In Africa, there are many countries which offer opportunities to explore their respective regions of grassland, desert and savannahs.
While safari is a highly popular holiday type, venturing into the African wilderness requires careful planning, not just to guarantee an amazing experience, but also to ensure everyone’s safety and help you respect the natural habitats you’ll be visiting. Here are ten essential tips to make your family safari not only special and memorable but safe for the whole family.
Before Your Trip
The Essentials
We recommend starting your safari journey by finding a reputable and experienced tour operator. Unsure where to start? Look for companies with a strong track record in organising family-friendly safaris, or who feature on reputable holiday operator websites.
With a family, there’s naturally a greater need to ensure the safety of any children or elderly people who may be accompanying you. An experienced operator will safeguard your group and make sure your adventure into the wilderness is well-planned and guided by experts in the field.
Africa is home to a truly massive variety of animals, and understanding what your trip might entail is crucial. You can’t expect to know the Animals in Africa from A to Z, but you should have some awareness and understanding of certain animals in the locations you visit, both as a safety precaution and to know what to look for.
Some tips for safari safety to learn before you go:
- While observing any wild animals on safari, remember that you’re in their habitat.
- Always maintain a safe distance and follow your guide’s instructions.
- Avoid making sudden movements or loud noises that may startle the animals.
Some common animals to watch out for and approach with caution include lions, as they are apex predators and should be observed from a safe distance, almost always from within a vehicle. Elephants too, despite their gentle appearance, can be protective of their young and territory, so it’s vital to respect their space and avoid getting too close. Cape buffaloes are known for their unpredictable nature and are considered one of the “Big Five” animals; maintain a safe distance and avoid provoking them.
Hippos may seem docile in the water, but they are surprisingly agile and can be aggressive on land, so it’s best to appreciate them from a distance. A final one to consider is the presence of crocodiles in many bodies of water. They are stealthy hunters commonly found near major water sources, so exercise caution when near rivers and lakes.
Choosing Your Safari
Africa’s highly diverse landscape means there are a great number of countries you can go on safari in, to see the above animals. The Maasai Mara in Kenya is a popular choice, known for its annual wildebeest migration and the likelihood of seeing the aforementioned “Big Five” (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros). Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park is another top pick, famed for vast grasslands and some unparalleled predator-prey interactions, including crocodiles and alligators.
Another is South Africa’s Kruger National Park, which has a reputation as a family-friendly destination, due to its well-maintained infrastructure that makes it accessible for travellers of all ages. If you’re keen to go off the beaten path, you’ve got Botswana’s Okavango Delta, famous, but surprisingly underrated, with lush wetlands and pristine wilderness.
For those looking for a little luxury on their safari, Namibia’s Etosha National Park boasts exquisite lodges right by waterholes where wild animals gather. These locations offer authentic encounters with animals in their natural habitats, and thanks to the many places you can visit, you have plenty of choice over what you want to see and how you want to see it. There’s a safari vacation out there for any holidaymaker’s needs.
Medical Mindfulness
Another important consideration, once you know where you’re going, is to consult a travel health professional well in advance. They will guarantee that all family members are up-to-date on vaccinations and you’re aware and prepared for health risks specific to the region you’ll be visiting. Africa is still a developing nation, and the risks of tropical illness specialised to the region are common things that need to be considered. Malaria, for example, is a concern in many African countries, so antimalarial medication is often necessary.
Purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and evacuations is essential. It’s a safety net in case of unexpected situations during your safari adventure that can save you a lot of money and time.
Once You’re On Safari
Once you’re there, you’re in the safe hands of operators but you can still take some measures yourself. Maintain a respectful distance from all wildlife, especially the big cats and large herbivores. As we’ve discussed, even seemingly docile animals can be unpredictable, and it’s crucial to remember that you’re a guest in their territory. Your guide will know the appropriate distance to maintain for each species.
When on game drives, remain in the vehicle at all times unless your guide indicates it’s safe to disembark at designated stops. The vehicle’s height and scent help keep wildlife from feeling threatened.
While you’re actually out and about, remember African safaris often involve long hours of sun exposure. Ensure your family drinks plenty of water, applies sunscreen, and wears appropriate clothing, including wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses, to stay protected.
Pack snacks and meals carefully to avoid attracting unwanted attention from wildlife. You want to seal everything securely. Then, also dispose of food waste responsibly in designated areas to prevent wildlife from becoming habituated to human food.
Remember that you’re a guest in the regions you visit, and it’s essential to respect local customs and cultures. Ask for permission before taking photos of local people or cultures, and be mindful of their way of life.
Your safari guide will provide specific safety guidelines for your trip across all these sorts of scenarios. Pay close attention to their instructions, especially during bush walks and camping activities. These guidelines are designed to keep you safe, while providing a unique experience for your family that you want.
A family safari in Africa is a special opportunity to see another side of the world. It’s really important to have these sorts of special family holidays and experiecnes with your loved ones; they often form the core of our memories of our childhoods, and can mean a great deal to your kids as they grow older. The incredible wildlife encounters and the chance to connect with nature are unparalleled on safari – they stay with people long after they’ve left.
On a deeper level, Safaris encourage a deeper understanding and appreciation of nature and conservation efforts, imparting valuable lessons about the environment and the importance of preserving it. Moreover, the open landscapes and fresh air of safari destinations offer a break from the hustle and bustle of city life, allowing families to connect with each other and with nature on a profound level.
By following the above tips and respecting the natural world around you, you can ensure a safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable experience for you and your family. We hope you are able to make lasting memories of Africa’s breathtaking landscapes and magnificent animals, without compromise.