Is it okay to bring little children on safari?
Of course. Professionals with extensive training, safari guides are immersed in African wildlife every day and have a deep understanding of animal behavior. Because of their experience, they can carefully evaluate circumstances and, if needed, keep a safe distance. In order to guarantee that parents and kids may have a safe and memorable safari experience during wildlife viewing, family-friendly lodges also adhere to stringent safety regulations.
Which Age Is Ideal for Taking Kids on a Safari?
We have a question for you before we respond to this one! Since the majority of our families come from the US, it's crucial to ask, "At what age are you comfortable traveling long distances with your child?" The good news is that a variety of ages are catered to by safari resorts and activities.
Although each lodge has its own rules, we usually advise delaying till kids are old enough to understand and take part in the experience completely. Nevertheless, some lodges are incredibly kid-friendly, providing customized safari activities for children aged 3 to 7 as well as babysitting facilities for very young children. To keep younger visitors interested, these activities can include abbreviated safari trips and escorted nature walks in secure locations.
The natural environment is nevertheless unpredictable, even though skilled rangers and trackers make sure safaris and nature excursions are safe. Longer game rides (usually 3–4 hours) might also be difficult for smaller kids, however I've never had an issue with kids' concentration spans and kids who need a nap just go to sleep. Having said that, if you're a small family traveling with a toddler, you might want to request a private vehicle. Compared to sharing a car, it will provide you greater freedom and make you feel more at ease.
We assist you in selecting the ideal family-friendly resort to guarantee that your entire family has a stress-free, enjoyable, and safe safari adventure. It's crucial to remember that game drive regulations differ depending on the resort and area. As a broad rule:
Youngsters under the age of two are not allowed on nature walks or wildlife drives.
Children ages three to five are not allowed on nature walks or game drives, while additional kid-friendly excursions could be offered upon request.
At the lodge manager's discretion, children ages 6 to 11 may accompany on wildlife drives. Nature walks are prohibited.
At the lodge manager's discretion, children ages 12 to 16 may go on game drives and nature hikes.
For kids of all ages, a family safari can be a memorable and enlightening experience if the correct lodge and activities are chosen.
Can a child (ages one to three) accompany us on an African safari?
A minimum age of six is often required for game drives at many safari lodges, however this varies depending on the specific requirements of each resort. Six individuals typically go on game drives together. Therefore, for smaller families with a child, I personally advise having a private vehicle. It gives you more freedom and reduces your anxiousness.
Many lodges provide babysitting services to suit families whose children are too young for game drives. There are more stringent age requirements for some sports, such gorilla trekking in Rwanda, where participants must be at least 16 years old. In contrast, family-friendly lodges and camps provide a range of entertaining activities to keep kids of all ages occupied in between game drives, enabling them to safely explore and take in the camp atmosphere.
Are children welcome at all African safari camps?
We can help you eliminate the guesswork and research by matching you with the ideal lodges or luxury camps that meet the demands of your family, even if not all camps will accept kids.
Top Family-Friendly African Safaris
Tanzania and Kenya
Seeing the Great Wildebeest Migration is a unique experience for families. For multigenerational tourists hoping to see one of the biggest terrestrial migrations in nature, we heartily suggest it. The migration is a year-round sight, even though the Masai Mara's Mara River crossings are legendary. Think of going to the Southern Serengeti's Ndutu region during calving season, or on a private safari in Singita Grumeti and the Western Corridor.
Laikipia is an excellent choice for families looking for action outside of safaris. Hiking, trail running, helicopter trips, horseback and camel riding, and genuine cultural interactions with the Samburu people are all available here, making it an exciting and engaging family getaway.
Consider these family safari destinations in Tanzania and Kenya:
Tanzania's Lake Manyara, Tanzania Zanzibar, Serengeti National Park, Kenya's Masai Mara, Tanzania's Ruaha National Park
Kenya's Laikipia
Kenya's Amboseli National Park
Uganda and Rwanda
Is everyone in your family at least 16 years old? If so, gorilla trekking in Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park, Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is unquestionably the most meaningful animal encounter you can have. I can really state that each journey has transformed my life, leaving me profoundly touched and closer to nature than before. I have trekked in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rwanda, and Uganda.
Naturally, Uganda's Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth National Park and Rwanda's Akagera National Park also provide Big Five safaris, and I've had the good fortune to go on all of them. But in my opinion, going on a safari in the Masai Mara or Serengeti and gorilla trekking together is an amazing and genuinely remarkable experience.
Considerations for Family Safari Destinations in Rwanda and Uganda
Rwanda's Akagera National Park; Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable National Park; Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park; Uganda's Mgahinga Gorilla National Park; Kibale National Park; and Uganda's Murchison Falls
The Best Time to Take Kids on a Safari
Making a handbook that encompasses so many diverse nations, each with its own distinct landscapes, fauna, and experiences, is never easy. The diversity of Africa's wildness, which ranges from vibrant wetlands and stunning deserts to thick rainforests and expansive savannas, makes it hard to provide a one-size-fits-all strategy.
The quick answer, in fact, is anytime you can! Our travel experts will create the ideal family safari based on your preferences and needs. Here is a seasonal guide to assist you plan around school breaks and make sure your vacation coincides with the greatest safari experiences.
