Tanzania is fantastic for family safaris! As the country is situated within Africa’s malaria belt, we don’t recommend traveling here with children under 6 years UNLESS we recommend activities for children of these ages so that, the supposed Tanzania Family tour won’t be boring. However, it’s a great destination for wildlife-loving youngsters aged 6 years and over.
For the sheer concentration of animals, Tanzania is hard to beat! Game drives are action-packed out here, for example in the areas making up the country’s famous Northern Circuit. These areas are among the most affordable destinations in Africa for family safari vacations. And the larger your group is, the more economical the trip becomes, as the cost of using a vehicle is split among the family. The Selous Game Reserve in Tanzania’s south region is worth considering too, and there’s the exciting option of combining your safari with a beach break in Zanzibar!
Throughout the country’s north and south, many properties are well set up for families. For example, they have family rooms or interconnecting rooms. Additionally, some have swimming pools and larger communal areas. Few companies offer private activities for families, so you can take a flexible approach to your vacation.
How do I plan a family safari in Tanzania?
Before you get into the nitty-gritty, it is important to know a few basic truths about family safaris in Tanzania. First, most tented camps, safari camps, and safari lodges have age restrictions and will only allow kids of a minimum age, which is usually anywhere from 8-12 years old. This, of course, is due to the safety considerations with proximity to local wildlife in any given national park on a Tanzania safari.
Second, it is important to work with the Nature Horizons team with first-hand knowledge of Tanzania so that all of your family’s special requests and unique needs during safari activities can be seamlessly taken care of. You may want to do a little preliminary research on family safaris to find out which lodges have the most experience working in family travel and with children on safari.
For example, some safari lodges have swimming pools, which can be a fun activity when you aren’t out in the African bush. You want your children to have the best experience possible seeing wild animals in the bush for the first time as well as opportunities to visit with the local community.
Where to go in Tanzania on your family safari
Pick of our places for families in Tanzania are:
- The Serengeti – from witnessing the Great Migration to catching sight of the big cats that follow the herds, you and your children will be mesmerized by this national park every time you set off on a traditional game drive!
- Ngorongoro Crater – the views from the Crater rim are sure to have you and your little ones gasping with awe. Well worth a visit for the scenic vistas alone, the Crater is also steeped in history, so the kids can enjoy a little learning as you cruise along the caldera floor.
- Selous Game Reserve – the Selous is a watery world filled with palm trees, boat cruises, and of course some wonderful wildlife. This reserve is perfect for a quieter family safari!
- Zanzibar – you can’t beat family time spent on the beach, and that’s why we recommend a few days’ post-safari along the white sandy beaches of Zanzibar!
When is the best time of year to go on a family safari in Tanzania?
The best time to visit Tanzania is during the dry season, which runs from late June to October when it’s easier to spot wildlife on safari drives. National parks are busy then, but the weather is fantastic and game viewing for big cats, elephants, giraffes, and other animals is at its peak. Consider taking your Tanzania family safari during this time. The wildebeest migration in the Serengeti is usually during June and July and the best time to see the wildebeest calving is late January to February. While spotting smaller mammals has its unique thrill, taking children to see the great migration is simply jaw-dropping.
What is the cost of a family safari in Tanzania?
The cost of a Tanzania family safari varies depending on whether or not you are willing to include other guests in your vehicle. If you choose to take game drives with other guests staying at your lodge, this could save you money. If you opt for a private safari with a private vehicle, where it’s only you and your family on game drives, you will pay for that privacy. Safaris can range from $200 per person, per day to upwards of $1,000 per person, per day. Nature Horizons Tours can work with just about any family size and budget.
Is it safe to travel to Tanzania with kids?
While Tanzania may seem intimidating for traveling with kids, overall it is a safe destination as long you practice common sense. There are some health concerns, and you will need to check with your doctor about recommended vaccinations and the use of malarial prophylactics. It is essential to bring long-sleeved shirts, pants, and socks for dawn and dusk, and always use mosquito repellent.
However, for families with a sense of adventure, a safari in Tanzania is well worth the time, effort, and cost. Your vacation will include wildlife, beaches, friendly people, and excellent weather and you’re bound to have an unforgettable safari experience.
Recommended family activities in Tanzania
- Family game drives
– Game drives in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater are pretty special. If you stay at a property that supplies a private vehicle for your family, you’ll be able to explore well away from the crowds. These areas also offer cultural activities with appeal to all ages. Adults can enjoy interacting with work-age and elderly members of a community, while kids can meet the local children.
- Family activities in the Serengeti
– The Serengeti really excels when it comes to safari activities for youngsters – tracking, making bows-and-arrows, and going on walks around camp with staff, are just a few examples of what kids can get up to here. There’s always something to look at close to camp, from birds to smaller mammals, and the staff is great at entertaining children.
- Family activities in the Selous
– In the Selous, there is fishing and canoeing, at least for older children. Walking has a minimum age requirement of 15 years, so this activity is available for mid-to-late teenagers. Walks provide thrilling opportunities to experience the bush, offering a different perspective from game drives.
- Family activities in Zanzibar
– Zanzibar offers plenty of things to do too, such as playing on the beach, trying a few watersports, and taking trips to spice farms, Jozani Forest, and tortoise-tastic Prison Island!
- Family flying safaris
– Flying safaris also open up several of northern Tanzania’s most expensive properties: Ngorongoro Crater Lodge, Serengeti Under Canvas, and Mnemba Island Lodge all have family units.
Find out more about the advantages of opting in for comfort and style on a breathtaking Tanzania flying family safari vacation.
