As someone who started taking my children on safari when they were in nappies and has been on over 60 family safaris since.

I can confidently say that, yes, you absolutely can take your baby on safari, you just have to plan it thoroughly and don’t be embarrassed about your huge amount of luggage! Check out our amazingly thorough packing list.

Is it doable? Definitely. Is it worth it? Absolutely. Is it a walk in the park? Well, no, not always—but the memories, bonding, the hilarious mishaps (not always hilarious at the time) and awe-inspiring experiences make every moment worth it.

Before we dive into the details…

Let’s start with the obvious: no, your little one probably won’t remember the lioness casually strolling past your vehicle or the elephants splashing water on themselves by the river… In fact, they might be more interested in the Percy Pigs that you brought them as a treat! But here’s the thing, you’ll remember.

We don’t travel with our children just for their memories. Let’s be honest, babies might not recall every detail of their first safari, (or any detail maybe). However, seeing the look of wonder on their little faces when they see how tall a giraffe is. Their delighted giggles as the baboon itches his bottom. Those moments are yours to treasure forever. This is as much about your parenthood as it is about their childhood.

A safari isn’t just for your children, it’s for you.

Having travelled with my ankle-biters across Africa. I have learnt (sometimes the hard way) where you should and shouldn’t take young children, how you can prepare for the trip, and the best ways to ensure your safari is safe, fun, and, well, as stress-free as travelling with a baby or toddler can ever be. So, let’s get to it.

Can Toddlers & Babies Go on Safari?

Yes, but the key is choosing the right destination, the right lodge and the right itinerary. There are literally thousands of these, the key is getting it right. This is why you use a company like The SAFARI Company, because they know.

Here’s a quick breakdown of how baby-friendly each of these popular countries are:

Kenya:

Kenyans LOVE kids! Indeed, it is a family safari haven! Kenya has private conservancies where littlies can enjoy flexible game drives, cooking, gentle kayaking, riding camels, riding horses, swimming in rivers, collecting chicken eggs, feeding giraffes, picking veggies… get my gist?

We work with lodges with spacious family tents, flexible kitchens and helpful souls to look after the sleeping babies whilst you have supper. Oh and don’t forget the beautiful powder-white beaches and private villas overflowing with child-care assistance! Importantly, Kenya has excellent medical care and we insure all our guests with ‘flying doctors’, so you are always within a hop and a skip from a hospital. Have a little look at some safari ideas here.

Tanzania:

We’d rather send families with young children on safari to Kenya, because Tanzania only offers safaris in national parks. This means there are none of the outdoor extras and the lodges are generally not as flexible… in our opinion.

Of course, we must mention Tanzania’s spice island of Zanzibar. Gorgeous Zanzibar is a perfect powder-white beach destination for young families and we work with some beautiful little lodges, villas and hotels here that are just perfect for littlies.

South Africa:

Perfect for families in a different way! A much more efficient and developed country than any in East Africa. Many of the game reserves and lodges don’t accept children or if they do, they don’t allow them on game drives, so be careful of this.

We love the more developed side of South Africa for holidays with our babies. What my kids love is seeing the Penguins, feeding the seals, seeing the unique animals in cages like lemurs, white lions, tigers (Mum doesn’t love this bit as much). There are lovely outdoor cafes with wonderful playgrounds etc. Also the medical services are excellent!

Uganda:

A wonderfully fun, relaxed and affordable (for Africa) country to travel around with young children. The people and lodges are notoriously kind and relaxed and there’s lots on offer, but do be careful as malaria is high risk in certain areas and Bilharzia is high risk if you play around in the Nile. So be on top of your prophylaxis medication.

Gorilla trekking has an age restriction of 15 years old.

Rwanda:

A dream destination, particularly for gorilla trekking, but it is less suited for toddlers. While some lodges welcome young children, Gorilla trekking has an age restriction of 15 years old.
Psst. If you’re travelling in Uganda, Tanzania or Rwanda, the medical services are weak in our opinion, so we would insure you to be airlifted to Kenyan hospitals if you were to travel with us.

What Makes Africa Special for Families?

One of the most heartwarming aspects of taking children on safari in Africa is how much people here genuinely love children. Across Kenya, Tanzania and beyond, children are seen as blessings and are celebrated in African culture.

This means that your little ones won’t just be tolerated on safari—they’ll often be treated like royalty. From the moment you step into a lodge or meet your guides, you’ll notice how warm and welcoming everyone is towards children. They instinctively know how to engage, entertain, and care. It’s not rare to find your child playing football with the barman or hide and seek with the room steward.

What Are the Biggest Considerations When Travelling With Babies?

