21 Best Places to Stay on Africa Family Holidays

Nothing brings a brood closer than making memories and sharing unforgettable experiences on a family getaway. And nothing will top making those memories and sharing those experiences on a family safari. It might not be the first destination that comes to mind, but Africa is indeed one of the most family-friendly places in the world, with lodges and camps designing accommodation, tours and programmes specifically for those who want to go on safari with children, teenagers or extended family.

No matter the size, age range or interests, Africa has a family safari holiday for everyone. Here at Go2Africa, we understand that planning an African safari with kids can be a daunting task at times. To make things a little easier, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best places to visit in Africa with family for a safari holiday:

South Africa Lodges

1. Lion Sands River Lodge

Located in the lauded Sabi Sands Game Reserve bordering the world-renowned Kruger National Park, guests will have access to a total of 2.7 million hectares of protected African wilderness. Game are free to roam between the two and together they make one of the most bio-diverse wildlife populations, including the famous Sabi leopards.

A sumptuous family suite invites relaxation and exudes luxury while maintaining a home-away-from-home feeling. A spacious private terrace and pool sprawl along the front of the Family River Suite offering sensational views. Between the game drives, guided nature walks, photography opportunities, spa & fitness centre, and the innovative Creative Lab, there truly is something for everyone to enjoy.

Highlights:

• A bio-diverse array of game & birdlife
• A chance to see the Sabi leopards
• Exceptional, experienced rangers and trackers
• Diverse amenities
• Child-friendly with activities for young travellers

Best for…

Couples, families and multi-generational travel.

2. Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge

Another resident of the iconic Sabi Sands Game Reserve, Sabi Sands Bush Lodge not only overlooks a waterhole, but is highly family orientated. A sublime combination of luxurious finishes and classic African décor create a convivial space. Rise and shine before dawn for a quick snack before venturing into the bush for some of the top game viewing experiences in South Africa. With a professional guide at the helm, each game drive brings unique sightings and exciting experiences.

Return in the late afternoon for a second chance at seeing local wildlife. In between, indulge in some time at the spa or embark on a guided walk. Children are entertained at the EleFun Centre, the Junior Trackers Programme, and Junior Rangers programmes for age-appropriate ‘edutainment’. As far as African family holidays go, Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge has it all.

Highlights:

• Specific child-friendly education & entertainment
• Twice-daily game drives & nature walks
• Viewing decks overlooking a waterhole
• Spa and private dining available
• Fantastic wildlife sightings

Best for…

Families with young children and multi-generational travel.

3. Simbavati River Lodge

Located on an unfenced border of Kruger National Park in the Timbavati Private Game Reserve, Simbavati River Lodge is the ideal destination for safari enthusiasts. Given its location in a private reserve, visitors are treated to various activities unavailable in Kruger National Park. Not only is the reserve less busy, but off-road driving is allowed – which often leads to exciting sightings – as well as spot-lit night drives and guided nature walks.

Relax on the expansive deck overlooking the Nhlaralumi River for a taste of ‘armchair safaris’ and indulge in a classic African safari experience. As a family-friendly lodge, children are invited to participate in special programmes, amenities, and activities geared at entertainment and age-appropriate education.

Highlights:

• River-front location providing lovely views
• Ideal for families
• Great wildlife diversity
• Spot-lit night drives
• Expansive deck and pool

Best for…

Families with young or older children.

4. Marataba Safari Lodge

Located in a private concession, Marakele National Park, this malaria-free area offers a delightful family-friendly escape. With a nod to ancient runes, the lodge  pays homage to local materials, constructed from stone with large glass windows. While the windows allow natural light to stream through, they also allow for great wildlife sightings, with a chance of seeing at least 4 of the Big 5.

A large, sweeping pool complete with loungers and umbrellas look across to vast mountains. An abundance of activities, including a Mack & Madi Kids’ Adventure Safari Club, ensure there is plenty to do. Alternatively, indulge in a delightful spa treatment or simply bask in the tranquil atmosphere and admire the scenery. For any safari experiences that don’t accommodate children, a team of experienced minders are on-hand.

Highlights:

• Located in a malaria-free area
• Spacious suites with expansive views
• Magnificent mountain backdrops
• Mack & Madi Kids’ Adventure Safari Club
• Spa treatments and a large pool

Best for…

Active families and multi-generational travel.

