What is the right age to take your child[ren] on a Safari? I get that question from all my guests - from my past guests, who now have families of their own and want to share the Safari experience, to those new to Journey To Africa Safari. I have had clients as young as 3 years of age [he tagged along with older siblings] to a 16-year-old who climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro to the summit. Realistically however, I would say over 8+ years of age.
Most of the Safari Lodges we recommend will not allow children under the age of 6 years unless you have the whole lodge to yourself which is possible if you are interested. Around the ages of 8 years +, you will have a budding Safari goer.
Some reasons why?
– They will be interested in participating in the Safari planning which is a great way for them to get excited.
– They can sit through long international flights and airport transfers.
– They will get excited about seeing the many animals in the beautiful national parks and more.
– They will remember the interaction along the way – a great way for children to experience another culture and come back hopefully with an appreciation of how others live.
– They will be curious and ask questions - music to parents’ ears.
One of my favorite feedback came from a then 14-year-old - hi Alex - who said popcorn was his favorite 'dessert' and when the crew at Oliver’s Camp in Tarangire found that out, he had popcorn by the bush fire. Now that is a memory worth sharing.
These two; they are just lucky kids of mine. Their first Safari was in 2014 when they accompanied me on my Safari to Tanzania.