Planning the perfect family safari

posted 28th January 2025 by Danica Wilson in Travellers

Planning the perfect family safari

Why experts make all the difference

Planning the perfect family safari

Why experts make all the difference

When it comes to creating unforgettable safari adventures for families, planning isn’t just half the fun—it’s the foundation of a successful trip. Safaris with kids require a special touch, balancing excitement with safety, education with entertainment, and structure with flexibility. That’s where the value of working with safari experts comes in. At Encompass Africa, we believe the bush is the best classroom, but there’s an art to designing a family-friendly safari that feels effortless. Here’s why trusting the experts guarantees a better experience, and what to consider when planning your family safari.

1: Choosing the right destinations

Not all safari destinations are created equal, and finding the perfect fit for your family can be tricky. Experts know which countries, camps, and reserves cater best to families based on your unique parameters (ages of kids, health, level of adventure, health and medial), whether it’s South Africa’s malaria-free reserves, Botswana’s water-based activities, or Kenya’s cultural experiences with the Maasai.

Child-friendly destinations offer:

  • Shorter game drives tailored to kids’ attention spans.
  • Engaging guides who specialise in teaching young explorers about the bush.
  • Child-specific activities like nature walks, animal tracking, and crafts.

Tip: Experts often have insider knowledge about which camps offer family discounts or “kids-go-free” policies during certain seasons.

2: Finding the perfect accommodation

Accommodation can make or break your safari experience, especially with children in tow. Safari experts can recommend places that provide:

  • Interconnected family tents or lodges with plenty of space.
  • Swimming pools for downtime between game drives.
  • Flexible meal options to suit picky eaters.
  • Babysitting services for younger kids.

Experts can also navigate age restrictions. Some camps require private vehicles for families with younger children, ensuring flexibility and peace of mind for parents.

Tip: We also know the very best places to go because we’ve stayed, visited and sent clients before you!

3: Balance adventure and downtime

While safaris are thrilling, kids of all ages (ok parents too) can get super tired really quickly. That’s why a well-balanced itinerary is essential. We know how to combine high-energy activities, like game drives and canoe safaris, with quieter moments like:

  • Relaxing at the lodge pool.
  • Watching wildlife from a camp hide.
  • Cultural visits to local villages.
  • Spa treatments (or kids love a bush massage!).

This balance keeps kids engaged without overwhelming them, ensuring the entire family enjoys the experience.

Tip: Know your kids tolerance levels, we help you understand why this is essential in the planning stage.

4: Safety comes first

Safety is always top of mind on a family safari. The bush can be unpredictable, and there are risks to consider, from wild animals to mosquito-borne diseases. Your safety is our number one priority. So we can:

  • Recommend malaria-free destinations for younger children.
  • Ensure camps have proper safety measures, like fenced perimeters.
  • Book guides and lodges that are experienced in working with families.

Tip: Choosing Encompass Africa means you have the very best relationships with camps and lodges that love embracing families – because they’ve hosted ours and our guests.

    4: Tailoring experiences to fit your family perfectly!

    One of the greatest advantages of working with experts is customization. Every family is unique, and an expert can create an itinerary tailored to your:

    • Kids’ ages, interests, and energy levels.
    • Family routines.
    • Dietary or medical needs.

    This level of personalisation ensures that your safari is as stress-free as possible and creates the space for magical moments to unfold naturally. Just see us like the ultimate holiday tailor, designing it exactly right for you.

    5: Navigating the fine print

    Family safaris often come with logistical challenges, from understanding age restrictions to finding seasonal deals. It’s our job to stay on top of all this information to ensure you:

    • Don’t overpay by booking before special offers are announced.
    • Avoid camps or activities that may not suit your family’s needs.
    • Get accurate advice on visa requirements, travel insurance, vaccinations, and packing essentials.

    Why trust us with your family holiday?

    At Encompass Africa, we’ve helped families create unforgettable safari memories for almost two decades. Our firsthand knowledge of Africa’s camps, guides, and hidden gems allows us to craft tailored itineraries that tick every box.

    From the moment you start planning to the day you step off the plane, we’re here to make sure your safari is seamless, safe, and spectacular. After all, the great outdoors is the best classroom—and there’s no better way to connect with nature and each other than in Africa’s wild heart. That’s how we see it with our kids anyway… so let’s get you there!

    Ready to plan your family safari?

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