5. Thornybush: Kamara House & Little Saseka

Discover a luxury African safari villa in one of South Africa’s most popular safari destinations, the Greater Kruger National Park. More specifically, Thornybush Nature Reserve within the Kruger. As an exclusive-use villa, Kamara House is ideal for families who wish to explore the area. A team of friendly, dedicated staff, from a chef and butler to a personal guide and tracker, make this the perfect family accommodation. Venture out for game drives and nature walks, or watch as wildlife approach the small riverbed in front of the villa – the ideal armchair safari.

Alternatively, escape to Thornybush’s most luxurious African safari camp, Saseka Tented Camp. Or, more specifically, Little Saseka. This spacious, exclusive, safari villa has been designed with exceptional attention to detail ideal for couples or small families looking for a private safari escape. A specially-designed safari vehicle and expert guides combine to create rewarding twice-daily game drives.

Highlights:

• Discover one of South Africa’s premier safari destinations
• Child-friendly activities
• Fantastic wildlife sightings
• Game drives and nature walks

Best for…

Multi-generational family travel or small groups.

Botswana Camps

6. Khwai Leadwood

Situated on the pristine banks of the Khwai River within the Khwai Concession of Moremi Game Reserve sits a luxury safari camp, Khwai Leadwood. Elegantly appointed Meru-style tents exude grandeur and comfort. The lavish interiors open up onto a private deck, complete with hammock and seating area, that showcase the views.

Discover the area on game drives, mokoro (traditional canoe) safaris, and even night drives. Photography enthusiasts can also look forward to safaris geared for them. Alternatively, enjoy bush dining, bird watching, star gazing, sundowners and even cultural visits. Children are kept entertained with the Ngwana Club, which includes arts and crafts, cooking lessons, and nature walks around camp.

Highlights:

• Ngwana Club for kids
• Mokoro safaris (water levels permitting)
• Daytime game drives, night drives, and walking safaris
• Star gazing, bird watching, and bush dining
• Photographic safaris

Best for…

Families of all kinds.

7. Linyanti Ebony

Immerse yourself in nature and get completely off the grid at this charming family accommodation – Linyanti Ebony. This comfortable and stylish camp sits between two of Africa’s safari gems – the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park – which ensures that the family will be treated to big game sightings as well as an authentic experience. Rough it in the African wilderness – sleeping under canvas tents and digitally detoxing with no WiFi or network coverage. Of course, you won’t be completely at nature’s mercy as Linyanti Ebony provides every creature comfort one would need to unwind after days of adventure.

Highlights:

• Comfortable & stylish camp on the Linyanti Channel
• Located between two big game havens, the Okavango Delta & Chobe National Park
• Ngwana Club offers a variety of children’s activities
• Scenic helicopter flights over the diverse landscape (April to November)
• Game drives, guided nature walks & mokoro (traditional canoe) trips
• Reliable sightings of lion, African wild dog & elephant

Best for…

Families with younger children.

Namibia Lodges

8. Sossusvlei Lodge

Sossusvlei Lodge is the ideal base from which to explore the Namib Desert. The more adventurous at heart can explore the world’s oldest desert through a variety of exciting activities, including on quadbike (ATV), helicopter flights and hot-air balloon – or do it the old-fashioned way and hike up some of the largest sand dunes around.

Highlights:

• Comfortable family accommodation adjacent to the Namib-Naukluft National Park – the largest game reserve in Africa
• Adventure Centre offers a wide variety of exciting activities
• Wildlife-frequented watering hole
• Beer garden & swimming pool
• Guided walks to Sossusvlei & Elm Dunes
• Archery lessons

Best for…

Families with teenagers and grown-up children.

9. Sossusvlei Desert Lodge

One of the best African lodges for families, Sossusvlei Desert Lodge is a true oasis in this hauntingly beautiful landscape. Bring the entire family along for a trip of a lifetime. Little ones are kept busy with a range of child-friendly activities, while the older members of the family can discover the wonders of Sossusvlei and Deadvlei through a variety of adventurous activities. Explore Namibia’s star dunes (Dune 45 and Big Daddy) on foot – just a stone’s throw away from the lodge – or get a bird’s-eye view of this landscape frozen in time on a scenic helicopter flip. Experience all of this from the sustainable lap of luxury that is the Sossusvlei Desert Lodge.

