The idea of going on an African Safari sounds exotic no doubt, but it becomes all the more thrilling when you are able to share sights and enjoy experiences that will travel down in your family history…and how is that possible unless you enjoy an African safari with your family?! So you better make sure to go on an African Family safari…here’s all the little-big things that you ought to know before you embark on one…
Family safari – the idea:
The whole idea is to enjoy some quality time with your wife, kids and family…all the while learning about African eco system, sharing the mystery and allure of African wildlife and making memories to last a lifetime…
Family safaris take into account
- Fun activities for kids
- Fun prospects for parents
- Organizing family activities by professional guides
Age factor:
There are several factors to note…
Book and plan an independent safari if you are travelling with kids below 12. This is because some safari tours have age restrictions on kids. They find it unsafe to travel in open jeeps with little kids.
- Kids are more prone to falling ill, getting sunburn, so you need to take every precaution.
- Wildlife watching needs quiet; too small kids may not be able to maintain it.
- Adventure safari options like canoeing, or walking safaris may not be suitable for kids below 12.
- Some lodges also do not allow kids too small, for fear they might wander too close to the wild animals that encroach the camps.
- Make sure to check with the tour conductors when you bring your kids along.
Why choose Africa for a family safari?
- The roads in South Africa are excellent, just rent a car and set your own schedule.
- The arrangements can be made flexible.
- South Africa has smaller private wildlife aplenty; you can view a lot many animals in a short period of time.
- Comfortable accommodations for families afforded in these game parks.
Fun activities for kids:
- Buy them a camera for cool photography.
- Binoculars to watch exotic birds.
- Rewards for recognizing and spotting birds, insects, wildlife.
- Help them maintain wildlife journals.
- Enroll them in special activities provided for kids by the lodge/tour company.
What you should remember:
- Try and book a self-drive safari.
- Do make sure the lodge or camp allows children; pay special attention to age bars.
- Book a lodge with a pool.
- Participate in activities meant for kids like yours. Canoeing or walking safaris are not suitable for little kids.
- Do wait until your kid is 8 years old just so that he or she can fully appreciate the experience.
- If you’re worried about malaria, try malaria-free game parks that you can enjoy.