Discover expert tips for planning a multi-generational family safari
Travelling on a multi-generational safari is one of life’s greatest privileges, we know that for sure. There are very few experiences like it that bring families closer together. Shared wildlife moments, new landscapes and the slow rhythm of safari life. Yet a trip that includes grandparents, parents and children also requires thoughtful planning to ensure everyone enjoys it in their own way.
Here are our top tips for planning a seamless and joy-filled multi-generational safari adventure.
1. Acknowledge everyone’s abilities and energy levels
One of the biggest mistakes families make is trying to maintain the same pace for everyone. Safaris are exciting, immersive and sometimes tiring, especially when you layer in early mornings, warm afternoons and long days of exploration.
Be honest about your own limits. If you’re tired, say so. It is your holiday too. Sometimes what you really need is a quiet hour by the pool, a slower afternoon or the freedom to skip an activity (but be prepared to have FOMO!)
Likewise, understand the natural rhythms of the group:
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young travellers often crave independence, movement and adventure
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grandparents may appreciate a midday rest or afternoon snooze
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parents might simply want a moment with a book and a coffee or sunset cocktail
A multi-generational safari works best when everyone respects their own needs, rather than ‘going with the flow’ to keep the peace.
2. Embrace downtime and split up when needed
Similar to what we mentioned above, safari travel doesn’t have to mean everyone moves together as a pack. In fact, the best itineraries build in flexible time. Some might choose an early morning game drive while others linger over breakfast. One group may head to an afternoon activity while another settles on the deck watching wildlife wander by.
Time apart means the time together becomes richer. It also keeps spirits high and ensures no one feels overextended.
3. Know your superpowers and assign roles
Every family operates better when roles are clear, we learnt that the hard way. A multi-generational safari is no different. So think of it as identifying your ‘holiday superpowers’.
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The organiser: if planning is your strength, take the lead in communicating logistics, voicing preferences and setting expectations. When you work with us, we provide curated options so your family can simply choose the adventure that fits.
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The calm one: if you remain cool under pressure, you may be the natural person to guide everyone through airports, border crossings and busy transit days.
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The foodie: if cuisine is your passion, embrace the joy of researching restaurants, local dishes and culinary experiences along the way. Not to cook, but to discover.
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The storyteller or photographer: someone may take the lead on capturing the journey, jotting notes or taking photos to share with the family later.
By naming your superpowers, you reduce stress, avoid confusion and create an experience where everyone contributes confidently.
(Grace our daughter is a lover of preparing food – not so much eating it! Here she’s preparing dinner with Relais Chateau chef team at Tembo Plains Camp)
4. Plan around the lowest common denominator
This is essential on a road-tripping safari like we’re doing right now. If one person can only comfortably manage two or three hours in the car at a time, that is the limit for the whole group.
Planning for the most sensitive needs ensures that no one is silently struggling and the journey remains enjoyable for all. This might mean breaking travel days into smaller segments, adding extra nights or choosing routes that allow for more frequent breaks. We’re experts at managing time, maximising reward and working with you to design the ultimate family safari holiday.
We know from first hand experience that the most successful multi-generational safari is one that moves at the right pace for everyone, not the fastest pace for a few!
(The grandparents love a road trip, but they also value a few hours at a time in the vehicle, then down time together around the fire or snuggled on the lounge with cups of tea when it’s winter! This is us at Tswalu in 2019 celebrating Encompass Africa’s 10th birthday!)
5. Choose properties and activities with flexibility in mind
Not all camps, lodges and safari regions suit all ages. Multi-generational travel works best when:
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the property layout is accessible and comfortable, meeting needs of all generations
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activities can be tailored by age and interest
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there are quiet spaces for grandparents and energetic areas for children
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private vehicles or guides are available so the family can set its own rhythm
This is where our expertise becomes invaluable. We design safaris that honour your family’s individual needs while still delivering outstanding wildlife and cultural experiences.
(Photo is of Grace and our private guide at Tswalu, others rested and these two ventured out to set plaster in the footprints of animals!)
6. Communicate expectations before the trip
Before you leave home, sit down as a family and talk through:
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how early you’re all willing to wake up
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how much downtime everyone needs
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what people absolutely do or do not want to do
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potential challenges and how you will handle them
- Who wants to be with who more often than not – this can prevent those epic breakdowns over what vehicle you go in, or what seat on the plane you take!
This simple conversation really can prevent misunderstandings later and ensures everyone begins the adventure feeling heard and excited. Trust me, we know for sure!
(Photo of me and Grace at Tswalu – she wanted to always be with me in the vehicle because I’d play games!)
Our final thoughts
Multi-generational safaris create lifelong memories – our kids still talk about the early years and family safaris in Africa. But these types of family safaris absolutely flourish when crafted with intention. Know your abilities, communicate openly, embrace flexibility and celebrate each family member’s superpowers. The result is a journey that brings everyone closer, across generations, across landscapes and across shared moments of wonder.
If you’re ready to plan your own multi-generational family safari, we’d be delighted to guide you.