Written by: Sean Messham
Family safaris are truly special – an opportunity to step away from the everyday and immerse yourselves in the wonders of the wild. As a former guide in the Sabi Sand Nature Reserve and Kruger National Park, I had the privilege of taking families on game drives, and I still get goosebumps thinking about those precious and often private moments.
Many travel brochures describe family safaris as a “wonderful opportunity” to watch “young eyes open to a new world” – and they’re not wrong. But in my experience, it’s often the young, inquisitive minds that open adults’ eyes to the finer details of these incredible landscapes. And, on a side note – kids are usually better behaved than the grown-ups!
Choosing the right lodge is key to ensuring a seamless and enriching experience for all ages. The best family-friendly lodges offer engaging activities, expert guides, and thoughtful accommodations designed to cater to both children and adults. Whether you’re traveling with little adventurers or multi-generational explorers, the right lodge can make all the difference.
To help you start planning, we’ve put together a guide to eleven exceptional luxury lodges that cater specifically to families, offering the perfect balance of adventure, comfort, and exclusivity. Let’s explore!
Best Family Safari Lodges in South Africa
A family safari in South Africa is one of our top recommendations for first-time safari-goers. With exceptional luxury lodges, dense and consistent game viewing, easy transfers, and great value for money, South Africa offers an effortless yet unforgettable safari experience for families of all sizes.
1) andBeyond Phinda Mountain Lodge
Phinda Private Game Reserve, South Africa
Phinda Mountain Lodge is one of the ultimate family safari destinations in South Africa. With a variety of accommodation options, from an exclusive family suite to three purpose-built family cottages, this Big Five game reserve will definitely go beyond the expected.
Due to its close proximity to the warm Indian Ocean, guests can also enjoy a variety of ocean adventures. For multi-generational families, a conservation experience like rhino notching is also possible, adding an unforgettable hands-on element to your safari.. Read more here…
Malaria Risk: Situated in a low malaria-risk area*
Trip Types: Under 5 Years Old; 5 to 10 Years; 10 years and older
Family-Friendly Activities
- Big Five Safaris (Optional private vehicle)
- Dedicated WILDchild program (children aged 3 -12 years)
- Kids Lounge
- Interactive Lodge Activities (baking with the chef)
Why do we love it!
- Dedicated age appropriate WILDchild Program from 3 to 12
- One Family suite and 3 family cottages
- Children’s lounge and childminder available
- Beach and safari adventures
- Big Five Game Viewing
2) Lion Sands Ivory Lodge
Sabi Sand Nature Reserve, South Africa
Start your safari experience from the airport! With just a 25-minute game drive from Skukuza Airport, Lion Sands Ivory Lodge is conveniently located for families concerned with travel time and stopovers.
Although there are a variety of family-friendly accommodations at Ivory Lodge, it’s the Fish Eagle Villa that we want to highlight. Completely private, with its own lounge, plunge pool, spa, and gym, it offers the perfect setting for a family safari experience at your own pace and convenience.
Malaria Risk: Situated in a low malaria-risk area*
Trip Types: 5 to 10 Years; 10 years and older. *At Fish Eagle Villa – all ages welcome
Family-Friendly Activities
- Big Five Safaris (Dedicated private vehicle)
- Mack & Madi kids’ activities and childminding
- Tailored safari refreshment stops
- Ten metre long lap pool
Why do we love it!
- Convenient access from Skukuza Airport
- Observant Kosher Dining
- Dedicated Mack & Madi Kids’ Club
- Childminder available
- Big Five Game Viewing
Suggested Itinerary – 11-Day Cape Town to Victoria Falls Itinerary
3) Singita Lebombo
Kruger National Park, South Africa
A family safari list would not be complete without a lodge inside South Africa’s iconic Kruger National Park! Situated in its own private concession within the Kruger National Park, this spectacular lodge is perched above the N’ wanetsi River.
Enjoy two daily interpretive game drives with your private guide. And with limited vehicles at sightings, immerse your family in an exclusive and private experience like no other. The Lebombo Villa is also available with its private swimming pool, lounge, dining room and deck. Read more here…
Malaria Risk: Situated in a low malaria-risk area*
Trip Types: 10 years and older. *At Lebombo Villa – under 10 years welcome
Family-Friendly Activities
- Big Five Safaris
- Singita’s Mini Game Rangers’ Course
- Bush Walks (Minimum age 16)
- Activity Booklets & Games
- Movie nights
Why do we love it!
