your trip, as visas are not available upon arrival in Kenya. See more on the U.S. Department of State's website .

Namibia: Those traveling from a country where yellow fever is common need to be vaccinated against it. No visa is required as long as you're staying for 90 days or less.

Rwanda: If you're coming from a country where yellow fever is endemic, a yellow fever vaccination is required before departure.

U.S. citizens and nationals can be issued a 30-day visitor visa on arrival in Rwanda or through the Rwandan Embassy in Washington, D.C. A single-entry visa costs $50, and it's recommended you bring sufficient cash in U.S. dollars to pay for this (although credit card payment may be accepted at Kigali International Airport). Consult the State Department website for more information.

South Africa: A yellow fever vaccination is required if you're traveling from a country with a risk of transmission. No visa is required for stays of 90 days or less.

Tanzania: Travelers must be able to present proof of COVID-19 vaccination with a QR code to enter Tanzania. Unvaccinated travelers must take a PCR test no more than 72 hours before departure, and the test results should be accessible by QR code. Yellow fever vaccines are mandatory if you're traveling from a location where yellow fever is present – including if you spend more than 12 hours in transit in such a country.

Visas are required for tourism in Tanzania. You can apply for a single-entry, 90-day visa online for $50 – and be sure to print a copy of the approval to bring with you. The processing period takes up to 10 days. You can also obtain a visa on arrival for a $100 fee; it's recommended you bring cash to cover this. Find more Tanzanian visa information on the State Department website .

Uganda: To enter Uganda, you must either be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or present a negative test taken no more than 72 hours before departure. Like Kenya, Uganda is a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. All visitors must show proof of vaccination against yellow fever to enter Uganda, regardless of where you're traveling from.

American visitors to Uganda must apply online for an electronic visa before departure; arriving in Uganda without completing this process could result in your detainment. Visit the State Department website to learn more.

Zambia: Visitors who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 must show proof of vaccination but do not need a test to enter Zambia; unvaccinated travelers must undergo a PCR test no more than 72 hours before departure. Yellow fever vaccines are only required if you're coming from an area considered at risk.

Visas are required to visit Zambia, but these can be obtained online before your departure or at a port of entry. Check the State Department website for more details.

Zimbabwe: To enter Zimbabwe, travelers must either be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or must take a negative PCR test no more than 48 hours before your departure. As with other countries on this list, visitors from countries with yellow fever outbreaks also require a vaccine against this illness.

U.S. visitors can obtain a 30-day, single-entry visa upon arrival in Zimbabwe for $30. If you're taking a tour that requires you to leave and reenter Zimbabwe, be sure to get a double-entry visa for $45. You can learn more from the State Department website .

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Passport Wallets (That Also Hold Vaccine Cards)
• The Best COVID-19 Travel Insurance Options
• The Best International Travel Insurance Plans
• The Best Zoos in the U.S.
• The World's Best Places to Visit

Tags: Travel , Vacation Ideas

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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A Guide to Safari Safety in Africa

Is it safe to go to Africa on a safari? This is one of the top questions asked of our Wayfairer Africa Team.

Many people dream of travelling to this wondrous continent to roam the iconic plains and jungle in search of wildlife.

They read about lions and elephants lurking right next to an open jeep in Tanzania and Namibia, and see pictures of people gazing in awe at gorillas just a few metres away in Rwanda and Uganda.

They hear about the thrilling walking safaris in Kenya and envision a night under the stars in a safari camp in the middle of a South African reserve.

These awe-inspiring destinations allow you to get up close and personal with some of the world’s greatest (and most dangerous) animals.

So it makes you wonder, are safari holidays safe?

Millions of travellers go on safari in Africa every year and on average, "perhaps one tourist dies per year as a result of wild animals." African safari deaths are very uncommon, however all wildlife encounters carry risks due to the unpredictable nature of these wild animals.

You can mitigate these risks by going on safari with expert guides who are well-trained in safety procedures. 

At Wayfairer, we work with the most prominent camps and lodges in Africa, so you can be sure your safety will be the top priority at all times. 

It’s also important to brush up on the general safari rules and safety tips before you head off on your African adventure. This will ensure you get the best out of your safari experience and leave a positive impact on the places you visit.

