Your family holiday begins as you arrive at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg and collect your rental vehicle. Make your way to Jaci’s Safari Lodge, set a three-hour drive north of Johannesburg in the Madikwe Private Game Reserve, a malaria-free, private Big 5 conservation area on the edge of the Kalahari. Situated on the edge of the Marico River, this lodge not only offers uninterrupted views but it has been specifically designed for families with children.

Go on early morning, late afternoon and early evening game drives to search for the Big 5 and other classic African animals. You may however want to spend the hottest part of the day relaxing and playing in the large swimming pool, enjoying views of the river below. Family game drives are made a little shorter to keep the children engaged and informative guides will ensure your children long remember the wonderful moment of seeing their first lion or giraffe in the wild.

Children under the age of four can even go on special jungle drives. A large play area will keep the kids busy during the afternoon and professional staff are always on hand to watch over them if you’d like to go on your own game drive or enjoy a romantic dinner without the little ones. The children will also have their own menu in the evenings, featuring favourite dishes like spaghetti bolognaise, hot dogs and hamburgers.

Today you will say goodbye to Madikwe as you return your vehicle to OR Tambo International Airport and catch your flight to Mauritius. You will be met at the airport and transferred to LUX*Belle Mare Resort, situated on the sheltered east coast of the island.

Spend the next five days in paradise: relax on two kilometres of pristine beach or take part in exciting watersports such as kayaking, wind surfing and scuba diving. There are two 18-hole golf courses, no fewer than four swimming pools and a spa as well as 15 hectares of tropical gardens.

If the children are too young to join you on boat cruises or snorkelling expeditions, Belle Mare Resort also has a kids club and baby sitters who will have them searching for treasure on the beach, making crafts and playing sports. In the evenings you can dine in style while you are entertained by local dancers. The children can enjoy their own menu and can either join you for dinner or be cared for by the 24-hour baby sitting service.

Enjoy one last island breakfast before you transfer back to the airport and catch your connecting flight home, taking with you fantastic family memories.