Children In The Wild: Are African Safaris Possible With Kids?

Are you an anxious parent who’s also a travel enthusiast? Or, you used to be? Are you wondering if children can go on a safari in Tanzania? Well, we are here to help you get past your apprehensions and anxiety. Along with offering the best African safari and tours for families, we have also curated a guide for all parents who have their doubts about bringing their kids to a safari tour in the wild Savannah. We understand that parenting is a task in itself, but who says you can’t do it while simultaneously being on vacation?  Read our guide to how you can prepare yourself and your kids for an adventure of a lifetime, a wildlife safari tour in Africa!

ARE KIDS EVEN ALLOWED ON A WILDLIFE SAFARI? 

We are sure this is one of the first questions that comes to mind when thinking of African safari tours for families.But the answer is- absolutely yes! Generally, there is no minimum age limit for a child to be allowed on a Tanzanian safari tour or a National Park visit. But several travel experts and guides are of the opinion that their experience seems to suggest that normally, it is almost always children who are at least 6 years of age, Moreover, if your child is below the age of sixteen, it is likely that ticket prices for entry at several places will be lower for them.

Expert opinion also says that since you know your child the best, it is better to accommodate their needs too. If your child likes to snack frequently, best to have a few candies or savories on you at all times. If your child gets too hot or cold too easily, dress them up accordingly. These seemingly minor preparations on your part can go a long way and make the experience of an African tour and safari the best one of your life!

THE KEY TO SUCCESS IS THE RIGHT PREPARATION:

If you’re parents to an infant or a toddler, you’re probably already aware of how crucial it is to prepare for a trip with kids in advance. Delaying things till the last minute, will not do anyone good, and in all the subsequent panic and rush, you’re likely to forget important things.

Foremost,it  is important to check with your Doctor and consult them on whether or not a trip of this kind is safe for your child. Also, closely monitor your child and make sure they are fit to go on a tour of this kind. It is also often recommended that people take out an additional Flying Doctor’s Insurance, so you can easily be transported to the nearest hospital via  a helicopter in case you need to.

Make sure that you carry all the essential items that you require- including underwear, toiletries,and a few ready to eat snacks for your child. Keep in mind- you can never be too prepared, and remember not to panic, you’re doing your best!

On a Safari Trip to Tanzania, chances are that you may not stay in the same place of accommodation for the whole duration,so packing and repacking can be a real hassle. For this,  it is recommended that you pack your stuff already via an organized system, so cluttering and less space in your suitcases are the least of your concerns. Travel guides often recommend that the best way to pack clothes for a vacation is to pack them together as sets for each day- so your outfit for each day is pre decided and all the outfits are separated from each other. For instance- pack a set like this-underwear, shirt, trouser, and roll them together in a pile. Do this for each day of your trip. This will help you in two ways- you can easily pick out the set for each day without wasting time on deciding your outfit for the day and you can also save some extra space in your suitcase.

TIPS FOR THE PERFECT FAMILY FRIENDLY SAFARI:

It is always advised that keeping your child’s habits and best interests in mind,you make the arrangements beforehand, and leave nothing to be done last minute. For instance- if you wish to, you can rent booster seats for children in your safari cars, you may also book a car that has a small fridge for storing milk or some  small snacks if your kid feels hungry along the way.

Try to bring with you a few small toys, or get wifi in the car to keep your children entertained during the ride. Also remember to bring a few snacks that they like, in case they feel bored or seem to get restless during the trip.

Also remember to carry plenty of baby wipes, tissues or hand towels so you can quickly clean up in case your child spills anything in the car or anywhere else. Wipes and tissues can also come in handy for various purposes, so best to keep a stock with you!

TEENAGERS AND OLDER KIDS:

Since our guide largely discussed ways in which you can accommodate the needs of younger children, and whether or not you should bring your child to an African Safari tour for family, what about the slightly older kids? Well, the answer is simple- yes! It will be relatively easy for the older kids to adjust to the environment of an African safari tour, in fact, you should encourage your children to accompany you- along with being a memorable vacation, it is also a fabulous learning experience. We, the best safari company in Tanzania, offer the best African safari travel packages, to make the most amazing vacation experience for you and your loved ones.

But if your teenager is not interested in a wildlife safari in Tanzania, you may also interest them in some other activities-like the Hot Springs in Rundugai, a Walking Safari or a Kendwa Full Moon Party.

IN CONCLUSION:

It is completely normal to have apprehensions and doubts about traveling with young children, especially on a wildlife safari tour. But we hope your anxieties have subsided after reading our guide to traveling with kids on a wildlife safari. Sop take a deep breath, do not panic, and book your tickets!