5 Tips for Travelling with Children
Travelling with children can be fun, but can also be stressful. We have planned countless family safari and beach holidays. We share our tips for making sure everyone has a relaxing holiday.
Opt for a pool
Family friendly pool at Leobo Observatory, Waterberg, South Africa
The traditional safari day means you’ll likely have some down time during the day. Take playing cards, colouring stuff and any other small games to keep children entertained if they don’t feel like having a siesta. Alternatively, choosing a property where there’s a swimming pool will add another aspect to your stay.
Do something adventurous
Wildlife guiding for young families, Seba Camp, Okavango Delta, Botswana, Wilderness Safaris
Children are much more robust than we give them credit for, so do something adventurous. There are lots of camps and lodges that offer a range of activities, including walking, horse and camel riding, fishing, boating, cooking and junior guiding courses.
Baking fun at Andersson’s Camp, Etosha, Namibia, Wilderness Safaris, Dana Allen
Experience a night in the open
Twin starbed at Little Kulala, Sossusvlei, Namibia, Wilderness Safaris
Try a night out in the open, either fly camping or on a star bed platform where you can see the night sky. Most kids are mesmerised by planets and the stars and the African night sky is a true wonder in that respect.
Kit out the kids with gadgets and safari gear
Travelling with children on safari at Somalisa, Hwange, Zimbabwe, African Bush Camps
Take child sized headphones to use on the plane. The airline ones are often too big for little ears. Make sure you have a pair of binoculars each, and if you can take a couple of cameras that’s a good idea too.
Travelling with children on camels, guide Kerry Glen Laikipia, Kenya, Karisia Walking Safaris
Identifying poo and footprints is a great way to keep children amused so even when walking might not be high on the agenda at home, a stroll in the African bush is something different altogether. With camels or donkeys carrying the kit there’s always a spare saddle for tired legs.
Do something cultural
Making friends in Kenya, courtesy of Mark Walton
Children are fascinated by other children. Go and visit a local school or village. Language barriers seem to be non-existent and you’ll be amazed by the almost instant interaction and laughter.
Any questions on travelling with children?
If you’ve got this far and still have questions on travelling with children, please let us know in the comments section below, or pop us an email. We have catered for all ages on family holidays in Africa. We’ll be sure to read your thoughts and may amend the article.
What next?
We would be delighted to help you plan a holiday, or answer any questions if you’re at an earlier stage. Our team of family safari experts have travelled widely throughout Africa. They can offer expert advice on every type of safari from family and beach holidays to riding and primate safaris. If you would like to talk to someone who has been there and done it, please just send us an email or give us a call.
Hi, I picked up your brochure at Hampton Court flower show, and am looking for a safari for 3 weeks next Summer. There will be me and my 3 sons, then aged 19, 16 and 13.
I would like to cover a fair bit, and see as much as we can! Especially would like the children to get some experience of the cultural differences. Would like to travel south from Kenya, via Tanzania (and Zanzibar) and end up in Cape Town – happy with train travel – even difficult train travel. Will be at the lower end of your budget suggestions .. wonder what you can suggest?
Kind regards Maggie
Dear Maggie,
I have passed on your details to one of our safari experts. Best regards Renate