And how to plan a kid-friendly safari that’s unforgettable (and seamless)

There are family trips, and then there are family experiences—the kind that spark lifelong memories, deepen connections, and change how you see the world. A safari in Africa is one of the most impactful trips you can take as a family, and contrary to popular belief, it’s not just for adventurous adults or honeymooners.

At JACA Travel, we’ve been to Africa more than eight times as a family of six—and twice with a group of 20! We know firsthand how magical (and totally doable) a family safari can be when it’s thoughtfully planned.

Here’s why we believe every family should experience a safari together—and how we help make it easy, safe, and unforgettable.

Why Bring Your Family on Safari?

1. No screens required.
There’s nothing like watching your child spot their first elephant in the wild, or hear the roar of a lion as the sun sets over the savanna. Safaris create genuine, unscripted moments of inspiration for all ages—no theme park or tv show required.

2. Educational in the best way.
Kids (and adults) walk away from a safari with a deep appreciation for wildlife, conservation, and local cultures. It’s the ultimate hands-on learning experience—one that no textbook or documentary can truly capture.

3. A chance to slow down together.
Safari days follow a rhythm: early mornings, game drives, leisurely lunches, fireside dinners. It’s a rare opportunity to unplug, spend real time together, and share stories at the end of each day.

4. Tailored experiences for every age.
Many safari camps now offer kid-focused programs, junior ranger activities, flexible meals, and guides trained to work with younger travelers. With the right destination and lodge, safaris can be safe, age-appropriate, and fun for everyone.

Best Safari Destinations for Families

Not all safari regions are equally suited to kids—some are better for older children due to long drives or malaria risk. These destinations strike the perfect balance of wildlife, comfort, and family-friendly logistics:

South Africa

Why it’s great for families: Malaria-free reserves, easy logistics, and excellent infrastructure.
Top picks: Madikwe Game Reserve and the Eastern Cape
Family-friendly lodges:
- Morukuru Family Madikwe – private villas, childminders, and tailored kids’ activities
- Kariega Main Lodge – accessible, laid-back, and welcoming to little ones

Kenya

Why it’s great for families: Wide open landscapes, rich cultural encounters, and iconic wildlife.
Top picks: Masai Mara, Laikipia
Family-friendly lodges:
- Lewa Wilderness – horse rides, camel treks, and family cottages
- Mara Bush Houses – private-use homes ideal for multigenerational groups

Tanzania

Why it’s great for families: The Great Migration, stunning landscapes, and easy add-ons like Zanzibar.
Top picks: Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater
Family-friendly lodges:
- Serian’s Serengeti Mobile – private guides and customized pacing
- Gibb’s Farm – farm-to-table meals, local crafts, and nature walks

Botswana (for older kids)

Why it’s great for families: Exclusive experiences, water-based safaris, and conservation-focused lodges.
Top picks: Okavango Delta, Chobe
Family-friendly lodges:
- Kwara Camp – small, personal, and beautifully remote
- Chobe Game Lodge – the only permanent lodge inside the park with family suites

Why Book Your Family Safari with JACA Travel

We don’t just plan safaris—we’ve lived them. Our team has explored Africa extensively as a family, which means we understand the real logistics, the pace kids can handle, and the details that make all the difference (like which lodges have triple rooms or kid-friendly meal options).

Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, we help you navigate every step—from choosing the right destination and travel timing to securing exclusive perks and private guides.

And if you're traveling with a larger group (grandparents, cousins, friends), we’ve done that too. We’ve managed two trips personally for our extended family of 20 and know exactly how to keep things smooth, special, and personalized. On top of that, we have curated many multi-gen groups of 10+ throughout South Africa and beyond.

Ready to Plan a Safari Your Family Will Never Forget?

We’d love to help you create something extraordinary. Reach out to start the conversation—and let’s design a journey that your family will talk about for years to come.