Africa’s Best Destinations for Multi-Generational Families
No family gathering is more memorable than a safari holiday. Filled with action-packed itineraries for the buzzy youngsters, and relaxed bush meanderings for the older generation, it’s got everything.
Bringing the whole squad on safari comes with its unique perks. For a large family holiday, as safari camps tend to be small and intimate, if you plan far enough in advance you have a unique chance of hiring out a whole lodge at no extra cost than the per person rate. This is the stuff of holiday dreams (or nightmares, depending on your family…)
All jokes aside, nothing can quite cultivate the same response in an eight and an 80-year-old like awe-inspiring wildlife sightings. Watching a leopard prowl or catching the breeze of an elephant’s ear is universally incredible, no matter your age.
For a holiday where children are just as entertained as the adults, safari has the golden ticket. Here are the best places for multigenerational families in Africa.
Southern Tanzania – Ruaha National Park and Nyerere National Park
When the whole family is coming along, it’s important to be wary of costs adding up. This is where wild treasure Southern Tanzania comes in; overshadowed by its northern rival The Serengeti, the Ruaha National Park and Nyerere National Park offer a slice of untouched magic for half the price.
But don’t be fooled – it is no less incredible. From the intense lion vs elephant showdowns in the red-burnt, baobab-studded Ruaha, to the watery, dreamlike Nyerere – formerly called The Selous – the experience is equal to, and if not more than the north, if you value wilderness over other people.
Jabali Ridge Private House is a great exclusive-use property.
© Asilia
Activities between the parks are also a massive draw, as you can enjoy boating, fishing, game drives, and walking safaris – keeping those who might become fidgety in vehicles entertained. Zanzibar Archipelago – and all the white sand beaches and family-orientated boutique hotels that come with it – is also just a short flight away, making southern Tanzania a tempting safari and beach option too.
Lower Zambezi, Zambia
Where Botswana prides itself on luxury, Zambia is all about authenticity. Its lodges are family-friendly and have a smiling, laid-back atmosphere without scrimping on safari-quality food, service and amenities.
The Lower Zambezi National Park offers some of the most varied water-based experiences on the continent, with the best tiger fishing in Africa, beautiful sunset boat cruises, and even canoeing for the intrepid.
Combining this with a trip to Victoria Falls – hugely memorable for all the family – as well as an action-packed South Luangwa safari, and you have an incredible multi-generational itinerary everyone will love.
Laikipia, Kenya
Zoom into the horizon on a quad bike, horse ride over the hills, game drive into the night, or simply laze around in a vast, secure lodge all to yourself, while watching wildlife stroll in and out of view – Kenya’s Laikipia Plateau is brilliant for families.
Kenya is the original safari destination; it knows what it’s doing, and as such is set up for families, especially young children. This area in particular benefits from the existence of huge, private conservancies, which allow for freedom of activities and their exclusivity means you can enjoy the region all to yourself.
Enjoy the views of Lewa!
© Lewa House
There’s no need to return to camp before dark here; if something exciting is happening, the wilderness is your oyster. Oh, and it’s got some of the most magnificent views in Africa, with the dramatic escarpment backdrop above roaming elephants, prowling lions, and trotting rhinos.
Madikwe, South Africa
Being a non-marial destination, Madikwe offers a great place for the whole family to enjoy a wonderful safari experience, all within a four-hour drive of Johannesburg.
With all members of the Big 5 in abundance, plus cheetah, wild dog, and brown hyena, you have the chance to experience some of Africa’s finest game viewing.
Non-Malarial, big five safari in Madikwe
© Madikwe Hills
The South African Rand is also pretty weak at the moment, so not only will everyone have something to keep them occupied, it will also cost a fraction of the price of some other destinations.
