If you’re wondering how to plan a family safari trip, this blog has it all. From the best age for a safari with kids to the vaccinations your family will need and the safest country to visit. This is your full guide to planning a family safari trip.
To plan an incredible safari trip with your family, careful planning and insider knowledge will get you a long way. That’s where we come in.
With 75 years of collective experience organising and leading safaris from our lodge, Mpfuvu Manor, we build and deliver bespoke safari packages that focus on exclusivity, privacy and your interests.
Better still, when you plan a safari with us you’ll be under the guidance of Graham Cooke. Graham is a legend of the South African safari world. He is a highly distinguished and internationally renowned guide whose story of hand-rearing two leopard cubs and releasing them into the wild is told in the now-popular book – “My Life with Leopards”.
From the lodge, we explore safe areas including Pridelands, Umfula, Manyeleti, Greater Kruger and Kruger Park amongst other locations.
What is the safest country for a family safari?
When it comes to memorable and safe safari travel, a South African safari consistently ranks as one of the top bucket-list destinations in the world.
Kruger National Park is on our doorstep, during the Easter and October holidays this region of South Africa generally enjoys dry, sunny weather. The summer months are also a good time to explore the Kruger area and catch a glimpse of the Big 5.
There is only a two-hour time difference between the UK and South Africa too, (one hour in the summer months) which means no jet lag and restless children! English is widely spoken and the exchange rate is good for families from the UK.
We’re in the Limpopo region of South Africa close to the vibrant town of Hoedpsruit. There’s something for all the family in Hoedspruit, from hot air balloon rides, horse riding, nightlife and spas. Find out more about our local area here.
What is the best age for a safari with kids?
Every family is different and only you know when your kids are ready to experience a safari.
Some lodges have minimum age requirements for guests and safaris. At Mpfuvu Manor we welcome families of all ages and have a pushchair, infant car seats, baby cots, highchairs, playmats/pens etc available on request.
Children aged 0 – 2 even stay for free!
For families travelling with teens a safari holiday is an incredible experience. Your private guide, the legendary Graham Cooke, is a fantastic teacher who will immerse you into the natural world around Mpfuvu Manor and will provide an unparalleled level of insight and understanding of the animals we have the pleasure of living near.
You’ll hear wonderful stories from his time in the bush while having once-in-a-lifetime experiences as a family. Graham thrives on sharing his in-depth knowledge about the bush and reconnecting people with the natural world.
Finding a family-friendly safari lodge
Our family-friendly safari lodge is your home away from home.
When you stay with us, the whole lodge is exclusively for you. Meaning it’s the perfect place for families, craving privacy and peace. We charge by the room, giving you and your family ultimate exclusivity without the hefty price tag.
This exclusive nature means the trip is all about you. When you stay with us you can focus on birds, and leopards or head into our local town Hoedspruit. At our South African lodge, you can do whatever you want, at your pace.
And if you’re travelling with dietary requirements or fussy eaters, we can work with you to create a menu for your stay that suits your whole family.
Families travelling with children with additional needs will be safe and well looked after by the team at Mpfuvu Manor. With space to explore around the lodge and our insider knowledge meaning we can avoid the crowds, a safari holiday at Mpfuvu Manor will be an unforgettable and private trip for your family.
Family safari trip from the UK
Mpfuvu Manor is a great location for your family to base themselves for a family safari trip from the UK. We’re located on the banks of the Olifants River in the Lowveld bush just 20km north of Hoedpsruit, in the Limpopo region of South Africa.
Our lodge is just 40 minutes from Hoedspruit airport and we have a number of well-known safari spots on our doorstep.
From the UK, flying to Hoedspruit airport usually involves just one connecting flight from several of the larger airports in the UK.
For a South African holiday destination, Hoedspruit itself has it all. Surrounded by the largest privately owned conservation area in the world and the gateway to Kruger National Park, Hoedspruit is a thriving town with arts and crafts markets, amenities, shops and a number of good bars and restaurants.
Collection from the airport can be arranged and to help make your planning as smooth as possible, we can advise on flights, airport taxes, entry visas and any additional information you may need when planning a family safari trip.
What vaccinations do I need for South Africa?
We recommend that families are up to date with routine vaccinations and boosters for a trip to South Africa. This includes the MMR vaccine and diphtheria-tetanus-polio vaccine.
Additionally, depending on the areas you’ll be visiting during your trip, you may require; Hepatitis A, Tetanus and Typhoid vaccinations/medication.
Please consult with a medical healthcare provider for professional advice. This handy vaccination guide from the NHS provides all the information you need to know.
Other things to consider include sun protection, insect repellent and hydration tablets.
When to go on a family safari?
During the UK summer holidays is winter in South Africa, but don’t let that put you off. Winter happens between June and August and this is a great time to do some serious wildlife watching. The days are dry and temperatures are in the mid to low twenties. A dry climate means the wildlife reserves provide a good opportunity to observe a wide range of animals.
In the dry season, animals gather around waterholes which, when you know their favourite spots to go to like we do, increases your chances of seeing them.
Read our handy guide on the best time to visit South Africa on Safari.
Where to go on safari?
When it comes to memorable travel, a South African safari consistently ranks as one of the top bucket-list destinations in the world. With an abundance of wildlife, breathtaking backdrops and scenery guaranteed to make sure you fall in love with the country, you won’t be disappointed.
Staying at Mpfuvu Manor gives you exclusive use of a luxury retreat and to top it off our knowledgeable team will be on hand to help you navigate safari trips, town visits and any additional activities you choose to do.
More from our journal:
- 10 reasons to stay in our luxury safari lodge in South Africa
Mpfuvu Manor is your home from home. Here are 10 reasons why you’ll love your stay with us - 5 things to do in Hoedspruit
We list our top 5 things do to in Hoedspruit - Best time to visit South Africa on safari?
Read our handy guide to see when you’ll have the best chance of glimpsing your favourite animals
