We all want our children to grow up with a sense of wonder. So just imagine your child spotting their first lion, hearing the rustle of leaves as an animal lurks in the bushes nearby, or sitting around a campfire under a blanket of stars reliving the days adventures. A family safari is not just a holiday—it’s a journey that fosters lifelong lessons, from the value of conservation to family bonding and personal growth. Let’s take a look a little closer…
Instilling a love for wildlife and conservation in kids
On safari, children experience the magic of wildlife up close. They witness the importance of protecting nature as they see how every creature, from the majestic elephant to the industrious dung beetle, plays a vital role in the ecosystem.
These moments inspire a sense of responsibility for the natural world, planting seeds for future conservation efforts.
This photo is of me with the kids at the Dr Dame Daphne Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage in Nairobi. The organisation is the pioneer in the rescue, hand raising of orphaned baby elephants and rhinos, through to their reintegration to the wild when they are grown and ready.
Building resilience, curiosity, and respect for nature
Being in the wild is a brilliant lesson in adaptability and resilience. Without screens and urban distractions, children learn to embrace curiosity, face challenges head on, and find wonder in life’s simplest moments—like the elegance of a giraffe bending for a drink of water.
Parents often tell us how their children return from safari more confident, patient, and deeply engaged with the world around them.
Perhaps that’s why families like the Goodwins keep returning to Africa, time and time again:
“We loved all our trips to Africa and can’t wait to go back for a fourth visit (or is it fifth? I’ve lost count). The kids have grown up now, so they can pay for themselves to come! We’d go every year if it was up to me—though this time without the kids! Africa has taught them so much and helped them grow in confidence, and that’s something we’ll always treasure.”
— The Goodwins, 2024 (pictured)
Stories of transformation: families on safari
Take the James family, for example. During their 10-day safari in Kenya, their young daughter left inspired to become a wildlife vet. Or the Taylors, whose teens returned home with fresh perspectives on what truly matters in life. These are the moments we cherish at Encompass Africa—when adventure sparks growth and understanding.
One of our favourite families, the Singletons—Melissa, Brad, and their daughter Zahra—embody this spirit. Both parents work in the veterinary field in Australia, and their shared passion for wildlife fuels their frequent visits to Africa. Zahra’s insatiable curiosity about Africa’s wildlife has shaped each of their journeys, as we design new adventures and discoveries every time they return.
Their advice to families?
“Do it—then do it again! If you have any concerns, talk to the team; they’ll put your mind at ease. The best advice is to be open to the experience and roll with it. Everything becomes a story to remember, share, and learn from for life.” – The Singleton Family (pictured)
Adventure as a family tradition
Beyond the lessons and growth, a safari is the ultimate bonding experience for families – we know first hand. In a world riddled with routines, responsibilities, tech distractions and little time we rarely make the most of family time.
So a safari allows families the unique opportunity to reconnect over shared adventures—whether it’s spotting a leopard together or sharing stories around the campfire or sipping hot chocolate as the sun rises over the horizon for another awesome safari day. These experiences often become cherished traditions, inspiring families to explore more of Africa in the years to come… like our family, the Goodwins, Singletons and so many other families we love working with.
Is it your turn?
Let the wild shape your family story
A safari is more than a holiday – it’s an epic journey; it’s the gift of connection, growth, and lifelong cherished memories. Ready to give your family this transformative experience? We can’t wait to craft a safari that’s designed to inspire wonder and forge bonds within your family.
Are you ready?