Tanzanian family safari planning: essential information for tourists

Posted by Marie Andre
6
Jan 17, 2025
30 Views

Safari travel is definitely one of the most exciting things one might engage in as a family. Beautiful scenes, diverse fauna, and historical heritage make this country very ready to give each guest an unforgettable impression. Perfect Serengeti experience, a visit to Ngorongoro Crater, or simply having some time relaxing on Zanzibar beaches might just be perfect if one plans it right in Tanzania. We will take you through everything you need to know to plan a successful family safari in Tanzania: the most fabulous destinations, keeping your kids safe and engaged.


1. Why a Family Safari in Tanzania Is Ideal


Tanzania is one of the foremost safari destinations in Africa because of its numerous attractions, kid-friendly accommodation active duty and friendly and professional tour companies who will be in a position to take of your family.


  • Wildlife: The best place to see giraffes, zebra, flamingos, and other wildlife, especially the big five.

  • The Great Migration: To see the great migration in the Serengeti is an experience one has every year.

  • Maasai Village: Maasai village visit will give a rich experience of the traditional life that children live through

  • Relaxation: Beach relaxation on pristine Zanzibari shores post safari-a match made in heaven.


2. Best Time for Family Safari in Tanzania

It is necessary to time your tour in Tanzania right so as to have a fulfilling safari.

  • Dry Season: June to October

This season is ideal for game viewing, as animals will tend to be around waterholes. The weather is also lovely and ideal for family safaris.

  • Calving Season (January to March): 

New-born animals can be seen in southern Serengeti. The magic for the kids is to be able to watch newborn animals.

  • Avoid during the Rainy Season (March to May):

 The vegetation is extremely luscious green, but heavy showers make it tricky to travel and do some game drives.


3. Chose Right Spots

Tanzania is expansive, and it is important to choose friendly family places so the safari goes smoothly:

a. Serengeti National Park

  • Why Visit: The Great Migration and Great Wildlife.

  • Family Appeal: Short, action-packed game drives and a potential chance to view lions, elephants, and cheetahs.

b. Ngorongoro Crater

  • Why Visit: A natural wonder with full-on wildlife within a contained environment.

  • Family Appeal: Good for kids as the driving distances are shorter, and they are more likely to catch a variety of animals.

c. Tarangire National Park

  • Why Visit: Great herds of elephants and dramatic baobab trees.

  • Family Appeal: Less crowded and great for a laid-back safari experience.


d. Zanzibar

  • Why Visit: It combines great with a safari for some beach time after an adventure.

  • Family Experience: Calm and clear water, with plenty of snorkelling to do.


4. Accommodations for Families

The kind of lodging required to ensure the comfort of your safari.


  • Family-Friendly Lodges: The majority of Tanzanian lodges provide connected rooms or family suites. Tarangire Safari Lodge and Serengeti Serena Lodge are a couple of such examples.

  • special campers: For your family, several operators put up special mobile campers.

  • Beach Resorts: Take into account family-friendly resorts in Zanzibar, like The Palms or Baraza Resort and Spa.




5. What to Pack for a Family Safari


Your adventure will be more fun if you pack wisely. The following is a list of necessities:

  • Clothes: Neutral-colored, breathable, and lightweight materials. Bring long sleeves and trousers to keep bugs away.

  • Footwear: Sandals and good walking shoes.

  • Measures incorporating include hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen with elevated SPF numbers.

  • Medication: Insect repellents, adequate anti-malaria medication, properly stocked up first aid kit.

  • For Children: Snacks to keep them busy, binoculars, cameras, and notebooks.


6. Traveling with Kids

It can be rewarding travelling with children on a Tanzania tour, but it is rather more prepared in advance.

  • Short Game Drives: Game drives should not last more than 2-3 hours to avoid tiring them.

  • Involve Their Interests: Involve children in maintaining a safari journal or clicking photographs. Guides usually enlighten them by giving interesting information about animals.

  • Interactive Activities: Some lodges provide child-friendly activities like nature walks or storytelling.

  • Snacks and Breaks: Have plenty of snacks and schedule frequent breaks while participating in activities.


7. Keep Your Family Safe on Safari

Safety is the top priority when travelling with your family across Tanzania's vast nature.

  • Pay Attention to Your Guide: During walking safaris or game drives, pay close attention to your guide.

  • Respect the Allotted Boundaries: Always have a guide with you when you leave your resort or campground, especially at night.

  • Health Care Measures: Make sure everyone takes anti-malarial medicine and has had the most recent vaccines.

  • Awareness of Wildlife: Teach your children to observe nature peacefully and from a distance.


8. Choosing the Correct Operator

A quality tour operator can make or break your family safari.

  • Family-Focused Operations: Choose operators that have hands-on experience in doing family safaris, such as Thomson Safarisandr &Beyond.

  • Custom Itinerary: Ensure that they can offer you and your family an itinerary that you can and would want.

  • Child-Friendly Guides: Employ guides who are seasoned at keeping children entertained and informed at the same time.


9. Budgeting

Tanzania family safaris can be quite pricey, but proper planning will help reduce the costs.

Book Early: Book your accommodations and tours early to get the best deals.

Travel during shoulder seasons like November or February to save money.

Family Discounts: Some lodges and operators offer discounts for children or larger groups.


Conclusion

A family safari in Tanzania is an adventure to experience the best thrill of wildlife, cultural activities, and unending memories. Given the right destination, accommodations, and activities, everyone in the family will be entertained and engaged.

From the broad expanses of the Serengeti, taking in the breathtaking views of the Ngorongoro Crater, or sunbathing on Zanzibar's beaches, an organised tour to Tanzania promises a treasure of experiences for your family that will never fade into forgetfulness. 


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