A Guide to Safaris with Children
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So you’re thinking of going on an African safari with the kids, but flashbacks of your recent family getaway may have you thinking twice. A frequent question we get asked at Kariega is whether taking the kids on a safari holiday is a good idea, and the answer is always a resounding YES!
However, when doing research for your safari accommodation, you may be met with statements like: "no children over 12 years old" or worse, "not family-friendly." At Kariega Game Reserve, we love sharing the natural world with our guests, including our mini visitors! We offer a range of accommodation options for families, including our Main Lodge, which is the perfect safari accommodation if you’re travelling with kids. This safari lodge is situated by our playroom and offers our children’s programme with plenty of fun activities for the kids. Alternatively, The Homestead offers privacy and convenience for families of all sizes. If you're travelling with children over the age of 10-years-old, you’ll have the option of Settlers Drift, River Lodge and Ukhozi Lodge. Unfortunately, none of our other lodges offer the kids program, but the kiddies are more than welcome to venture to the Main Lodge for a little fun.
We all know what it’s like to view a wild lion or elephant for the first time. There’s something mesmerising and magical about witnessing these animals in their natural habitat, whether they're grazing or exploring the pristine African wilderness of Kariega. Having your kids join this experience allows them to connect with the natural world and understand it’s significance.
Famous zoologist Jack Hanna was once quoted as saying: “The world is the true classroom. The most rewarding and important type learning is through experience, seeing something with our own eyes.” Thankfully, our classroom is 11, 500 hectares with pristine wilderness ready to be explored!
Best Time to Go on Safari with Kids
The Eastern Cape in South Africa has quickly become a popular destination for adventurers and nature lovers looking to enjoy the beauty of its wildlife.
Traditionally, the most popular time to visit Game Reserves, such as Kariega, has been between September and April. However, the winter months offer a wonderful safari experience, provided that you have your favourite winter jacket and beanie with you.
Here are a few considerations when choosing when to visit:
Summer (December to February): Many animals give birth during this time, which can provide excellent learning opportunities for the kids. There are also excellent bird-watching opportunities with lush landscapes as your backdrop for epic photos. Along with exploring the beauty of Kariega, it's also a perfect season to simply lounge by the pool and soak up the sun.
Autumn (March to May): Wildlife is a lot easier to spot as vegetation starts thinning, with excellent bird-watching opportunities still available. During this time, the weather is cool, making it a lot more comfortable for kids to explore all that our game reserve has to offer.
Winter (June to August): This is the perfect season to spot some amazing wildlife! The mornings and evenings can be quite cool, so it's important to bring the right winter clothes. It’s also a great time to visit, as animals are active all day.
Spring (September to October): Spring provides comfortable weather for doing a range of outdoor activities, including game drives. It’s the perfect time to watch the Eastern Cape landscape come to life, as flora is in full bloom, adding vibrant colours across the landscape. There’s also the added advantage of having increased animal activity.
How To Pack
Whether this is your first or tenth time heading on a safari, packing can be overwhelming, especially with kids. There are a few items we’ll always recommend, but don’t stress if you’ve forgotten an item or two. Our curio shops stock essentials, such as jackets and basic toiletry items. Here’s how to pack for safari:
Warm & Breathable Clothing: While the summer days can be scorchers, we always advise that our guests bring a jacket or two to ensure they’re comfortable when the sun sets. Warm clothing is especially important if you’re visiting during the winter months. Don’t forget to pack beanies, gloves and a scarf for your little ones to keep cosy and comfortable while on your safari drive. Blankets are provided in the vehicle to ensure you’re extra warm!
Comfortable Walking Shoes: With so much to see and explore, it’s important to pack comfortable walking shoes. Your little ones will have the opportunity to explore within the boundaries of the Main Lodge with a ranger, making comfortable shoes a good idea.
Swimwear: There’s nothing more refreshing than taking a dip in the swimming pool after a day of game viewing. Two beautiful river estuaries run through the reserve, and it’s also located a few kilometres from the coastal town, Kenton-on-Sea. Our lodges are also equipped with swimming pools if you want to stay a little closer to your “home away from home.”
Binoculars: You’ll have the opportunity for a lot of close-up game viewing, and you can even view wildlife from your lodge balcony. So don’t forget those child-sized binoculars - and yours too!
