Multi-generational family safaris are becoming more and more popular. These uniquely bonding times are always special, bringing immense joy and pleasure.
Introducing children and grandchildren to Africa is an unforgettable experience for the whole family.
Wild Zambezi is grateful to John Stevens Guided Safaris Africa for providing the following Hot Tips for travelling on safari with children:-
- Combine two or three locations and camps in your itinerary to experience different habitats and wildlife.
- Children are more resilient than we often give them credit for - try to throw in a simple fly camping or walking experience.
- Pack a small rucksack for each child to take on game drives and walks – it’ll be handy on the plane, too.
- Spend at least 3 nights in each camp, no need to rush from one place to the next.
- Make sure every member of the family has their own pair of binoculars.
- Discourage devices but do bring along disposable cameras, if you can, to keep the kids busy and amused on game drives or walks.
- Bring plenty of sunscreen, a good hat and a warm fleece for early mornings and evenings.
- Many camps offer family tents or safari houses, which are large enough to accommodate the whole family. Small safari camps can be hired on an 'exclusive use' basis. For a family or a small group, these can provide the ultimate in exclusivity: your own safari at your own pace.
- With younger children, it is often best to fly between destinations rather than drive. This can be arranged either with scheduled transfers or private charters.
- Opt for a private vehicle for game drives. In some camps, it is mandatory to book a private vehicle if you are travelling with children.
- Parents are often worried about travelling to malaria-affected areas, but it is easy to arrange a safari in a non-malaria area.
- Set expectations at the beginning of the safari – let your children know that it often takes time to see the animals and patience is a virtue!