A travel trend that is being bandied about, we unpack multi-generational travel to Africa…
More and more parents (and grandparents) are wanting to take the entire family on a meaningful trip to interesting destinations where it’s not just about the pretty views from the hotel, the activities on offer on the beach and the choice of great restaurants nearby. People are wanting to experience new places, by interacting with the local cultures, learning and gaining new understanding of nature and the ways of the world.
Its makes perfect sense really : Gramps foots the bill for the family including grandkids to go on safari in Africa. He and Grandma are fit enough to handle the long haul flight and still active enough to enjoy a bumpy ride on an open 4×4 landrover. He has money to spend on exclusive use accommodation for the family and wants everyone to bond and the kids to learn something, all in beautiful awesome nature!
Increasingly safari lodges are offering cool children’s programmes which include identifying animal tracks, identifying bird calls, learning bush skills, cooking etc.
We have cherry picked some of our favorite lodges where the rates typically include the family’s own butler, a dedicated ranger, personally tailored kids programs and of course delicious wine and cuisine for the adults. At the end of the day it depends on budget however. We are familiar with a nice range of options – from villas and homesteads to lodges with family suites and fun stuff for the kids to do.
Jamala Madikwe in the Madiwe Game Reserve. A malaria-free area; the lodge has just 5 rooms and is perfect for exclusive-use family groups.
Melton Manor at Kwandwe Private Game in the Eastern Cape. Sole-use safari villa for family groups of 8; Private 4×4 safari vehicle, butler, chef, ranger and tracker team; Set in a malaria-free Big Five game reserve in the Eastern Cape, Rich cultural and historical area, with a carnivore programme
Robin’s House in Zambia. The jewel in the crown of the Robin Pope Safaris portfolio. Originally Robin’s family home. All safari activities and meals are designed around the family’s interests. No minimum age.
Tswalu’ Tarkuni Lodge in the Northern Cape. Ideal for families groups of 10. It is an oasis of serenity in the desert. There is a dedicated team including a host and private chef. A private vehicle, personal field guide and tracker ensure an equally bespoke safari experience. The traditional boma is great for special family celebrations.
Tintswalo Manor House is in the Manyeleti Game Reserve within the Greater Kruger National Park. A sole use safari villa; ideal for families; does not shoot the lights out on price.
&Beyond’s Serengeti Under Canvas in the Serengeti, Tanzania. Follow the annual migration of wildebeest and zebra, the largest migration of mammals in the world, in total tented luxury. &Beyond’s new family tents accommodate two adults and two children, and come with a personal vehicle and butler. The kids will love the feel of camping under the stars, while mom and dad will love all the comforts of this first class experience.
Our safari consultants are always thinking out of the box, and will endeavour to find out if the kids have any particular interests (like football) that they would incorporate that into the program. For example it is also nice to suggest that kids collect something like crayons or books to bring to the African kids they might meet.