A family safari in South Africa is an unforgettable experience, offering the chance to explore the African wilderness together while enjoying comfort, safety, and child-friendly amenities. With malaria-free reserves, flexible accommodation options, and engaging activities for all ages, South Africa is one of the best safari destinations for families.
Home to some of Africa’s top private game reserves, including areas within the Greater Kruger region, Madikwe, and the Eastern Cape, South Africa offers incredible Big Five sightings and world-class hospitality. Many lodges are specifically designed for families, with spacious suites or villas, kids’ clubs, and experienced guides who know how to keep children engaged and safe in the bush.
Children aged 6 and over can usually join regular game drives, while families with younger children often opt for private safari vehicles tailored to their own pace and interests. Many lodges offer special “Bush Bumble” drives for little ones, with shorter durations and more interactive moments. In between drives, kids can enjoy Junior Ranger programs, where they learn about tracking animals, identifying footprints, and bush survival skills through hands-on experiences. Creative activities like arts and crafts, rock painting, treasure hunts, and even cooking sessions with the lodge chef add to the fun. Swimming pools and play areas also help younger guests burn off energy while staying connected to nature.
Whether you’re staying in a luxury villa in Kruger’s private reserves, exploring the wild terrain of Madikwe, or relaxing in the scenic Eastern Cape, a South African family safari offers the perfect mix of adventure, comfort, education, and bonding. It’s more than a holiday, it’s a meaningful journey into nature that children and parents will remember for life. Below are the 10 best safari lodges for families in South Africa.
1. Ulusaba Rock Lodge
Ulusaba Rock Lodge, part of Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin Limited Edition collection, is a luxurious and family-friendly safari lodge set high on a rocky hill in the private Ulusaba Game Reserve, within the renowned Sabi Sands. This elevated position offers sweeping views of the surrounding wilderness and access to some of the best game viewing in South Africa.
The lodge features eight beautifully designed rooms and suites. The Rock Suite is ideal for families, with flexible two-bedroom arrangements and private balconies. For added luxury, the Makwela and Master Suites include private plunge pools, expansive bush views, and elegant interiors that provide a peaceful retreat between activities.
Ulusaba welcomes children of all ages and offers a tailored family experience through its Ulusaba Cubs Club for children aged 0 to 11. Upon arrival, kids receive a safari-themed welcome pack, and a wide range of engaging, educational, and age-appropriate activities are available. These include guided bush walks, tracking animals, treasure hunts, arts and crafts, rock painting, and pool games. Rather than following fixed schedules, the lodge encourages families to choose activities that suit their pace and interests.
Highlights
- Children of all ages are welcome
- Ulusaba Cubs Club with hands-on, educational safari activities
- Family-friendly accommodation with 1- and 2-bedroom options
- Panoramic views from a unique hilltop location
- Flexible, child-focused experiences with no set itinerary
2. Singita Ebony Lodge
Set beneath a canopy of ancient trees on the banks of the Sand River, Singita Ebony Lodge is one of South Africa’s most celebrated safari lodges for families. Located within the private Singita Reserve in the Sabi Sand, Ebony forms part of the prestigious Singita Collection, known worldwide for its conservation efforts, luxury hospitality, and extraordinary safari experiences.
A family stay at Ebony Lodge is designed to be both deeply personal and immersive. Activities are tailored around each family’s interests, creating space for shared adventure while allowing children to learn and explore at their own pace. Younger guests are welcomed with open arms and invited to take part in the Mini Rangers Course, which introduces them to wildlife tracking, bush survival skills, astronomy, and conservation. Additional experiences include cooking classes, stargazing, arts and crafts, board games, and more, all guided by patient, experienced staff.
Accommodation is equally well thought out for families. The lodge offers two 2-bedroom Lewis suites, two dedicated family suites, and a spacious 4-bedroom Ebony Villa ideal for larger families or those seeking complete privacy. Each space combines comfort, elegance, and natural elements, designed to bring the outdoors in while offering modern luxuries.
For families with older children (aged 10 and up), nearby Singita Boulders Lodge offers a similarly world-class experience with a slightly more refined atmosphere.
Highlights
- Welcomes children of all ages with tailored experiences
- Engaging Mini Rangers Course for hands-on learning in the bush
- Flexible family accommodation: 2-bedroom suites and private 4-bedroom villa
- Wide range of children’s activities including crafts, stargazing, and cooking
- Set in a prime Big Five area within the Sabi Sand Reserve
3. Singita Castleton
Singita Castleton offers a rare blend of relaxed farmhouse charm and exclusive safari luxury, making it one of the top choices for families seeking a private, all-ages-friendly experience. Located in the prestigious Singita Private Game Reserve within the Sabi Sand, Castleton overlooks a wildlife-rich waterhole and sprawling lawns, providing a peaceful and picturesque setting ideal for both adventure and relaxation.