Sun Protection: Wide-brimmed hats for sun protection and high SPF, broad-spectrum sunscreen is always advised when visiting Kariega Game Reserve, year round but especially during summer. You’ll also want to pack in sunglasses for yourself and your little ones to protect your eyes while exploring the game reserve.
Kids Safari Activities at Kariega Game Reserve
One of the biggest stressors parents have on a safari holiday is keeping the kids entertained. So, you want to make sure the destination you choose allows the kids to have a space to run around freely without the constant worry of predators. And having a kids’ programme for maximum entertainment is always a bonus!
The Kariega Main Lodge offers a Playroom for when mom and dad need a break or the kids or looking to burn some extra energy. There are a range of activities to keep them busy, including books, toys, puzzles, play dough, games, table tennis and so much more!
At Kariega Game Reserve, we believe in sharing the beauty of the wilderness that surrounds us, so children are always encouraged to join their parents on game drives. For children under five years, it is the guide’s and General Manager’s discretion as to whether they can join. However, if you feel like enjoying a game drive minus the kids, there are babysitting options available. Please enquire about babysitting options with your guide.
From 11:00 to 14:00, a guided trail within the boundaries of the Main Lodge is available to explore. They’ll learn about plants, insects and animal tracks from an experienced guide.
Kids of all ages can enjoy the Kids on Safari trail where they get to make moulds of animal tracks, identify different birds and bird songs, practice shooting at a target with a traditional kettie (a traditional South African slingshot) and learn basic bush survival skills.
Your little ones will love our playroom and midday activities. We've had such positive feedback from parents and kids that we just had to share one from a former guest, Laurina:
My daughter loved the Kids' Centre and spending time with Ntosh. She truly is a gem and really made her stay extra special, and then not to mention Lloyd who went over and above to ensure we had a great time, my daughter grew very fond of him and she is quite keen to come and work at Kariega one day🙂 Between a wildlife vet /conservationist and game ranger she has her heart set on Kariega. She really did not want to leave and was in tears when we had to go.
While it’s always sad to say goodbye, kids will have something to remember their time at Kariega. Children have the opportunity to be awarded with their Junior Ranger Certificate after completing their activity booklets and a fun, interactive quiz to demonstrate how much they’ve learned about the African wild. Knowledge they will no doubt share proudly with the friends and family back home.
You can learn all about the amazing kids activities available at Kariega Game Reserve.
Accommodation Options
You’ll be calling the safari lodge home for the next few days, so you want to find an accommodation that suits your requirements, especially when you’re travelling with kids. Kariega Game Reserve offers safari lodges that are perfect for families, including our Main Lodge and The Homestead.
Main Lodge: This accommodation is ideal for families, couples and friends looking to enjoy the beauty of the African bush. You can choose between 24 well-appointed chalets, private viewing decks and en-suite bedrooms. The Main Lodge also features a select number of chalets with private pools, but availability is limited, so be sure to request one when booking. If available, one will be allocated to your family. This is also the perfect spot for the kids, as the playroom is here. Children of all ages are welcome to enjoy the comfort of the Main Lodge.
The Homestead: If you’re looking for a private safari lodge that offers all the convenience and privacy of your home, then this is it. The Homestead is located in a remote part of the reserve, offering spectacular views with dedicated hosts, a game ranger and a cook for added luxury in the bush.
If you’re travelling with children older than 10 years old, you’ll have a bit more flexibility when booking. You’ll have the option of Settlers Drift, River Lodge and Ukhozi Lodge all accommodate children older than 10-years.
Additional Safari FAQs
Do Our Children Have to Take Malaria Medication?
Kariega Game Reserve in South Africa is located in the malaria-free zone of the Eastern Cape, making it the ultimate family-friendly safari experience. Therefore, no malaria medication is required.
What age is appropriate for children to go on safari?
To ensure your kids have the best experience, many experts recommend they be six years or older. However, our reserve does cater to guests who are travelling with younger children.
Book Your Stay
For more information or assistance in planning your family-friendly trip to Kariega Game Reserve in South Africa, send us an email at reservations@kariega.co.za. We’re always happy to share further tips and considerations when planning your trip.
A heartfelt thank you to our wonderful past guest Laurina for sharing her experience and photos with us, and a special mention to Brendon Jennings for the amazing photography as well!
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