With decades of collective experience on safaris across Africa, the Wayfairer Africa Team are experts when it comes to safari safety, even organising wheelchair-friendly safaris and holidays.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ve rounded up their insights on everything you need to know to stay safe on safari. We’ll also answer all your burning questions including what colours to wear, how to take a toilet stop on safari, why animals don’t attack open jeeps, and essential animal spotting etiquette.

Looking for travel inspiration? Wayfairer trip ideas that will take you to Africa: (hover and click to see the full itinerary)

Botswana Family Safari

Namibia, Chobe & Victoria Falls Family Safari

Embark on the adventure of a lifetime as you travel through three countries, experience diverse wildlife areas and then finish at the thunderous Victoria Falls.

Gorillas, Masai Mara & Zanzibar

Trek to see Mountain Gorillas, enjoy an adventurous wildlife safari and relax on a tropical island

Before you leave

Ensuring your safety on safari begins before you even leave your house.

Vaccinations and medication

The deadliest animal you’ll encounter on safari is the pesky little mosquito.

Be sure to consult a travel doctor for the required vaccinations, stock up on malaria prophylactics and don’t forget to pack a strong mosquito repellent.

You’ll need a yellow fever vaccination for travel to many countries in Africa and will be required to present an International Certificate of Vaccination.

Check this comprehensive list  to find out the yellow fever vaccination requirements for your destinations.

See our Wayfairer Travel Guides more information on medical requirements for our African destinations.

What to pack for your safari

Many safari travellers make the mistake of over-packing, so we’ve listed all the essentials to bring, including what to wear, and what to leave at home.

What to wear on safari

Pack comfortable clothes made out of moisture-wicking materials to help combat the heat.

Wear a hat and light, long layers to protect you from prickly plants, stinging insects and reptiles.

Bring a bandanna or scarf that you can wet and wrap around your neck for extra relief in the hot weather. Depending on the season, you’ll also need to pack some warm layers.

It’s imperative to choose comfortable, sturdy shoes such as boots or hard rubber soles. Wear your shoes for at least a month before going on safari so you know they won’t plague you with blisters.

FAQ: What colours should I wear on safari? The colour of your clothes can play a big part in the number of animals you spot on safari. The worst colours to wear are white, black and bright colours, as these stand out to most animals and will cause them to flee. Try to blend in with the landscape by wearing dark green, brown and khaki colours. You don’t need to deck yourself out in a cliche safari outfit - simple, comfortable clothing in neutral colours is best.

What to take on safari

• Torch or head flashlight
• Mosquito repellent
• Reusable water bottle
• Simple first aid kit
• Waterproof bag
• Sturdy backpack if trekking
• Good quality sunglasses
• Portable chargers
• Extra memory cards for all your incredible photographs
• Travel insurance - essential protection in the unlikely event of safari injuries, illness, and lost or broken possessions

What to leave at home

• Black camera bags - dark bags will heat up your equipment. Bring a light coloured, waterproof bag to keep out the dust, sand and rain.
• Drone cameras - these are illegal in all camps in east Africa.
• Plastic bags - Kenya and Rwanda have   banned plastic bags  due to their damage to the environment. Even plastic bags for liquids in your hand luggage are illegal so its best to use transparent toiletry bags.
• Camouflage clothing - it’s not necessary for safaris and is not recommended to wear when travelling in southern African countries. It’s also banned in Zimbabwe.

Essential safari safety tips

An African safari can be experienced in many wonderful ways including open jeep, self drive and even walking safaris. We’ve rounded up our top tips for safari safety and these  general safari rules apply to all African wildlife encounters.

Listen to your guide

Paying attention to your guides is the most crucial thing to do on safari. The guides are experts in the environment and animal behaviour and they will have the best judgement in any situation. Their job is to keep you safe so it’s imperative that you always follow their instructions.

FAQ: Do the guides carry guns on safari? The guides do carry loaded guns to use as a last resort in a dangerous situation. They are rarely used and are mostly for the protection of the trackers who may head off into the bush in search of animals. You don’t need to bring any weapons on your safari.

