How to Plan a Family Safari
Planning a family safari holiday requires a lot of careful thought and consideration - but all the effort will be rewarded in spades, as you and your family can bond over this magical experience and share memories together that will last a lifetime.
Here are some of the things to think about when planning your trip:
When to Go
When deciding what time of year to go on a family safari, your aim is to find a time when the game viewing and weather in your chosen destination is good, and it won't interfere with school and busy periods at work. For much of Africa the warm dry season, which lasts from December to April, is the best time to go. If it's Kenya you've set your sights on, February to March and September to October are good choices. However, if you can't fit in a trip in these times, don't worry too much: as long as you avoid the short rainy seasons you shouldn't have too many problems.
Where to Go
As to deciding where exactly to go: the choice is yours. Kenya is home to some of the most developed game parks as well as some fascinating indigenous tribes, and is also where you have the best shot of seeing the iconic €Big Five€. Tanzania is another popular destination, as is Botswana (although a little more pricey), and South Africa has some of the best tourist infrastructure - here it relatively easy to hire a car and drive around the country on your own.
Where to Stay
If you're travelling with children under twelve years old, make sure you check age restrictions on any potential campsites and lodges - many do not allow younger children to stay, or to go on open vehicle game drives, due to the extra supervision they require. Tour operators should be able to draw up specialised itineraries for your family safari based on your family's individual needs.
What to Do
When planning, pay particular attention to your children's ages and abilities, needs and interests. Whether a child is animal-mad or a bit of a history buff, there are thousands of great ways to capture their attention and imagination whilst enjoying a family safari. Also try and plan family friendly activities like cultural excursions, visits to eco-lodges and animal sanctuaries to learn about conservation and the environment, and activities like elephant rides, bug walks, diving and more - just be sure to check for any age restrictions! Also make sure you allow time in the itinerary for afternoon naps and relaxation so that no tired-out temper tantrums can ruin your family safari.
Here are some of the things to think about when planning your trip:
When to Go
When deciding what time of year to go on a family safari, your aim is to find a time when the game viewing and weather in your chosen destination is good, and it won't interfere with school and busy periods at work. For much of Africa the warm dry season, which lasts from December to April, is the best time to go. If it's Kenya you've set your sights on, February to March and September to October are good choices. However, if you can't fit in a trip in these times, don't worry too much: as long as you avoid the short rainy seasons you shouldn't have too many problems.
Where to Go
As to deciding where exactly to go: the choice is yours. Kenya is home to some of the most developed game parks as well as some fascinating indigenous tribes, and is also where you have the best shot of seeing the iconic €Big Five€. Tanzania is another popular destination, as is Botswana (although a little more pricey), and South Africa has some of the best tourist infrastructure - here it relatively easy to hire a car and drive around the country on your own.
Where to Stay
If you're travelling with children under twelve years old, make sure you check age restrictions on any potential campsites and lodges - many do not allow younger children to stay, or to go on open vehicle game drives, due to the extra supervision they require. Tour operators should be able to draw up specialised itineraries for your family safari based on your family's individual needs.
What to Do
When planning, pay particular attention to your children's ages and abilities, needs and interests. Whether a child is animal-mad or a bit of a history buff, there are thousands of great ways to capture their attention and imagination whilst enjoying a family safari. Also try and plan family friendly activities like cultural excursions, visits to eco-lodges and animal sanctuaries to learn about conservation and the environment, and activities like elephant rides, bug walks, diving and more - just be sure to check for any age restrictions! Also make sure you allow time in the itinerary for afternoon naps and relaxation so that no tired-out temper tantrums can ruin your family safari.
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