Our guide to what you need to know when you would like to plan a holiday with your children on safari

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Children on Safari

20 June 2024, Thursday | Written by: cybacoza
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“No one will protect what they don’t care about, and no one will care about what they have never experienced.”

David Attenborough

Benefits of children going on safari

Taking children on safari from a young age can be a magical experience for children and adults alike. It’s a way to create truly remarkable memories and introduce children to the bush; potentially developing an interest in and love for nature that could influence the rest of their lives.

A deeper understanding of nature and how humans interact with the environment are fostered during these immersive adventures.

Challenges taking children on safari

While it is so worth planning a trip with children, here are some of the challenges that could arise when on safari together. Game drives, where one must sit still for long periods and be quiet, can be challenging for children.

In our fast-paced world where instant gratification is at the touch of a screen, it can take a moment for children and adults to adjust.

Taking children on safari from a young age can be a magical experience

Here are our top tips for an enjoyable game drive with your children:

  • Prepare your children in advance.
    Explain that seeking out the animals is part of the adventure. Safari parks provide an incredible opportunity to see diverse animals in their natural habitat. The larger animals are more easily spotted but encourage children to look for birds and smaller creatures too.
  • Introduce a little competition.
    Make spotting animals a fun game. For example, the first person to spot one of the Big 5 wins “eagle-eyed spotter” or debate who should have the accolade for “spot of the day”. Tailor the competition to your children’s ages. It is amazing how a little competition can encourage observation and enthusiasm!
  • Bring guidebooks.
    Encourage children to use bird or animal guidebooks to identify and tick off the species they see. It’s like a nature hunt and can keep children engaged for ages.
  • Pack favorite snacks.
    Bring along snacks your children love for moments when they need a little boost. (If you haven’t tried it, biltong, a type of dried meat similar to beef jerky, is an especially tasty South African snack.)
  • Carry bottles of water.
    Refill water bottles at camps to avoid contributing to the single-use plastic problem.
  • Cameras.
    An age-appropriate camera can help children document their adventure, and you’ll see the safari through their eyes when they share their photos.

Some more tips on taking children on safari

Some camps are designed for romantic getaways or honeymoon couples and may not accommodate children. We ensure that your destinations are family-friendly and that your little ones are welcome. Some camps offer a safari vehicle for a family or family group. This can make a difference if you are anxious about your young ones. Note that walking safaris often require participants to be at least 14 years old.

Many lodges have swimming pools, which are always a hit with children. Note that while some camps have protected zones, many are still not safe to wander around alone, especially in the evenings. It’s important to impress this upon your children.

Guides will share fascinating stories, and children will relish the opportunity to ask questions. If they’re old enough, gift them a journal for them to document their daily experiences with drawings or diary entries. These make such a wonderful keepsake of that moment in time and come to be cherished long after the visit.

Evenings at camp offer a chance to stargaze, which is especially mesmerizing if you have yet to have the opportunity to look up at an African sky free of artificial light. Take the time to enjoy this with your children. Time takes on a different quality when you are in the bush!

Despite the relaxing atmosphere, safari days are tiring. Early morning game drives, midday relaxation, and evening game drives keep you active and engaged. The fresh air, adrenaline from spotting animals, and continuous learning contribute to tired but happy children at the end of the day. With the kids happily tucked into bed after a busy day, you can enjoy the evening company of adults.

Please let us know if you have any specific questions about taking your young ones on safari and we will happily share our insights.