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Kids with a guide overlooking the Zambezi river at Chichele Presidential Lodge in Zambia on a Safari in Zambia with Safari Ambitions

Family Safaris

Family Safaris in Africa with Safari Ambitions to Botswana, Kenya, Namibia, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe

Let the kids live and learn at Chichele Presidential in South Luangwa National Park 

Wild Moments. Real Connection. Lasting Impact.

 

A family safari in Africa is more than just a holiday—it's an experience that inspires wonder, encourages learning, and brings families closer together. Whether you're spotting your first elephant, hearing lions roar at night, or visiting a rural school, these shared adventures create memories that last a lifetime.

With excellent guides, safe travel conditions, and specially tailored activities, Africa offers unforgettable safaris for families with children of all ages.

Top Family-Friendly Safari Destinations

South Africa – Kruger National Park & Madikwe Game Reserve

South Africa is one of the most accessible and family-friendly safari destinations. Kruger offers excellent infrastructure and Big Five viewing, while Madikwe is a malaria-free zone—ideal for families with younger children. Many areas offer educational wildlife centres and kid-focused game drives.

Kenya – Masai Mara & Laikipia Conservancies

Kenya offers wide open plains, spectacular wildlife, and rich cultural experiences. The Masai Mara is perfect for classic game viewing, and Laikipia offers hands-on conservation activities. Families can enjoy wildlife tracking, nature walks, and visits to local Maasai communities.

Tanzania – Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater & Tarangire

Tanzania offers drama and diversity, from the Great Migration in the Serengeti to the volcanic landscapes of the Ngorongoro Crater. Family-friendly activities include wildlife spotting, bushcraft lessons, cultural visits to local tribes, and exploring the baobab-filled landscapes of Tarangire.

Botswana – Okavango Delta & Chobe National Park

Botswana provides exclusive, low-impact safaris perfect for families seeking adventure. Enjoy boat cruises along the Chobe River or peaceful mokoro (canoe) rides in the Okavango Delta. Water-based activities are ideal for younger children, while older kids may enjoy fishing or wildlife tracking.

Zambia – South Luangwa & Lower Zambezi

For families with older children or teenagers, Zambia offers walking safaris, canoe trips, and raw wilderness. South Luangwa is known for its leopard sightings and expert guides, while Lower Zambezi adds river adventures. Conservation-focused activities provide an educational edge.

Namibia – Etosha National Park & Damaraland

Namibia is a fantastic destination for families seeking independence and striking landscapes. Etosha offers safe, easy self-driving and great wildlife viewing, while Damaraland introduces desert-adapted animals and ancient rock engravings. Stargazing and geology-based excursions are popular with children.

Zimbabwe – Hwange, Matobo & Victoria Falls Area

Zimbabwe is an underrated gem for families. Hwange National Park offers excellent wildlife, including large elephant herds and predators. The Victoria Falls region is perfect for combining safari with soft adventure activities like river cruises, canopy walks, or guided nature trails. In Matobo National Park, families can see ancient rock art and search for rhinos on foot with expert guides. Many areas also offer opportunities to visit local schools and community projects.

Activities for Families on Safari

Family safaris aren’t just about game drives. Many parks and private reserves offer interactive and age-appropriate activities to keep children engaged and learning.

  • Junior ranger programmes, including tracking, animal identification, and bush skills

  • Guided nature walks tailored to different age groups

  • Wildlife-themed art and craft sessions

  • Bush storytelling and folklore around the campfire

  • Wildlife photography for kids and teens

  • Birdwatching, fishing, and nature scavenger hunts

  • Educational talks about animal behaviour and conservation

Community Projects for Families

Adding a cultural or conservation experience to your safari helps children understand the value of giving back and appreciating other ways of life. Many areas offer community projects that welcome family involvement:

  • School visits with opportunities to share books or supplies

  • Tree planting to support reforestation and habitat restoration

  • Village clean-up projects or community gardening

  • Visits to local artisans for beadwork, basket weaving, or pottery

  • Conservation education programmes or wildlife rescue centre visits

  • Cultural exchanges with indigenous communities

These experiences are not only meaningful but also deeply memorable.

Best Times to Travel with Family
  • June to October (Dry Season): Best for wildlife viewing, cooler temperatures, and aligns with many school holidays

  • November to March (Green Season): Baby animals, vibrant landscapes, and fewer tourists, though some regions experience rain

  • April to May (Shoulder Season): Mild weather, fewer crowds, and better value for money.

Tips for a Successful Family Safari
  • Choose malaria-free areas or consult with a travel health specialist

  • Keep travel days short and allow for plenty of rest

  • Bring wildlife guides, binoculars, and journals to keep kids engaged

  • Select family-friendly accommodations with flexible schedules and tailored activities

  • Encourage children to take part in spotting animals and asking questions

  • Discuss safety and wildlife etiquette in an age-appropriate way

A Safari to Remember

A family safari is more than just a getaway - it's an opportunity to reconnect with each other, explore the natural world, and learn the value of conservation and culture. Whether you're watching elephants cross a river, listening to stories from local elders, or learning how to track a lion, these are the moments that stay with you forever.

A journey through Africa with your family is one of the most rewarding and inspiring adventures you’ll ever take.

Our Recommended Family Safari Camps

(all with dedicated family tents)
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