Going on safari in Africa is always an incredible experience, but sharing this magical continent with your children offers a whole new level of adventure. It’s exhilarating, fun, and gives you the opportunity to see the world through their wide-eyed wonder. Over the years, we’ve ventured across Africa with our own kids. Along the way, we’ve picked up a few lessons about navigating this wild and wonderful terrain with little explorers in tow. Here’s what we’ve learned.
1. Less is more
Gone are the days of dashing through five countries in two weeks. With the family, slow travel is the way to go. Spending at least a few days in each destination allows everyone to settle in, explore at their own pace, and really connect with the places you visit. We suggest focusing on one country (maximum two!) per two week trip.
2. Consider where and when
Africa is vast and diverse, so picking the right country is key. For younger kids, South Africa and Kenya are the best for smaller children. Consider malaria-free zones like South Africa’s Madikwe Game Reserve, the Waterberg region or the Eastern Cape. Older children might love the thrill of gorilla trekking in Uganda, a walking safari in Zambia or adrenaline fueled activities on Namibia’s sand dunes. Also consider the time of year. Although sometimes cheaper, we find its best to avoid the rainy season with children. More mosquitos and harder to spot the animals!
3. Guides are absolute heroes
Guides in Africa have a gift for captivating children. They can turn a game drive into a thrilling treasure hunt or teach them to track animals by spotting paw prints and dung (always a hit). Their knowledge and storytelling make the safari drive or activity come alive and it’s often the guides the children remember the most.
4. It’s not all about the game drives
Africa is of course famous for its incredible animals, but connecting with it’s people is just as exciting and memorable. Lodges in Kenya in particular, have incredible cultural experiences for children, like meeting local warriors, hearing traditional stories, and even learning about the art of beadwork or warrior dancing. Other experiences like fly-camping, canoe trips, camel treks, walking safaris are all great with older children, and even getting involved in conservation activities like Rhino notching in South Africa. If budget allows a hot air balloon ride is always an unforgettable experience.
5. Travel days are adventure days
Traveling between destinations can feel like a chore, but in Africa, the journey is often as exciting as the destination. Scenic flights, ferry rides, or drives through breathtaking landscapes are opportunities to spot wildlife, play games, or just soak in the beauty. Keep a few snacks and activities on hand!
6. The magic is often in the small moments
While spotting a lion or watching a herd of elephants is unforgettable, some of the most cherished moments are the quiet, unplanned ones. The highlight of a trip to Namibia when my son was 6 was searching for scorpions with a UV torch, and my daughter loved the termite mounds. Their highlight of the day was toasting marshmallows around the fire under a blanket of stars. These are the moments that make traveling in Africa as a family so special.
7. Book well in advance
Due to being bound by school holidays and therefore popular travel times, it is essential to start planning at least 6 months before you’re keen to travel. Some lodges in Namibia for example get booked a year in advance (for the July/August travel period), and lodges in the Masai Mara fill up fast during the migration (July/August).
Ready to take the plunge into the wild with your family? At Journey South, we specialize in crafting family adventures in Africa that cater to kids of all ages. Let us help you create unforgettable memories for your family!
