Family Safari: What to Consider and the Best Camps to Stay

Going on a safari can be a magical experience for children, allowing them to witness wildlife in their natural habitat and learn about conservation efforts. However, when booking a safari with children, there are certain factors to consider to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. In this blog post, we will discuss what to consider when booking a safari with children, including the best age to take a child on safari, age restrictions in camps, activities for children, the top 10 safari camps for families, safaris without malaria, the best countries to take children on safari, and the best safari experience for children.

Young explorers

What age should a child be for a Safari holiday?

While there is no set age for taking a child on safari, it is generally recommended to wait until the child is at least five years old. This is because children under five may struggle to understand the concept of staying quiet in the bush and may not appreciate the experience fully. Additionally, some safari activities, such as walking safaris, have age restrictions for safety reasons. It is also important to consider your child's temperament and ability to follow instructions before booking a safari.

Do camps and lodges have age restrictions?

Many safari camps have age restrictions for safety reasons. Some camps do not allow children under the age of 12 or 16, while others may have specific age restrictions for certain activities. It is important to check with the camp beforehand to ensure that they are suitable for your child's age.

What activities are there for children to do on safaris?

Many safari camps offer activities specifically designed for children, such as junior ranger programs, nature walks, and bushcraft lessons. Some camps may also have swimming pools, games rooms, and other facilities to keep children entertained. It is important to check with the camp beforehand to see what activities are available for children.

Guided bush walks at Elewana Loisaba

Top 10 safari camps for families:

MalaMala Game Reserve, South Africa

MalaMala Game Reserve is a world-renowned safari destination located in South Africa's Sabi Sand Game Reserve. It is known for its incredible wildlife sightings, including the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino), as well as its luxurious accommodation and exceptional service. MalaMala offers a range of activities, including game drives, guided walks, and photographic safaris, and is a great option for families with children due to its child-friendly facilities and activities.Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve, South Africa

Mara Plains Camp, Kenya

Mara Plains Camp is a luxury tented camp located in the heart of the Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya. It offers an authentic safari experience, with exceptional game viewing opportunities and breathtaking views of the Mara River. The camp is renowned for its eco-friendly design and commitment to sustainability, as well as its world-class service and accommodation. Mara Plains Camp is a great option for families with children, offering a range of child-friendly activities, including game drives, bush walks, and cultural experiences.Singita Sasakwa Lodge, Tanzania

&Beyond Ngala Safari Lodge, South Africa

&Beyond Ngala Safari Lodge is a luxurious family-friendly lodge located in the heart of the Ngala Private Game Reserve, within the Kruger National Park in South Africa. The lodge offers a range of family-friendly accommodation options, including family cottages with separate bedrooms for children, as well as activities specifically designed for children, such as nature walks, baking classes, and storytelling sessions. The lodge also offers a children's menu and provides babysitting services upon request, allowing parents to relax and enjoy their safari experience. With its family-friendly facilities and activities, &Beyond Ngala Safari Lodge is a great option for families with children.

Mombo Camp, Botswana

Mombo Camp is a luxurious family-friendly camp located in the heart of the Okavango Delta in Botswana. The camp offers spacious family tents, each with their own en-suite bathroom, as well as a private plunge pool and outdoor shower. Mombo Camp offers a range of family-friendly activities, including game drives, bird watching, and cultural experiences, as well as a Junior Ranger Program for children. The camp also provides babysitting services upon request, allowing parents to relax and enjoy their safari experience. With its luxurious accommodation and family-friendly facilities and activities, Mombo Camp is a great option for families with children.

Sanctuary Olonana, Kenya

Sanctuary Olonana is a luxurious family-friendly lodge located in the heart of the Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya. The lodge offers a range of family-friendly accommodation options, including family tents with separate bedrooms for children, as well as activities specifically designed for children, such as nature walks, Maasai storytelling sessions, and traditional Maasai beading lessons. Sanctuary Olonana also offers a children's menu and provides babysitting services upon request, allowing parents to relax and enjoy their safari experience. With its luxurious accommodation and family-friendly facilities and activities, Sanctuary Olonana is a great option for families with children.

Elewana Loisaba, Kenya

Located in the Loisaba Conservancy, the camp offers a range of activities that cater to both adults and children, making it the perfect choice for families. The camp offers a variety of activities that are perfect for families, including game drives, guided bush walks, and camel safaris. Children can also enjoy educational activities such as learning about animal tracking, bush survival skills, and wildlife conservation. The camp also has a swimming pool, where families can relax and cool off after a day of adventure. Elewana Loisaba also offers babysitting services, child-friendly meals and family-friendly tents that can accommodate up to two children.

Londolozi Game Reserve, South Africa

Londolozi Game Reserve is a luxurious family-friendly game reserve located in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve in South Africa. The reserve offers a range of family-friendly accommodation options, including family suites with separate bedrooms for children, as well as activities specifically designed for children, such as bushcraft lessons, bug and spoor identification, and stargazing. Londolozi Game Reserve also offers a Cubs Den Program for children, which includes a range of activities, including game drives, bush walks, and wildlife conservation lessons. The reserve provides babysitting services upon request, allowing parents to relax and enjoy their safari experience.

In conclusion

South Africa and Kenya are both great options for families with children, as they offer a range of child-friendly activities and accommodation options. Tanzania, Namibia, and Botswana are also worth considering, but may have more limited options for families.

The best safari experience for children will depend on their interests and age. However, a safari that offers a mix of game drives, bush walks, and cultural activities is likely to be the most enjoyable and educational for children. It is also important to choose a safari that offers age-appropriate activities and accommodation, as well as a guide who is experienced in working with children.

With careful planning or using a knowledgable travel agent you can find a magical holiday for the whole family.