Spending the holiday season on safari can be an unforgettable family adventure — especially when you choose camps that cater specifically to children with festive and age‑appropriate activities. From junior ranger programs and tracking games to storytelling around the fire, these safari lodges and camps make Christmas & New Year extra magical for kids while letting parents relax and enjoy the wilderness too.
1. Simbavati Camp George — South Africa
Why it’s great for kids: Located in Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, Simbavati Camp George offers interactive game drives tailored for families, animal‑tracking games, and wildlife-themed fun.
Kids’ activities include:
- Special game drive commentary for younger guests
- Bushwalks for older children (12+)
- Photography “missions” and wildlife quizzes
- Pool time and free play between drives
This camp delivers educational thrills and festive fun in a relaxed, stylish setting.
2. Madikwe Lelapa Lodge — South Africa
Situated in malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve, Lelapa Lodge offers dedicated children’s programs designed for fun and learning.
Why kids love it:
- Flexible, kid-friendly game drives
- Bug hunts and mini bush skills courses
- Arts, crafts, and cultural storytelling
- Communal meals, swings, and child-safe open spaces
Madikwe’s abundant wildlife and engaging rangers make it an ideal choice for festive family safaris.
3. Ol Pejeta & Lewa Safari Camps — Kenya
In Kenya’s Laikipia region, Ol Pejeta and Lewa offer family-friendly conservation safaris with immersive learning experiences.
Activities include:
- Junior ranger bush skills & tracking
- Animal behavior lessons and storytelling
- Crafts using natural materials
- Family game drives and picnic bush breakfasts
These camps combine wildlife viewing with real-world education and a festive spirit.
4. Botswana Family Camps
Botswana is home to a variety of luxury mobile and lodge-based camps that run children’s safari programs during December.
What to expect:
- Interactive “Young Explorer” clubs with themed learning
- Festive bush dinners for families
- Wildlife scavenger hunts and team games
- Family tents with ample space and privacy
These camps blend luxury and adventure, ensuring an engaging and comfortable festive safari.
5. Creative & Educational Camp Activities
Many family-friendly safari lodges across Africa offer enriching activities that combine creativity and conservation.
Common festive kids’ programs include:
- Junior tracker certificates and wildlife-themed games
- Christmas craft workshops and nature-inspired ornaments
- Evening storytelling around the campfire
- Tree decorating and festive treasure hunts
These experiences build lasting memories and allow kids to connect deeply with nature.
Tips for Booking a Family Safari at Christmas
- Choose malaria-free zones (like Madikwe or parts of Kenya) for young children
- Request private vehicles for flexible family game drives
- Inquire about minimum age limits and babysitting options
- Ask which camps offer festive extras like themed dinners or bush breakfasts
Planning ahead ensures your family gets the most out of this extraordinary experience.
Conclusion
A festive safari holiday offers kids so much more than just travel — it’s a chance to explore, learn, and celebrate in the heart of the wild. With the right safari camp, your children can track animals, build nature crafts, and discover the true magic of Africa during the most wonderful time of the year.
Whether you’re returning to the bush or trying safari for the first time as a family, these camps ensure that the festive season becomes a holiday your kids will never forget.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, especially those designed for families. They include safety measures like fenced camps and trained staff.
Kids aged 6 and older usually enjoy it most, though some camps cater to toddlers with special programs.
It depends on the region. Choose malaria-free areas if concerned, and consult your doctor.
Yes. Drives are often shorter and tailored to kids’ attention spans at family-focused camps.
Most are included, especially around Christmas and New Year. Ask when booking.
