Kenya Safari with kids
Wouldn’t it be amazing to see the animals your kids usually spot only in picture books — all roaming freely in their natural habitat? You might be thinking, “That sounds wonderful, but isn’t going on a safari with children risky and complicated?” It’s completely natural to feel that way. After all, you’re traveling far from home, surrounded by wild animals. And trust us, you’re definitely not the only parent with these concerns!
But here’s the good news: those worries don’t have to hold you back. In this article, our travel experts Julia and Laura share valuable tips, tricks, and insights to show you how a family safari in Kenya can be a safe, unforgettable adventure. From kid-friendly activities to family-focused accommodations, we’ve got you covered for the trip of a lifetime!
How old do kids need to be for a safari in Kenya?
Kids of all ages are welcome in Kenya’s national parks — and often, younger children even enjoy reduced entry fees. Sounds like a good sign, right? But here’s what our one of travel experts, has to add:
“Every child is different, and as a parent, you know yours best. We partner with lodges experienced in hosting families, so if you need an extra bed or a crib, just let us know and we’ll arrange it. Looking for a little ‘me time’? Many lodges offer fun programmes tailored for both younger and older kids.”
To give you some perspective, most families who book with us tend to have kids aged six and up. But that’s not a hard rule — if you feel your little one is ready, a family safari can be a wonderful experience at any age. And if now’s not the right time, no worries — Kenya will be waiting whenever you’re ready! 😉
Perfect Preparation
Traveling with kids takes some extra planning — we all know that!
“If you’re planning a safari in Kenya with children, make sure to check with your doctor or local health clinic about any recommended vaccinations and medications before you go,” Julia advises.
Here’s another great tip from her: “Choose lodges that have a swimming pool. After exciting game drives, it’s the perfect way for kids (and adults!) to cool off and have some fun.”
When it comes to packing, having a simple system can save you a lot of stress. “Since you’ll be changing lodges several times, packing and unpacking can get tedious. Try picking out complete outfits ahead of time and rolling each set of clothes together. This not only saves space but also makes it easy to grab a fresh outfit each day. Keep dirty clothes separate, and you’re good to go!”
5 Tips for the Perfect Child-Friendly Safari in Kenya
Whether you’re visiting the Masai Mara, Tsavo East, Tsavo West, or Amboseli, a few simple preparations can turn your family safari into an unforgettable adventure. Kenyans absolutely love children, and our guides know just how to keep the little ones entertained and engaged in a way that’s fun and safe for them!
Our Travel expert shares: “To ensure everyone travels comfortably, we offer booster seats that can be rented for safari vehicles. Most safari cars even have a small fridge for storing milk or snacks. If you or your children have any special dietary needs, just let us know ahead of time — we’ll make sure everything is arranged smoothly.”
Our travel expert’s 5 Smart Tips for a Smooth Family Safari
Stay connected and entertained – Request Wi-Fi in your safari vehicle and pack a few small toys or games to keep the kids happy during longer drives.
Snacks save the day – Bring along your favorite drinks and snacks or ask us to stock some for you. A well-fed explorer is a happy explorer!
Baby wipes are gold – Handy for quick clean-ups, spills, or messy fingers — baby wipes should always be within reach.
Nappy-ready essentials – If you’re traveling with little ones, pack a well-stocked diaper bag. Changing facilities can be limited, so it’s best to be prepared.
Don’t skip the essentials – Sunscreen and insect repellent are must-haves for everyone, kids and adults alike. You’ll thank yourself later!
Where to Go and Where to Stay
When planning a safari in Kenya with kids, it’s a good idea to choose parks that are relatively close to one another. That way, you can explore a variety of landscapes and spot plenty of wildlife without spending too many hours in the car. Here’s one of our favorite family-friendly routes:
Tsavo East & Tsavo West National Parks (approx. 2.5 hours apart)
These two parks are teeming with wildlife — from giraffes, zebras, and antelope to the iconic Big Five: lions, elephants, buffalo, rhinos, and leopards. You’ll also get breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro and might even spot crocodiles and hippos around Aruba Dam.
For a truly relaxed safari experience, consider staying at one of these family-friendly lodges:
Salt Lick Safari Lodge
Ngutuni Lodge
Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge
Each of these offers front-row seats to nature with their own waterholes. That means you can enjoy a refreshing mocktail on the terrace while the kids spot elephants, impalas, and other wildlife right from the comfort of your lodge — no jeep needed!
The Severin Safari Camp not only has a pool and a great waterhole for animal-watching, but also offers great walking safaris for kids and grown-ups! Our team member’s daughter is three years old and loves this activity. Get ready to learn everything about footprints and poop.
If you want to go a little further, you can combine these two parks with the famous Amboseli National Park, which is around four hours away.
Lake Nakuru National Park & Lake Naivasha (Approx. 1.5 Hours Apart)
Located in the heart of the Great Rift Valley, these two parks are a dream for families who love variety. The landscapes shift from lush forests and open plains to dramatic rock formations and wetlands — all within a short drive. Wildlife sightings include antelopes, playful monkeys, and a huge variety of birds. And when it comes to flamingos at Lake Nakuru? You won’t miss them — their vibrant pink color is hard to overlook!
Want to extend the adventure?
If you’re up for a slightly longer journey, head north to Ol Pejeta Conservancy (about three hours away). This conservancy is home to Sweetwaters Serena Camp, where a central waterhole attracts wildlife right to your doorstep. Picture impalas resting beside your tent, mongoose dashing through camp, and guinea fowl wandering nearby — a wildlife experience without even leaving the lodge!
And if you’re heading south from Nakuru, just three hours away is the legendary Masai Mara National Reserve — one of the most iconic parks in Africa. It’s especially famous for the Great Migration, a natural spectacle you won’t want to miss.
More Must-See Spots for Families in Kenya
Samburu National Reserve
If your kids love elephants, Samburu is the place to be. Over 900 elephants roam freely in this lesser-known northern reserve, making it one of the best places in Kenya to witness these gentle giants up close — often in large, tightly-knit herds. It’s a magical, peaceful encounter for the whole family.
Chale Island
Looking for a slower pace? Escape the crowds and unwind on Chale Island, a tranquil hideaway perfect for families. Kids can splash around in one of the three pools, build sandcastles on a quiet beach, or explore the underwater world with a snorkel. It’s an ideal spot to recharge before or after your safari.
Baobab Beach Resort & Spa
For an action-packed coastal stay, Baobab Beach Resort & Spa has everything you need. With kids’ pools, a fun-filled kids’ club, daily activities, and plenty of other young travelers to make friends with, your little ones will never be bored. Meanwhile, you can enjoy a spa treatment, take part in a cooking class, or just relax by the ocean. It’s a true win-win for the whole family.
Giraffe Manor
Start your day with a breakfast like no other — alongside giraffes! At Giraffe Manor in Nairobi, these graceful animals might pop their heads through the windows to say hello while you enjoy your morning meal. It’s an unforgettable experience for kids and adults alike.
Ready to round up your kids and jet off to Kenya? Share this guide with your WhatsApp group, pick your favourite spots and activities (no need to do everything together!), and reach out to us. We’ll craft the ideal Kenyan getaway tailored just for you, so you can soon be swimming, exploring, dancing, relaxing, and feasting in one unforgettable adventure.