Going on safari with your family is a magical experience as your children see the animals that inspired a dozen Disney movies. They key is to pick a destination that is designed with kids in mind. Mini ranger programmes and kid-friendly activities keep the little ones entertained so you can have some R&R time. Here are our top family-friendly safari destinations in Kenya and Tanzania.
Kenya
Widely thought to be the setting for the beloved movie The Lion King, Kenya has plenty of lodges that feature activities for all ages. From feeding giraffe to visiting a chimpanzee sanctuary, you’ll have a fun-filled African safari that will give your kids a new appreciation for life in all forms.
The Giraffe Manor, Nairobi
The name says it all! Stay in the lush surrounds of an indigenous forest and share your morning breakfast with the inquisitive herd of Rothschild’s giraffe who regularly poke their long necks into the windows in the hope of a treat. This Out Of Africa-style manor is the perfect overnight stop on your way to and from your safari, giving the whole family an uplifting experience that sets the tone for your African trip.
Nairobi day trip: while in the capital, take time to visit the elephant and rhino orphanage at the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, which rescues and rehabilitates orphaned baby elephants and rhinos before reintegrating them back into the wild. The orphanage is open to the public for one hour each day during feeding and mud bath time.
Bataleur Camp, Maasai Mara
Continuing with the theme of Kenya’s movie credentials, Bateleur Camp in the western Maasai Mara was used for the closing scenes of the film Out of Africa. Its location makes it a key safari destination during the wildebeest migration which can be enjoyed on a game drive or from a thrilling hot air balloon flight over the endless plains. The lodge offers a WILDchild program with specially trained rangers and kid-oriented activities that centre around conservation and local culture.
Ol Malo, Laikipia
Owned by the third generation Francombe family who were born and raised in Kenya, this eco ranch and animal sanctuary offers one of the best family safari experiences in the country. From horse and camel riding to sleeping under the stars, or tubing down the Ewaso Nyiro River and meeting the local Samburu community, the Francombes share the life they’ve created for their own children with you. Don’t miss this if you’re planning a Kenya trip.
Sweetwaters Serena Camp, Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Sweetwaters is built around a watering hole where animals regularly come to drink and graze, instantly fulfilling most if not all of your wildlife wishlist. The reserve is home to both the largest black rhino sanctuary in East Africa and the only chimpanzee sanctuary in Kenya. Your kids will be wide eyed with wonder after visiting the chimp sanctuary which is a lifelong refuge for orphaned and abused chimpanzees from West and Central Africa.
Take a peak: this is our Kenya Escapes Safari
Solio Lodge, Solio Game Reserve
Solio is the only guest accommodation on the 45 000 hectare reserve which is home to the most successful private rhino breeding programme in Kenya. You and the kids will marvel at sightings of up to 40 rhino at a time, something that’s unheard of in other reserves. In addition to the usual safari activities, kids will enjoy horseback rides, guided mountain walks and mountain biking trails, as well as the chance to take a helicopter tour over the reserve.
Acacia House, Greater Maasai Mara Region
Acacia House is our best seller for families with young kids under 12. Toddlers will be entertained for hours with the toy-filled playroom, baby swimming pool and bush TV, while older children can indulge in a choice of activities including nature walks, spoor tracking, baking fresh bread on the fire and bush survival skills. Kids will also be thrilled to sleep in their kids-only loft bedroom.
Tanzania
The Serengeti Plains in Tanzania forms the other half of the Great Migration circuit and is popular all year round. Our travellers love these standout Serengeti lodges.
Singita Serengeti House, Serengeti
This exclusive-use, fully-serviced safari villa is perfect if you’re looking for a private, fully customised safari. The house is perched on the slopes of Sasakwa Hill and includes a guide, game drive vehicle, swimming pool and chef. You can plan your day’s activities according to your family’s schedule and preferences.
You might like: our Western Tanzania & Chimpanzee Safari
Four Seasons Safari Lodge, Serengeti
This lodge has a number of accommodation options that includes a spacious villa ideal for families. Kids will love the Kijana Club, a creative space in the main building with daily programmes from 10am to 6pm. Youngsters can spend the morning with a Maasai warrior or study animals with a wildlife expert, while teens will enjoy the learning about local wildlife and Maasai culture at the educational and interactive Discovery Centre.
Kati Kati Tented Camp, Serengeti
Kati Kati is a mobile bush camp in the central Serengeti. Families can stay in two interconnected tents with a private verandah and a shared bathroom. Kids will love the authentic safari camping experience of sharing stories around the campfire with your ranger.
Get in touch with our expert consultants for your tailor-made family safari trip. We’ll channel our Walt Disney and help you bring your very own magical African-themed movie to life.
Photo cred: Jane Goodall Institute
