Planning a safari as a family is an incredible opportunity to connect with nature — and with each other. But traveling with children of different ages comes with specific needs: safety, flexibility, and the right kind of activities. The good news? Africa offers a range of family-friendly safari destinations tailored to every stage of childhood, from toddlers to teens.
Here’s your age-by-age guide to choosing the perfect safari destination for your family.
Safari with toddlers (under 5 years old)
What to consider
Traveling with very young children on safari is possible — but it requires extra planning. Many lodges have minimum age restrictions for game drives (typically 6 years), so you’ll want destinations with:
- Malaria-free zones
- Fenced camps for peace of mind
- Access to childcare services or family-specific programs
- Short transfer times (no long bush flights)
Top destinations
South Africa – Madikwe Game Reserve
- Malaria-free
- Lodges like Jaci’s Safari Lodge cater to families with small children
- Child-friendly game drives and bumble safaris (shorter, interactive drives)
South Africa – Eastern Cape reserves
- Easy access from Port Elizabeth
- Lodges like Kariega and Amakhala welcome young families
- Great for short stays or first safaris
Safari with children aged 6–12
What to consider
This is an ideal age to introduce kids to safari. At this stage, many camps allow children on full game drives and offer educational activities, like:
- Junior ranger programs
- Tracking and bushcraft lessons
- Cultural village visits
Look for properties with family tents or interleading rooms, pools, and flexible meal options.
Top destinations
Kenya – Lewa Wildlife Conservancy & Laikipia
- Family-focused lodges like Lewa Safari Camp or Borana Lodge
- Engaging guides who love working with kids
- Opportunity to see the Big Five with fewer crowds
Tanzania – Tarangire National Park
- Known for elephants and baobabs
- Lodges like Tarangire Safari Lodge offer family rooms
- Excellent wildlife without the intensity of Serengeti crowds
Namibia – Etosha National Park
- Safe, open terrain that’s easy for spotting animals
- Self-drive or guided options available
- Cultural experiences and desert landscapes
Safari with teenagers (13+)
What to consider
Teens can handle more adventurous safaris and appreciate deeper immersion. This age group enjoys:
- Walking safaris
- Canoe or boat safaris
- Night drives and predator tracking
- More remote or off-grid camps
You can explore more rugged terrain, and lodges are less limited by age policies.
Top destinations
Zambia – South Luangwa National Park
- Excellent walking safaris with expert guides
- Teens can participate in real wildlife tracking
- Combine with community visits or conservation projects
Botswana – Okavango Delta
- Incredible diversity of safari activities (water + land)
- High-end family camps with strong conservation ethos
- Ideal for adventurous, mature teens
Uganda – Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Opportunity for chimp tracking
- Great mix of wildlife and cultural exploration
- Add gorilla trekking if teens are over 15
Family safari tips by age group
- Under 5: Focus on rest, safety, and flexible routines. Malaria-free zones are key.
- 6–12: Prioritize education, fun, and variety. Avoid long transfers and overly intense itineraries.
- 13+: Embrace adventure and complexity. Let teens help choose activities or destinations.
Final thoughts
A safari can be a life-changing experience for children and parents alike — if it’s planned with care. By choosing the right destination for your kids’ age group, you ensure comfort, engagement, and unforgettable wildlife encounters. Africa has something magical for every family, no matter how young (or grown-up) your travelers may be.
FAQs
Ages 6–12 are ideal, but many destinations cater to toddlers and teens too. Planning by age helps match the trip to your child’s needs.
Yes, South Africa’s Madikwe and Eastern Cape reserves are malaria-free and great for families with younger children.
They can in certain destinations with fenced camps and short drives. However, many lodges have a minimum game drive age of 6.
Junior ranger programs, nature walks, cultural visits, bushcraft lessons, and even child-focused game drives, depending on the camp.
Absolutely — especially when the itinerary includes walking safaris, night drives, or canoe excursions. Involving teens in planning helps too.
