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Serengeti family Safari

Serengeti Family Safari

Going on a family safari trip in the Serengeti is one of those rare adventures that leaves a mark on you for many years to come. It is the perfect family trip not just because there are wild animals to see, but also because the experience is shared together as a family.

The sheer wonder on your child’s face as they glimpse a lion for the very first time, or the family gathering around the campfire away from all the gadgets, simply wrapped in nature’s folklore, are the memories that strengthen family bonds.

Families with curious children and teens looking for adventure are the reason we design Serengeti family safaris. For adults, there’s plenty of wishful relaxation in the middle of the wild.

Be it from the US, Europe, or even East Africa, we know your expectations of a fully coordinated multi-generational trip. Every single one of our family bonding trips is remembered for the safety, in-match comfort, and most importantly, the memories created together in the journey.

Family friendly game drives and private family lodges are a few examples to highlight the care we have for hassle-free holidays in Africa looking for children friendly lodges. Child friendly guides with plenty of experience and a balanced blend of action and rest in the itinerary round off the experience for the whole family.

The entire safari experience is new to you and we know just the way to make it most memorable for you from advising you on the best packing list and what to expect.

Why Family Safari In Serengeti?

Experiencing a family safari in Serengeti is a different level of enjoyment. The roaring of lions, the walking of giraffes, and hearing the crickets sing during night are things that no documentary or school can offer.

Parents can take a break and go out for some quality family time during the safari while enjoying nature.

Our family safaris to Ngorongoro, Serengeti, and other places are fun and appropriate any age.

Tracking different animal footprints and identifying species motivates younger kids. And for the most teens the appeal is the adventuring and photography.

With safaris, parents are reassured that there are all the safety protocols in place and comfort measures taken.

The package includes all the safaris and in addition to family friendly activities, there are transfers, accommodation, and meals. If you want some time after lunch, no problem. If you want to shorten the game drives or have private family meals, easy. Everything can be done at your pace, your pace every that is a new adventure, flexible, and mix of planned activities and spontaneity.

Best Time To Enjoy a Tanzania Serengeti Family Safari

There are amazing safari experiences for your family throughout the year, as the Serengeti remains open all year long. However, the most appropriate months may vary based on your family vacation schedule, your children’s ages, and the weather.

During the dry season from June to October, the weather is warm and skies are clear. Wildlife viewing is at its peak as animals congregate at water holes. Roads in the park are also dry, which makes for smooth game drives. This is also when the Great Migration is most dramatic in the northern Serengeti, which is thrilling for older children and teenagers.

Younger children tend to enjoy the period from December to March, as the southern Serengeti is in calving season. Baby wildebeest and zebras are abundant and the predators are in action too.

The region is comparatively greener and temperature is mild as well. This season is great if your family is into nature photography and birding.

November, April and May are the quiet months. They come with lower prices and lower visitor numbers. The scenery during this time is very lush and beautiful. While some lodges close in April and May due to rain, the camps we partner with remain open and offer great comfort in what is considered a shoulder season.

Tops Tips for a Family Safari in the Serengeti

  • Look for specially made family lodges: We suggest the camps that have family suites that are spacious. The lodges should have restaurants that prepare children’s cuisine and have swimming pools. Some even have babysitting and junior ranger programs.
  • Opt for shorter and frequent game drives: One long drive should be replaced with two shorter drives. The breaks are especially key for younger children as they stay engaged and energized.
  • Each child should have a camera and a pair of binoculars: Younger children appearing to be spotting out animals on their own is a hands-on experience.
  • Bring familiar and preferred items as well as some snacks: We cater for drinks and meals, but provided meals, a few treats can go a long way with younger travelers.
  • Schedule breaks for all: Everyone has a chance to recharge with the set breaks. Afternoons spent by the pool or with reading and games is a wonderful way to recharge.
  • Discuss animals and the Safari with your kids beforehand: Tell the children the set animal names with the help of books and documentaries to build excitement and help them fathom the new experience.
  • Set laid back evenings: In some camps, children can have early dinners which allows parents to enjoy quiet meals afterwards.
  • Don’t bring too much: Most camps have laundry as well as light clothing to bring. Good walking shoes, light clothing, and a sun hat are a must.

Suggested Safari Packages

Best Areas for Family Adventures in the Serengeti

Seronera Valley (Central Serengeti)

This region is well populated with wildlife throughout the year and is easy to reach. It is good for many infants and the rest of the family on their first safari.

Ndutu Plains (Southern Serengeti)

Best for visitors during the calving season from December to March. It has short grass and is very open for easy wildlife viewing.

Grumeti Reserve (Western Corridor)

This is ideal for families with younger kids as there are lesser tourists. Family-friendly lodges are available from May to July and there are great views of the river.

Northern Serengeti (Mara River)

Best for teenagers and younger children during migration. Superb views and exciting river crossings.

