Safari travel has surged in popularity in recent years, with ‘Kids on Safari’ seeing a 176% increase in web searches compared to 2023, as reported by Google Trends. There are numerous options for luxury safaris for family-friendly safaris that offer an unforgettable experience, blending adventure with comfort. From thrilling game drives to interactive wildlife encounters, children and adults alike are surrounded by nature’s wonders. 

These family-friendly safaris in Africa create cherished memories for families seeking both relaxation and adventure. They present an opportunity to connect with local cultures and see Africa’s stunning wildlife up-close. But whilst traveling on a family safari may seem daunting, traveling with family to Africa can be the most rewarding and enriching experience for all. 

“Utilizing an operator like Go2Africa that can help simplify your logistics takes the stress out of family travel and allows everyone to connect, enjoy their time together, and learn from expert guides about nature and wildlife,” said Maija de Rijk-Uys, who was recently recognized by Travel + Leisure as their newest A-List Specialist for family safaris in Eastern and Southern Africa.

Before jumping into where to travel, here are five tips for planning a family safari vacation. First, give your family time to recover from long-haul travel. Taking a break between safaris and stops in cities such as Cape Town which offers many fun things to do as a family.

Second, if budget affords, opt for private vehicles when on safari. Some lodges insist on a private vehicle when traveling with young children, but even if yours doesn’t it is a must. Families can dictate exactly how long they stay at each sighting and how long they’re out in the bush—which will really come in handy if your little one gets restless while out.

Next is ensure that you design an age appropriate itinerary. Make sure to choose a variety of activities and experiences based on children’s ages. This could mean lodges that have a junior rangers program or ones for older children that offer more trekking. Fourth, and probably most critical, is to consider the invaluable assistance of a safari expert. They can offer personalized recommendations tailored to the family’s preferences and handle all the logistics.

Last, but certainly not least, is to make sure to choose the right safari lodge for your family. The right safari lodge acts as a sanctuary where families can bond, explore, and create cherished memories together. They can serve as a hub for adventure, education, and relaxation amidst the wilderness. 

And for the top five bucket list places for families to travel in Africa, look no further than: Rubondo Island Camp, Shipwreck Lodge, Marataba Safari Lodge, Ol Pejeta Bush Camp and GweGwe Beach Lodge. 

Nestled within a national park known as “Noah’s Ark”,  Rubondo Island Camp is a private island paradise. Rubondo Island Camp is the only place to stay on the island, so parents can feel at ease as their children enjoy the freedom to explore. On thrilling game drives in private Land Rovers, families will see giraffes, elephants, rhinos and hippos.

Older teens and adults can enjoy guided chimpanzee trekking, while younger children will delight in game drives, catch-and-release fishing, sunset cruises, and guided nature walks. Its astounding natural beauty and diversity also lends itself for fishing enthusiasts to try and catch the famed Nile perch, either from a boat or from the beach.

On Namibia’s Skeleton Coast, Shipwreck Lodge is the only lodge situated in the soul-stirring Skeleton Coast National Park. The awe-inspiring destination is the ideal place to stay to explore one of Africa’s last true wilderness areas. It was named after the various shipwrecks visible from the shore, the Namibian desert, ocean, and sky is a one of a kind sight. Families will partake in nature drives to spot brown-hyena spoors and learn about the area’s desert elephants, giraffes, lions and baboons. 

As it is situated on the coast, stunning beaches and dunes are just steps away. From walks along the ocean to quad biking on the untouched dunes, there are endless opportunities for exploration. A visit to the Mowe Bay seal colony is a family favorite, where you can watch seals in their natural habitat. Stops at the historic Karimona and Suiderkus shipwrecks, spark the imagination of their past glory. 

Next is Marataba Safari Lodge, a malaria-free nestled in the stunning Waterberg Mountains. Providing a safe and serene environment for all ages, the lodge offers excellent Big 5 viewing as well as bird viewing. A great alternative to popular safari destinations like Kruger National Park, the lodge is set on a privately managed section of the Marakele National Park. 

Their family tented suite is ideal for families with young children or multi-generational groups. The excitement of bunk beds, coupled with the lodge’s comfort and great views, creates a delightful home-away-from-home experience. From the Mack & Madi Kids’ Adventure Safari Club for children ages five to 11 to a water safari on Marataba’s Matlabas River, there is much to do for families in this part of South Africa. 

At Ol Pejeta Bush Camp, guests are afforded with breathtaking views of Mount Kenya and a thriving local wildlife population. Located on the banks of Kenya’s Ewaso Nyiro River in the Laikipia region, it is home to the Ol Pejeta Conservancy, the last remaining northern white rhinos. From educational experiences to a variety of child-friendly activities, Ol Pejeta Bush Camp welcomes children over five years old.

From early morning game drives and bush breakfasts to night drives to spot aardvarks, bat-eared foxes and leopards, the team ensures that every activity is accessible and engaging. A must do is the ‘Running the Wild’ experience every Wednesday morning as well as visiting the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, the only place in Kenya to see these endangered chimps. 

The final destination recommendation is GweGwe Beach Lodge in The Wild Coast of South Africa. It offers a fantastic option for families with its laidback luxury and an accessible child-friendly area with games, entertainment and supervision. From the abundance of water sports to its pristine beaches, the lagoon offers an interesting view of marine life. 

It is one of the few places in the world to sit and watch three amazing wildlife experiences all in one day. From whales lobtailing to zebras and bucks grazing to a pod of dolphins surfing a nearby wave, this is a place where beach and bush are wild as one. Wellness treatments, picnics and guided marine or botany walks keep families busy as well.