Health Precautions:

• Malaria Precautions: If you’re travelling to a malaria area within any African country, consult your doctor about taking prophylaxis for you and your child/ren (our malaria expert recommends Malanil and Malanil Paediatric). Be sure to use mosquito repellent (must have DEET). Also take preventive measures like sleeping under a mosquito net and wearing long-sleeved clothing at night (or just have them in bed before the mossi’s come out to play).
• Vaccinations: Ensure your child’s vaccinations are up-to-date and consult your GP on which ones you and your children need before travelling.

Visas & Entry Requirements (documented on 5th Feb 2025):

• Kenya – Visas are not required but an Electronic Travel Authorisation is obligatory for everyone, even minor’s under 18. You must apply for these ETA’s in advance. Apply here.
• Tanzania – All ages need a visa for Tanzania and Zanzibar. Apply here. Visitors to Zanzibar must have valid Travel Insurance, you can arrange your insurance here.
• Uganda – All ages need a visa for Uganda. Apply here.
• Rwanda – All ages need a visa for Rwanda. Apply here.
• South Africa – Visa info is available here. Ensure you have unabridged birth certificates if travelling with minors, as well as letters from a parent if you’re not travelling together.

We also offer safaris to Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana and Namibia, so please don’t hesitate to ask us for their info too 🙂

Flights & Airlines:

When booking flights, check with the airline about baggage allowances for babies (strollers, car seats, etc.). Some airlines offer bassinets for long-haul flights, though, I also always swore by one of these lifesaver airplane footrests as my babies always seemed to be too heavy for the bassinets. And by lifesaver, I mean they give you 30 glorious minutes of peace before your toddler decides to use it as a trampoline. The other lifesaver… snacks!!!

What Safari Activities Are Toddler-Friendly?

You might assume toddlers can’t participate in safari activities, but that’s not entirely true. Here’s what you can enjoy with your little one:

• Short Game Drives: Those genius lodges that don’t mix you up with other guests so you can choose your schedule… and have fun with them! Sing (Hakuna Matata from The Lion King🦁), take a variety of snacks, introduce an animal spotting competition, take fun & informative safari books like this wonderful ‘Lets Go on Safari’ book. Give them a pair of binoculars and a camera and make them the boss!
• Picnics: What child doesn’t like to be plonked onto a cozy rug and told they can eat to their hearts content, whatever’s in front of them, with their hands? Pop a little colouring book and a football in the bag too for the ‘I’m bored’ moments.
• Nature Walks: Some lodges offer guided nature walks tailored to young children, where they can spot insects, learn about plants, and engage their senses. Why not take a new teddy with you and take photos of it having fun along your walk?
• Cultural Visits: Visiting a Maasai village or local community is an enriching, child-friendly activity.
• On-Site Activities: Look for lodges with great activities, games, toys, kids’ clubs, sandpits, or pools… or just ask us which ones have these!

Packing Checklist for a Safari with a Little One

Packing is a science when travelling with toddlers. Take a look at what I always bring here.

Tips to Make Your Safari Stress-Free

• Choose Family-Friendly Lodges: Opt for lodges with amenities like games, toys, swimming pools, art studios, veggie picking, babysitting, kids’ meals, and family tents.
• Book Private Safaris: Having a private vehicle gives you flexibility to work around your baby’s sleep schedule.
• Keep Game Drives Short: Stick to 2-3 hours to avoid meltdowns. Morning and late afternoon drives work best as they’re cooler… and there’s more game to see.
• Have Downtime: Plan rest days to relax at the lodge or pool. Toddlers need breaks from the dusty safari excitement!

Why Choose Us for Your Family Safari?

We don’t just plan family safaris—we’ve lived them. From my kids seeing their first flamingoes on Lake Nakuru, spotting elephants in Amboseli, feeding their adopted elephant calf, to learning about Samburu culture and playing in the red earth of Tsavo. We have navigated safaris with little ones firsthand. This means we truly understand what families need, from safe and inspiring activities to lodges that cater to every wish. With our expertise, we’ll help you craft a safari that’s unforgettable for both you and your little explorers.

Of course, there will be challenges. There might even be meltdowns (yours or theirs .. hmmm probably both 😉). Trust me when I say that taking babies on safari is not only possible, but magical. These experiences are about so much more than what your children will remember—they’re about how you will remember this time in your life. Parenthood is fleeting, and these shared adventures are an extraordinary way to connect, celebrate, and cherish every stage of this wild, wonderful journey. Have a little look at a typical day on safari here.

If you’re ready to embark on a family safari adventure, reach out to us.
We’ll take the stress out of planning so you can focus on making memories that last you a lifetime.
Happy safari!
Chania Tundo