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    Safari tips

    Kenya Family Safari: Tips for Travelling with Children

    Safaris can work beautifully for families if the pace, camps and activities suit your children. Here is what to look for and how to plan.

    NexGen Safaris team 2 min read
    Giraffes standing on the Kenyan plains

    A family safari can be the trip children remember for life, but it works best when the plan is built around them. These are the points we raise with every family.

    Check age policies first

    Camps and lodges set their own minimum ages for game drives and activities, and rules differ between them. Some welcome toddlers and offer family rooms; others prefer older children. Tell us your children's ages up front so we choose places where everyone is welcome.

    Choose the right pace

    Long drives and early starts are tiring for young children. Look for itineraries with shorter days, a few nights in each place and some downtime. A private vehicle lets you adjust: stop for snacks, skip a drive or leave early.

    Pick activities children enjoy

    Wildlife viewing is the main event, but variety helps. In Kenya that can mean:

    • Meeting rhinos and chimpanzees at a sanctuary such as Ol Pejeta.
    • A boat ride on Lake Naivasha, with hippo and birds.
    • Walking with giraffes in a safe, guided setting.
    • Short, well-explained game drives and a camp with a pool.

    Our 8-Day Kenya Family Safari is built around these activities, with stops at Ol Pejeta, Lake Naivasha and the Masai Mara.

    Pelicans resting beside a lake
    Lake Naivasha is a gentle, bird-filled break from game drives.

    Health and safety

    • Speak to your doctor early about malaria prevention and vaccinations for each child.
    • Pack sun hats, high-factor sunscreen and insect repellent.
    • Keep children seated and quiet in vehicles, and follow your guide's instructions around animals.
    • Bring any regular medicines and a small first-aid kit.

    Keep them engaged

    Give older children binoculars and a checklist of animals to find, and let younger ones draw or keep a journal. Our photography tips can turn a phone or small camera into a fun project.

    What to pack

    Neutral clothes, layers for cool mornings, snacks, a few quiet toys and a reusable water bottle. Our full packing list has the rest.

    Start planning

    Talk to our team about your family's ages, interests and budget. We can adapt any itinerary, or build a new one, and you can compare all of our safari packages.

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