- Sinigita’s Mini Game Rangers course
- Guided Safari Walks ( Minimum age 16)
- Private Concession
- Childminder available
- Big Five Game Viewing
4) Tswalu Kalahari
Kalahari, South Africa
Set within a breathtaking 271,185-acre arid landscape, Tswalu is South Africa’s largest privately owned, malaria-free game reserve. With guaranteed access to a private vehicle, guide, and tracker, your family will have the freedom to explore this exquisite wilderness at your own pace.
Discover and observe unique wildlife, including Kalahari-adapted cheetahs, black rhinos, aardwolves, pangolins, and impressive black-maned lions! Beyond traditional game drives, complimentary activities include horseback riding, visiting a family of meerkats, walking safaris, and a tailor-made Junior Ranger program. Read more here…
Tswalu offers two types of family accommodations. The Motse Camp has three two-bedroom legae (Tswana for “home”), while the Tarkuni Homestead is perfect for a multi-generational family, featuring five suites accommodating up to 10 guests, a private plunge pool, and a boma for all occasions.
Malaria Risk: Situated in a malaria-free area*
Trip Types: Under 5 Years Old; 5 to 10 Years; 10 years and older
Why do we love it!
- Junior Ranger Program
- Black maned Kalahari Lions
- Horseback riding
- Habituated meerkat experience
- Pangolin and aardvark viewing
Family-Friendly Activities
- Personal Family Safari drives
- Bush Walks
- Junior Ranger Program (archery, spoor identification)
- Pizza making & cookie baking
- Child friendly meals from their chefs
Our Suggested Family Safari Itinerary: 12-Day Malaria-Free Big Five Safari
5) Grootbos Garden Lodge
Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, South Africa
Just a two-hour drive from Cape Town, Grootbos Private Nature Reserve offers a lodge experience like no other on this list! Leaving the science aside, this region boasts one of the most biologically diverse marine ecosystems in the world. The Cape Floral Kingdom, which surrounds Cape Town, has three times the floral diversity of the Amazon Jungle!
This family-run, carbon-neutral lodge is perfectly positioned within these uniquely rich ecosystems, offering a Cape Town safari without the crowds, ensuring a more exclusive and immersive experience. Explore this magnificent area with a variety of adventure activities, including horseback riding, river cruises, mountain biking, hiking, botanical tours, marine and coastal safaris, or even shark cage diving (age permitting).
Malaria Risk: Situated in a Malaria-free area
Trip Types: Under 5 Years Old; 5 to 10 Years; 10 years and older
Why do we love it!
- Largest Africa Penguin Colony in the Cape
- Marine and Coastal Safaris
- Land-based whale watching (July to December)
- Carbon-neutral lodge
- Botanical tours (this is incredible!)
Family-Friendly Activities
- Personal Family nature drives
- Interactive & Playful dining experiences
- Forest-inspired playroom at Garden Lodge
- Engaging Kids Program
- Indoor & Outdoor entertainment areas
Best Family Safari Lodges in Southern Africa
Southern Africa offers the perfect blend of adventure and exclusivity for multi-generational families. From the vast wilderness of the Okavango Delta to the untamed beauty of Hwange and the adrenaline-filled Victoria Falls, these destinations provide unforgettable experiences for every member of the family.
1) Jao Camp
Okavango Delta, Botswana
In the heart of the Okavango Delta, the luxurious Jao Camp is set among islands fringed with riverine forests and vast floodplains teeming with wildlife. Apart from daily game drives with your guide, explore the magnificent 150,000-acre private concession through a variety of activities.
Glide through the tranquil Delta channels on a mokoro (traditional dugout canoe) or cruise along the larger waterways by motorboat, spotting elephants, red lechwe herds, and large Nile crocodiles. The camp features two exclusive villas, perfect for families with children over six years, each offering a private plunge pool, lounge, and dining area. Read more here…
Malaria Risk: Situated in a moderate malaria-risk area*
Trip Types: 6 to 10 Years; 10 years and older
Why do we love it!