April to October in South Africa
Zimbabwe & Zambia | May through September
From April to October, Botswana
Tanzania | January to March & June to December | Great Migration Season Kenya | July to October | Dry Gorilla Trekking Season Rwanda & Uganda | June to August | Great Migration Season
PLEASE NOTE: The dates shown above are estimates based on watching safari game drives. Other non-safari locations, such as the Winelands and Cape Town, have not been taken into account.
Safari Activity Types for Children
As a safari guide, I can tell you that kids don't become bored on safari—in fact, they thrive. Binoculars, checklists, and infinite discoveries swiftly supplant tablets and cellphones. This metamorphosis, which transforms curiosity into adventure, is straightforward with the correct lodging and guide. You don't trust me? Here are some enjoyable activities for children. Believe us, bring them. You'll feel your heart expand!
Programs for Junior Rangers
With wildlife checklists, tracking lessons, bird identification, cultural crafts, and even pellet-gun shooting (if age permits), these kid-friendly activities provide both entertainment and education. Children get a greater understanding of nature and conservation under the guidance of guides or lodge employees.
Nature Walks with a Guide
Some resorts provide softer bush walks for younger adventurers that concentrate on insects, flora, and animal tracks—all under the careful supervision of experienced guides—while big game walking safaris are usually reserved for those aged 16 and older.
Real Village Tours
Children may interact with local communities and gain knowledge about their customs, way of life, and conservation initiatives via this immersive cultural experience. These visits help families understand how their travel helps local development and cultivate empathy.
Game drives with the family
The first objective is safety. A broad overview of game drive age restrictions is provided here:
Children ages 0–2 is not allowed on nature walks or game drives.
Children aged 3 to 5: Not allowed (special kid-friendly drives may be offered).
6–11 years: Per the lodge manager's judgment, permitted on game drives.
12–16 years old: At the lodge manager's discretion, they may go on nature hikes and wildlife drives.
More freedom is possible with private cars or villas for one's own usage. We handle these rules for you at Ubuntu Travel, guaranteeing a smooth trip.
Playing sports with the staff
Many lodges provide staff-led netball, volleyball, and soccer teams, which is a great opportunity for youngsters to interact, have fun, and learn about other cultures. Some resorts even provide guided runs for runners!
How to Arrange a Children's African Safari
Just talk to us, and we'll begin by asking the appropriate questions so that we can work with you to create the ideal family safari. We approach each trip personally as a family-run African safari company. Here are some important things to think about talking about with your family or significant other first, though, before we get ahead of ourselves.
Budget & Value for Money: While Botswana or Rwanda provides upscale, exclusive experiences, places like South Africa offer great value. We can create the ideal safari for your family if we know your budget.
Ages of Your Children: Younger children may find game drives too lengthy, and several lodges have age limitations. Think about when your family will get the most out of the trip.
Preferred Travel Period: Plan your vacation around the greatest times of year to see animals and school breaks. Throughout the year, many locales provide distinctive experiences. Additionally, there are some amazing "Family Offers" during what are known as "shoulder-seasons," which may provide just as fantastic game viewing without the crowds of the peak season.
Safari Experience Type: Are you looking for a traditional Big Five safari, a walking safari, gorilla trekking, or a combination of leisure and adventure?
Is Malaria Free?
Families with little children may enjoy malaria-free safaris in some places, such as Madikwe and Tswalu in South Africa.
A private villa or a lodge?
While private villas offer flexibility, privacy, and a customized experience, family-friendly resorts offer programming for children.
Activities Beyond Game Drives:
To make your family's safari experience even better, think of cultural tours, conservation projects, water-based safaris, hot air ballooning, or adventure sports.
Family Health and Safety Advice
Naturally, our first concern for each and every Ubuntu Traveler going on a safari with us is your safety and wellbeing. To guarantee that every aspect of your trip is meticulously organized, our Operation Coordinators and Travel Specialists put forth endless effort before, during, and even after your safari. Here are some crucial health and safety guidelines to keep in mind while taking your family on a safari.
Travel and Health Insurance: Make sure your family has comprehensive health and travel insurance that covers unforeseen circumstances, medical crises, and vacation cancellations. Verify your policy again because remote safari places can need emergency evacuation coverage.
Medications & Vaccines: Ask your doctor about the vaccines and malaria prevention measures that are required for your safari trip. Antihistamines, painkillers, rehydration salts, and any prescription drugs should all be included in your travel first aid box.
Hydration is Key: Staying hydrated is essential since safari days may be hot and lengthy. Encourage children to sip water often and drink a lot of bottled or filtered water. To cut down on plastic waste, the majority of our partners provide reusable water bottles. Naturally, we also have our own Ubuntu Travel bottles, which symbolize 1400 plastic bottles that were retrieved from the ocean.
Gut Health & Food Safety: Use bottled or filtered water whenever possible. Clean and safe drinking water will be provided by all of our partner lodges; nevertheless, during your lodge orientation, please pay attention to their particular recommendations. Traveling with stomach or energy problems might be eased by packing probiotics or rehydration salts.
Pay Attention to Your Guide and Lodge Employees: Your safari guide is your greatest asset when it comes to wilderness safety. Observe their directions, stay in cars when on game drives, and pay attention to lodge safety regulations, particularly when in unfenced sites.
Are You All Set to Go Safari?
We can assist you with travel planning if you're considering it! Our team of travel planners will construct a customized itinerary for you to cross off items on your bucket list and make lifelong memories. To begin organizing your trip to Africa, contact us right now on beyondtravel.africa@gmail.com