Designed as a private-use safari villa, Castleton features a beautifully restored stone-walled main house and six standalone en-suite cottages that comfortably accommodate up to 12 guests. Interiors combine vintage charm with modern comfort, wooden floors, antiques, and soft, neutral palettes create a homely atmosphere with generous living spaces and deep verandas that look out over a private pool, the Castleton dam, and open bushveld beyond.
Families have exclusive access to a dedicated guide, tracker, and private safari vehicle, allowing for flexible game drives tailored to their pace and preferences. Children of all ages are welcome, and the lodge goes the extra mile to keep them engaged and learning. The popular Mini Rangers Course introduces young explorers to tracking, astronomy, bushcraft, and wildlife safety. Off the vehicle, children can enjoy a variety of activities such as arts and crafts, baking in the country kitchen, trampolining, swimming, and playing tennis or bocce on-site.
Highlights
- Welcomes children of all ages with fully private accommodation
- Exclusive-use villa with six en-suite cottages (sleeps up to 12)
- Private safari vehicle, guide, and tracker for tailored game drives
- Mini Rangers Course and hands-on educational activities
- On-site amenities include a pool, tennis court, trampoline, and boules
4. Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge
Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge, located in the heart of the Sabi Sands Game Reserve, is one of the most family-friendly lodges in South Africa. As the original lodge in the Sabi Sabi collection, it blends decades of safari heritage with modern comforts, making it ideal for families looking for a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and child-focused amenities.
The lodge welcomes children of all ages and offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different family sizes. Families with younger kids will appreciate the luxury suites, each with a lounge area that includes day beds. For more space and privacy, the two-bedroom Mahlatini and Tumbela Villas each sleep up to six people and include a shared lounge, private pool, and views over a nearby waterhole where wildlife often gathers.
Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge goes beyond just game drives. There’s a large swimming pool, a dedicated children’s pool, a fitness centre, and a spa for parents to unwind. One of the standout features is the EleFun Children’s Centre, a fully supervised space designed by childcare professionals. It offers fun and educational nature-based activities for kids aged 4–12, giving parents the flexibility to enjoy their own safari experiences while the kids stay engaged and safe. Babysitting services are also available for younger children.
Highlights
- Welcomes children of all ages
- Luxury suites feature lounge areas with day beds, perfect for small children
- Spacious 2-bedroom family villas sleep up to 6 and include private pools
- EleFun Children’s Centre offers fun, educational, and supervised nature activities
- Babysitting services available for younger children
5. MalaMala Camp
MalaMala Camp is a premier family-friendly safari destination nestled in the famed Sabi Sands Game Reserve. As the largest of MalaMala’s three camps, it combines rich history and tradition with warm hospitality. Guests can relax on the expansive wooden deck overlooking the Sand River or enjoy meals in the African-themed dining room. The camp also offers an infinity pool with breathtaking river views, a fitness center, a relaxation lounge, an open-air boma for authentic dining experiences, a library, and a safari boutique.
At MalaMala Game Reserve, experienced rangers customize activities for children based on their age, interest, and independence, in close consultation with parents or guardians. Kids can learn to track animals by their spoor, master essential survival skills such as finding water and identifying edible plants, and understand safety signals related to wildlife, alongside basic first aid training. For safety, children under five are not allowed on game drives or in the boma during dinner unless a private vehicle is booked.
Family accommodation includes two sets of interleading rooms featuring sleeper couches for additional guests, while select luxury suites can add an extra single bed. All rooms are ensuite and open onto private decks with stunning views of the Sand River or nearby waterholes.
Highlights
- Welcomes children of all ages
- Spacious inter-leading luxury rooms designed for families
- Personalised children’s activities crafted by expert rangers
- Uninterrupted views of the Sand River and nearby waterholes
6. Royal Malewane Waterside Lodge
Waterside Lodge at Royal Malewane offers a superb family-friendly safari experience nestled within the Thornybush Private Game Reserve in Kruger National Park. This luxurious lodge perfectly blends comfort and adventure, making it an ideal choice for families eager to explore Africa’s wilderness in style.
The accommodations cater thoughtfully to families of all sizes. The spacious two-bedroom Baobab Suite and the expansive four-bedroom Waterside House provide plenty of room and privacy for parents and children alike. For smaller groups, the elegant one-bedroom Luxury Suites and Aloe Rooms offer intimate comfort paired with the convenience of a private safari vehicle, ensuring personalized game drives tailored to your family’s interests.
At Royal Malewane, the safari experience is both thrilling and educational. Children are encouraged to connect with nature through the Royal Rangers programme, where they learn essential wildlife tracking, animal behavior, and bushcraft skills from some of Africa’s most experienced guides. Older kids can deepen their knowledge by participating in the Junior Rangers course, designed to challenge and engage young explorers. Meanwhile, parents benefit from child-minding services, flexible dining options, and a Royal Cubs Spa menu, ensuring every family member enjoys a memorable and stress-free stay.
