Real talk: A Tanzania safari isn't a zoo visit. It's long drives, early mornings, and unpredictable wildlife. But when your 6-year-old whispers "there's a lion" while grabbing your hand... it's pure magic.
What Age Can Kids Go on Safari?
This is the #1 question we get. Here's the honest breakdown:
Under 3 Years
WaitMost lodges don't allow under-3s on game drives. You won't see much from inside a vehicle anyway. They won't remember it. Save your money.
Ages 3-5
PossibleDoable with the right lodge and short game drives (2-3 hours max). Many camps have minimum age policies—check before booking. Private vehicles are essential.
Ages 6-9
IdealThe sweet spot! Old enough to appreciate wildlife, sit still, and remember the experience. Can handle full game drives. This is when to go.
Ages 10+
PerfectCan do walking safaris, night drives, and longer days. They'll engage with guides, learn about conservation, and have perspective to appreciate the privilege.
Best Family Lodges in Tanzania
Not all safari camps welcome kids. Here are our tested picks:
Serengeti Migration Camp
Family tents, dedicated kids' safari program, swimming pool, and guides trained in child education. Our top pick.
Ngorongoro Crater Lodge
Luxury experience with crater views. Interconnecting suites work perfectly for families. Incredible for the Crater descent day.
Lemala Ewanjan Camp
Mobile camp that follows the migration. More adventurous, kids love the "camping" feel. Excellent game viewing.
Sample 7-Day Family Safari Itinerary
Arrive Arusha
Rest & Acclimatize
Stay at Arusha Coffee Lodge. Let kids decompress from the flight.
Tarangire National Park
2 Game Drives
Elephant haven! Drive through baobab forests. Kids love the "upside down trees."
Ngorongoro Crater
Crater Descent + Rest Day
The Crater is a natural zoo. See all the Big Five in one day. Day 4: relax at lodge.
Central Serengeti
Full Safari Days
Big cats, big herds, big skies. This is peak safari. Build in pool time midday.
Fly Out
Morning Drive + Depart
One last sunrise drive before flying Seronera to Kilimanjaro or Arusha.
Keeping Kids Engaged on Game Drives
🎯 Our Favorite Safari Games
Animal Bingo
Print bingo cards before your trip. First to spot all animals wins!
Safari Journal
Bring a notebook for each kid to draw and log what they see.
Binocular Spotter
Kid-sized binoculars are a game-changer. They'll spot things you miss.
The Count Game
"How many zebras in that herd?" Keep them watching, not asking "are we there yet?"
What to Pack for Kids on Safari
👕 Clothing
- • Neutral colors only (tan, khaki, olive)
- • Long sleeves & pants (bugs + sun)
- • Warm fleece (mornings are cold!)
- • Closed-toe shoes
- • Wide-brim hat
- • Bandana for dust
🎒 Essentials
- • Kid binoculars
- • Camera (even a cheap one)
- • Safari journal & colored pencils
- • Favorite snacks from home
- • Motion sickness meds
- • Stuffed animal for comfort
Don't Forget: Health & Safety
- • Malaria pills: Required. Consult your pediatrician 4-6 weeks before travel.
- • Yellow fever vaccine: Required for Tanzania entry.
- • Travel insurance: With evacuation coverage. Not optional.
- • Sun protection: Equatorial sun is intense. SPF 50+ constantly.
Budget: What Does a Family Safari Cost?
| Mid-range lodges (7 nights × 4 people × $500) | $14,000 |
| Private vehicle & guide (7 days) | $2,800 |
| Park fees (7 days, family) | $1,200 |
| Internal flights (Arusha-Serengeti RT × 4) | $2,000 |
| Tips, visas, extras | $800 |
| Total (in-country) | ~$21,000 |
* Does not include international flights. Expect $1,500-3,000/person from the US.
Ready to Plan Your Family Safari?
GoBoldly creates custom safari itineraries with kid-friendly lodge recommendations, packing lists, and day-by-day schedules.
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