A South African safari is a fantastic choice for a family holiday. Go on game drives, cultural excursions, and participate in family-friendly activities that cater to all ages. This will be a memorable experience for the whole family!
Why Should You Go on a Multi-Generational Safari in South Africa?
Exciting Family Holiday
A safari holiday in Africa will create lasting memories with family members of all ages. It’s the perfect getaway that will appeal to everyone, from grandma and grandpa who want to relax to kids who are excited to see the Big Five.
Activities for Everyone
South Africa offers a range of family-friendly safari lodges that cater to multi-generational groups. Participate in diverse activities catering to different interests and energy levels, from game drives and walking safaris to cultural excursions.
Family-Friendly Accommodations
Many safari lodges boast family villas and suites with interconnecting rooms and private pools. Some accommodations for travelling families also provide child care services and kids’ programmes, making them even more convenient.
Wildlife and Educational Experiences
A family safari in South Africa combines wildlife viewing with cultural and educational experiences, creating a well-rounded holiday.
Go on game drives to see big game and then head out on an excursion to the local community to learn more about their culture and way of life.
Best Destinations for Multi-Generational Safaris in South Africa
Madikwe Game Reserve
Madikwe is one of the best places for cheetah and African wild dog sightings. The reserve houses two wild dog packs, so you have a good chance of seeing these endangered animals. Also, as a Big Five destination, it offers sightings of lions, white rhinos, and elephants, while leopards and buffaloes are a bit rarer.
With over 350 bird species, including migratory birds from November to April, Madikwe is also a fantastic spot for the birders in your family. Travelling families will love the family-friendly accommodations and activities on offer.
Pilanesberg National Park
Set within a crater of a volcano that erupted millions of years ago, Pilanesberg Game Reserve is known for accessible safaris and proximity to Sun City, one of South Africa’s leading resort and entertainment destinations.
The wildlife is plentiful with possible sightings of the Big Five, including both black and white rhinos, as well as leopards, wild dogs, various rare antelopes, and more than 354 bird species.
Kruger National Park
There are many reasons why Kruger National Park is among the most famous parks in Africa. From the extensive biodiversity and numerous safari options to the large numbers of Big Five animal species, this is a top safari destination. Kruger provides a wide range of activities and lodging options for family safaris in South Africa.
Addo Elephant National Park
One of South Africa’s largest parks, Addo is famous for its massive elephant population and diverse ecosystems.
Not only is this national park home to the Big Five, but also the Big Seven! Along with lions, elephants, leopards, buffaloes, and rhinos on land, the two remaining species are in the ocean: the southern right whale and great white shark.
Addo Elephant Park is great for wildlife viewing and child-friendly facilities.
Garden Route Game Reserves
One of the most iconic journeys in South Africa, the Garden Route is a picturesque stretch of coastline that takes travellers through lush forests, stunning beaches, and charming towns, creating an incredible family holiday filled with safari and coastal adventures.
5 Tips for a Multi-Generational Safari in South Africa
1. Choose Family-Friendly Accommodations
When travelling in a group – especially with children – it’s always a good idea to choose lodges that are well-equipped with family-friendly activities and facilities.
Let us help you choose accommodations that include amenities like family rooms, babysitting services, and activities designed for children.
2. Pack Essentials
Make sure to pack essentials like high SPF sunscreen, insect repellent, and snacks for the kids. It’s also a good idea to bring books, games, or tablets for kids to enjoy during downtime at the lodge or on longer drives.
3. Have a Flexible Itinerary
Flexibility allows for everyone’s needs and wants to be catered to. This can include sleeping in instead of going on a morning game drive, enjoying a leisurely breakfast at the lodge, or opting for a private guided walk later in the day.
4. Hire a Private Guide
A private guide and 4×4 during a family South Africa safari allow for more flexibility in your schedule, making it easier to cater to the needs of young children and older adults without rushing or waiting.
5. Involve the Kids
If you’re travelling with young kids, involve them in guided walks and interactive wildlife activities. This could spark an enduring interest in nature!