A Safari Adventure for the Whole Family
Designed specifically for families with children, this 6-day Kenya safari combines incredible wildlife viewing with kid-friendly activities, educational experiences, and comfortable accommodations perfect for all ages. From feeding giraffes in Nairobi to watching flamingos at Lake Nakuru and searching for the Big Five in the Maasai Mara, this safari creates unforgettable memories for the whole family. Our specially trained family guides know how to keep children engaged and excited while ensuring safety and comfort for everyone.
Family Safari Highlights:
- Giraffe Centre Visit: Hand-feed endangered Rothschild giraffes
- Elephant Orphanage: Watch baby elephants being fed and playing
- Lake Nakuru Flamingos: See millions of pink flamingos (seasonal)
- Maasai Mara Game Drives: Child-friendly vehicles with pop-up roofs
- Maasai Village Visit: Cultural interaction suitable for children
- Kid's Safari Kit: Each child receives binoculars, animal checklist, and safari journal
- Family Accommodations: Interconnecting rooms or family tents
- Swimming Pools: All accommodations have pools for afternoon relaxation
- Educational Activities: Age-appropriate learning about wildlife and conservation
- Flexible Scheduling: Adjustable meal times and activity schedules for families
Detailed Family Safari Itinerary
DAY 1: NAIROBI ARRIVAL & GIRAFFE CENTRE
Airport Arrival: Meet and greet at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
Family Welcome: Special welcome for children with safari welcome packs.
Hotel Transfer: Transfer to family-friendly Nairobi hotel.
Lunch at Hotel: Family lunch with kid-friendly menu options.
Afternoon - Giraffe Centre: Visit the AFEW Giraffe Centre to feed Rothschild giraffes.
Interactive Experience: Children learn about giraffe conservation while hand-feeding.
Karen Blixen Museum (Optional): Visit the "Out of Africa" author's home (for older children).
Evening - Family Orientation: Safari briefing tailored for families with children.
Kid's Questions: Children can ask questions about the upcoming safari adventure.
Dinner: Family dinner at hotel with early options for younger children.
Early Night: Rest after travel in preparation for tomorrow's early start.
DAY 2: NAIROBI TO LAKE NAKURU
Breakfast: Early breakfast with special kids' buffet section.
David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage: Morning visit to see baby elephant feeding (11:00 AM).
Elephant Interaction: Watch orphaned elephants being fed and playing in mud.
Conservation Education: Learn about elephant conservation efforts in Kenya.
Scenic Drive: Journey to Lake Nakuru with bathroom and snack stops.
Kid's Entertainment: In-vehicle wildlife games and animal spotting competitions.
Lunch en route: Family-friendly restaurant with options for all ages.
Arrival Lake Nakuru: Check into family-friendly lodge with swimming pool.
Afternoon Game Drive: First safari experience in Lake Nakuru National Park.
Flamingo Viewing: See flocks of pink flamingos at the lake shore (seasonal).
Rhino Spotting: Lake Nakuru is excellent for both black and white rhino sightings.
Evening at Lodge: Pool time for kids, sundowners for parents.
Family Dinner: Dinner with other safari families at the lodge.
Animal Sounds Game: Evening game identifying animal sounds heard at night.
DAY 3: LAKE NAKURU TO MAASAI MARA
Morning Game Drive: Early game drive to see predators when most active.
Breakfast in Bush: Special bush breakfast experience for families.
Birdwatching: Lake Nakuru has over 450 bird species - great for young birders.
Scenic Drive to Mara: Journey to the famous Maasai Mara National Reserve.
Lunch en route: Picnic lunch at scenic viewpoint with play area for kids.
Enter Maasai Mara: Arrive in the world-famous wildlife reserve.
Game Drive en route: First wildlife viewing in the Mara on way to lodge.
Arrival at Family Camp: Check into family-friendly tented camp with pool.
Camp Orientation: Special safety briefing for children about camp life.
Afternoon Relaxation: Pool time or optional short nature walk around camp.
Evening Game Drive: Sunset game drive with chances to see predators.