Highlights:

• Exclusive 5-star luxury getaway in the Sossusvlei Private Desert Reserve
• Skylights above each bed to stargaze as you fall asleep
• Location adjacent to a Dark Sky Reserve provides impeccable stargazing
• Private observatory & resident astronomer
• Hiking, quad biking (ATV), dune climbing & e-biking
• Hot-air ballooning & helicopter flights
• Wine cellar, state-of-the-art gym & world-class spa
• WILDChild programme keeps kids entertained
• Child-minding services available

Best for…

Multi-generational family getaways.

Zimbabwe Camps

10. Fothergill Island

Fothergill delivers a unique land- and water-based safari experience in Zimbabwe’s Matusadona National Park. This unique tented camp offers a range of accommodation options, including distinct individual suites and spacious family suites. On the lakeside, guests can relish the expansive green lawns and open spaces, with the family tent providing sweeping views of the picturesque Lake Kariba. Alternatively, the bush side of the camp offers a more densely vegetated environment. To ensure the safety of guests, especially children, the entire premises is safeguarded by a fence.

Highlights:

• Luxury tented camp in the underrated Matusadona National Park
• Family suites boast private pools
• Fenced property ensures a secure and tranquil environment for kids
• Children of all ages welcome
• Boat cruises, catch-and-release fishing, game drives & big game walks

Best for…

Families with children of all ages.

11. The Elephant Camp

Located in a private concession just a stone’s throw from the mighty Victoria Falls, is the enchanting Elephant Camp. The camp is known for its resident elephants who frequent the camp’s surroundings. Guests are invited to interact further with these gentle giants at the Wild Horizons Elephant Sanctuary. Luxurious, air-conditioned en-suite tents provide a sublime retreat, complete with private plunge pools and decks.

Venture to the vast Victoria Falls, embark on day tours, game drives, and cultural visits or simply enjoy a picnic. For the adventurers, white-water rafting, bungee jumping, Devil’s Pool, and more await. As a family, serene sunset river cruises are a fantastic way to spend time together.

Highlights:

• Close proximity to the iconic Victoria Falls
• A chance to interact with elephants
• Private deck and plunge pool
• Sunset river cruises
• Opportunities for adventurous activities

Best for…

Multi-generational family getaways.

Zambia Lodge

12. Tangala Private House at Tongabezi Lodge

Indulge in a perfect blend of luxury and adventure, just 12 kilometres (7.5 miles) upstream from the magnificent Victoria Falls. This award-winning eco-lodge offers complete serenity on the banks of the Zambezi River. Tongabezi Lodge comprises exquisite river cottages and three exclusive-use family houses, each embodying a sense of individuality and exclusivity.

The largest of the family houses, Tangala Private House, is an exquisite retreat for families. While conveniently located near the main lodge at Tongabezi, the house maintains an exclusive and secure ambiance for your family’s privacy. A large swimming pool features a shallow area with bench seating for the little ones.

Highlights:

• Award-winning lodge in a secluded location
• 12 km (7.5 mi) from Victoria Falls
• Luxurious family escapes
• Specially-designed game vehicle and twice-daily game drives
• Sunset boat cruises and game drives in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park
• Guided tours of Victoria Falls

Best for…

Multi-generational family holidays.

13. Thorntree River Lodge

Thorntree River Lodge makes the most of its location in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park by providing the ideal getaway for a multi-generational family safari. The youngest of the group participate in a wide range of age appropriate activities in the Ngwana Club, while older kids and teenagers have a blast exploring Africa’s Adventure Capital, via white-water rafting, ziplining, bungee-jumping and more. While the youngsters are having fun, the adults in the group can enjoy the tranquil surroundings of nature by enjoying a drink on the viewing deck or indulging in a spa treatment. And, of course, quality time together is spent on game drives through the park, searching for big game while bonding as a family.

Highlights:

• Luxury 5-star lodge overlooking the Zambezi River
• Track endangered white rhino on foot in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park
• Close proximity to Victoria Falls, Africa’s Adventure Capital
• The Ngwana Club keeps little ones entertained
• Private cruises & canoeing on the river
• Private swimming pool, spa & gym

Best for…

Multi-generational family holidays.

