Planning a perfect family safari holiday in Kenya can be a daunting task, but when done right, it will truly be memorable and rewarding.
A family safari holiday is a transformative adventure that strengthens the bond between loved ones, instils curiosity, and creates unforgettable moments. The planning isn’t just for grown-ups, engaging the children in the planning builds anticipation and ensures they’re part of the process.
What are the things to consider when planning a family safari holiday in Kenya?
- Family’s Needs: Understand the family’s need. Whether it’s dietary restrictions, mobility concerns, or an insatiable desire to spot certain animals such as cheetahs, lions or leopards, understanding a family’s needs sets the foundation for your itinerary.
- Age Matters: When travelling with toddlers, you’ll need shorter activities and downtime for rests and sleeping. For teenagers, be ready for a mix of eye-rolls and bursts of excitement when they spot an amazing sighting lion.
- Energy Levels: Some families thrive on action-packed days, while others prefer a slower pace. Be honest about what will work to avoid mid-safari meltdowns (from kids or parents).
- What’s the dream? Is it hearing the thunder of hooves during the Great Migration or learning about Maasai culture firsthand?
- Variety of Experiences: From the open plains of the Masai Mara to the lakes of the Rift Valley, Kenya offers a host of family-friendly activities.
- Educational Opportunities: Kids can learn about Africa’s ecosystems, wildlife, and cultures in a very interactive environment. Many guides are trained to engage young travellers with fun facts and interactive activities.
- Specialised Lodges: Consider lodges are actually family-friendly, with activities such as bush lessons, wildlife tracking, and even junior ranger programs.
What are their interests?
Wildlife Enthusiasts: If spotting the Big Five is on your bucket list, focus on parks like the Masai Mara or Amboseli. The game drives give you an opportunity to view wild animals in their natural habitat as they go about their daily activities. Enjoy the African wildlife spectacle in the comfort of your safari vehicle that, a sure way to give you that classical safari feeling.
Cultural Explorers: Are you keen to learn about the rich traditions of East Africa? Include stops at cultural villages or community projects.
Nature Lovers: Some just want to bask in the beauty of untouched landscapes and serene lodges
Which are the Best destinations for a Family Safari in Kenya?
Masai Mara: The ultimate Kenya safari destination. Endless plains, abundant wildlife, and family-friendly lodges make this an amazing Kenya safari destination. Masai Mara is perfect for Big Five sightings and the Great Migration. The abundance of wildlife and the spectacular landscapes of the Masai Mara make a game drive a must-have experience for anyone on a Masai Mara safari tour. You can expect to encounter large numbers of animals all year-round, with big herds of elephants, buffaloes, cheetahs, lions and other plains game.
Amboseli: Amboseli National Park is renowned for its large elephant populations and stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro. The sight of these gentle giants roaming freely against the backdrop of the towering mountain is a memory that will stay with you forever. The park provides an excellent setting for elephant viewing and photography.
Samburu: If you’re craving something off the beaten track, Samburu is famous for unique species commonly known as the Samburu special five, they include; Reticulated giraffe and Grevy’s zebra, Somali Ostrich, Beisa Oryx and Gerenuk.
Lake Naivasha: These parks are ideal for birdwatching and boat rides, walking with the wildlife in the Crescent Island, biking in Hell’s Gate National Park and swimming in the Geothermal Spa. These are activities that keep the kids engaged.
Diani Beach: Diani offers a variety of activities and amenities that cater to younger travelers, including shallow, protected waters, family-friendly resorts, and dedicated kids’ clubs. Many hotels have dedicated kids’ clubs with organized activities and supervised play.
Planning a family safari is an opportunity to create unforgettable memories, inspire a love for nature, and foster deep connections among loved ones. By understanding your family’s needs, setting well-defined goals, and taking the services of a reputable tour operator will help you design a safari experience that is as enriching as it is exciting.
With its prolific wildlife, family friendly lodges and camps, and its diverse landscapes, Kenya is the definitive family safari holiday destination. From witnessing the Great Migration in the Masai Mara, to elephants in Amboseli, cultural interactions in Samburu.
Ready to start Planning a Perfect family Safari Holiday in Kenya? Let Arrow Adventures plan a customized safari for your family. Contact us today for your personalized consultation.