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Children experience our wildlife wonders
Kids on Safari
Take the cubs out on a safari
© South African Tourism
Did you know?
To protect their young, mother hippos have been known to kill lions
and bite crocodiles in half!
Children can do most things adults do on safari, but they have shorter attention spans and crave instant gratification.
At Riverdene Lodge at Shamwari Game Reserve, age-appropriate children's safaris are discussed with every family group on arrival. Visits can be arranged to the Born Free Foundation Big Cat Rescue Centre and the Wildlife Hospital. Kids can also participate in various social and cultural activities like bead and clay making, stargazing and African storytelling.
Jaci's Lodges at Madikwe Game Reserve also has a host of activities aimed especially at children. Phuhuduhudu is their children's safari programme that includes all sorts of activities to stimulate their creativity by switching on all 5 senses, their instincts and coordination, while teaching them life skills and all about wildlife at the same time.
Of course, depending on the length - and budget - of your stay, your children may not be able to participate in such extensive activities. Happily, South Africa also has amazing shorter trips to view wildlife for kids.
Situated close together on the Garden Route are 2 must-visit destinations. Birds of Eden boasts the world's largest domed, free-flight bird sanctuary, and while the birds are the star attraction, the suspension bridge and walk-behind waterfall make getting around an important part of the adventure.
Monkey Land is the world's first free-roaming, multi-species primate sanctuary, and visitors can spot an Asian gibbon just around the corner from a South American capuchin. It's possible to buy joint tickets to both locations, and their websites boast fun activities for kids as well.
Many of our cities also have hidden surprises, from the Bird Park at Montecasino in Johannesburg, or the Johannesburg and Pretoria Zoos to the wondrous aquariums in Durban and Cape Town - making even a city visit the ideal opportunity for kids on safari.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
Shamwari Game Reserve
Web: www.shamwari.com/
Tel: + 27 (0)41 407 1000
Email: reservations@mantiscollection.com
Jaci's Lodges at Madikwe Game Reserve
Web: www.madikwe.com/
Tel: + 27 (0)14 778 9900
Email: jaci@madikwe.com
Monkeyland and Birds of Eden
Tel: +27 (0)44 534 8906
Email: info@monkeyland.co.za
How to get here
South Africa is serviced by 3 international airports, and an efficient domestic network.
Get around
Discuss your options with the relevant game reserve. Some arrange airport pick-ups, others require you to hire a car.
What will it cost
Staying in South Africa’s luxury lodges is expensive but worth the splurge. Many parks and reserves have affordable rates for day visitors.
Length of stay
From a single day trip to a full week of safaris.
What to pack
Binoculars, sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen and a good camera.
Where to stay
South Africa has accommodation to suit every budget, but in general it’s pricier to stay inside the game reserves.