Going on Safari with Kids: What You Need to Know

The inspiring sight of majestic Kilimanjaro…the thrill of spying the Big Five…the wonder of exploring the Serengeti… An African safari is sure to be one of your family's most memorable trips. You can share this incredible experience with your kids. In fact, going on safari with your kids may be easier than you think. Learn more about planning a family safari trip…and then start anticipating your wild, wonderful adventure!

Is It Safe to Take My Kids on a Safari? 
Every type of travel holds some risk, but taking a safari with a reputable tour operator, who will handle all travel arrangements and book secure, family-friendly accommodations, should alleviate most of your concerns. Once you're on your family safari trip, your tour director or guide will be an invaluable resource. This individual is knowledgeable about local customs, can handle any potential bumps in the road and will navigate the day-to-day details of your journey. 

Why Is Tauck's Family Safari in Tanzania? 
Home of Serengeti National Park, Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Crater and Kilimanjaro, this East African nation features abundant wildlife and spectacular scenery for the most comprehensive safari experience. No wonder it's one of the top tourist places in Africa for kids! Limiting our child-friendly safari to just one country makes it much easier to navigate, since you don't need to worry about additional visas or custom procedures. We also include on-tour air (two flights) to reduce road travel as part of this family safari package.

What Documents Do I Need?
Check with your government (for example, U.S. or U.K.) to see the entry requirements, but expect that everyone will need a passport valid for six months beyond the completion of your tour, and it should have two blank pages. You will also need an entry visa, which you can obtain through our partner VisaCentral, or through the Tanzania Embassy. Be aware that it takes a few weeks to process visas, and that they cannot be processed in advance of 90 days of departure. Of course, if you are taking children on safari as a non-parent guardian, be sure to review our notarized permission information.

What Health Concerns Should I Be Aware Of?
Start by confirming that you and the children are current on routine vaccines. Then check the traveler's health section of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for the latest information. (Or here on the GOV.UK site.) Be sure to talk to your doctor, who will be able to recommend other precautions you should take, as well as suggest OTC remedies you might want to pack. 

How Do I Pack for a Safari with Kids?
You'll want to pack with comfort and protection from sun and mosquitoes in mind. (Also check out our family packing tips for further ideas.) Set your sights on more modest clothing in Tanzania, and avoid bright colors on the safari drives. Kids may appreciate having their own set of binoculars and an African wildlife guide. Musts include sun hats, sunglasses, ample sunscreen and mosquito protection. One traditional item you might want to invest in is a long-sleeved, safari-style shirt, which can be worn over other t-shirts and will protect you from bugs and sun. 

Why Should I Choose Tauck for My Family's Safari?
Since 2003, we've been planning our Tauck Bridges family journeys with meticulous attention to detail and to cover any contingency. You can count on a Tauck Bridges tour to be all inclusive, offer access to unique experiences you'd never find on your own, and be fun for all ages. Our aim is effortless travel, and our engaging Tanzania Grand Family Safari is no exception.