African Safari Guide

Family safaris in South Africa's malaria free safari regions including The Eastern Cape, Madikwe, Waterberg.

Contact Phone Numbers

0845 838 2450

Local rate from UK only

0800 981 420

Toll free from SA only

Other +44 1932 268230

Family Safaris in Malaria-Free Areas

Safari lodges in malaria-free areas that welcome children under 12

Whilst just about every safari lodge is suitable for older children, kids under the age of 12 are not catered for at many lodges and so families do need to make sure that they pick a lodge that will suit the whole family.

There are a large number of lodges that do welcome younger children, and some of them even offer a dedicated children's programme or provide alternative activities and child care if they are too young to join the adults on the game drives.

Families with younger children often choose to go to a non-malarial area such as the Eastern Cape, Madikwe or Pilanesberg, however if you are unsure you should consult your doctor or medical centre for professional advice when making your decision.

The Eastern Cape is particularly popular for family safaris as it is the closest major safari area to cape Town and the garden route.

Giraffe at Shamwari You can see a selection of lodges in malaria-free areas listed below, or if you would prefer we would be delighted to recommend a malaria-free family safari for you.

If you are not concerned about malaria, then you might want to consider our selection of family friendly lodges in Kruger and KwaZulu-Natal.

Is it Safe for Children?

Yes. All of the lodges take safety very seriously, particularly where children are involved. Younger children will not usually be allowed to take a room on their own (i.e. without an adult sharing), and they will normally not be allowed to join in with bush walks.

Each lodge has their own rules, particularly with regards to the age that children can join the adults on a game drive, and you should check exactly what your children will be able to do at your chosen lodge when booking - finding out that your 8 year old cannot go out to see the animals at the lodge you have chosen when you arrive can ruin your whole family's stay if you did not know this in advance!

Like adults, children ideally should not wear bright colours when out on game drives, and should also use a good sun protection cream and lotion to protect them against insect bites.

Ask us to recommend a malaria-free family safari.

Selection of Family-Friendly Safaris in Malaria-Free Areas

Properties 1 to 5 of 29

Children Welcome - Special kids programme available

Kariega Main Lodge, Kariega Game Reserve

Safari Lodge
The accommodation at Kariega Lodge consists of 1, 2, 3 and 4 bedroom log chalets. Each chalet is decorated in an ethnic style and are very spacious.

From R1910 ( approx U$ 256 ) per person.

Woodbury Lodge, Amakhala Game Reserve

Safari Lodge
Designed with great care to blend in with the natural surroundings, the 6 thatched stone sleeping lodges are comfortably appointed, with en-suite bathrooms, and each boasts a unique and breathtaking view from their wooden decks. There is a central dining room and barbecue area, plus a lounge bar and swimming pool for guest's enjoyment in-between game drives.

From R2020 ( approx U$ 271 ) per person.

Amakhala Safari Lodge, Amakhala Game Reserve

Safari Lodge
African tribal design has inspired the creation of this intimate thatched lodge and its11 stylish air-conditioned en-suite rooms with tented fronts, which open out onto your private deck with its own plunge pool. The rooms also have a small separate lounge area.

From R2505 ( approx U$ 336 ) per person.

Gorah Elephant Camp, Gorah Concession (within Addo)

Safari Lodge
Your accommodation is in spacious and luxurious tented suites, which are reminiscent of the golden era of safaris in the early 1900s, yet with all the comfort and excellence associated with Africa's finest game lodges. Sumptuous breakfasts and superb lunches are both served in the elegant dining room, or on the veranda overlooking the waterhole.

From R2920 ( approx U$ 392 ) per person.

Riverdene Lodge, Shamwari Game Reserve (via 1st Gate)

Safari Lodge
Each of the 9 twin-bedded rooms are fully air-conditioned, and have a television and telephone, and a small lounge area. Private balconies from each room leads onto the beautifully landscaped gardens.