Family-Friendly Safari Lodges For Your Tribe

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At every turn, the diverse landscapes and captivating wilderness of the African continent will spark the imagination of young explorers and ignite curiosity in all generations. That’s why it’s crucial to stay in the heart of the action, with the Big Five on your doorstep and discovery at your fingertips. Our Africa specialist, Peter Felix opens the door to Africa and invites you to explore some of his favourite family-friendly safari lodges.

About the Author

‘I started travelling to Africa as a young and ambitious golfer in 2002 when I headed to South Africa’s beautiful Eastern Cape for a few months. It was there that a now 20 year (and counting) love affair with the continent began.’

1. CHONGWE RIVER HOUSE

Located in the Lower Zambezi National Park, the Chongwe River House seamlessly blends into the wilderness around it and provides a private refuge among the buzz of this iconic destination. Your family will quickly sink into the inviting architecture, with open air bathtubs, outdoor lounges and a large pool stretching into the riverbank, this safari lodge is perfect for spending quality time with loved ones.

Complete with your own safari guide, a dedicated house manager and a team of chefs, there won’t be a moment not spent connecting with your family as all the finer details are taken care of. Instead, you can watch the wildlife in it’s natural habitat from your deck, embark on tiger-fishing in the river or even sleep out under the stars for a truly magical safari experience.

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2. TSWALU KALAHARI

Spanning 100,000 hectares and as the largest private game reserve in South Africa, Tswalu Kalahari proudly supports the wildlife diversity found on its doorstep through a myriad of conservation efforts. Owned by the Oppenheimer family, this safari lodge is designed with the family traveller in mind, actively encouraging young explorers to engage with the wilderness and discover rare species such as the desert black rhino, Kalahari lions and over 230 unique species of bird.

Spend your days engrossed in the bustle of the reserve, whether it be by helicopter, bush walks or even the Junior Ranger’s Programme, and, into the evening indulge in the decadence of the Tswalu Kalahari lodge at the spa, stargazing or simply enjoying quality time with your loved ones in the tranquility of the desert.

3. OL MALO HOUSE

During your stay at Ol Malo House, the essence of your safari will be the experiences available at your fingertips. Wake with the animals at dawn and embark on days traversing the wild landscapes of the Northern Laikipia Province before returning to the lodge for evenings spent under a blanket of stars, the hum of the wilderness on your doorstep and cooling dips in the pool.

Designed and built by the Francombe family, any multi-generational family will find comfort in the home away from home they have curated in the Kenyan sanctuary.

4. MKOMBE’S HOUSE LAMAI

If you’re looking to discover the jewels of the Serengeti, Mkombe’s House Lamai is the only private safari reserve in the region meaning your family can choose to retreat to your exclusive space tucked among the rocks of the Kogakuria Kopje. Specifically designed with young travellers in mind, the attention to detail that has gone into the lodge is evident in its architecture, support teams and unforgettable experiences offered.

Let your youngsters roam free and feed their curiosity among the outdoors with confidence their safety is in the best of hands in the protected nook that is Mkombe’s House Lamai.

5. THE RIVER FARMHOUSE AT WATERBERRY LODGE

Here at the River Farmhouse at Waterberry Lodge, al fresco living is encouraged through the open lounge spaces, indulgent infinity pool and tranquil gardens stretching onto the Zambezi riverbanks. Launch your own private boat from the jetty for a sunrise water safari, daytime fishing trip or evening cruise among the wildlife.

The farmhouse is perfectly situated for exploration of the renowned Victoria Falls, Devil’s Pools waterfall and the nearby town of Livingstone meaning that your family will find exploration in every corner of this wonderful haven.

6. LITTLE MAKALOLO CAMP

Both intimate and exclusive in equal measure, Little Makalolo Camp is in prime positioning for year round buffalo and elephant visits, among other diverse species, at the waterhole on your doorstep. Young wilderness fiends among the family will be exhilarated by the close, personal viewings of such fascinating species as they get the chance to observe wildlife from a viewing spot tucked behind logs, strategically placed for magical moments to be captured with your own eyes.

In the heart of Zimbabwe, your loved ones can enjoy a variety of safaris, from game drives, to walking excursions and evenings spent under the stars, listening to the peaceful buzz of wildlife by night. The memories made here will be stories shared for years to come among the growing generations of your family.

Luxury Africa Itineraries

These example itineraries are here to get you inspired, but no two True Travel holidays are the same. Our Africa experts start planning each trip with a blank piece of paper, designing every itinerary 100% personalised to you and your loved ones.