Do not disturb the animals

The plains of Africa are not a zoo and the animals must not be disturbed as they roam about in their natural habitat. Never call out or wave to an animal as this will spook them. They will either run away and ruin the sighting experience for everyone, or they’ll charge at you, putting everyone’s life in serious danger. Don’t get too close to animals, as they are unpredictable and can move very quickly when threatened. It goes without saying that you should never try to touch or feed an animal.

It’s important not to make too much noise as animals scare easily. The animals are used to the sounds of the vehicles but human noise will upset them. Mute your devices to avoid any loud beeping and if you need to talk, do so in a whisper. It’s easy to embrace an awed silence when you’re immersed in a thrilling search for wildlife. Sit back and let the beauty of the African bush take your breath away.

No food or drink

Don’t bring any food or drink except water. Animals have an incredible sense of smell and will be attracted by something as small as a wrapped candy. Sodas and sweet drinks always lure stinging insects so stick to water. If you do need to eat while on safari (possibly for medical reasons), try to avoid anything with noisy packaging and inform your guide before heading off.

FAQ: Are there toilet stops on safari? Depending on your safari, there may be safe times to take a toilet break or there may be no stops at all. Your guide will explain the rules for toilet stops before you leave and if you need to make an emergency stop just let your guide know. Be prepared to go behind a bush and check the ground for creepy-crawlies before you go.

No smoking or littering

These are two big no-no’s. Smoking is a fire hazard in the African bush and will pollute the natural environment and disturb the animals. Littering is also never okay. Leave no trace and dispose of all trash in designated bins.

Protect yourself from the sun

Always wear a hat and sunscreen, reapplying throughout the day. Stay hydrated with filtered or packaged water as dehydration can quickly become a serious problem in the African bush. You don’t want your safari to be marred by a trip to the hospital due to heat exhaustion.

FAQ: What happens if it rains heavily suddenly? Depending on the season, you may experience some heavy downpours. Most open-jeep safaris will keep ponchos in the vehicle in case of a shower. Walking safaris are not recommended during the wet season as the trails become muddy and dangerous. Bring a waterproof bag to protect your camera from the rain.

Minimise your use of technology

The only device you should need is your camera and it’s important that you always check with your guide before taking photographs. Animals may run away when they hear the click of the camera, spoiling the sighting for everyone. The camera flash must always be turned off to avoid aggravating the wildlife.

Don’t bring your phone on a safari. You likely won’t have a connection anyway and it’s highly irritating when a traveller is chatting and texting on their phone while others are trying to enjoy the tranquility of the African outback. If you absolutely must bring your phone, ensure it is completely muted.

Vehicle safaris

The most popular way to see the wildlife of Africa is with a vehicle safari, including open-jeep and self-drive safaris. Follow these safari safety tips to stay out of danger and to boost your chances of spotting some incredible wildlife.

Always stay within your vehicle

Never stand up or dangle your arms or legs out of the vehicle. Never leave the vehicle. Doing so will provoke the animals, putting everyone at serious risk.

Watch out for low hanging branches

African parks and reserves are full of prickly bushes and wayward tree branches which can hang in the path of the vehicles. This is another good reason to keep your arms and legs inside the vehicle.

FAQ: Is an open jeep safari safe? Do animals attack safari vehicles? It is common for animals to come quite close to the vehicles without taking any interest in them. Why? Victoria Erskine, a Wayfairer Africa Travel Specialist, says the animals are used to the sight and smell of the vehicles. “They see the jeep as a single item and don’t smell the people in it as a separate item. That’s why it’s important for travellers to stay within the vehicle, because if they move their bodies outside the shape of the jeep, the animals may recognise something new about them and decide to investigate.” Victoria says this is particularly pertinent when watching a kill, as the lions are in hunting mode. You don’t want to become their new target!

Stay on the path

Self-drive safaris are one of the most intimate ways to encounter the wildlife of Africa however they are recommended for experienced drivers and safari veterans. They come with their own set of challenges and you can learn more about staying safe on a self-drive safari with Kruger National Park’s self-drive safari guide.

Some of the most crucial points to remember are keep your windows up, drive slowly and carefully, and stay on the marked paths. Never leave your vehicle even if there are no animals around, as there may be snakes or o ther creatures hiding in the grass.

FAQ: What happens if the vehicle breaks down? If you are taking a self-drive safari, be sure to enquire about emergency protocol and rescue procedures at the game reserve before heading off. If you break down, remain in your vehicle at all times. Call the emergency number or wait for a passing vehicle if you have no phone. Always inform the reserve of your plans before leaving and always stay on the marked paths to avoid danger and to be easily spotted by rescue teams. If you are on a guided game drive, your guides will be well-trained in vehicle breakdown procedures. Stay calm and let your guides handle the situation. Victoria Erskine, a Wayfairer Africa Travel Specialist, has experienced a vehicle breakdown on safari. “The jeep broke down with a pride of lions quite close by - adrenaline extreme!” While it was a heart stopping experience, Victoria says the guides expertly managed the situation and they all returned to camp safely.

Walking safaris

A walking safari is an exhilarating experience, allowing you to move at a slower pace and truly immerse in your natural surroundings. Choosing a reputable tour is crucial and we can advise you on the best walking safaris in Africa. One of our favourites is in Laikipia where you can choose to trek for a day or go on longer multi-day hikes through this unspoiled corner of Kenya. Zambia is also another great walking safari destination, as the activity was invented here.

Are walking safaris safe?

As with all safaris and wildlife experiences, walking safaris come with risks. The expert guides go through rigorous training and their chief priority is your safety. You can heavily reduce your risk of danger simply by listening to your guides instructions at all times.  However, animals are unpredictable and things can go wrong, so here are a few extra safari safety tips to follow.

Stay downwind from the animal

It’s important to stay downwind so the animal doesn’t catch your scent. Your guide will instruct you on the best route to walk to ensure you stay downwind.

Walk away slowly

If you are approached by a hostile animal, give it a wide berth and check you aren’t blocking its escape route. Move away slowly, but never turn your back on an animal and never run away, as these movements will aggravate the animal. If you do come close to an agitated animal, always listen to your guide for the safest course of action.

Walk in a single file

The best way for your walking safari to move about is in a single file about an arm’s length from each other. This way,  animals will see you as one unit rather than a herd that can be split up. It also means that the armed guides up front will have walked the track before you, protecting you from any danger lurking along the path.

Safari etiquette

Whether it’s your first or tenth time on an African safari, there is a general safari etiquette to follow. It’s important to be respectful of your guides and fellow travellers so everyone can have an unforgettable safari experience. Brush up on these safari rules and etiquette tips before venturing into the bush.

Manage your expectations

Your safari guides want you to see the best wildlife but there’s no guarantee you’ll spot everything. Animals are unpredictable and often like to remain hidden as they roam freely around the massive reserves. For many people, African safaris are a once-in-a-lifetime experience and they travel a long way with high expectations. It’s unlikely that you’ll spot the Big Five on your first game drive, so try not to be disappointed and don’t get frustrated with your guide if it’s not possible to find every animal you want to see.

Don’t hog the sightings

It’s good manners to allow everyone a chance to spot the majestic creatures of the African plains. There’s an unwritten rule that everyone gets a 10-15 minute window to view the animals, then move on to let the cars behind you have a turn. It’s also polite to swap seats with people each day. If you had the best seats yesterday, let someone sit there the next day. Also, don’t go overboard when boasting about your wildlife sightings back at camp, in case other travellers weren’t so lucky!

Choose your travel partners wisely

Most will have people with a range of interests. Some want to spot the Big Five while others may be focused on birdwatching. Respect your fellow travellers wishes to stay and observe certain animals, even if you are not interested.

If you are on a tight schedule and don’t want to be restricted by other travellers, consider doing a private game drive or a self-drive safari. That way, you’ll have full control over how you spend your time in the reserves.

Tip your guide

It’s good practice to tip your guide and the safari lodge staff.

If you’re not sure how much to tip, don’t ask them directly. Instead, ask the camp manager as they usually don’t receive tips. An acceptable amount is usually $10 per person per day for your guide and lodge staff.

At the safari camp

One of the best parts of going on safari in Africa is your stay in a lodge or camp. At Wayfairer, we work with a number of reputable and luxury safari lodges and camps, offering first class security and all the amenities of a five-star hotel. 

Are safari lodges safe?

All prominent lodges and camps have excellent safety procedures and you'll be advised of these once you arrive at the property.

The camps are well guarded at all times and some camps also provide  escorts for moving about the property.

Animals can roam quite close to the camps, so it’s important to remain vigilant. The following tips will help you prepare for some spectacular nights in the African bush.

Don’t walk around at night

Plenty of wildlife comes alive at night and it’s not safe to walk around in the dark. If you’d like to spot some nocturnal creatures, many lodges offer guided night game drives.

Don’t store food or drinks in your tent

Animals can smell your food from miles away and keeping food or sweet drinks in your tent is a sure way to attract hyenas, baboons and insects. If you are camping, ensure your tent remains zipped up at all times.

Don’t swim in rivers or lakes

Although it may be tempting to take a refreshing dip in the water, the rivers and lakes are often filled with crocodiles and hippos, one of the most dangerous animals in Africa.

Always wear boots, socks and long pants when walking around the bush and lodgings. There are lots of thorny plants and plenty of insects, snakes and scorpions that can bite you.

Respect the locals

Africa is a continent full of fascinating cultures and traditions and it’s important to treat everyone with respect during your visit.

We recommend reading up on the culture of the destinations you are visiting to help build a friendly rapport with the locals and avoid any offensive behaviour. Always greet people politely and don’t take photographs without permission.

Don’t bring sweets for children and don’t give money or gifts to people you don’t know.

If you’d like to contribute to the community, a cash donation to the right organisation is often the best way.

Wayfairer partners with many lodges across Africa who run fantastic social and environmental conservation projects. Speak to our Africa Team to find out how you can get involved during your safari.

Children on safari

An African safari can be a deeply enriching experience for children and one of the best trips you’ll ever take as a family. Many safari lodges and camps offer family-friendly safaris, with spacious family accommodation and child-friendly activities. Take a read of our African Safari with Kids blog for a mum's perspective on the best safari destinations for children.

Are there any age restrictions?

Most camps have age restrictions and these usually range from eight to twelve years old (although some camps don’t accept children at all).

This is for safety reasons, although game drives can be long and boring for young kids and they may disturb other travellers as they struggle to sit quietly. At an older age, children are usually able to sit quietly and will likely have a more memorable experience.

If you want to go on safari with younger children, a self-drive safari is best as you’ll have complete control over your daily schedule. We can help you customise the perfect African safari to suit your family.

General safety in Africa

When travelling to any country it’s important to check for any political or civil unrest. Countries such as Northern Kenya, Western Tanzania, Uganda and Rwanda have had recent incidents, however there is currently no need to avoid any of the iconic African safari destinations.

You can get the most up-to-date information from government travel advisories including the US,   UK  and  Australian websites. Staying aware of current events will ensure you have the safest safari experience possible. If you’re concerned about any African safari destinations, our Africa Travel Specialists will be happy to advise you.

If you'd like to book a safari to Africa, don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team of Africa Travel Specialists to chat about your ideas and get all your questions answered.

We understand that booking trips, especially adventurous and alternative ones such as this can be intimidating, so get in touch; we can take the stress out of your holiday planning and organise a trip you won’t forget!

More safari travel inspiration from wayfairer customers and travel specialist.

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December, 23, 2023

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Animals Around the Globe

10 Best African Countries for Safari

Posted: December 19, 2023 | Last updated: December 19, 2023

#1 Botswana

Recommended Tours:

Thus, poachers are seen as enemies of the people. As a result, Botswana has come into view as Africa's most sought-after ecotourism destination. Starting from the Chobe National Park to the Moremi Nature Reserve, you'll be able to witness numerous gems all around the country.

Back in 2014, Botswana widely banned the hunting of wild animals and implemented strict laws which are still in practice. The country resumes its zero-tolerance for poaching and their very own environmental minister, Tshekedi Khama, has even launched a shoot-to-kill policy for poachers.

