Tanzania Family Safari, with its warm and welcoming people, abundant wildlife, pristine beaches, and a well-established tourism sector, is an ideal destination for family vacations. In this article, we’ll explore five of the best family safaris in Tanzania , providing a delightful blend of adventure, education, and relaxation for every member of the family.
1. 4 Days Safari to Lake Manyara National Park, Serengeti National Park, and Ngorongoro Crater on a 5-day Safari
Embark on a thrilling 4-day safari that promises to captivate the entire family. Departing from Arusha, your first stop is the enchanting Lake Manyara National Park. Here, a treetop canopy tour offers a unique bird’s eye perspective of the lush forest, providing an engaging experience for children. The journey continues to the renowned Serengeti National Park, a hotspot for Africa’s majestic big cats – lions, cheetahs, and elusive leopards. As you exit, a stop at Olduvai Gorge, a significant fossil site, adds an educational touch with a picnic lunch and a visit to the museum.
The following day, descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a natural sanctuary teeming with wildlife in a breathtaking setting. On the return to Arusha, a visit to an authentic Maasai community offers a cultural encounter, complete with the mesmerizing Maasai jumping dance that might tempt your kids to join in.
2. Tanzania Safari Serengeti Migration – Mara River Crossing 8 Days
Experience the awe-inspiring Great Migration, a wildlife spectacle where thousands of wildebeest and zebras migrate between Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park and Kenya’s Masai Mara. Witness the dramatic Mara River crossings, accompanied by predators like lions, hyenas, and cheetahs seizing every opportunity for a meal. The timing of this migration is unpredictable, with calving season occurring in the Serengeti between January and mid-March, and the migration heading towards the Western Serengeti in May or June. This 8-day adventure starts and ends at Kilimanjaro Airport.
3. The Best of Southern Tanzania Safari – 13 Days
Embark on an 11-day journey exploring the best of southern Tanzania. The Nyerere (Selous) National Park offers a variety of activities, including game drives, boat cruises, and walking safaris, providing your teenagers with a diverse wildlife experience. Ruaha National Park, adorned with baobab trees and home to rare creatures like wild dogs, offers a serene escape. The Udzungwa Mountains, ideal for trekking, promise waterfalls, monkeys, and stunning landscapes. This comprehensive itinerary ensures a well-rounded adventure for the entire family.
4. Tanzania Safari and Beach Holiday – 10 Days
Indulge in a 10-day adventure that combines the scenic beauty and wildlife of southern Tanzania with the pristine beaches of Mafia Island. Explore the Selous Game Reserve through a unique boat safari, delve into the untouched wilderness of Ruaha National Park, and unwind on the beaches of Mafia Island. This eco-friendly journey offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, with flights between destinations ensuring a seamless and comfortable travel experience.
5. 3 Days Fly Inn Safari to Selous River Camp
Tailored for family vacations, this four-day safari brings you to the Selous River Camp, a small lodge overlooking the vast Rufiji River. Nestled near the Selous Game Reserve, the camp offers a choice of accommodations, including comfortable “mudhut” rooms with en-suite bathrooms or budget-friendly tents. Enjoy game drives, walking safaris, and boat safaris, providing an authentic and intimate Tanzania safari experience for the entire family.
Traveling with Kids on a Tanzania Family Safari: Important Considerations
While planning a family safari in Tanzania, it’s essential to address some frequently asked questions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone.
1. Why Choose Tanzania for a Family Safari?
Tanzania is an ideal destination for a family safari due to its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and the perfect combination of beach and bush experiences. The Zanzibar archipelago, with its gorgeous coastline and spice islands, complements the safari adventure, creating lasting family memories.
2. What to Expect on a Tanzania Family Safari?
A family safari in Tanzania mirrors a general safari experience but with adjustments to cater to children’s ages. Activities may include game drives, boat safaris, and cultural encounters with indigenous tribes like the Maasai and Hadzabe. Balancing the itinerary with relaxation time is crucial, allowing children to enjoy the pool or beach and preventing overexertion.
3. Is Tanzania Safe for Family Travel?
Tanzania is considered a safe destination, especially when arranging a safari with a reputable firm. Knowledgeable guides ensure the safety of your family, providing briefings on forest conduct and child safety. However, some activities may have age restrictions, emphasizing the importance of selecting accommodations wisely, especially in unfenced lodges where wild animals may roam freely.
4. When is the Best Time for a Tanzania Family Safari?
The dry season from late June to October is the optimal time for a family safari in Tanzania. Wildlife congregates around water sources, providing excellent opportunities for observation. This period is also ideal for beach vacations, with minimal rainfall. For those seeking the Wildebeest Migration, specific timings should be considered, such as calving season from January to February and migration highlights in the Western Serengeti from June to July and the Northern Serengeti Mara River crossing from August to September.
In conclusion, Tanzania offers a myriad of family-friendly safari experiences, combining the thrill of wildlife encounters with the serenity of its pristine landscapes and beaches. Whether witnessing the Great Migration, exploring southern Tanzania, or enjoying a relaxing beach holiday, a family safari in Tanzania is a journey filled with wonder, education, and unforgettable moments for every member of the family.
