Our top 5 safaris for families

12 December 2024

A family safari is more than a holiday—it’s an unforgettable adventure that brings you closer together while experiencing the breathtaking wonders of the African wild. We’ve handpicked some of our favourite family-friendly safari lodges across Africa, each offering something truly special for both parents and kids. Whether it’s shorter game drives for younger children, immersive learning activities, or even sleep-outs under the stars, these safaris promise to make this holiday your most remarkable one yet.

Chitwa Chitwa, South Africa

When it comes to creating a magical safari experience for children, Chitwa Chitwa pulls out all the stops. Their Chitwa Children Eco-Experience introduces curious young minds to the secrets of the African bush in a fun, engaging way. Kids can enjoy guided bush walks where they’ll learn survival skills, like building shelters and identifying edible plants. For budding adventurers, there are short game drives tailored specifically for children. Add to this the thrill of ticking off animals on species checklists, face painting with ‘Big Five’ themes, and evenings spent roasting marshmallows around a campfire while listening to enchanting folk tales—it’s a child’s dream come true.

Little Garonga, South Africa

This luxury safari lodge is a haven for families, offering unparalleled value as children up to 16 years old can stay, eat, and enjoy safari experiences for free when booking a stay in the Hambleden Suite. Nestled in the wild beauty of South Africa, this intimate lodge combines comfort and adventure with a personal touch. The Hambleden Suite features two en-suite bedrooms, a private pool, and a BBQ area, making it ideal for families looking to create lasting memories together. Beyond that, the lodge’s small size ensures every family receives dedicated care and attention. While parents relax by the infinity pool overlooking a dry riverbed, children can explore nature, engage in bush lessons, and enjoy tailored activities to spark their love for the wilderness.

Lelapa Lodge at Madikwe Safari Lodge, South Africa

Located in the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve, Lelapa Lodge is a dream destination for families seeking a worry-free safari. Lelapa Lodge lives up to its name, which means ‘family’ in Tswana, by providing specially tailored activities such as bush bumbles (shorter outdoor adventures) and opportunities for kids to learn about the wildlife from expert guides. The lodge also offers flexible game drives in the mornings, perfect for young children who can’t quite manage the longer outings. This lodge prides itself on catering to the entire family’s needs with a sense of care and hospitality, making it an excellent choice for multi-generational holidays.

Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp, Kenya

Step back in time to the elegant era of the 1920s at Cottar’s Safari Camp in Kenya, set in a stunning 7608-acre, malaria-free area near the Maasai Mara. Known for its family-centric approach, the camp offers unique family tents with dedicated dining areas and complimentary babysitting services. The Kids’ Entomology Safari invites little explorers to discover the fascinating world of insects, while private vehicles for game drives mean your family can enjoy a personalised and flexible experience. And why not finish the day with a family dinner under the starlit sky? The lodge hosts regular al fresco evenings where families can feast around a campfire, sampling local favourites, while watching Maasai warriors dance and share tales of their life in the bush.

Koro River Camp, Botswana

For families seeking a more authentic and rustic experience, Koro River Camp is an extraordinary choice. Located in the heart of the Tuli Block, this camp offers a raw and unfiltered connection to nature. Kids will love the hands-on ‘Koro Kids’ programme, which includes mini bush walks, tracking animals, and exploring the hidden ‘Little Five.’ Older children can enjoy thrilling mountain bike rides through the wild or spend a night under the stars in Koro’s exhilarating Starbed—a raised platform overlooking a waterhole teeming with nocturnal wildlife. Meanwhile, parents can unwind with a massage on the banks of the Limpopo River or share a romantic dinner in the camp’s boma while the kids toast marshmallows by the campfire.

To book your family safari in Africa, contact your Travel Counsellor today.

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