6 days ago6 min read

Best African Safari Destinations for Families

Going on adventurous family safaris can be a transformative experience, especially for kids. However, choosing the wrong destination can lead to frustrating, expensive safari holiday trips. Our team of dedicated safari travel specialists has spent years mapping out the best African safari destinations for families with fun yet educational activities.

Best African Safari Destinations for Families

The African continent is home to an incredible array of family safari destinations, with countries like South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, and Botswana offering exceptional game-viewing opportunities. From the lush plains of Namibia and Zambia to the diverse landscapes of Zimbabwe and Uganda, these destinations provide immersive experiences for families looking to explore the wild together.

Children sitting down on grass, as they listen to a safari tour guide

An African safari is an unforgettable experience, offering families a chance to connect with nature, encounter incredible wildlife, and create lifelong memories. However, planning a safari for a family involves unique considerations, such as providing child-friendly activities, safe accommodations, and a manageable travel itinerary. Here’s a guide to the top African safari destinations for families.

Country	Family-Friendly Activities
South Africa	Guided safaris, animal tracking workshops
Kenya	Cultural village visits, junior ranger programs
Botswana	Canoe trips, walking safaris
Tanzania	Crater tours, wildlife photography spots
Namibia	Stargazing, sand dune adventures
Zambia	Night game drives, conservation education programs
Zimbabwe	Falls area activities, bird watching
Uganda	Gorilla and chimpanzee tracking, community visits

1. South Africa

Madikwe Game Reserve and Kruger National Park are among the most accessible safari destinations, with a well-developed infrastructure and a wide range of family-friendly accommodations. Self-drive options in Cape Town allow families to explore independently, while private reserves offer exclusive experiences.

The Eastern Cape is a fantastic option for families seeking a malaria-free safari experience. Its proximity to the popular Garden Route makes it easy to include in a larger South African adventure. South Africa is also home to the Kwandwe Private Game Reserve and Addo Elephant National Park, known for their accessible wildlife viewing with rich cultural heritage.

Young child imprinting his hands on sand

Family-Friendly Activities

Shorter game-viewing and wildlife encounters to see elephants, lions, giraffes, and rhinos.
Interactive bush walks focusing on animal tracks, insects, and plants to foster curiosity in young minds.
Cultural experiences to learn about Xhosa traditions through community visits and storytelling.
Coastal adventures where kids can enjoy sand dunes, tide pools, and whale watching.

2. Kenya

From Laikipia to Masai Mara, Kenya offers a mix of traditional safaris and unique, hands-on experiences that make it ideal for families. It's home to exclusive conservancies focused on community-led conservation efforts.

There's also the Aberdare National Park and El Karama Lodge that have no minimum age requirement. El Karama's guides have raised their own kids on the property, so they have first-hand experience in managing wildlife sightings and safari lodges for young kids.

Family-Friendly Activities

Guided tours to witness the Great Migration (July to October), when millions of wildebeests and zebras traverse the Mara River.
Game drives to spot the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino) on game drives.
Conservation programs that let kids participate in activities like wildlife tracking.
Cultural experiences with the Maasai people, including village visits and learning about traditional practices.

Children riding an RV, while looking outside and observing the various animals

3. Botswana

Experience the wonder of Africa’s largest inland delta, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Okavango Delta is a lush, water-based safari destination offering a unique twist on the traditional land safari.

You can also spot elephants, lions, and leopards in the nearby Moremi Game Reserve. Its tranquil atmosphere and rich biodiversity make it perfect for families seeking a serene yet exciting adventure.

Family-Friendly Activities:

Guided nature walks that introduce kids to the smaller wonders of the delta, like frogs and insects.
Photography lessons tailored to young aspiring wildlife photographers.
Traditional canoe rides for spotting hippos, crocodiles, and birds.
Engagement with local communities to learn about their culture.

Young child crossing a makeshift bridge connected to a tree

4. Tanzania

Tanzania is another popular family safari area, with Serengeti offering incredible wildlife sightings and landscapes straight out of a nature documentary. There's also Lake Manyara National Park – a protected area where families can feel immersed in the wilderness without compromising comfort.

Adventurous families can schedule a hike at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Ngorongoro Crater. Meanwhile, Zanzibar Island has a kids club with no minimum age requirement. Family-friendly lodges serving local cuisines will welcome you after your activities.

Family-Friendly Activities

Great Migration tours, especially during the calving season (January to March).
Guided tours on large predator populations, including lions, cheetahs, and hyenas.
Landscape photography sessions on the endless golden plains teeming with life.
Hot air balloon rides for a bird's-eye view of the Serengeti.

5. Namibia

Namibia is the best place to spot rare species like black rhinos and gemsbok. Families can explore sand dunes and rock art sites, perfect for photography enthusiasts.

Namibia's Etosha National Park is one of Africa’s most accessible parks for self-drive safaris. It offers excellent wildlife viewing at waterholes and a variety of accommodations. The arid landscapes provide a starkly beautiful backdrop for family adventures.

Family of three holding hands while admiring the safari view

Family-Friendly Activities:

Viewing of elephants, giraffes, and lions gather around waterholes.
Evening wildlife spotting at floodlit waterholes near camps.
Educational drives with guides focusing on desert ecology.
Rest camps with swimming pools and play areas.

6. Zambia

Zambia combines luxury, exclusivity, and exceptional wildlife experiences. It provides different ways to explore safaris – walking safaris, game drives, and boat safaris. With over 750 bird species, Zambia is also a great stop for birdwatchers.

Lake Tanganyika is a must-visit, especially for families who enjoy water activities such as fishing, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Add Zambia to your itinerary if you're also going to visit Zimbabwe, as it shares viewing areas for the Victoria Falls and Zambezi River.

Family-Friendly Activities:

Interactive bushcraft lessons, including animal tracking and fire-making.
Junior ranger programs where children learn about wildlife tracking and conservation.
Night drives for thrilling wildlife encounters.
Guided bush walks tailored to kids, focusing on smaller animals and plants.

7. Zimbabwe

With a unique blend of bush landscapes and wildlife destinations, Zimbabwe is a must-see for adventure opportunities. On a river safari, see elephants, crocodiles, and hippos along the Zambezi River.

While not a traditional safari destination, Victoria Falls offers thrilling wildlife experiences and adventure activities for families. You can also visit nearby national parks like Hwange or Mosi-oa-Tunya for classic game drives.

Family-Friendly Activities:

Canoeing trips (suitable for older children) along calm river sections.
Walks with local guides to learn about flora and fauna.
Cultural tours to nearby villages for an enriching experience.
Viewing at the breathtaking Victoria Falls, one of the World's Seven Natural Wonders.

Safari tour guide teaching a young child about the safari zone while sitting on grass

8. Uganda

With its rich biodiversity and opportunities for up-close animal interactions, Uganda transforms family vacations into immersive learning experiences that children will remember for a lifetime. Uganda offers incredible family-friendly safari experiences through its diverse national parks like Entebbe, Queen Elizabeth, and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

Whether you choose boat cruises or 4x4 game drives, you'll have a comfortable wildlife viewing experience with expert guidance from local tourist guides. From private lake islands to luxury accommodations, Uganda will make every family member comfortable after thrilling game drives and outdoor activities.

Family-Friendly Activities:

Encounters with the iconic Big Five, magnificent gorilla, and chimpanzee populations.
Murchison Falls hikes and bushwalking.
Adventurous water activities, such as Nile River white-water rafting.
Visit any of the Indigenous communities.

Safari guide helping a young child put a pizza on a brick oven outdoors

Tips for Safe Safari Holidays With Children

Our luxury safari tour services aim to bring excitement and safety to families going on safari holidays. Here are some tips on how you can prepare your family before exploring the magnificent landscapes and animals in the wild.

Research safety protocols and safari etiquette, especially for first-time safari-goers.
Pack items that can protect you from insect bites and sunrays, including sunscreen, insect repellants, lightweight long-sleeve clothing, and wide-brimmed hats.
Brief your children about long game drives to help manage potential motion sickness.
Inform your safari tour guide about food allergies to prevent any health issues.

Conclusion

Planning a family safari holiday provides a chance to connect with nature and witness the breathtaking diversity of African animals in their natural habitat. As we provide you with a curated African safari luxury trip, you can turn a simple trip into an extraordinary journey of adventure, education, and unforgettable shared experiences.

Best African Safari Destinations for Families