What Really Matters to Young Children on a Kenya Safari
An Exploration of Unforgettable Experiences at My Favourite Camps in Kenya An Exploration of Unforgettable Experiences at My Favourite Camps in Kenya
An Exploration of Unforgettable Experiences at My Favourite Camps in Kenya An Exploration of Unforgettable Experiences at My Favourite Camps in Kenya
I have spent the last 18 years travelling to
some of the planet’s most incredible places under the guise of ‘work’. For 11 of those, I have been waiting for my young family to be old enough to join me.
In October 2022, that time finally came. Our first family safari in Kenya was perhaps even more special as, like many holidays, it had been postponed twice due to the COVID pandemic but, wow, was it worth the wait!
No previous holiday has had anything like the impact on Isabelle (11) and Jack (8) and three months on I still regularly hear, “mum I miss Kenya, when can we go back?”. From one parent to another, these are my top tips when arranging your family safari.
In October 2022, that time finally came. Our first family safari in Kenya was perhaps even more special as, like many holidays, it had been postponed twice due to the COVID pandemic but, wow, was it worth the wait!
No previous holiday has had anything like the impact on Isabelle (11) and Jack (8) and three months on I still regularly hear, “mum I miss Kenya, when can we go back?”. From one parent to another, these are my top tips when arranging your family safari.
How long should I spend on safari with young children?
A safari in Africa can be an extremely diverse experience and this is key when travelling with young children.
I would recommend two to four nights at each safari location, depending on the variety of experiences available and two or three locations.
It is important to ensure that each location offers new experiences to keep your young ones entertained.
I would recommend two to four nights at each safari location, depending on the variety of experiences available and two or three locations.
It is important to ensure that each location offers new experiences to keep your young ones entertained.
Why is Kenya perfect for a family safari?
Kenya was one of the first and is still one of the best safari destinations.
As well as wildlife-filled national parks, Kenya has a huge network of private wildlife conservancies where you can experience everything from walking with camels to helicopter flights, Maasai warrior training, kayaking, horse riding, fly camping and so much more.
This diversity makes it a superb destination for a family safari as each day you set off on a new and exciting shared adventure.
As well as wildlife-filled national parks, Kenya has a huge network of private wildlife conservancies where you can experience everything from walking with camels to helicopter flights, Maasai warrior training, kayaking, horse riding, fly camping and so much more.
This diversity makes it a superb destination for a family safari as each day you set off on a new and exciting shared adventure.
What are our family’s top five Kenya safari experiences?
- Kayaking within metres of a herd of elephant from Ekorian’s Mugie.
- Joining in traditional Maasai dancing around the fire at Ol Lentille
- Walking just metres from white rhino at Saruni Wild.
- Honing our wildlife photography skills at Mara Nyika.
- Learning traditional Maasai beading and archery at Angama Mara.
What will make our trip most memorable?
Your fondest memories will be of the people you meet!
While Isabelle and Jack were amazed by their encounters with Africa’s wildlife, their fondest memories are of the friends they made.
Properties such as Ol Lentille work closely with local communities, funding medical care and schooling and providing employment.
In return, as Ol Lentille guides, members of these communities take guests on a unique discovery of this spectacular natural environment, ancient Maasai traditions and their fascinating relationship with conservation.
While Isabelle and Jack were amazed by their encounters with Africa’s wildlife, their fondest memories are of the friends they made.
Properties such as Ol Lentille work closely with local communities, funding medical care and schooling and providing employment.
In return, as Ol Lentille guides, members of these communities take guests on a unique discovery of this spectacular natural environment, ancient Maasai traditions and their fascinating relationship with conservation.
What are my top travel tips for a spectacular family safari?
- Don’t waste time on lengthy road journeys, transfers by light aircraft flight will maximise your time on the ground.
- A safari can be tiring, include some time to relax either on the coast or by extending your stay at a safari property.
- Paying for a private safari vehicle will give you maximum flexibility.
- Consider including an insightful cultural dimension to your holiday.
- Get in touch with Journeysmiths' experienced safari specialists to start designing your family’s perfect itinerary!
Journeysmiths and the Kenyan Tourism Board: Inspiring the Next Generation
We believe in the importance of sharing our passion for wildlife, wild places with the next generation. By introducing children to the wonders of nature and different cultures, we inspire them to develop an appreciation for the natural world and a sense of responsibility for its protection.
As a company, we are dedicated to providing the best possible experiences for families to discover Kenya's wildlife, learn about its rich cultural heritage, and make lasting memories.
Through our partnership with the Kenyan Tourism Board, we hope to ignite a lifelong love for travel and conservation in families around the world.
As a company, we are dedicated to providing the best possible experiences for families to discover Kenya's wildlife, learn about its rich cultural heritage, and make lasting memories.
Through our partnership with the Kenyan Tourism Board, we hope to ignite a lifelong love for travel and conservation in families around the world.
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