Family safaris in Africa: private vehicles, family suites and kids’ programmes, so every generation has the trip of a lifetime.
A safari is one of the most memorable holidays a family can take. We choose lodges that genuinely welcome children, plan the right pace for every age and add a beach or city stop so everyone has time to relax.
Hand-picked lodges only
We only recommend camps we know well, from Singita to &Beyond, Asilia and Four Seasons.
Private guides and vehicles
Every trip is tailor-made around your dates, pace and budget, never a fixed group tour.
A reply within 24 hours
Tell us what you have in mind and a specialist sends ideas and a draft itinerary.
The right safari for every age
| Children’s ages | What works best | Where we recommend |
|---|---|---|
| Under 6 | Malaria-free reserves, short game drives, a private vehicle and family suites | Madikwe or the Eastern Cape in South Africa |
| 6 to 11 | Private vehicles, junior ranger programmes and pools; many lodges welcome children from age 6 | Tanzania, Kenya and South Africa’s Sabi Sand |
| 12 to 15 | Walking safaris (from 12 at some camps), mokoro trips and more adventurous camps | Botswana, Kenya’s conservancies and the Serengeti |
| 15 and over | Everything, including gorilla trekking (permits from age 15) | Rwanda and Uganda with East Africa |
Sample family safari itineraries
Family Serengeti and Zanzibar
Family suites and a private vehicle in the Serengeti, a Ngorongoro Crater day and a relaxed beach finish.
From US$13,500 pp
Malaria-Free Madikwe and Cape Town
Big Five game drives with no malaria risk, then penguins, Table Mountain and the Winelands.
From US$9,500 pp
Singita Serengeti House
Exclusive use of a private villa with your own guide, vehicle, chef and pool. See our Singita guide.
Price on request
Laikipia and Mara Conservancies
Camel rides, bush walks and night drives in private conservancies, then big cats in the Mara.
From US$12,900 pp
Okavango Adventure for Teens
Fly-in camps with mokoro trips, walking and exceptional game, ideal for teenagers.
From US$16,500 pp
Multi-Generational Villa Safari
An exclusive-use safari villa in the Sabi Sand, then a beach resort with a kids’ club.
From US$14,900 pp
Guide prices are per person sharing, excluding international flights, and vary by season and availability. Every itinerary can be changed to suit you.
Many lodges offer reduced rates for children, and some have exclusive-use villas that work out well for larger families.
Family-friendly lodges we love
- Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti: family rooms, a kids’ club and a pool overlooking a busy waterhole.
- Singita Serengeti House and Singita Explore: exclusive-use options with your own team.
- &Beyond lodges: the WILDchild programme keeps younger guests busy with tracking and bush skills.
- Madikwe Game Reserve lodges: malaria-free Big Five safaris with family suites.
- Loisaba, Kenya: family cottages and activities from camel rides to bush walks.
Tips for a successful family safari
- Book a private vehicle. You set the pace, leave a sighting when the kids have had enough and stop for snacks whenever you like.
- Stay 3 nights per camp. Fewer moves means less packing and more time to settle in.
- Fly between parks. Short light-aircraft flights are part of the adventure and save long drives.
- Mix it up. Add bush walks, cultural visits, pool time and a beach or city stop.
- Check health requirements early. Speak to a travel doctor about vaccinations and malaria prevention, or choose a malaria-free reserve for young children.
Family safari FAQs
What is the best age for a family safari?
Most families find ages 6 and up ideal, as many lodges welcome children on game drives from age 6. Younger children can enjoy a safari in malaria-free South African reserves with a private vehicle.
Where is the best family safari destination?
Tanzania with Zanzibar is a family favourite, combining the Serengeti with a beach. South Africa is best for young children thanks to its malaria-free reserves, while Kenya’s private conservancies offer the widest range of activities.
How much does a family safari cost?
Luxury family safaris typically cost US$9,500 to US$20,000 per person for 8 to 12 nights, excluding international flights. Many lodges offer child discounts, and exclusive-use villas can be good value for larger groups.
Is a safari safe for children?
Yes. Family-friendly lodges have experienced guides, fenced or closely supervised areas and clear safety briefings. A private vehicle and a lodge that specialises in families make the biggest difference.
Can grandparents join a family safari?
Absolutely. Multi-generational safaris are among our favourite trips. Exclusive-use villas, private vehicles and flexible schedules suit every age and fitness level.
Plan your family safari
Tell us who is travelling, including children’s ages, and when you would like to go. We will reply within 24 hours with family-friendly ideas and a draft itinerary.
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