Seychelles Resorts

14. Constance Ephelia

Nestled between two breath-taking white sand beaches on the captivating island of Mahé, Constance Ephelia presents an idyllic setting for a cherished Seychelles getaway. Overlooking the enchanting Port Launay Marine National Park, this five-star resort effortlessly harmonises with its natural surroundings – a sprawling 120-hectare coastline adorned with rare and lush vegetation. Constance Ephelia is one of the continent’s sought-after African resorts for families, offering a tranquil and unspoiled sanctuary for bonding with loved ones.

Ephelia’s five restaurants serve delicious local cuisine and offer different menus to tickle the tastebuds of all ages – including gourmet baby food! Children can also indulge in a world of themed programs, cooking classes, and movies at the Constance Kids Club. Designed for children aged four to eleven, this exceptional club is staffed by friendly and highly trained professionals who are dedicated to creating a memorable experience for your little ones – solidifying it as one the island’s choice family resorts. Older guests can head to Ephelia’s alluring spa village (the biggest in the Indian Ocean), or enjoy activities like tennis, squash, swimming and snorkelling from the resort’s private beach.

Highlights:

• Five-star beach resort located 40 minutes from Seychelles International Airport
• Spacious and modern suites surrounded by a lush landscape
• Excellent weather conditions for land-based and water sports
• Five restaurants with kid-friendly menus
• Constance Kids Club offers themed programmes, cooking classes, movies and more

Best for…

Active families with children of all ages.

Tanzania Lodges

15. Gibbs Farm

Gibbs Farm exudes a warm and welcoming atmosphere that will have your family feeling as if you never left home. Situated on a working farm, the property offers a wide variety of activities that could see you milking cows, feeding pigs and roasting Gibbs’ famous coffee beans. And outside the border of the farm even more adventure awaits – encounter the wildlife in the surrounding national parks, walk the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater and discover a towering waterfall or mystical elephant caves.

Highlights:

• A rustic, farm-style retreat lying on the outer slopes of the Ngorongoro Crater
• Game drives through Ngorongoro Crater National Park & Lake Manyara National Park
• Walk the Crater rim & discover the towering waterfalls & elephant caves
• Work on the dairy farm & tour the coffee plantation
• Farm-to-table meals with ingredients sourced from the garden
• Swimming pool, biking, jogging trails & award-winning spa

Best for…

Families with children of all ages.

16. Singita Sasakwa

Settle into a turn-of-the-century style manor house that oozes grandeur and pays homage to a bygone safari era. Its elevated position on the unfenced slopes of Sasakwa Hill in Tanzania’s vast Grumeti Reserve, offers spectacular sweeping views. The Serengeti is lauded for being one of the greatest natural spectacles on earth; a place where each year over a million wildebeest embark on an epic migration.

Private cottages, in various configurations and complete with plunge pools, offer an ideal opportunity for family travel. Singita Sasakwa has no age limit and offers a signature mini rangers’ course, cooking opportunities, arts and crafts, and star gazing for all ages. In addition to safari the standard safari staples, game drives and guided walks, with an opportunity to view the iconic Big 5. While kids are busy with entertaining activities, adults can enjoy the on-site spa and gym, or even the tennis and archery courts.

Highlights:

• Year-round sightings on game drives
• Private cottages and plunge pools
• Singita mini rangers course and other child-centric activities
• On-site spa, gym, tennis and archery courts
• African lodge for families with children of all ages

Best for…

Multi-generational family travel and children of all ages.

17. Taasa Lodge

Found on the edge of Serengeti National Park, enjoying far-reaching views of the Lobo Valley, is Taasa Lodge. Comprising just a handful of luxury tents, this African safari lodge offers stylish accommodation and superlative service. Each tent features a private verandah to relax and unwind when not exploring the surrounding area. Expect fantastic wildlife viewing thanks to game drives, walking safaris, hot air balloon safaris, and enthralling Masaai cultural experiences.

At the right time of year, witness the world-renowned Great Migration. By day, enjoy safari excursions, take advantage of the pool, and unwind in the indoor or outdoor lounge. By night dine in the Boma by a roaring fire while exchanging stories and admiring the stars. Children of all ages are welcome and can look forward to fun activities such as tracking, star gazing, and spear throwing with Maasai Warriors.

