Family Friendly Safaris in Africa

Travel as a family, generational safari trips available

With

Wild Whispers Africa Safaris

Africa isn’t just for solo travelers or couples – it’s also an excellent destination for families. Family-friendly safaris offer a unique opportunity for parents and children to bond over shared adventures, learn about wildlife and conservation, and experience the wonders of nature together. These trips can be both educational and exciting, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

When planning a family safari, it’s important to choose destinations and accommodations that cater to the needs of all family members. Many lodges and camps across Africa have recognized the growing demand for family travel and have adapted their offerings accordingly. They provide family rooms or interconnecting tents, kid-friendly menus, and activities designed specifically for younger visitors.

SUGGESTED FAMILY FRIENDLY SAFARIS IN AFRICA

Be Inspired

Wildlife

3 Days Murchison Falls Safari in Uganda

Big 5 with approximately 76 mammal species among which are lions, warthogs, baboons, buffaloes, elephants,

Multi tours

Wildlife Safaris

Climbing

3 Days Queen Elizabeth Safari Uganda

3 Days Wildlife Safari Queen Elizabeth National Park The queen of England Queen Elizabeth has

Nature walks

Island Holidays

3 Days Ssese Islands

3 days Ssese Islands On Lake Victoria’s northwestern corner are the 84 Ssese archipelago islands,

Wildlife

3 Day Masai Mara Safari Kenya

This compact 3-day Masai Mara safari offers participants an opportunity to explore one of Africa’s

Wildlife

6 Days Safari in Kenya

This carefully crafted 6-day Kenya safari offers participants a comprehensive journey through Kenya’s diverse landscapes,

Wildlife

6 Days Tanzania Safari, Wildlife & Culture

This carefully crafted 6-day Tanzania safari offers participants a comprehensive journey through Tanzania’s most renowned

Wildlife

9 Day Botswana Safari

9-Day Botswana Safari: Moremi Game Reserve, Okavango Delta, and Central Kalahari This comprehensive 9-day Botswana

Wildlife

5 Day South Africa Safari

5-Day South Africa Safari: Johannesburg, Hoedspruit, and Kruger National Park This comprehensive 5-day South African

Book Your Safari Now

South Africa is often considered one of the best countries for a family safari. The malaria-free reserves in the Eastern Cape, such as Shamwari or Addo Elephant National Park, are particularly popular for families with young children. These reserves offer the chance to see the “Big Five” (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo) without the need for antimalarial medication.

Kenya and Tanzania are also excellent choices for family safaris. The Masai Mara in Kenya and the Serengeti in Tanzania offer spectacular wildlife viewing, including the chance to witness the Great Migration. Many lodges in these areas have excellent children’s programs, often led by Maasai guides who share their knowledge of the bush and local culture with young visitors.

Activities on a family safari can be varied and engaging for all ages. Game drives are typically the main attraction, but many lodges also offer guided bush walks (age restrictions may apply), junior ranger programs, and cultural visits to local communities. Some camps have swimming pools, which can be a great way for kids to relax between safari activities.

Educational aspects are often a key component of family safaris. Many lodges employ naturalist guides who are skilled at engaging children, turning every sighting into a learning opportunity. Kids can learn about animal tracks and droppings, plant uses, and the delicate balance of the ecosystem. Some camps even offer interactive experiences like making plaster casts of animal prints or using camera traps to capture nocturnal wildlife activity.

For families with older children or teenagers, more adventurous activities might be appropriate. This could include walking safaris in Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park, canoeing along the Zambezi River, or even sleeping out under the stars in a secure sky bed.

It’s not all about wildlife, though. Many family safari itineraries incorporate other aspects of African culture and landscapes. This might include visits to local schools or villages (where appropriate and respectful), time on the beach in Tanzania or Mozambique, or exploration of historical sites like the Cradle of Humankind in South Africa.

When planning a family safari, it’s crucial to consider the ages and interests of your children. While some kids might be content to spend hours watching wildlife, others might need more varied activities. It’s also important to be realistic about travel times and schedule in some downtime.

Accommodations on family safaris can range from comfortable tented camps to luxury lodges. Many places offer family tents or villas, giving parents and children space to relax together. Some lodges have dedicated family areas or kids’ clubs, providing a space for children to play and learn when not out on game drives.

Safety is naturally a primary concern for families on safari. Reputable lodges and operators prioritize guest safety, with clear guidelines about wildlife interaction and behavior in camp. Many lodges offer childcare services, allowing parents to enjoy adult-only activities if desired.

A family safari in Africa offers more than just a vacation – it’s an opportunity for shared discovery, learning, and adventure. From the excitement of spotting a pride of lions to the wonder of learning about traditional cultures, from the thrill of identifying bird species to the joy of splashing in a pool with a view of the savanna, a family safari creates a tapestry of experiences that bind families closer together. It’s a chance to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature and each other, fostering a sense of wonder and respect for the natural world that can last a lifetime.