Can I Go on a Safari With My Family? Yes, and It’s the Best Decision You’ll Ever Make
Absolutely, yes! You can go on a safari with your family, and it might be the most rewarding trip you will ever take together.
Many parents ask us, “Is safari safe for kids? Is my child too young for gorilla trekking? Will my family enjoy it?” The answer is simple. With the right planning and the right tour operator like Lena Tours, a family safari in Uganda and Rwanda is safe, fun, educational, and unforgettable for everyone – from 5-year-olds to grandparents.
Therefore, forget the theme parks. Give your family the real wild.
Is Safari Safe for Families with Kids?
Yes, a family safari is very safe when you travel with a professional company. At Lena Tours, your family’s safety is our number one priority.
– You will have a private, enclosed 4×4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
– You will have a certified, experienced driver-guide who knows animal behavior
– We use only family-friendly lodges with swimming pools, safe compounds, and medical support nearby
– We avoid risky night drives or walking safaris with small children
In addition, Ugandans love children. Your kids will be welcomed everywhere with smiles.
What is the Best Age for a Family Safari?
This is important:
Best for All Ages (0-100 years):
Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Lake Mburo, Akagera National Park in Rwanda, Lake Kivu, Kigali city tour, Sipi Falls (light hike)
For Kids 12+ Years:
Boat cruises, nature walks, cultural villages
For Teens 15+ Years:
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi and Volcanoes National Park is only allowed for 15 years and above by law. Chimpanzee trekking is also 15+ in most parks. However, younger kids can enjoy gorilla experiences in the Batwa community or at the lodges.
So, even if your child is too young for gorilla trekking, there is still so much to do.
Best Family Safari Destinations with Lena Tours
1. Queen Elizabeth National Park – Best for First Family Safari
Why? Short drives, lots of animals, boat cruise on Kazinga Channel where kids see hippos and elephants up close, plus tree-climbing lions in Ishasha.
2. Murchison Falls National Park – Best for Adventure Families
See the world’s most powerful waterfall, enjoy game drives, and take a family boat safari to the falls.
3. Lake Mburo National Park – Best for Families with Small Kids
It is close to Kampala (3 hours), has no dangerous predators for walking safaris, horseback safaris for teens, and easy cycling.
4. Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda – Best for Families with Teens
Combine gorilla trekking for parents and teens with cultural tours for everyone.
How We Make Family Safaris Easy at Lena Tours
We know traveling with family is different. You need more space, more patience, and more fun.
That is why we handle family safaris differently:
– Private Family Vehicle: No sharing with strangers. Your family gets a spacious Land Cruiser with WiFi and charging ports.
– Flexible Itinerary: Kids get tired? We adjust. Want extra time at the pool? No problem. We don’t rush.
– Family Lodges: We book lodges with family cottages, interconnecting rooms, pools, and kids’ menus.
– Educational Fun: Our guides are amazing with kids. They teach them animal tracking, bird calls, and local stories. Consequently, your kids learn without even knowing it.
– Affordable Pricing: Kids under 5 often stay free, and we offer special child rates for park fees and accommodation.
5 Tips for a Perfect Family Safari
1. Pack light clothes, hats, sunscreen, and binoculars for each child.
2. Carry snacks and games for long drives.
3. Book early for family rooms – they sell out fast.
4. Combine safari with relaxing time at Lake Bunyonyi or Lake Kivu.
5. Talk to your guide – tell him your kids’ interests.
Ready to Create Family Memories That Last Forever?
A family safari is not just a holiday. It is when your daughter sees her first elephant, when your son learns how to track footprints, and when you all watch a sunset over the savannah together.
Don’t wait until your kids are grown
contact us
Plan Your Safari with Lena Tours
Complete the enquiry form below and our safari specialists will prepare a personalised itinerary and quotation for your journey.
