As travel resumes itself after the pandemic, I find myself frantically researching places that I’ve always wanted to see. It feels like a whole new world after these past two years of laying low – and there are so many places which I would love to see for the first time as well as others which I would love to revisit. Traveling with family is a priority for me – particularly after being separated from each other during certain periods of the past two years. But where on earth do you go? With so much information online, one can be overwhelmed with many different destinations and the amount of accommodation at those places. When traveling with a multi-generational family, it’s important to choose a trip which has something for everyone but one that also allows for bonding time. One of the perfect destinations for this, is a safari. Here are 10 reasons why you need to go on a family safari in South Africa!

Our 10 reasons for a family safari in South Africa

1. It will become your home-away-from-home

Taking your family on a safari in Africa pulls at the heart strings. ‘Just another vacation’ soon becomes a place you yearn for and probably will return to. It’s for this reason that many family reunions take place at Londolozi, as well as birthdays, anniversaries and other milestones. It’s an exclusive experience which is difficult to replicate any where else in the world. Time spend together on a family safari in Africa is unique and special and keeps families coming back.

2. Londolozi’s Cubs Den

If you have younger people in your family (over the age of 6 years old) then a safari is definitely for you. Londolozi’s Cub’s Den is a space for kids to play during the day, in between game drives. The Cub’s Den facilitator organises outdoor adventures tailored to your kids and can prepare arts and crafts or baking when that is preferred. From swimming, archery and track moulding to photography, arts and crafts birding and climbing trees – this is truly a children’s paradise. This extra time for children during a safari, allows for other members of the family to have some quiet time or a chance to explore some more of Londolozi’s experiences.

3. A vacation your family will never forget

The biggest ‘wow’ factor of a family safari in South Africa is of course seeing the incredible wildlife that this region has to offer. For many families, these animals will be new and exciting and a game drive is a wonderful way to get closer and to learn more. The two daily game drives are suitable for the entire family. Elderly members of the family can be assisted to sit in the front of the vehicle and children between their parents if that’s what’s preferred. You will be driven around the reserve by a knowledgable ranger who will allow you to explore the reserve and the incredible moments it holds. Seeing a leopard or a lion together for the first time is a memory which one will never forget.

4.The best way to learn

Bringing kids on safari is a fantastic way for them to learn. This adventure is one that truly uses all of the senses. During game drives they are encouraged to ask questions and are able to hop off the vehicle at certain point in the drive, with the guidance of a ranger, to feel the bark of a tree or get a closer look at a brightly coloured beetle. In between game drives at the Cubs Den, children get the opportunity to meet with other kids form across the world as well as learn about the Shangaan culture.

5. Activities for the everyone on a family safari in South Africa

So we’ve spoken about all the activities the kids might get up to – but what’s available for the rest of the family? There truly is something for everyone. For those that have taken pictures during their safari – head to the Photographic Studio and edit some of your images with a Lightroom Facilitator (and why not print them on canvas while you’re there?). The Healing House is a space for those looking for some R&R. From massages, reflexology and body activations – make sure to check out the Healing House for some tranquility. Londolozi’s gym and daily, open-air yoga classes are the perfect activities for those wanting to move the body and make room for dinner! Londolozi’s Village Walk happens daily and allows for guests to see the back-of-house, the Shangaan Village as well as some of our sustainability efforts such as our food gardens and solar system. And then, of course, you have your suite with a private deck and plunge pool. For many – this is where you want to be spending your time in between drives…

6. Time away from screens and different time zones

A wonderful benefit of going on safari with your family is the time away from screens and other digital distractions. In today’s era this time is so important and makes family time so much more special. While we do offer wifi in our suites, many of the dining areas do not have and of course, whilst on drive you will have limited service. There are no televisions in the suites either – encouraging you to listen to nature sounds and truly connect with each other and the beautiful scenery around you. Those coming from the US and other countries will also experience different time zones – allowing for you to be less disturbed throughout the day and making sure your family time is a priority.

7. Bonding time

While there are a variety of experiences during the day to suit the individual family members – there are also times in the day which will allow for quality time. As mentioned, game drives are an adventure for the entire family and these memories will go home with you. There are also other opportunities for family time during meal times which are sometimes on the camp deck, in the boma beneath the stars or even out in the reserve. Use these opportunities to reflect on the day and take in the scenery which surrounds you. Our family camps also have bigger pools for families to use during the course of the day.

8. Sustainability, culture & protecting our planet

Your learning journey won’t end on the game drive. Londolozi’s Village Walk offers families the opportunity to explore the back-of-house and see how our operations is run. During this walk visit the Shangaan Village to learn more about this local culture. Londolozi is forever improving on its sustainability. Guests are encouraged to see our solar farm, water treatment plant and electric Land Rover. Yes, you will learn a lot about the wildlife. But you will also leave your safari being more conscious of how the land and wildlife is protected as well as new ways to live.

Harnessing Renewable energy and reducing our footprint…

9. An experience where friends become family – A Family Safari In South Africa

Ah the Londolozi Effect. For those that have visited us you will know exactly what we are talking about. It’s the feeling you get whilst visiting us and the emotion you feel when leaving us. By the end of your adventure, your butler has become your best friend. Your Camp Manager is now your daily organiser. And the Cubs Den Facilitator is now part of the family. This is why families return to safari – to be welcomed by familiar faces and feel at home.

10. Take the memories home with you after your family safari in South Africa

We highly recommend documenting your trip. From the wildlife to the lunches on the deck and the group photos at sunset. For those who don’t want to travel with your camera gear – hire some from us. You can even get your family pictures printed onsite to take home with you.

A family safari in South Africa will always call you back…

Learn more about Family Safari

At Londolozi, we’re about sharing. Sharing experiences in the sun. Sharing incredible moments with the animals, in the nature. And of course, most importantly, sharing moments with those we love, our family. Over the years we have accumulated extensive experience in family safaris. That’s why we’ve written several articles dedicated to family on our blog. We’ve listed these articles below, so you can enjoy all our expertise on the subject.

• Family safari in Africa: 5 Thing you Should Know Before Planning
• Luxury Private Family Villas in Kruger
• Why every family should have a safari trip in their bucket-list
• An African Family Safari Experience

If you want to know what family safari is at Londolozi, check out our Family Safari experience page!