
We have been overwhelmed with responses and inquiries about family African safaris since we returned from our trip to Lion Sands. Here are some of my recommendations and suggestions for taking an African safari as a family.
Stay long enough for it to count.
For this kind of trip and the distance we had to travel, I wouldn’t stay any less than two weeks. It will take you (and the kids!) at least a day or two to recover from the travel, and at least another day or two to get geared up for traveling again. Make it worth your while!
Keep in-country travel to a minimum.
We flew all over the country, staying at five different locations that were not a hop-skip away. Next time, I would plan two destinations and be able to kick back for several days (or even a week!) before moving to the next location. That way, you can really get to know a place.
Choose a travel specialist for land transportation.
Don’t mess around with cabs or booking your own tour companies. Find a travel specialist for the country you are visiting, and have them make the arrangements using the companies with whom they have established relationships. You will not regret the time and peace of mind you save by doing this.
The staff makes your trip.
Regardless of how luxurious you accommodations are, it is really your staff that is going to make or break your trip. Take the time to get to know some of the extraordinary people working for the properties. They have dedicated their lives to living in some of the most rural and exotic parts of the country.
Visit the local community projects.
Most lodges offer their guests a trip to the communities around the lodge. It is a great way to connect with the local people and a chance to provide aid where needed.