Planning a safari with children can be a challenge, but Botswana is one of the few safari destinations where families can enjoy authentic wildlife encounters without compromising on comfort or safety. Choosing the right camps is critical — not every lodge accommodates young guests, and some have strict minimum ages or limited activities for kids. Here’s a guide to the camps and programs that truly deliver family-friendly safari experiences.
Machaba Safaris – Exceptional Guiding
Located in Khwai, Machaba Safaris is renowned for its excellent guiding and flexible approach to children. Guides are highly experienced at keeping younger guests engaged with tracking exercises, wildlife spotting games, and short, manageable game drives tailored to energy levels. The camp’s private vehicle options make it ideal for families, and staff are adept at creating a fun, educational experience for kids of all ages.
Young Explorers Programs with Ker & Downey at Footsteps Camp
The Young Explorers program at Footsteps Camp (operated by Ker & Downey) immerses children in the bush with hands-on learning. Kids participate in tracking, animal behaviour studies, bushcraft, and conservation activities under the guidance of experienced safari staff. This program is ideal for older children and teenagers who want to learn and explore while parents enjoy traditional game drives.
Meno A Kwena and Makgadikgadi Pans Camps – Activities for All Ages
For families with younger children or those seeking a more interactive experience, Meno A Kwena Lodge and the Makgadikgadi Pans camps deliver. Here, there are no minimum age restrictions, so even toddlers can enjoy the experience. Highlights include:
Meerkat excursions
Quad biking across the pans
Bush walks, birding, and cultural interactions
These activities keep children entertained while providing a sense of adventure that goes beyond traditional safari.
andBeyond WILDchild Programme – Engaging Activities for Kids
Several andBeyond camps offer the WILDchild programme, designed to engage children with age-appropriate bush activities, crafts, and educational experiences. Kids can connect with the environment and wildlife in a structured, fun, and safe way, allowing parents to enjoy their own safari adventures without worry.
Great Plains Conservation – Family-Friendly Options
Great Plains Conservation camps also provide excellent family safari experiences. These camps offer flexible game drives, educational activities for children, and private vehicle options. Great Plains is known for blending conservation-led experiences with luxury safari, making it ideal for families who want both engagement and comfort.
Important Considerations
Minimum Age in the Delta: Most camps have a minimum age of 6 years, except when booking exclusive-use options.
Private Vehicles: Some camps may require private vehicles for families, as policies vary per property.
Tailored Itineraries: To maximise both adult and child experiences, it’s best to contact us for recommended family itineraries.
Family safaris in Botswana don’t have to be restrictive or dull. With the right camps, young travellers can enjoy hands-on wildlife experiences, guided learning, and fun activities, all while parents enjoy the thrill of Africa’s premier safari landscapes. Whether your clients are looking for meerkat adventures on the Makgadikgadi, educational Young Explorers programs at Footsteps Camp, or private experiences in the Delta with Great Plains Conservation, there’s a safari setup to match every family’s needs.