- Mokoro adventures
- Day outings and picnics
- Wilderness Bushbuddy Program (6-10 years)
- Motor boating excursions
- Big Five Game Viewing
Family-Friendly Activities
- Bush Buddies Program (a dedicated lodge buddy)
- Interactive Tracking & Sign course
- Basket-weaving & Jewellery Making
- Mokoro Polling Lessons
- Nature Walks & Birding
View our Suggested Itinerary – Southern Africa Explorer
2) Thorntree River Lodge
Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park, Zambia
Thorntree River Lodge is a tranquil riverside retreat, conveniently located just 20 minutes upstream from the famous Victoria Falls. The lodge offers a variety of adventure activities for the whole family, including traditional safari game drives, fishing, sunset river cruises, canoeing, and even bungee jumping for the adrenaline seekers! It features two family suites with interleading doors, each with its own luxurious plunge pool, providing both comfort and privacy for an unforgettable stay.
Malaria Risk: Situated in a moderate malaria-risk area*
Trip Types: Under 5 Years Old; 5 to 10 Years; 10 years and older
Why do we love it!
- Sunrise & Sunset boat cruise of the Zambezi River
- Included water activities on the Zambezi
- Private excursions to the Zambian and Zimbabwean side of Victoria Falls
- Childminder available
- Rhino tracking experience
Family-Friendly Activities
- Ngwana Club activities for children
- Guided Canoe Safaris
- Infinity pool and private plunge pools
- Engaging Kids Program
- In depth and authentic cultural visits
Suggested Itinerary – Wildlife and Waterfalls
3) Somalisa Acacia
Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe
Hailed as one of Zimbabwe’s top family safari destinations, African Bush Camps Somalisa Acacia is a fantastic choice for multi-generational travel. Tucked beneath a grove of iconic acacia trees, this intimate camp offers an authentic Zimbabwean wilderness experience, designed with families in mind.
With only 12 guests at a time, the camp fosters a warm and personal atmosphere. It features two family tents with interleading walkways and two standalone canvas tents, each offering luxurious bedrooms with wood-burning fireplaces, ensuite bathrooms, and private decks overlooking the pristine Hwange National Park. Whether sharing stories around the fire or spotting elephants from your deck, Somalisa Acacia ensures an unforgettable and family-friendly safari experience. Read more here…
Malaria Risk: Situated in a moderate malaria-risk area*
Trip Types: 6 to 10 Years; 10 years and older
Family-Friendly Activities
- Family Nature Walks
- Tracks & Signs training
- Cultural arts & crafts
- Cooking classes
Why do we love it!
- Elephant haven – if you love elephants – Hwange is it
- Two Luxury Family Tented Suites
- Private Concession in Hwange
- Child Specialist Guides
- Big Five Game Viewing
View our Suggested Itinerary – Southern Africa Explorer
Best Family Safari Lodges in East Africa
East Africa offers a classic and authentic safari experience, where vast savannahs and rich cultural encounters seamlessly come together. From the legendary plains of the Serengeti to the wildlife-rich conservancies of Kenya, this region provides unforgettable adventures for families. Here are our top picks for luxury lodges that cater to multi-generational travelers, combining exceptional wildlife experiences with immersive cultural connections.
1) Singita Serengeti House
Grumeti Game Reserve, Tanzania
The exclusivity and space alone provide the luxury and freedom to relax, knowing your children can be noisy while still enjoying the serenity of Singita Serengeti House, Tanzania.
And for a touch of home-like comfort, the eat-in family kitchen allows you to enjoy a few familiar favorites (don’t worry—you won’t have to do the cooking!). Singita’s Mini Ranger Course is an absolute favorite, keeping inquisitive minds engaged and away from those dreaded handheld screens we’re all looking to escape! Read more here…
Malaria Risk: Situated in a malaria-risk area*
Trip Types: Under 5 Years Old; 5 to 10 Years; 10 years and older
Why do we love it!
- Mini Game Rangers’ course
- Great Migration *Seasonal
- Exclusive with only 8 guests
- Childminder available
- Big Five Game Viewing
Family-Friendly Activities
- Stargazing with field guide
- Activity booklets with games, puzzles and quizzes
- Arts & crafts with lodge staff
- Cooking interactions
- Authentic Community Visits
- Hot Air Balloon (min age 7)
2) andBeyond Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp
Masai Mara, Kenya
Where a classic safari experience meets the legendary hospitality of Kenya! Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp sits at the base of the Oloololo Escarpment, offering extraordinary panoramic views of the iconic Masai Mara.