Sundowner: Family sundowner with special non-alcoholic options for kids.
Campfire Stories: Evening around campfire with Maasai stories and star gazing.
Dinner: Family-style dinner with child-friendly menu available.
DAY 4: FULL DAY IN MAASAI MARA
Morning Options: Choose between:
- Full Day Game Drive: With packed lunch for all-day wildlife viewing
- Morning Game Drive & Afternoon Rest: More relaxed pace for younger children
- Hot Air Balloon Safari: Optional add-on for families with children over 7
Wildlife Focus: Search for the Big Five with special attention to child interests.
Animal Tracking: Kids learn to identify tracks and signs with guide.
Picnic Lunch: Bush lunch at scenic location with safe play area.
Afternoon Activity: Return to camp for pool time or optional activities:
Kid's Bush Craft: Learn basic bush skills (fire making, tracking) with guide.
Maasai Village Visit: Cultural visit to Maasai village (child-appropriate).
Maasai Crafts: Children learn beadwork or spear throwing (supervised).
Evening Game Drive: Late afternoon drive for nocturnal animal sightings.
Night Drive (Optional): Some camps offer night drives (check age restrictions).
Dinner: Special bush dinner under the stars (weather permitting).
Night Sounds: Listen for hyenas, lions, and other nocturnal animals from camp.
DAY 5: MAASAI MARA & FAMILY ACTIVITIES
Morning Game Drive: Final Mara game drive focusing on any missed animals.
Breakfast in Bush: Bush breakfast with special treats for children.
Return to Camp: Mid-morning return for packing and checkout.
Optional Activities: Choice of:
- Nature Walk: Guided walk around camp area (with armed guard)
- Birdwatching: Focus on colorful and interesting bird species
- Photography Lesson: Basic wildlife photography for older children
- Swimming: Final pool time before departure
Lunch: Final lunch at the camp.
Scenic Return Drive: Journey back towards Nairobi with stops.
Great Rift Valley Viewpoint: Photo stop at dramatic escarpment viewpoint.
Arrival Nairobi: Return to Nairobi by evening.
Hotel Check-in: Overnight at family-friendly Nairobi hotel.
Farewell Dinner: Celebration dinner at Carnivore Restaurant (optional).
Safari Recap: Family discussion about favorite safari moments.
Packing: Prepare for tomorrow's departure or extension.
DAY 6: NAIROBI DEPARTURE OR EXTENSION
Leisurely Morning: No rush wake-up after several early safari days.
Breakfast: Final breakfast together as a family.
Optional Morning Activities: Depending on flight times:
- Nairobi National Park: Quick game drive close to the city
- Karen Blixen Museum: For families interested in history
- Shopping: For souvenirs and gifts at local markets
- Bomas of Kenya: Cultural show with traditional dances
Lunch: Final lunch in Nairobi (optional).
Airport Transfer: Transfer to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
Check-in Assistance: Help with check-in and luggage.
Farewell: Bid farewell to your family safari guide.
Departure: Board your international flight home.
Safari Certificates: Children receive junior ranger certificates.
Photo Sharing: Guide provides information for sharing photos.
Extension Options: For families extending their stay:
- Beach extension to Diani or Watamu
- Mount Kenya region activities
- Amboseli National Park with Kilimanjaro views
- Lake Naivasha boat ride and cycling
Why This Safari is Perfect for Families
Our family safari guides are specially trained to work with children. They know how to explain wildlife behavior in age-appropriate ways, keep children engaged during game drives, and ensure safety at all times. Many are parents themselves and understand family dynamics.
We select accommodations specifically for their family facilities: swimming pools, interconnecting rooms or family tents, children's menus, play areas, and family-friendly staff. Many lodges offer babysitting services (additional cost) for parents who want an evening alone.
This safari is designed to be educational as well as fun. Children learn about animal behavior, conservation efforts, Kenyan culture, and ecology through hands-on experiences, games, and guided interpretation. Many children return home with new knowledge and appreciation for wildlife.
We understand that families have different needs. The itinerary can be adjusted for nap times, early bedtimes, picky eaters, or special interests. Game drives can be shortened or extended based on children's attention spans and energy levels.
