The magic of nature comes alive in a way that no amount of National Geographic documentaries can match when you and your family encounter your first wild elephant, lion, or giraffe. Though a safari in Africa might not initially seem like the go-to vacation choice for families with young children, there is arguably no better way to immerse your children in nature’s marvels, from its awe-inspiring wildlife and bird species to its diverse plant life. A safari offers both an entertaining and deeply educational experience for every family member.

Where to start?

Where should one begin the planning process? Embarking on the journey to plan the ultimate safari adventure is a dream for many, yet the complexity and logistical demands of such an undertaking can be daunting. This includes accommodating the unique needs of each family member, from considering the fitness level of a grandparent to the dietary preferences of a toddler. Furthermore, not every destination or safari lodge in Africa caters to the needs of children and families, raising the question of where to even start.

This is where our expertise comes into play. Your dedicated safari specialist is committed to providing a bespoke experience that meets the individual needs of each family member. With two decades of experience in carefully orchestrating thousands of family safaris—for everyone from couples venturing out with their first child to large, multi-generational families—we are devoted to ensuring that all family members enjoy an unforgettable experience, provided they are old enough to cherish these memories.

It’s never too early to go on safari

Embarking on a safari adventure can commence at any age, a query frequently addressed to us concerns the optimal age for children to experience a safari. There are no strict age restrictions; however, we offer tailored recommendations for different age groups to enhance the experience:

Ages 0 – 7 years:

For families with infants and young children, choosing malaria-free game reserves situated in locations that are easy to reach ensures smooth travel. It is generally advisable for these families to book a private safari vehicle and guide, especially for accommodating young children on standard game drives. This arrangement not only enriches the safari experience but also provides complete control over your schedule.

Ages 8 – 12 years:

Children within this age bracket are at a stage where the excitement of learning about nature and wildlife can be profoundly impactful. Opting for a safari lodge or camp that provides comprehensive Junior Ranger programs is essential. These programs, which include tracking animals, crafting items from natural materials, and engaging in cultural exchanges, leave a lasting impression on children, influencing their perspectives for years to come.

Ages 13 – 18 years:

For adolescents, selecting a destination and lodge that offers an array of physical activities—including walking, canoeing, boating, horseback riding, and quad biking, in addition to traditional safari game drives—is advisable. Given the propensity for individuals in this age group to be preoccupied with electronic devices, choosing a remote safari location devoid of internet and cellular service could underscore the importance of disconnecting from technology and re-engaging with the natural world.

A Guide to Selecting Your Destination

The success of a family trip hinges on choosing the appropriate destination, as safari experiences vary significantly across African countries. A2A’s safari experts, equipped with impartial and firsthand knowledge, are prepared to guide you in selecting a destination that aligns with your preferences and needs. Here is a brief overview, highlighting some of our top picks for family safari destinations:

South Africa

South Africa is unparalleled for families with both young and older children, offering a diverse array of activities to cater to varying interests, attention spans, and energy levels. Whether it’s an exhilarating Big Five safari in a malaria-free reserve, a culinary and wine-focused private tour in the lively Cape Town and the charming Cape Winelands (with grape juice for the children and superb local wines for adults), families can enjoy a comprehensive experience encompassing wildlife, urban exploration, cuisine, wine, history, culture, and shopping. This destination is also ideal for those who prefer not to travel on small aircraft, as major safari locales are accessible by commercial flights or road.

Kenya

Kenya is a stellar choice for families seeking a more untamed experience with landscapes reminiscent of “The Lion King,” featuring expansive savannahs. Activities like horse and camel riding, genuine cultural interactions with vibrant local tribes, and hot air balloon rides over breathtaking vistas promise to enrich your family photo album with unique and enchanting memories. The Masai Mara, famous for the wildebeest migration from around August to October—often dubbed ‘The Greatest Show on Earth’—along with an extension to Tanzania, enhances the likelihood of witnessing the large herds as they migrate into the vast Serengeti plains.

Botswana

Botswana stands out as one of Africa’s most exquisite and untouched safari destinations, where wildlife surpasses the human population. The country’s commitment to low-impact tourism ensures an exclusive experience for families willing to invest in luxury, offering game drives in extensive, secluded reserves and stays in opulent camps within private concessions. Traditional dugout canoeing or motorized boating in the Okavango Delta, although typically reserved for teenagers and older for safety reasons, and safaris across the immense Makgadikgadi salt pans for close encounters with the legendary San Bushmen and friendly habituated meerkats, elevate the experience.

Zambia and Zimbabwe

For families eager for a thrilling, off-the-grid adventure in the bush, Zambia and Zimbabwe are exceptional choices. Begin at Victoria Falls to marvel at this world wonder and Africa’s adventure capital. Continue with safaris in some of the most remote and pristine wilderness areas, renowned for exhilarating walking safaris, canoe safaris on the mighty Zambezi River, fishing, and authentic wildlife sightings, including vast herds of elephants, some of which exhibit the unique behavior of standing on hind legs to reach food in high branches.

Discover South Africa’s Premier Malaria-Free Reserves

South Africa offers a plethora of magnificent wilderness areas that are free from malaria, allowing visitors to enjoy high-quality safaris without compromising their peace of mind. Among these, Madikwe Game Reserve and Tswalu Kalahari Reserve stand out as exceptional private game reserves, each offering unique experiences, landscapes, and wildlife.

The Allure of Madikwe

Madikwe Game Reserve, ranking as the fifth largest in South Africa, is readily accessible from Johannesburg by road or a brief journey via light aircraft. It serves as a sanctuary for the Big Five and the endangered African wild dog, alongside a myriad of plains game. The reserve is renowned for its splendid lineup of luxurious, family-friendly accommodations that provide breathtaking bush views.

The Charm of Tswalu Kalahari

Tswalu Kalahari, celebrated for its feature on the show ‘Meerkat Manor’, stands as the largest privately-owned game reserve in South Africa. A visit here offers the unforgettable opportunity to interact with these endearing animals. Its secluded location across an expansive area of over 111,000 hectares renders it one of the most exclusive lodges in the country, making it an ideal choice for families seeking the utmost privacy.

These malaria-free reserves in South Africa promise not only a retreat from the concerns of malaria but also an immersive experience into the heart of the country’s natural beauty and diverse wildlife, ensuring a memorable safari adventure for all.

Your Perfect Safari Stay

Selecting the right accommodations is crucial to enhancing your safari experience, a detail we approach with utmost care and consideration. Our carefully curated selection of properties ensures a personalized and flexible guest experience, thanks to their intimate size and attentive service.

Tailored Accommodation Choices

Understanding the unique needs of each traveler is paramount. By getting to know you and your family’s preferences, we ensure that your lodging offers the ideal room configurations, including the appropriate bedding arrangements and essential amenities. For families with young children, we prioritize accommodations that offer interleading or family rooms, creating a comfortable and seamless experience. Larger groups might find our exclusive, sole-use properties appealing, offering unparalleled privacy and a genuine home-away-from-home atmosphere.

Explore Our Handpicked Lodgings

We invite you to explore our Accommodation page, where you can discover safari lodges and camps that cater to various styles and preferences. For those seeking the ultimate in privacy and safety, our selection of exclusive-use Villas represents some of the finest retreats for a socially distanced safari experience.

Expertise in Multigenerational Safari Planning

Our specialty lies in crafting bespoke safaris for families of all generations, from grandparents to grandchildren. Whether planning a once-in-a-lifetime adventure for your family or a complex multigenerational journey, we are dedicated to creating unforgettable experiences tailored just for you.