While this lodge is larger than others on this list, the presence of relaxed resident warthogs grazing on the lawns makes it feel just as private and exclusive. In fact, with three family suites, your little explorers might even make some travel friends!
Its size also makes it ideal for multi-generational families, allowing you to enjoy private space while still being together in a magical, awe-inspiring safari setting. Read more here…
Malaria Risk: Situated in a low malaria-risk area*
Trip Types: 8 years and older; 10 years and older
Why do we love it!
- Great Migration Crossing *Seasonal (July to October)
- Age appropriate WILDchild Program 8 to 12
- Private vehicle can be booked – providing family flexibility
- Authentic Maasai village trips
- Big Five Game Viewing
Family-Friendly Activities
- WILDchild Program
- Maasai bow & arrow competition
- Create beaded artwork with Maasai
- Forest walks with guide
- Soccer games with the camp staff (always a win)
Suggested Itinerary – 12-Day Kenya and Zanzibar Safari
3) Mnemba Island
Zanzibar, Tanzania
An exclusive “barefoot island paradise” off the coast of Zanzibar, the newly refurbished Mnemba Island is the perfect place to unwind after a family safari in Kenya or Tanzania! While the island is known for its romantic candlelit dinners and tranquil dhow cruises, it also features an exclusive family banda, perfect for a family of four.
With the island’s small size and access to a private butler, you can tailor each day to your preferences. There are plenty of island adventures for families of all ages—learn to dive together at Mnemba’s PADI dive center, swim with resident pods of dolphins, snorkel in warm shallow waters, or even witness turtles hatching and making their way to the ocean! Read more here…
Malaria Risk: Situated in a low-risk malaria area
Trip Types: 10 years and older
Why do we love it!
- Seasonal turtle nesting and hatching
- Marine based WILDchild Program
- PADI dive center
- Water sport activities
- Beach picnics
Family-Friendly Activities
- WILDchild Program
- Private dhow cruises
- Sea kayaking & Paddle boarding
- Morning walks & Turtle monitoring
- Snorkelling along coral reef
- Bake turtle biscuits with lodge chef
Suggested Itinerary – 12-Day Kenya and Zanzibar Safari
4) One&Only Gorillas Nest
Volcanoes National Park | Rwanda
Take your family to the heart of Rwanda and explore the land of gorillas and a thousand hills. Nestled beneath the majestic Volcanoes National Park, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest is perfectly positioned to take your family on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to witness the endangered mountain gorillas.
Due to age restrictions on gorilla trekking permits, we recommend that all family members be 15 years or older. Stay at the beautiful two-bedroom Forest Lodge, the perfect family retreat, with two separate rooms connected by spacious viewing decks.
Beyond gorilla trekking, there are plenty of adventures to enjoy, including encounters with golden monkeys, a hike to Dian Fossey’s grave site, exploring ancient caves, or trekking up Mount Bisoke. Given Rwanda’s rich history, a visit to the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village is also highly recommended. Read more here…
Malaria Risk: Situated in a low malaria-risk area*
Trip Types: 15 years and older
Why do we love it!
- Gorilla Trekking
- Golden Monkey Encounter
- Mount Bisoke Hike (Moderate fitness required)
- Authentic cultural experiences
- Farm-to-table dining
View our Suggested Itinerary in Rwanda
Types of Safari Activities for Kids
From my experience as a safari guide, children don’t get bored on safari—they thrive. Tablets and smartphones are quickly forgotten, replaced by binoculars, checklists, and endless discoveries. The right lodge and guide make this transformation effortless, turning curiosity into unforgettable adventure. Don’t believe me? Let me introduce you to just a few of the activities they can enjoy. Trust us – bring them. Your heart will swell!
1) Junior Ranger Programs: these dedicated (age-appropriate) programs are designed not only to entertain but also to educate your children while on safari and back at the lodge. From tick-box lists to daily adventure activities and challenges, kids can engage in exciting learning experiences. With their guide or lodge buddy, they can discover tracks and signs, learn to identify birds, explore cultural crafts, try pellet-gun shooting (age permitting), and gain insight into conservation.
2) Guided Nature Walks: of course, the main priority of the guide and lodge staff is to keep you (and the animals) safe at all times. Due to the nature of walking safaris, lodges set age limits based on the area and region. As a general rule, big game walking safaris are restricted to guests aged 16 and over. However, other nature walks may be possible when deemed safe by the guide and lodge.
3) Authentic Village Tours: without a doubt, learning about different cultures, lifestyles, and the triumphs and challenges of others is one of the most powerful aspects of travel. An authentic community visit offers a heartfelt and inspiring journey, allowing you to learn more about the people who live—often in harmony—with these last remaining wilderness spaces. Not only can your children gain insight into new cultures, but you’ll also have the opportunity to appreciate how your trip is contributing to community development. It’s a powerful experience!
4) Family Game Drives: like walking safaris, your guide’s priority is to keep you (and the animals) safe while you explore and experience the wilderness around you. Our safari partners have game drive policies that vary by area, but in general, you can use this as a basic guide:
- Children aged 0-2 years: Not permitted on game drives or nature walks.
- Children aged 3-5 years: Not permitted on game drives or nature walks (additional children’s drives may be requested).
- Children aged 6-11 years: Permitted on game drives only at the discretion of the lodge manager. Not permitted on nature walks.
- Children aged 12-16 years: Permitted on game drives and nature walks at the discretion of the lodge manager.
Of course, if you book a private vehicle or stay in a sole-use villa, these age policies may be more flexible. At Ubuntu Travel, we’ll naturally navigate these policies for you, ensuring you get the most from your family safari.
5) Sports with the Staff: As a South African, I cannot speak more passionately about the power of sport in bringing people from different backgrounds together. Many lodge staff members have their own soccer teams and fields, and netball or volleyball is often played as well. If you’re keen to be a little more active between game drives, ask the lodge staff if you can join – trust me, it will be one of the top three highlights of your trip! And if you’re a runner, a run is possible in some areas – do it!
Why Plan Your Family Safari with Ubuntu Travel?
Because we get it! Co-founders Kyle and Leah have two little wildlings of their own, already growing into adventurous young rangers. For us, planning family safaris isn’t just about using words like passionate, insightful, or engaging – it’s deeply personal. At Ubuntu Travel, we treat every family safari as if it were our own, ensuring no detail is left to chance. From seamless logistics to choosing the perfect lodge and guide, we create journeys that are immersive, stress-free, and truly unforgettable.
The Ubuntu Travel Difference
Ubuntu Travel is not just about planning family safaris – we create deeply personal, meaningful journeys that leave a lasting impact. Here’s what sets us apart:
- A Family-First Approach: As a family-run business, we understand the unique dynamics of traveling with children and multi-generational groups. Every detail is carefully considered to make your trip stress-free and enriching for all ages.
- Authentic & Personalized Experiences: No cookie-cutter safaris here. We design every journey around your interests, ensuring you experience Africa in a way that resonates with you and your loved ones.
- Expertly Curated Lodges & Guides: We personally know and trust the best lodges, private guides, and safari experiences in Africa, hand-selecting only those that meet our high standards of exclusivity, ethics, and hospitality.
- Conservation & Community Impact: Every trip with Ubuntu Travel contributes to wildlife conservation and community development, ensuring your journey leaves a positive footprint.
- Seamless, Worry-Free Travel: We handle everything – from private transfers and child-friendly accommodations to exclusive activities – so you can focus on creating unforgettable memories.
- 24/7 On-Safari and Back Support: From the moment you land to your last game drive and back home, we provide round-the-clock assistance, ensuring you have peace of mind and seamless travel throughout your journey.
At Ubuntu Travel, it’s not just a safari. It’s a journey designed for connection, discovery, and impact.
Ready to Plan Your Family Safari?
If you’re thinking of planning a trip, we’re here to help! Our team of travel designers will create an itinerary just for you to create memories to last a lifetime and conquer your bucket list. Get in touch with us today to start planning your adventure in Africa.
*Please understand that although the malaria risk statuses were taken from the respective sites. Please consult your local doctor on what they believe will be best for your family at the time of travel.*