Kid-Friendly Safari Activities
Hand-feed endangered giraffes at Nairobi centre
Watch baby elephants being fed and playing
See millions of pink flamingos at Lake Nakuru
Learn to identify animal tracks and signs
Create traditional Maasai jewelry with local women
Learn basic survival skills from expert guides
Basic wildlife photography lessons for kids
Identify constellations in African night sky
Checklist competition to spot all Big Five
All accommodations have swimming pools
Family Safari Accommodations:
Family rooms, swimming pool, kid's menu, secure grounds, close to attractions
Family cottages or interconnecting rooms, swimming pool, game viewing deck, children's play area, family dining options
Family tents with ensuite bathrooms, swimming pool, campfire area, game drives from camp, child-friendly staff
We tailor activities to children's ages: Toddlers (2-4): Short game drives, animal sounds games, simple crafts. Young Children (5-8): Animal tracking, junior ranger activities, basic photography. Tweens (9-12): More detailed wildlife education, longer game drives, cultural interactions. Teens (13+): Photography workshops, conservation discussions, optional walking safaris (where permitted).
Essential Family Safari Tips
Clothing: Layers for changing temperatures, neutral colors, sun hats. Comfort Items: Favorite stuffed animal, blanket for younger children. Entertainment: Books, games, tablets for downtime (with chargers). Medications: Any regular medications plus basics like children's pain reliever, antihistamine. Snacks: Familiar snacks for between meals (also available locally).
Vaccinations: Consult travel doctor about recommended vaccinations for Kenya. Malaria Prophylaxis: Recommended for Kenya - child-friendly options available. Sun Protection: High SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, hats essential. Hydration: Keep children well-hydrated, especially during game drives. First Aid Kit: We carry comprehensive first aid kit but bring child-specific items.
Realistic Wildlife Viewing: Explain that animals are wild and sightings aren't guaranteed. Patience Required: Game drives involve waiting - bring activities for downtime. Early Starts: Prepare children for early morning game drives (most exciting time for wildlife). Flexible Attitude: Safari requires flexibility - weather, animal movements can change plans.
Pre-Trip Learning: Watch wildlife documentaries, read books about African animals. Animal Checklist: Create a checklist of animals children hope to see. Journal: Encourage children to keep a safari journal or sketchbook. Questions: Help children prepare questions for guides about animals and culture.
Age Recommendations & Considerations:
| Age Group | Recommended Activities | Special Considerations | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toddlers (2-4) | Short game drives, giraffe feeding, pool time | Nap schedules, early bedtimes, car seat requirements | First safari experience, animal recognition |
| Children (5-8) | All activities, junior ranger programs, basic tracking | Attention span during drives, sun protection, hydration | Learning about wildlife, hands-on activities |
| Tweens (9-12) | Full game drives, photography, cultural interactions | Internet access expectations, peer interaction opportunities | Conservation education, photography skills |
| Teens (13+) | All activities, optional walking safaris, in-depth learning | Social media sharing, independence within safety limits | Advanced wildlife education, cultural immersion |
| Multi-Generational | Mix of activities for different ages and abilities | Pace adjustments, activity choices for different mobility levels | Family bonding, shared experiences across generations |
Child locks, seat belts, pop-up roofs with safety rails
First aid trained guides, emergency evacuation plans, nearby medical facilities
Specially trained to work with families and children of all ages
Child-friendly menus, food hygiene standards, bottled water provided
School Holidays: June-August & December-January are most popular for families. Weather: Dry seasons (June-October & December-March) offer best wildlife viewing and comfortable temperatures. Migration: July-October for wildebeest migration in Maasai Mara (spectacular but busier). Shoulder Seasons: April-May & November can offer lower rates and fewer crowds but higher chance of rain.
Ready for Your Family Adventure?
Create memories that will last a lifetime with a safari designed specifically for families. Our family specialists will help you plan the perfect safari for your children's ages and interests.
Book This Family SafariContact our family safari specialists to discuss your children's ages and create the perfect family adventure.