Family Safari in Tanzania: Tips for Kids and Teenagers

Going on a safari in Tanzania is a dream for many families. Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire offer a unique opportunity to see wild animals up close, experience nature, and create lifelong memories. But how do you make a safari enjoyable and safe for kids and teenagers? Here are our top tips.

1. Choose the Right Time of Year

When traveling with children, picking the right season is crucial:

• Dry season (June–October): Perfect for wildlife viewing, roads are dry and easy to drive on, and there is little rain.

• Rainy season (November–May): The landscape is lush and green, though some roads may be tricky. Short rain showers can make for unforgettable, quiet safari experiences.

Tip: If you want to see the Great Wildebeest Migration, plan your trip according to which stage of the migration you want to experience.

2. Pick Family-Friendly Lodges and Camps

Not all safari camps are suitable for children. When booking, make sure:

• The accommodation offers spacious family tents or lodges.

• Child-friendly meals are available, with options to adjust menus for picky eaters.

• Safety is high – for example, enclosed camp areas and experienced guides.

• Activities for kids are offered, like short nature walks, bird watching, or educational games about wildlife.
  

3. Adapt Safari Drives for Kids and Teens

Children can tire quickly during long game drives. Consider:

• Shorter drives in the morning or afternoon rather than full-day excursions.

• Regular breaks with snacks and drinks.

• Alternating between vehicle safaris and short walking tours where safe and allowed.

• Engage teenagers with photography and wildlife observation – let them document the trip with cameras or phones.
  

4. Make Safari Fun and Educational

Safari with children doesn’t have to be just “sit in a car and look at animals.” Make it interactive:

• Play “spot the animal” games and award points for animals they find.

• Teach children about animals, their habitats, and the importance of conservation.

• Visit Maasai villages (respectfully and with a guide) to combine culture with safari.
  

5. Pack Smart for the Family

A well-prepared packing list makes a big difference:

• Clothing: Lightweight, neutral colors, long sleeves for early mornings and evenings, sun hat, and rain jacket.

• Equipment: Binoculars, camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, and water bottles.

• For children: Snacks, toys, books, and maybe a small journal to record animals they see.
  

6. Safety and Health

• Ensure all vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis are up to date before traveling.

• Drink only bottled water and avoid raw foods.

• Always listen to your guides – they know how to stay safe near wild animals.
  

7. Bonus: Combine Safari with a Beach Stay

After a few days in the bush, ending the trip with a relaxing stay on Zanzibar is perfect for children and teenagers: sun, sand, and snorkeling provide a refreshing contrast to the safari and round out the family adventure.

A family safari in Tanzania can be an unforgettable experience with the right planning: choose the best time of year, family-friendly lodges, adapt drives for kids, make the safari educational and fun, and don’t forget packing and safety. With these tips, the trip will be exciting, safe, and memorable for children and teenagers alike.