Planning your first family safari in Africa can be overwhelming, so we’ve compiled quick answers to common questions from first-time guests to help simplify the process. – First Time Safari FAQs
Yes. While safari deaths are extremely rare, wildlife encounters anywhere in the world carry some degree of danger. Each year, millions of travellers go on safari in Africa, and on average, about one tourist may die as a result of a wild animal. Thankfully, we help to mitigate nearly all of these associated risks by using expert safari guides trained in safety procedures to deal with any situation. Also important is that guests closely follow their guide’s instructions to help ensure their well-being and that of the animals. Follow this link or more on safety on safari.
When you reach out to us our safari planners will help you every step of the way with planning the perfect safari for your family. Having worked extensively across Africa, our travel professionals have intricate regional knowledge and will assess your specific needs to help find the perfect African safari for your family. From popular packages and combinations to building a custom family safari from scratch, our experts will help you make an informed decision about every last detail of your trip. Follow this link to understand the full booking process.
Our safari planners have all the information you need to help you pick the right African destination for your family. Where you choose to go will depend on factors like the type of safari experience your family wants, when you plan to visit, and how flexible your travel schedule can be. For instance, the most popular time for wildlife safaris in Africa is during the dry season from May to October. But if you’ve got a penchant for photographing baby animals or want to see the wilderness when it’s lush and green, the wet season is a better time for your visit. See When to safari in Africa for more. Browse our destinations pages for inspiration.
Most often, the question of when you should go to Africa completely depends on where you are going. As soon as you know where you would like to go or what you’d like to do in Africa, we can help you answer the question of when to go. And if you don’t yet know either, get in touch and our travel planners will help you. Traditionally, the dry months from around May to October is the safari season in Africa. But depending on whether you visit Southern or East Africa, and what kind of wildlife you most want to see, winter isn’t always the best time. From years of taking guests on all kinds of safaris in every corner of Africa, we have the knowledge and experience to help you plan an excellent family safari at any time of year. Follow this link for details on specific destinations.
Seeing wild animals in their natural habitat is a definite highlight of any safari in Africa, but there’s much more to see and do for families—no matter their age or special interests. From cultural tours and community projects to beauty spas, archery and astronomy, our handpicked camps and lodges have activities for multi-generational families right from our youngest guests to the most senior. Explore our experiences page to find options that suit your family perfectly.
For groups travelling with kids of all ages, there are family lodges with enough entertainment to keep them engaged throughout their stay. Experienced camp staff head up specialised educational programmes with activities that might include adapted game drives, scavenger hunts, cooking lessons, jewellery making, animal feeding, community visits and more. Through these activities, your kids will not only keep busy but also learn about the importance of culture, conservation and environmental sustainability. Have a peek at our secret experiences just for the kiddies.
When planning a family safari, consider factors such as the age of your children, the type of accommodations available (family-friendly lodges or tents), the length of the safari, the activities included (such as game drives or cultural experiences), and safety. It’s also important to choose a safari that aligns with your family’s interests, whether it’s focusing on game viewing, nature walks, or cultural interactions.
Yes, many safari lodges cater to young children. However, it’s essential to check the age restrictions for specific activities, as some game drives may have minimum age requirements for safety reasons. Choose destinations that provide flexible itineraries, child-friendly guides, and educational programs to engage kids. Additionally, consider any health precautions, such as vaccinations and malaria prevention, particularly for younger travellers. Our safari specialist know the best places for young children. Reach out to us if you have any questions or concerns about travelling with young children.
Family safaris often include a variety of wildlife experiences, such as game drives, walking safaris, and boat trips, depending on the region you visit. Families can expect to see iconic animals like elephants, lions, giraffes, and rhinos, as well as a wide variety of birds and smaller wildlife. Many safari lodges also offer special activities for children, such as junior ranger programs, nature crafts, or educational talks, to make the experience more interactive and fun for younger travellers. Speak to one of our safari specialists for specific options suitable for your family’s interests and ages.