The UBON Safari guide to kids on safari
The whys and wherefores of taking your family to Africa
A safari may not be the first thing that comes to mind when planning a family holiday, but it should be. Sharing Africa’s wilderness with your children is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have together. At Ubon Safari we’ve seen countless families return from safari with not only extraordinary memories but also a sense of connection and perspective that few other trips can deliver. Here's why...
Children are instinctive explorers. Give them wide horizons, towering elephants and the mystery of lion tracks in the sand, and they will thrive. A safari is an immersive lesson in the natural world, but it never feels like learning. From identifying bird calls to spotting insects and understanding the role of each animal in the ecosystem, every day offers wonder and discovery.
The wilderness is also the perfect antidote to busy modern lives. With little distraction from screens or schedules, families reconnect over shared adventures. Sundowners by the river become hot chocolate by the fire for younger guests, while the thrill of seeing wildlife together creates bonds that last a lifetime. These are the moments children will talk about long after they return home.
Safety comes first
The thought of bringing children into big game country can be daunting, but safety is always our top priority. At Ubon Safari we only work with camps and lodges that are family-friendly and have the right infrastructure, staff and experience to host younger guests.
Guides are trained to read situations, adjust drives and tailor activities to the age and comfort levels of children. Family tents and suites allow you to stay close together, and many camps have safe areas where children can relax between activities. Camp staff are used to working with families and will always make safety briefings clear and easy for children to understand.
Rules are straightforward: children must stay close to parents or guides, never wander alone, and listen carefully when moving around camp. With these simple steps, families can relax knowing that everything possible is in place to keep them safe.
Health and peace of mind
A family safari also requires a few sensible medical precautions. Before travelling, parents should consult a doctor about anti-malarial medication appropriate for children, as advice may vary by destination and by age. Insect repellent suitable for young skin, long sleeves and mosquito nets at night all add extra layers of protection.
It is also important to carry any personal medication, as well as a small family first-aid kit with child-friendly pain relief, plasters and rehydration sachets. Camps are experienced at handling common travel needs and many have trained staff, but preparing ahead gives parents extra peace of mind. With these precautions in place, families can focus on the adventure knowing health is well looked after.
Making safari magical for kids
A safari isn’t about long hours in a vehicle. Family-friendly camps know how to keep children engaged, with shorter game drives, bush walks designed for little legs, and fun challenges like finding the “Little Five” or ticking off animal sightings in a wildlife journal.
Many camps weave in storytelling, bush crafts, and star-gazing sessions. Children can learn how to make a bow and arrow from a local guide, follow animal tracks, or listen to ancient folk tales around the fire. For teenagers, conservation projects, wildlife monitoring and even learning a few guiding skills bring the bush to life in meaningful ways.
The joy of safari is that it scales to every age. Younger children marvel at giraffes and elephants, while older children are drawn to the drama of predator behaviour. There is something for everyone, and the experience grows with them.
Practical advice for parents
Packing for a family safari is simple when you know what to bring. Children should follow the same rules as adults: neutral colours, breathable fabrics, long sleeves and trousers for sun and insect protection, plus sturdy shoes for walking. A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and a fleece for cooler mornings are essential.
Don’t forget sunscreen, insect repellent suitable for children, and personal medications. A small daypack for each child helps them feel independent and can be filled with their own essentials like a water bottle, a snack, a notebook or field guide.
We also recommend binoculars designed for smaller hands and perhaps a simple camera. Having their own equipment encourages children to engage more deeply and often results in delightful perspectives captured through their eyes.
Why it’s worth it
Families sometimes hesitate at the idea of bringing children on safari, but those who do often say it was the best decision they made. Seeing the African wilderness through a child’s perspective adds wonder to every sighting and helps adults slow down and appreciate the small details. It is a chance to step away from routine and share something extraordinary together.
Safaris also inspire responsibility. Children who see wildlife in its natural habitat develop a respect for animals and an understanding of conservation that no classroom can match. Many parents tell us their children return home more curious, more appreciative and more inspired than before.
The Ubon Safari difference
At Ubon Safari we take great care in matching families with destinations and camps that welcome children and know how to create the right balance of safety, fun and adventure. We understand that family needs vary, so we build itineraries that allow flexibility, comfort and peace of mind while never losing sight of the wild magic that makes safari unforgettable.
Bringing your children to Africa is not just a holiday. It is an investment in shared memories, an opportunity to inspire young minds, and a gift of adventure that will shape the way your family sees the world. With thoughtful planning and our expertise, a safari with children is not only possible but truly extraordinary.