Highlights:

• Luxury en-suite tented accommodation
• Boma dinners
• Game drives, walking safaris, hot air balloon safaris
• Opportunities to experience Masaai culture
• Children of all ages welcome

Best for…

Families with younger children.

Kenya Lodges & Camps

18. El Karama Lodge

Explore an intimate eco-lodge known for its family-friendly atmosphere, and as a leader in sustainable and responsible tourism. This owner-run ranch brought together natural materials found in the surrounding area to create stone, thatch, and canvas cottages. Its location, Laikipia, is lauded as a more exclusive destination, ideal for a diverse Kenya family safari away from the crowds.

Enjoy a welcoming atmosphere, warm hospitality, and lovely views of Mount Kenya. Daily game drives and guided nature walks reveal the local wildlife, which include lion, leopard, elephant, hippo, cheetah, and Grevy’s zebra to name a few. An abundance of birdlife, roughly 420 species, flit around the farm and surrounds, a twitchers’ paradise. Children of all ages are welcome and kept engaged and entertained with activities like botany walks, ranger patrol, clay sculpting, painting, and fishing.

Highlights:

• Game drives and guided bush walks
• Ample children’s activities
• Owner-run eco-lodge on a private ranch
• Wonderful views

Best for…

Active families with children of any age.

19. Ol Malo Lodge

Seemingly floating above the world, Ol Malo’s position on an escarpment overlooking Kenya’s Northern Frontier and Laikipia Plateau ensures sublime, sweeping views. A thatched main lodge and matching en-suite cottages adorn the escarpment. Cool off in the infinity pool and marvel at the far-reaching wilderness below.

Embark on an array of exciting safari activities from game drives and guided walking safaris to horseback safaris, star gazing and night drives. Local village and cultural visits are also possible. Nothing says African safari experience like bush picnics and sundowners towards the end of an afternoon game drive. Tailored activities and adventures for children ensure they are kept entertained and have fun.

Highlights:

• Fantastic, sweeping views
• Infinity pool
• Game drives and guided walking safaris
• Horseback safaris and cultural visits
• Child-centric activities and adventures

Best for…

Active and multi-generational families.

20. AndBeyond Bateleur Camp

Welcome to the Western Mara, a location so sublime it was used for the closing scenes of the iconic movie, Out of Africa. Peeking out from under the sprawling canopies of a nearby forest is Bateleur Camp, an opulent tented camp. Spacious, inviting communal areas and a refreshing pool provide a convivial place to unwind. Enjoy the understated attention and service brought by a personal butler.

Make the most of the camp’s location and enjoy full-day safaris, private game drives, guided walking safaris, and even hot air balloon safaris. Keep an eye out for Africa’s iconic Big 5 and, at the right time of year, witness the Great Migration. Take the opportunity to learn more about the Maasai culture and even join in for a Maasai dance. The camp’s WILDchild Programme has been designed to keep children engaged and exploring.

Highlights:

• Big 5 game viewing
• Game drives, guided walks, hot air balloon safaris
• WILDchild Programme for children
• Maasai cultural experiences
• Private butler service

Best for…

Families of any kind.

21. Naboisho Camp

It’s all about the wildlife at Naboisho Camp. With its location near one of Africa’s most iconic safari spots – the Masai Mara – you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better Kenya family tour that offers comfortable, authentic safari lodgings for the whole brood as well as front-row seats to the Great Wildebeest Migration. And while the adults are exploring the untamed wilderness on hot-air balloon rides and nature walks, they can rest assured knowing that their children are in the safe and capable hands of the Naboisho guides, who have a day of age-appropriate activities planned.

Highlights:

• See the annual Great Wildebeest Migration (July to November)
• Game drives through the iconic Masai Mara National Reserve
• Night drives & guided bush walks through the private conservancy
• Reliable big cat sightings
• Special photography safaris & fly camping in the bush
• Children’s safari programme to keep the little ones busy
• Hot-air balloon rides over the Mara

Best for…

Families with young kids or grown-up children.

Ready to Plan Your Family Holiday in Africa?

Are you ready to look at planning a visit to these fantastic African lodges and camps for families?? No matter the destination or the family configuration, our African Safari Experts are on hand to create your ideal itinerary. Get in contact: