What makes a safari itinerary fit to be termed as a family safari package?
In this article, we forecast largely on expounding on the criterial facts that qualifies a safari itinerary to be termed as perfect fit family safari itinerary in Kenya and Tanzania.
What defines an ideal Family Safari Itinerary?
With so many listed family safaris tours on the internet picking the right safari that aligns with your vacation goals and interests as a family can be tricky especially if you are taking the safari tour for the first time. As you forecast on making each members of the family vacation needs and expectations accommodated on a particular itinerary of your choice, there are important factors to consider when deciding to pick a perfect family safari tour plan.
Here are the Main points that defines best a perfect family safari itinerary that will help you make an informed decision while planning for your next family safari vacation in Kenya or Tanzania
Key Factors that constitute an ideal Family Safari itinerary
- Accommodation Suitable for Families.
2. Tailored Game Drives and Activities in respect to Family member’s age groups.
3. Family friendly Mode of Transportation while on safari.
4. Health and Safety Considerations
- Flexibility with itinerary
- Cultural and Community Engagement
- Cost and Value for Money
- Accommodation Suitable for Families.
Look for type of Safari lodges and camps that offer family-friendly amenities and services. This includes:
- Family Rooms or Private Villas: Opt for Safari lodges that provide spacious family rooms or private villas with multiple bedrooms. These setups ensure comfort and privacy, and allow families to stay together in a single unit.
- Child-Friendly Facilities: Some lodges and camps offer special amenities for children, such as swimming pools with shallow areas, game rooms, and babysitting services.
- Safety Measures: Ensure that the accommodation adheres to high safety standards. This includes secure fencing around the property, child-proof rooms, and trained staff to handle emergencies.
- Tailored Game Drives and Activities in respect to Family members’ age groups.
A family safari itinerary should include game drives and activities tailored to different age groups and interests. Consider the following:
- Shorter Game Drives: Young children can become restless during long game drives. Look for itineraries that include shorter, more frequent game drives, or those that offer a flexible schedule.
- Educational and Interactive Experiences: Many lodges and reserves offer educational programs for children. Activities like nature walks, bush craft workshops, and wildlife tracking can be both engaging and informative.
- Special Activities for Teens: Older children and teenagers may enjoy more adventurous activities like guided walking safaris, night drives, or even hot air balloon safaris, which provide a unique perspective of the landscape and wildlife.
- Family friendly Mode of Transportation while on safari.
Transportation is another critical aspect of a family safari. Comfort and safety should be prioritized:
- Well-Maintained Vehicles: Ensure that the safari vehicles are in good condition and equipped with safety features like seat belts. Vehicles with open sides or pop-up roofs offer better viewing experiences and ventilation.
- Comfortable Seating: Look for vehicles with comfortable seating arrangements that can accommodate families with young children. Some safari vehicles are equipped with special child seats.
- Transfer Options: Check if the itinerary includes convenient transfer options between parks and lodges. Long transfers should be minimized, and if necessary, ensure they are as comfortable as possible with stops for breaks.
- Health and Safety Considerations
Ensuring the health and safety of your family is paramount:
- Medical Facilities: Check the proximity of medical facilities to your accommodation. Some lodges have first aid kits and trained staff, but knowing where the nearest hospital or clinic is located can provide peace of mind.
- Vaccinations and Health Precautions: Before traveling, ensure that your family is up-to-date on vaccinations and health precautions required for Kenya and Tanzania. This might include malaria prophylaxis and other recommended vaccinations.
- Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen events is essential for peace of mind.
- Flexible Itinerary
A flexible itinerary allows you to adapt plans based on your family’s needs and interests:
- Customizable Schedules: Choose an itinerary that offers flexibility in scheduling activities. This way, you can adjust plans if the children need rest or if unexpected opportunities arise.
- Rest Days: Incorporate rest days into the itinerary. A well-balanced schedule with days set aside for relaxation can help avoid burnout and ensure that everyone remains energized and enthusiastic.
6. Cultural and Community Engagement
Engaging with local cultures and communities can enrich the safari experience:
- Community Visits: Look for safaris that include visits to local communities. This provides an opportunity for your family to learn about different cultures and traditions in a respectful and meaningful way.
- Cultural Activities: Some safaris offer cultural activities such as traditional dance performances, craft workshops, or storytelling sessions. These activities can be both educational and entertaining for all family members.
- Cost and Value for Money
Finally, consider the cost and value for money:
- Inclusive Packages: Opt for packages that include all necessary components such as accommodation, meals, game drives, and park fees. This helps avoid unexpected expenses and ensures a smooth experience.
- Family Discounts: Some lodges and tour operators offer family discounts or special rates for children. Look out for these offers to get the best value for your money.
- Quality vs. Cost: While it’s important to stay within budget, prioritize quality over cost. Investing in a well-planned, high-quality safari experience can make a significant difference in ensuring a memorable family vacation.
In a nut-shell A family safari tour package requires balancing the needs and interests of each family member on board while ensuring safety and comfort. By keeping these criteria in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating a family safari experience that is enjoyable, memorable, and perfectly suited to your loved ones.
