If you are up for the ultimate family holiday in Africa and want to combine a bit of luxury in the wilderness with immersive activities to spark curiosity and excitement in your tweens or teens, these off the beaten track lodges promise life changing experiences in beautiful, pristine parts of Africa. What makes these lodges even more remarkable is their commitment to conservation, enabling your family to re-connect with nature whilst playing a part in its preservation. 

Ol Malo House, Kenya: An authentic ranch experience with incredible, personalised experiences

Ol Malo is a privately owned game sanctuary on the banks of the Uaso Nyiro river in Kenya’s wild and beautiful North Eastern Province. Perched on a rocky escarpment with sweeping views of the wilderness, this lodge run by the Francombe family is particularly fun for families. Specializing in experiences, they have safari vehicles, mountain bikes, horses and camels waiting to take you on an adventure of your choice. You can camp out in the open plains under the stars, ride alongside zebra and giraffe on horseback, or fly in a helicopter alongside flamingos in Lake Logipi. The lodge’s proximity and close connection with local Samburu communities offers a unique opportunity to dance or spear throw with Samburu warriors, or learn to bead with Mamas in the village.

Known for it’s welcoming hospitality, the lodge is ranch style, with spacious living areas adorned with handcrafted furnishings, local artwork, and vibrant textiles.  Every detail at Ol Malo House is designed to provide an intimate, authentic, and deeply personal connection to the African bush, making it an ideal retreat for families seeking both adventure and relaxation.

A stay here combines well with: a Big 5 Safari in the Masai Mara, and some beach time on the Kenyan coast.

Greystoke Mahale, Tanzania: A chimp tracking paradise on the shores of Lake Tanganyika

If you’re looking for the ultimate off the beaten track family adventure and want to explore one of Africa’s most secluded and pristine environments, this remote lodge set against the backdrop of the Mahale Mountains on the shores of Lake Tanganika is the perfect place to spend a few days. Apart from it’s charismatic Robinson crusoe atmosphere, the main attraction is the chance to track and observe wild chimpanzees in their natural habitat. The Mahale Mountains National Park, is home to one of the largest populations of wild chimpanzees in Africa. Trekking through the dense forest to find these incredible primates is an experience like no other, offering a rare glimpse into their lives and behavior.

But the adventure doesn’t stop with the chimps. Greystoke Mahale offers a variety of activities that make the most of its special location. Your family can explore the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tanganyika by kayak, enjoy fishing, or simply relax on the secluded beach. The lodge’s unique design, with open-fronted bandas overlooking the lake, ensures that you’re always connected to the natural beauty that surrounds you.

A stay here combines well with: A big 5 safari in the serengeti or a beach break on Zanzibar.

Wolwedans, Namibia: Immersive experiences in a desert dreamscape

A family stay at Wolwedans is a truly special. It offers a unique experience where your family can all unwind and reconnect in one of the oldest, quietest, most beautiful desert landscapes in the world – the Namib Naukluft. Your gang can ride e bikes, gallop on horses and discover the desert through the eyes of bushman guides, visit Sossusvlei, soar above the desert in a hot air balloon or simply relax for a few days and marvel at the endless landscapes by day and the blanket of stars at night.

The beautiful lodge reflects the ambience of a tented camp but provides the comfort and protection of a permanent building. 

A stay here works well with: A Big 5 Safari in Etosha National Park and a visit to nearby Sossusvlei as part of a self drive adventure in Namibia.

Camp Kalahari, Botswana: Adventure on the desert salt pans

Set on the edge of the Makgadikgadi Pans, one of the largest salt flats in the world, Camp Kalahari offers families the opportunity to enjoy exhilarating quad bike rides across the pans, sleep under the stars in the middle of the pans, visit the famous Chapman’s Baobabs, interact with habituated meerkats or walk with the San Bushmen, gaining insights into one of the world’s oldest cultures. During the dry season, the pans stretch out like a lunar landscape, while the wet season transforms them into a haven for migratory birds and wildlife.

The camp itself is a delightful blend of rustic charm and comfort, with traditional luxury safari tents Yet, the real luxury here is the wealth of experiences on offer and the deep connection to the land and its people.

A stay here combines well with: A safari in the Okovango delta, or as part of a self drive trip in Namibia and Botswana.

Masoala Lodge, Madagascar: A pristine rainforest adventure

Masoala Lodge in Madagascar offers an unforgettable experience where one of the world’s most biodiverse rainforests meets the sea. Nestled on the edge of the untouched Masoala Peninsula in the north east of Madagascar, this owner run lodge offers adventure packages from 3 to 11 nights, with each day offering different activities such as guided river trips or walks into the forest to spot lemurs, Chameleons and other exotic wildlife, kayaking, village visits and snorkeling in a turquoise lagoon

The lodge is designed as an eco haven, accessible only by foot or by boat, with a maximum of only 14 guests. Barefoot luxury in a hidden, unspoilt place with no wifi, a true digital disconnect.

A stay here combines well with: Island hopping in Nosy Be

Get in touch with Journey South to start planning your family trip in Africa!