Botswana, with its wildlife conservation and natural parks, is a haven for nature lovers. It is currently in the top 5, as its approach to the protection and conservation of wildlife is worth the praise. As a country, it is very forward-thinking, some may even call it aggressively forward-thinking when it comes to its preservation and anti-poaching laws.

Its fertile land provides a safe and comforting home to around 200 mammal species. This includes elephants, hippos, monkeys and so much more. Along with 650 bird species and 5,500 plants. Even though the country is still underdeveloped and most of the population live in rural households, its national parks, and sight-seeing destinations are on the top 10 of our lists.

Even though many would face some difficulties in locating Malawi on a map, given how tiny it is, the country is home to the world-renowned Lake Malawi National Park. This is practically one-third of the country and is the most biodiverse lake in the world.

Most of the land in Namibia is occupied by the Kalahari and Namib Deserts. Along with that, the country also has 12 national parks and many other areas which are protected. So, if you go there for a safari, you'll have many rich areas to see and explore.

When it comes to countries with the least amount of population, Namibia is one of them. Which proves to be a good thing for nature. This is because most of the land in Namibia is still unspoiled by human filth or any sort of development, giving nature a chance to breathe.

In the country's Volcanoes National Park, you'll find 10 habituated gorilla families. Groups of 8 trekkers can visit them for one hour per day. But that's enough to get the best African safari experience. And as a nature lover, you'll enjoy the experience to the max.

If you've been around for some time, you'll be familiar with Rwanda's mountain gorillas. They were famously broadcasted and their fight for survival was shown on  National Geographic . This was all thanks to the late  Dian Fossey  back in the 1970s who advocated for the rights of these mountain gorillas throughout her life.

Considering the tragic history surrounding the mass genocide of the people of Rwanda back in 1994, it's truly a blessing what the country has achieved in the past 25 years. There have been countless investments in infrastructure. This has resulted in the country being a very fast-growing destination for ecotourism.

#6 South Africa

But given all the advantages, it's safe to conclude that South Africa also suffers from over-tourism. I mean, if you have so many great attractions, people will flock towards it. Chances are that you'll find yourself in the middle of dozens of unruly visitors who are not too keen on obeying the rules. This occurs mostly during the peak seasons.

Annually, the country has one million visitors. Its biggest attraction is the Kruger National Park with its enrichment in biodiversity. Visitors there also have the liberty to self-drive, thus, getting a first-person private but superb experience. 

For some time now, South Africa has been climbing the charts to become one of the most popular destinations for African safaris. Given its location, South Africa is a very convenient and cheap destination for people from the United States. Besides that, the country also boasts a well-developed infrastructure which makes it perfect for luxury travelers as well.

#7 Tanzania

One of the most popular locations would be the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The country is also a haven for 1100 different bird species. It's no wonder that Tanzania gets this much rep. Especially when the country boasts so many wonders.

We talked about Kenya being the top destination for Safari. Now Tanzania here takes second place in being the continent's most popular safari destination. And why shouldn't it? The country has 16 national parks and an extraordinary amount of wealth and wildlife wonders for the people to witness.

Some of its natural attractions include housing the highest mountain range in Africa. It also has the world's largest free-standing volcano and the second-largest freshwater lake. With its 30 national parks and other wildlife reserves, Uganda boasts many more sanctuaries which are worth the visit. Especially if you're a lover of nature and wildlife.

Often called "The Pearl of Africa", Uganda is certainly a great pick for an African safari. Its reputation as being one of the best ecotourism destinations comes from the country's natural attractions and wildlife.

Out of its 20 national parks, the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is home to many wildlife animals such as African elephants, Angolan giraffes, Cape buffalo, etc. Other than that, there are many private ownerships of National parks, notably the Kasanka National Park which is near the basin of Lake Bangweulu. It's a safe place where visitors can see 400 different avian species.

Zambia may be a bit far down the list of popular destinations for your African safari, but many consider it to be a destination for diversified and immersive safari experiences, and making a notable feature on our 10 Best African Countries for Safari guide. The country is steadily focusing on conservation as their president has shown a keen interest and is working on building the nation's economy as well as the infrastructure.

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