Ngorongoro Crater (just outside Serengeti)

It’s often used as an add-on for the Serengeti trip. It’s a wildlife paradise and offers a single day game drive with high density.

Safari Activities and Attractions (What to expect)

Serengeti family safaris blend wildlife viewing with exciting activities suitable for all family members, ensuring that everyone has a chance to enjoy their time in the bush.

We ensure that game drives are interesting at any age. Stories are told, questions are answered, and there are always interesting facts shared that make everything come alive. Our vehicles are designed with large windows, charging ports, and even snacks, and are tailored for comfort. Since we take children’s needs into account, we often provide wildlife checklists for them to track what they observe.

Most of our family-friendly camps provide time for relaxation. Many have books and outdoor games, and some even have pools. A few of them even allow children to assist the chef in preparing local dishes, which is a local favorite.

Older children, typically 12 and above, may be able to partake in designated walking safaris. These short guided walks allow children to observe a variety of tracks, insects, birds, and plant life. They are safe and allow a fresh new perspective instead of the usual vantage point from a vehicle.

Cultural visits to Maasai communities that are close to the camps provide an added learning opportunity. Danced, traditional homes, and and local communities who narrate the coexistence of the people and the wildlife are all part of the education. The visits are real and respectful and not staged.

Some camps include safari lessons for kids, which cover topics like animal behavior, conservation, and the local culture. Other lessons include learning how to make a fire the old-fashioned way, bow and arrow lessons, and nature scavenger hunts.

Storytelling and stargazing by the fire is perfect evening activity. In the Serengeti, the night sky is mesmerizing. Guides share animal and African myths which are entertaining and educational for the children.

For families with older kids, we can include a hot air balloon ride. Seeing the wildlife from above the plains at sunrise is breathtaking. The ride ends with a bush breakfast which is like a scene from a film.

Top 10 Serengeti Family Safari FAQs

Is the Serengeti a good choice for children?

Absolutely. The Serengeti is a wonderful place for children with the right planning. Serengeti Mara Experts selects family-friendly camps, skilled guides, and make sure to have plenty of time in the schedule to keep things slow and easy. The whole family can enjoy the outdoors together. The children are sure to enjoy the adventure and wildlife, and the parents will love the fresh air and time together.

What age is ideal for a family safari in the Serengeti?

As early as age six, children can partake in a Serengeti family safari, but no matter the age, your kid will have the best time in Serengeti. We’ve had positive experiences with both toddlers and teens. If your children enjoy the great outdoors and don’t mind a bit of travel, they are more than good to go. We will work to select the suitable camp and pace according to their age.

Is the Serengeti safe for children?

Certainly. We do everything to achieve your safety in every single facet of the trip. Camps are either fenced or guarded at night, and staff are trained in first aid and emergency procedures. We also keep an eye to make sure that there are not excessive travel times or difficult travel routes.

What type of accommodation is best for a family?

Our recommendation is to go for lodges which have family suites or villas as they give privacy and spaciousness. Some of these have interconnecting rooms, private plunge pools, and even outdoor decks where parents can watch their toddlers or children while they nap or play. The meals and the outdoor activities are tailored to families.

Will there be other families at the camp?

Occasionally. Quite a few of our family safaris, though, are private, meaning your group travels with its own guide and vehicle. This way, the itinerary caters to your family, and your kids don’t have to adapt to other children’s schedules.

Can we do more than one park?

Certainly. It’s common for us to combine the Serengeti with the Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, or even a beach visit to Zanzibar at the end. This approach keeps the adventure dynamic and allows families to enjoy some downtime after all the excitement.

What should we pack for our kids?

We’ll provide a detailed packing list that includes all the essentials like the lightweight clothing, hats, sunscreen, closed shoes, and bug spray. Don’t forget a few small toys, books, or games. Headphones and tablets can help on flights or long drives, but most kids are too fascinated by the safari to use them.

What if my child gets sick?

We work with camps that have access to medical services and use safe food and water. Our guides are trained in basic first aid. For peace of mind, we recommend travel insurance that includes medical coverage. Most issues are minor and easily handled on-site.

Can picky eaters be accommodated?

Yes. Let us know in advance and we’ll make sure your lodge can prepare food your children will enjoy. Many camps can prepare simple meals like pasta, chicken, rice, or fruit plates. Mealtimes are flexible to match your family’s rhythm.

How do we get to the Serengeti?

Most families fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha, then take a short bush flight into the park. We handle all the transfers and will be waiting for you at every step. If you prefer to drive from Arusha, we can arrange that too. It’s a scenic road trip with a stop or two along the way. (This is not the most recommended because the drive may take up to 7 hours).

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Low season
Oct, Nov, Mar, Apr, may

Peak season
Jun, July, Aug, Sept, Dec