Family
Memories of family holidays are always held close to the heart because it is time well spent with the people you love the most in the world. An East African safari with your family will definitely be that kind of holiday, the kind none of you ever forgets about, the adventure that you will all be glad you went on.Kids-tour as it happens, more and more people are discovering the magic of going on safari with their families. It is a great and exciting way to introduce your children to other cultures and ways of life, and to discover places beyond the borders of their home country.
There is of course a lot more to consider when travelling to East Africa with your family compared to when you’re travelling alone. You need to consider the length of the journey, the age of your children, which activities would be good for the whole family, the long drives through Africa, and so much more. But an Africa safari experience will be well worth it.
Yes, you might have zoos back home that the children have visited, but the wilderness of East Africa just cannot be replicated. Coming to Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda and seeing the animals on witnessing the drama of the great migration, game drive, or enjoying a boat ride on the great lakes, or if they are old enough tracking gorillas and seeing them up close, these are extremely unique hand-Crafted family experiences.
Get in touch with a safari tour operator in East Africa such as Nyumbu Beyond Journeys and get the best advice on how to effectively plan and book the right safari facilities for you and your family. We will help you plan a family friendly East Africa safari holiday that you will not regret. A family safari in East Africa is a very good way to bond and strengthen family bonds and just have fun together.
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
Yes, safaris can be family-friendly with proper planning! Many East African lodges and tour operators offer family-focused activities, child-friendly accommodations, and experienced guides to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all ages.
Family-friendly options include Kenya’s Masai Mara, Tanzania’s Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, Uganda’s Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Amboseli with its iconic views of Mount Kilimanjaro. These locations have abundant wildlife and accessible safari lodges ideal for families.
Many operators recommend that children be at least 5-6 years old, as younger children may find long game drives tiring. Some lodges have minimum age requirements, while others offer activities tailored to children of various ages.
Yes, many lodges offer special programs like junior ranger courses, bush walks, animal tracking, storytelling, and cultural activities. These interactive experiences introduce kids to wildlife and conservation in a fun, educational way.
Family-friendly accommodations include safari lodges and camps with family suites or interconnecting rooms, as well as private houses or villas. Many lodges offer children’s menus, babysitting services, and safe, comfortable spaces to relax between activities.
Safaris are generally safe for families, especially with knowledgeable guides and following park regulations. Family-focused lodges prioritize safety and ensure that children stay engaged in secure environments. Be sure to follow the guide’s instructions and stay together in designated areas.
Game drives can range from 2-4 hours, but private or family-specific safaris can be customized to shorter drives to suit children’s energy levels. Lodges may also offer alternative activities to break up the day, giving children a chance to rest.
Many East African parks offer the opportunity to see the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino). While sightings aren’t guaranteed, guides make every effort to create rewarding wildlife experiences, from Big Five encounters to witnessing zebras, giraffes, and more.
Absolutely! Families can enjoy village visits, traditional dance performances, and hands-on cultural activities, such as learning about the Maasai or Samburu way of life. These experiences are often highlights for children and help them connect with local cultures.
Preparing children with books, documentaries, and discussions about wildlife and conservation can increase their excitement and understanding. Setting expectations, like needing to stay quiet or patient on game drives, also helps ensure a smooth experience.
Essentials include comfortable clothing in neutral colors, hats, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, and a camera. Bring some familiar snacks, games, or books for downtime, as well as a small backpack for children to carry their own essentials.
East Africa is a malaria-prone area, so families should consult a healthcare provider for advice on prophylactics, especially for young children. Many lodges in malaria-prone areas offer mosquito nets, but using insect repellent and wearing protective clothing is also advised.
Most family-oriented lodges offer kid-friendly meals, including familiar foods like pasta, chicken, and snacks. If your child has specific dietary needs, notify the lodge in advance, as they can often accommodate these requests.
Guides often tailor the experience to children, sharing interesting facts and teaching animal tracking. Junior ranger programs, interactive field guides, and animal checklists are great for keeping kids engaged and enthusiastic about the adventure.
Yes, many tour operators offer family-focused packages that include shorter drives, varied activities, and flexible schedules. Private vehicles are also available, allowing families to control the pace and make adjustments as needed for young travelers.
Family-friendly lodges typically provide ample downtime with swimming pools, lounges, and sometimes game rooms or nature trails around the property. This allows families to rest and recharge between game drives and activities.
Tipping is appreciated but not required. Families often tip guides, lodge staff, and rangers as a gesture of gratitude. Check with your tour operator on customary tipping practices, as they vary between locations.
Walking safaris often have minimum age requirements for safety reasons. However, some lodges offer family-friendly bush walks or nature trails within the lodge grounds where children can safely experience nature up close with guides.
Many lodges are accommodating and can provide accessibility options with advance notice. It’s best to communicate any specific needs when booking to ensure suitable accommodations and activities.
Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended, covering health, trip cancellations, and emergency evacuations. Some family-oriented policies may offer coverage tailored to the needs of children and families on safari
Speak to an East African safari specialist to start planning your Unique Hand-crafted Journeys.
Call one of our experts or arrange a video appointment for ideas and advice.