When it comes to choosing a vacation destination, Africa is a continent as good as any. When you include the safari in those vacation plans, Africa ultimately soars above the rest. You can’t enjoy a game drive in the mesmerizing sunset while surrounded by the Big Five anywhere else.
This presents a double-edged sword for both local travelers and tourists. Africa is massive and has several countries. Therefore, it’s hard to choose a vacation destination.
That’s where we come in. We’ve put together a list of the best safari destinations for 3, 7, and 10+ days. This saves you the hassle of having to research every safari in Africa.
Interestingly enough, you will also be afforded the same leisure on these African family vacations meticulously planned out by specialists.
African safaris may expose you to malaria risks, which is especially dangerous for young children. Ensure you consult your doctor to get the correct anti-malaria protection for your family.
3 Day African Safaris for Families: Short and Sweet Fun
The following family African safari vacation packages are on the shorter side. They’re perfect when you’re short on time or want to visit other African countries in the same vacation window.
Lasting just three days, they are great at keeping children entertained. Kids do lose interest quickly, after all.
Kruger National Park 3-Day Safari from Johannesburg
The Kruger National Park (KNP) is South Africa’s world-renowned safari destination. It’s got several scenic views and impressive biodiversity.
This vacation package is packed with activities from the first day until the vacation ends.
Transport from the airport to the Park and vice versa is part of the package. Accommodation in a bungalow or chalet is provided. You also get a combination of breakfast, lunch, and dinner enjoyed with refreshing drinks.
Guided game drives happen in the morning, afternoon, and evening. There’s a chance of seeing the “Big Five” and other animals in their natural habitat. After a night drive where you’ll see nocturnal species, relax in the pool under the stars.
The fun doesn’t end when you leave the park as there’s more on your way to the airport or hotel. You’ll be able to take in marvelous views at Schoemans Kloof and enjoy a “bush” braai lunch in the Highveld.
Get more information and check availability here.
3 Day Serengeti Safari
A private 3-day safari vacation at one of the world’s best safari destinations is excellent for the whole family. The Tanzanian park is home to various animals, including the Big Five and the rare black rhino. Transportation from and to the airport is part of the package.
This package includes accommodation at the Mawe Lodge, a luxurious tent camp located in the middle of the park. The staff provides excellent hospitality along with breakfast, lunch and dinner enjoyed while watching for animals on the savannahs and plains. Guided game drives happen daily, and nights are capped off by enjoying sunset drinks around a bonfire.
To add to the fun, you can request a safari exploration from the comfort of a hot-air balloon. Alternatively, a more natural walking safari can be arranged. Of course, these would be paid for individually as they aren’t part of the package.
If that sounds fun, you can check availability here.
7-Day Family African Safari
For fans of a longer stay looking to maximize their vacation, a week is perfect for a safari venture. This increases the chance of seeing more animals, including the rarer ones. As such, the Kenyan weeklong safari is simply a cut above the rest.
7-Day Maasai Mara, Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivasha, and Amboseli Safari from Nairobi
A safari vacation without visiting Kenya, long seen as the “origin of safari”, feels criminal. Kenya has many parks that are world-renowned for their biodiversity. With this vacation package, you can explore them all and other activities.
It’s unlike the other packages, transportation to and from the airport is charged separately at $20 USD. Pickup and dropoff from the Nairobi CBD are free. Accommodation and delicious meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included in the package cost. Daily guided game drives in the parks provide a great chance of seeing the Big 5 and other fauna. This includes the rare white rhino.
Each park is a spectacle on its own, making this one of the best African safaris for families. The Maasai Mara has a plethora of animals, and you can also learn the history of the Maasai people. A fun balloon safari is also available at $380 USD per person. Additionally, Lake Nakuru is a breathtaking park with the majestic pink flamingos being its main attraction.
Lake Naivasha is a treasure trove for birdwatchers and is near Hell’s Gate, which has even more wildlife. This includes the incredibly rare bearded vulture. The best part about the park is that as you explore it, Kilimanjaro serves as a majestic backdrop.
Check availability and book here.
African Family Safaris for 10+ Days
Some people would say a safari that lasts more than a week is overkill. They might argue the itinerary gets boring after a while. Those people are wrong; an extended vacation can be great as long as it’s properly planned out.
And trust us, these vacation packages are expertly planned out, ensuring that fun is had from A to Z.
10 Days Uganda Wildlife Safari
This package provides possibly the most comprehensive safari vacation on the list. You will visit all 10 of Uganda’s national parks as part of the package. Given all that is available, this is one of the best value-for-money itineraries.
Pickup and dropoff at the hotel or airport are included in the cost, alongside accommodation and all daily meals. Game drives will happen daily. This gives travelers the chance to see the Big Five and other animals, including the rare mountain gorilla. Interested bird watchers can see over 800 bird species, including the rare shoe-billed stork only found in East Africa.
Additionally, travelers can see the Nile River, which divides the Murchison Falls park and flows into a breathtaking waterfall. There also hikes for people who’d want to get a little physical. The waterfalls and rhino tracking make it a fun experience for all age groups.
Get more information and check availability here.
14 Days Tanzania and Kenya Safari
If Kenya is the “original” safari, Tanzania is a really good doppelganger. Kenya has impressive biodiversity and other activities. Tanzania is home to one of the best national parks and provides a picturesque safari, as already stated.
This makes it hard to decide between the two. With this vacation package, you don’t have to. You can have an all-encompassing safari family trip to Africa, exploring both neighboring countries.
Pickup and dropoff at your hotel or airport are included, as are all accommodation and meal costs. Guided game drives will happen at all the great national parks, including the Maasai Mara, Lake Nakuru, and Serengeti.
Visitors can see the Big Five, antelopes, giraffes, pink flamingos, black and white rhinos, and many other animals. This makes for a fun experience that nobody in your family is likely to forget anytime soon.
Get more information and confirm your booking here. Please note you will need a VISA for both countries.
African Family Vacations: Final Thoughts
A family vacation is supposed to be fun for everyone. And when planning one, especially when a safari is involved, Africa is a worthy contender. And, it’s easy to see why; it’s a treasure trove of wildlife found nowhere else.
That’s why these vacation packages for the best family safaris are so popular. They provide fun for the whole family while letting you sit back and relax. You can choose between a short or extended stay while seeing the best and most diverse wildlife in the world.
With that in mind, remember to consult your doctor for a suitable anti-malaria drug for you and your family.
