6 Best Family Vacations in Africa

There are countless benefits to raising your children to be world travelers. Fundamentally, travel is one of those activities that instill in us an incredible sense of joy. And it’s also one of the best ways to educate your children while gifting them with resilience, courage, and an open-minded attitude. Or as Mark Twain put it, “Broad, wholesome, charitable views of [humans] and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all of one’s lifetime.” 

Nothing says adventure like exploring Africa! Dreaming of discovering this life-changing continent with your family but not sure where to start? Let’s start with these 6 awe-inspiring African destinations, each with vast landscapes, majestic wildlife and a front-seat row for the Circle of Life. 

1. Go Off-the-Grid on Tanzania’s Pemba Island

Are you looking for the ultimate beach escape for your family? But you’re tired of the same old family getaways? If so, we’ve done the thinking outside of the box for you with a wonderful new option — Tanzania’s Pemba Island. 

A true off-the-grid escape, Pemba Island gives families the chance to relax and reconnect without distraction. But that doesn’t mean you’ll lack for ways to spend your time, from pristine white sand beaches to thriving underwater life, swaying palm trees and blissful luxury. 

What about accommodations? Luxurious options abound, many with private family villas, swimming pools, kids clubs, and much more. Let us handle the details so that your family can focus on what matters — relaxation and family fun!

2. South Africa beyond Kruger Park

South Africa is an incredible destination for families who love wildlife and nature. There are some stand-out South African properties and tours that focus on keeping little travelers busy and entertained. And we’ve got the inside scoop when it comes to companies offering tours in and around Cape Town. 

Besides scoping out animals and natural settings, South Africa provides entrée to countless other fun activities, like touring vineyards, biking on the Sea Point promenade, and visiting Kalk Bay’s seal population. 

We can help you find the best tour companies, ones that handpick guides and specialize in family-friendly options and customizations. Think paddleboarding with penguins, hot chocolate stops, and much more. Find out more about getting the most out of a family vacation to Africa. 

3. Family Time in Zambia

The continent of Africa comes with so many wonderful options for a wildlife safari. Some are very well known like Kenya and Tanzania while others are well-kept secrets like Zambia. Although Zambia might not be your first thought for an epic African safari, it’s an amazing destination, especially for families with teens. 

Children 14 and older are invited to participate in unique canoeing and walking safaris accompanied by some of the best guides in Africa. Does this mean families with younger kids should look elsewhere? No! Zambia’s got those families covered, too. 

Consider one of Zambia’s intimate glamping excursions for the ultimate private family safari. (FYI, some activities will still be age-restricted.) The best tours include various conservation activities, like touring an anti-poaching and conservation camp in action. During the experience, you’ll hear firsthand from officers and wildlife biologists, an unforgettable educational experience sure to inspire the next generation of wildlife conservationists. 

4. Epic Family Safaris in Zimbabwe

Nothing beats a family vacation to Zimbabwe! Let us help you find the perfect safari lodge near Hwange National Park. That way, you’re just a hop, skip, and jump from some of the world’s most pristine wildlife. 

Get up close and personal with wild elephants on the spacious Elephant Express Railcar or observe them from the “Look-Up Blind,” where they appear mere feet away. You’ll also have plenty of opportunities to see other impressive animals, including rhinoceroses and lions. 

Part of the magic of travel is getting an inside glimpse at daily life in a new destination. During your trip to Zimbabwe, visit a local school where your kids will meet the students and play soccer. As you can see, there’s never a lack of “wow” experiences for kids of all ages and their families in Zimbabwe!

5. Namibia

Go on the ultimate road trip adventure in Namibia! After departing Windhoek in a safari vehicle, you’ll enjoy a private guide as you drive through the breathtaking Khomas Hochland highlands before exploring the Great Escarpment, leading into the Namib Desert. 

You’ll settle into outdoor living at Camp Sossu, which is located on the expansive Namib Tsaris Conservancy, nestled between the Nubib and Zaris Mountains. There’s no better jumping-off point for your exploration of the Great Namib Sand Sea, a UNESCO World Heritage Site your whole family will love. 

Whether you’re savoring sunrise at the dunes of Namib Naukluft National Park, taking in the stunning views at Sesriem Canyon or wildlife observing, Namibia is calling with endless adventure. Is your family ready to answer the call? 

6. Gorilla Trekking in Uganda or Rwanda

Famous for its mountainous terrain, Rwanda is known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills.” Flourishing with rich, biodiverse rainforests, the nation is equally known for its “Virungas,” massive ancient volcanoes that tower upwards of 15,000 feet above the landscape.  And neighboring Uganda boasts the title of “The Pearl of Africa” because of its diverse and breathtaking landscapes. Nestled in the Great Rift Valley, the nation sits at the intersection of East African savannah and West African jungle.

Family travel to Uganda and Rwanda can be fantastic when you understand what activities are available based on age, and you work with a seasoned family travel advisor to choose adventurous and intriguing family-appropriate accommodations. Definitely worth noting is the fact that Uganda and Rwanda both have age restrictions for primate trekking. In Uganda, chimp trekking can be done at age 12. The same age minimum holds true for golden monkey trekking in Rwanda. And both countries offer gorilla trekking starting at age 15. As a result, these nations are excellent for families looking to appeal specifically to older children. 

Apart from primate trekking, however, there are also myriad activities for younger children. If your family has their heart set on a vacation to Uganda, Rwanda, or both, we’re here to help you make the most of your time. From animal spotting to community tourism, there are countless reasons to fall in love with these biodiverse, culturally rich destinations. 

Exciting Adventures for Families on the Go

Make 2024 the year of your best family vacations. There’s no better escape than the African continent for one of many unique family getaways. But what if you’re not sure where to start planning? We’ve got all of your family travel needs covered. 

Not only do we have invaluable, on-the-ground knowledge of the best family vacation spots, but we also know what it’s like to travel with our own children. So, you can rest assured our vacations are always kid-tested and parent-approved. Contact us now to find out more about the exciting adventures we design and how to get your family in on the action!

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