The top locations in Southern Africa to enjoy a safari in the company of your loved ones.
Families are spoiled for choice when choosing a safari area in South Africa. Those with older children might opt for the Kruger National Park or one of the private game reserves that form part of it. Families with young children can choose a malaria-free safari destination where the Big Five can be viewed. Malaria-risk areas, including Kruger, are listed on the CDC Yellow Book page for South Africa.
Sabi Sand
The Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve is the ideal, if not perfect, destination for a luxury African safari vacation. Children and parents alike can enjoy prolific game viewing and experience and learn much about Africa and its wildlife through encounters and events set up by a host of lodges and facilitated by knowledgeable game rangers and spotters. All lodges here have either a pool or a spa where you can relax for the day and enjoy the serenity of the wilderness. Sabi Sand is, however, recommended for older children, as some lodges have a minimum age for guests to respect others on their respective getaways. Malaria is a risk here and precautions should be taken, but most rooms are equipped with mosquito nets over beds and complimentary repellent. A three- to four-day stay is recommended, enough time to enjoy and view as much as possible, from lion kills to great birds of prey and gentle giants.
Kruger National Park
The Kruger National Park is one of Africa’s largest national parks, and is very diverse when it comes to habitats and plant growth due to its longitudinal length. The park has a wealth of animals to encounter, and night drives add the excitement of viewing species that go largely unnoticed by day. There are many different camps and lodges to choose from, which means that the park can accommodate a wide variety of budgets and family configurations. Furthermore, there are a host of activities offered in and around the Kruger National Park such as elephant encounters, viewing vulture restaurants or simply relaxing by the pool or in the spa. SANParks describes the malaria risk as usually low and seasonal, but prophylaxis is still advised, which is why we recommend that children be older than 8 years of age. Our Kruger National Park facts infographic shows the park’s size, seasonal temperatures and camps.
Mozambique’s Archipelagos
Mozambique’s Bazaruto and Quirimbas archipelagos are home to pristine white beaches, untouched coral reefs and thriving marine ecosystems to view and enjoy. These archipelagos combine that hardy African safari vacation with its marine life, with the classic tropical island vacation full of activities like snorkeling, kayaking, swimming, diving and sailing. There will be plenty of time and tranquil locations to accommodate a relaxing afternoon in the sun, with a cocktail close by as you watch the kids enjoy the ocean, reefs and beaches. For a relaxing, educational or simply memorable break in the natural world, this might just be the family destination for you. Note, though, that the Quirimbas, in Cabo Delgado Province, are off our list for now, and its two best-known island lodges, Azura Quilalea and Anantara Medjumbe, are temporarily closed, so for now Bazaruto is the family choice. The risk of malaria is often reduced on these offshore islands; however, you should always consult a medical professional regarding the necessary precautions for your specific destination before you travel.
KwaZulu-Natal
The South African province of KwaZulu-Natal has so many sights and wonders for families to explore together. The iSimangaliso Wetland Park, which includes destinations like Sodwana Bay, creates the prospect of a seaside safari and the opportunity to explore the rich natural life of Southern Africa’s eastern coast. The ocean’s creatures can be experienced up close and personal, as some lodges offer diving activities for the whole family. Alternatively, the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve opens the door to a classical African safari, with the possibility of rare black rhino and leopard sightings. There are also a number of historic sights the family can visit together. In most of these areas malaria is not a problem, but the northern parts of Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve do come with an intermediate risk of malaria, so precautions when traveling to this particular part of the province is recommended.
Sossusvlei
Namibia’s Sossusvlei region is a desert paradise. This desert is among the oldest in the world, with canyons and dunes that have been around for millions of years. Quad bikes are not allowed in the park, but the permitted coastal dunes near Swakopmund, a five- to six-hour drive or a short flight away, are made for them, and even the most reserved family member turns into a bit of an adrenaline junkie. Some of the dunes here are so illustrious that they have been given names, including “Big Daddy” and “Dune 45”. Additionally, the quiet desert life brings about the most spectacular night skies, where the whole galaxy suddenly appears to be sitting on your doorstep, and the desert seems entirely lit although far away from the lights of cities. Hot air balloon rides are also included in the long list of activities the whole family can enjoy. All this, and there is no malaria risk whatsoever, which makes it a fine family safari destination.
Victoria Falls
The combination of the Zambezi River and Victoria Falls makes for a great getaway. The varied landscapes around the falls make for plenty of family activities. You can zip-line across the canyon just south of the falls, or visit the island a pebble’s throw from the edge and feel the mist on your face. A highlight is sure to be the sunset cruise on the Zambezi, savoring the stunning scenery. The area is a must-visit for those who haven’t heard “The Smoke that Thunders”, as the locals refer to the waterfall. The accommodation and lodges within the area are some of the best in continental Southern Africa, alongside those of the Sabi Sand, the Okavango Delta and other parts of Botswana. Keep in mind that malaria is a risk factor, however.
Okavango Delta
The Okavango Delta enjoys one of the most beautiful and spectacular seasonal landscape changes in the world. Rain that falls on the Angolan highlands between November and March flows slowly down the Okavango River, reaching the delta from about March to May. The flood peaks around July and recedes from September to November, so the delta is at its fullest in the middle of the dry season, just when herds from the surrounding dry country come looking for water. Boat rides, amazing game viewing experiences and the ever-present spectacle of the delta itself make a family safari here one that will never be forgotten. Animals of all kinds can be spotted crossing over the water mass in search of food, which make the game viewing opportunities especially plentiful. This sudden burst of life can be experienced from a number of top-notch lodges and camps in the area, giving you the added bonus of luxury. Malaria is unfortunately a real risk here and precautions are necessary, which is why older children are also recommended for this particular trip. Our Botswana safaris show the delta camps we use.