1) South Luangwa National Park in Zambia
The South Luangwa National Park in Zambia allows families to explore African wildlife on foot. A number of Zambia Safari companies run walking tours where you can get to know hundreds of species of animals and birds. There are huge prides of lions, while a large river is home to many hippos. Both should always be seen with an experienced guide for the best photograph opportunities from a safe vantage point.
The game park is ideal for family holidays as you can choose from various accommodations to suit your budget. The dry season in Zambia runs between April and October and a visit at the end of September will see the animals heading for the watering-holes.
2) Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe may be a troubled country but the Hwange National Park certainly rewards the effort. The park serves as an excellent base for trips to the incredible Victoria Falls. Hwange is also one of the best game reserves in Africa as it is home to all the protected species of Zimbabwe. Among more than 100 species of mammal on view you can see some of the world's largest animals including lions, giraffes and elephants. There is also a large colony of the endangered African wild dog.
Families visiting Hwange are spoilt for choice with a number of reasonably-priced accommodations.
3) The Ngorongoro Conservation Area in Tanzania
If you want to see where man began then Ngorongoro Conservation area is a perfect place to start. Some of the oldest human remains were found in the Olduvai Gorge. Today Ngorongoro is home to the Masaai tribes people. Families can visit their camps and learn more about the way of life with the help of a guide. The park also contains the world’s largest crater where black rhinoceros live.
See Gorillas and Whales on a Family Safari
Most safaris concentrate on the ‘big five’ animals but if you want to see the real king of the jungle then head to the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda. This is where the Jane Goodall Institute was set up, as made famous by the film Gorillas in the Mist. It has the largest population of mountain gorillas and was designated as a UNESCO world Heritage site for their protection. There is also the chance of seeing other large primates like chimpanzees. The park is only located a few miles away from the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo. This primeval forest is also close to the Great Rift Valley. It is extremely atmospheric having been described as the ‘place of darkness’ by the locals.
Alternatively you can go whale-watching in the Loango National Park in Gabon. As well as access to coast you can see chimpanzees, elephants and other animals in the nearby forests. The trip takes careful planning as there is a scarcity of lodging. But with beaches, forest and savannah all on offer you will not find a more varied and rewarding safari in Africa. It is also the only national park in Africa which protects a lagoon system.
Eat Excellent Food on your African Family Safari
Companies such as specialist operator Bushbaby Travel offer bespoke tours around South Africa which are suitable for young children. Among the conveniences aimed at making your Safari relaxing are personal chefs to prepare all your meals during the trip. That means you can try out exciting local delicacies, or just have a plate of chips whipped up at short notice for hungry kids. Tours cost £1,999 per adult and £1,149 per child.
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