African Safari Guide

Safari Holidays to South Africa and Namibia for independent travellers.

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-Risk Areas

Safari lodges in low-risk malaria areas that welcome children under 12

Whilst much of Southern Africa including Cape Town, The Garden Route, Port Elizabeth, Johannesburg, Durban, The Drakensberg, Sun City, and most of Namibia is considered to be malaria free, three of the regions best known safari areas - Kruger, KwaZulu-Natal, and Etosha (Namibia) - are considered to be of low to moderate risk for malaria.

Travel Butlers strongly advise that you should consult your doctor before deciding to take younger children to a safari lodge anywhere that has even a low risk of malaria.

Families who are concerned about malaria should look for child friendly safaris in malaria-free areas, however if you are not concerned about malaria then you might like to consider some of the lodges featured below or ask us to recommend a family safari (malaria not an issue).

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 dedicated children's programme or provide alternative activities and child care if they are too young to join the adults on the game drives.

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.

Impala 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 family safari (malaria not an issue).

Selection of Family-Friendly Safaris in Malaria-Risk Areas

Properties 1 to 5 of 108

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

Safari Lodge
Perfect for families or small parties, the lodge has 5 en-suite rooms in total - 2 luxury rooms with a balcony, 2 that open out onto a patio, and a suite. All the rooms have air-conditioning and a private minibar, as well as tea and coffee making facilities.

From R3385 ( approx U$ 472 ) per person.

Inyati Private Game Reserve, Sabi Sand (via Newington Gate)

Safari Lodge
Each of the 10 immaculately furnished en-suite thatched chalets all have glorious river views. Each is equipped with air-conditioning, mosquito nets, telephone, and beautifully appointed bathrooms.

From R2970 ( approx U$ 414 ) per person.

Ezulwini River Lodge, Balule Nature Reserve

Safari Lodge
River Lodge has an exquisite entertainment area comprising a lounge, bar and perfect swimming pool, all under a large thatched roof. Relax here in welcoming deep sofas and marvel at magnificent leadwood sculptures.

From R1650 ( approx U$ 230 ) per person.

Elephant Plains Game Lodge, Sabi Sand (via Gowrie Gate)

Safari Lodge
The lodge offers the choice of 6 luxury air-conditioned suites, which all have large wooden decks overlooking the bush, a spacious en-suite bathroom with double basins, and a private outside shower which is perfect for cooling off after a hot game drive. The glass fronted Honeymoon Suite offers romantic elegance, total privacy and a stunning view, as well as a private splash pool.

From R1390 ( approx U$ 194 ) per person.

River Lodge, Kariega Game Reserve

Safari Lodge
River Lodge's 7 luxuriously appointed suites are all decorated to a very high standard. There is also a 2 bedroomed thatched suite with separate living room, outdoor barbeque area and private swimming pool, which is ideal for families or groups of friends travelling together.