Highlights
- Welcomes children of all ages with tailored safari experiences
- Spacious 2-bedroom Baobab Suite and luxurious 4-bedroom Waterside House perfect for families
- Engaging Royal Rangers programme teaches wildlife tracking, animal behavior, and bushcraft
- Professional child-minding services and flexible dining to suit family needs
- Stylish design combining vibrant contemporary flair with authentic African warmth
7. Ngala Safari Lodge
Ngala Safari Lodge, part of the prestigious &Beyond portfolio, delivers a truly luxurious family safari experience within the iconic Kruger National Park. This elegant lodge combines authentic safari charm with modern comforts, creating an ideal setting for families seeking adventure and relaxation.
The accommodations are designed with families in mind. Stylish thatched cottages each offer private verandas with stunning views of the reserve. For larger groups, Ngala features three adjoining family cottages and a spacious three-bedroom family villa. The villa boasts its own private pool, sweeping vistas of the Mapone Riverbed, and dedicated staff, including a butler, ranger, tracker, and private safari vehicle—ensuring a personalised and seamless stay.
Ngala’s family safari experience is thoughtfully tailored to children’s ages and interests. The WILDchild programme keeps kids inspired and entertained with a backpack full of nature-themed goodies and seasonal activities such as bark rubbing, bug collecting, frog safaris, and cooking with the chef. With special children’s menus and attentive childminding services, parents can relax, confident their little ones are safe and engaged. Meanwhile, expert guides and trackers lead world-class game drives offering close-up encounters with the legendary Big Five.
Highlights
- Welcomes children of all ages with personalised safari experiences
- Part of the renowned &Beyond luxury portfolio
- Family-friendly accommodation: three adjoining cottages plus a spacious 3-bedroom villa with private pool
- WILDchild programme offers fun, educational activities inspired by the bush
8. Shamwari Riverdene Lodge
Renowned as one of the Eastern Cape’s premier family lodges, Riverdene Lodge at Shamwari Game Reserve offers an exclusive safari experience blending modern luxury with warm, inviting spaces. The lodge features stylish contemporary decor, a spacious open-plan lounge, a cozy bar with a fireplace, and versatile dining options indoors or under the stars. Families can unwind by the large swimming pool or let kids explore the supervised Kids Club and toddler play area, while the popular Kids Adventure Centre keeps children of all ages entertained with a variety of engaging activities.
Riverdene Lodge is designed with families in mind, offering nine interconnecting luxury rooms. Each room has its own small lounge area with a sleeper couch and a private en-suite bathroom. For larger families or groups, two inter-leading rooms can be combined, providing extra space and comfort.
The Kids on Safari Adventure Centre is a highlight, featuring exciting indoor and outdoor activities like zip-lining, pizza-making, and nature crafts. While game drives are off-limits for children under four, younger guests still enjoy a rich program filled with age-appropriate adventures. The experience is rounded off with inspiring visits to conservation projects such as the Born Free Big Cat Sanctuary and the wildlife rehabilitation centre, making the safari not just fun but deeply educational.
Highlights
- Welcomes children of all ages with tailored family-friendly facilities
- Supervised Kids Club and dedicated toddler play area for the little ones
- Adventure-packed Kids Centre featuring zip-lining, cooking, and creative activities
- Spacious interconnecting luxury rooms designed for family comfort
9. Kwandwe Ecca Lodge
Nestled in the breathtaking Kwandwe Private Game Reserve in the Eastern Cape, Ecca Lodge offers a luxurious and warm family retreat with stunning views of the valley and the shale cliffs of the escarpment. The lodge’s vibrant decor draws inspiration from the nearby villages, blending rich colors and textures to create a welcoming atmosphere. The spacious main area invites families to relax in both indoor and outdoor lounges, enjoy the large wooden viewing deck, cool off in the rim-flow lap pool, browse the library, or visit the lodge’s boutique shop.
Ecca Lodge features three spacious family suites, each comfortably designed to host two adults and two children. These suites boast individual lounge areas with day beds, private viewing decks, refreshing plunge pools, and elegant bathrooms. Families enjoy the luxury of their own private vehicle and dedicated ranger, ensuring tailored and unforgettable game drives.
Younger guests will love The Den, the lodge’s vibrant kids club, packed with fun, nature-inspired activities to keep little explorers entertained for hours. The swimming pool is a favourite for all ages, while twice-daily game drives in open 4×4 vehicles offer incredible wildlife experiences in the largest private game reserve in the region.
Highlights
- Dedicated kids club (the Den) with engaging children’s activities
- Spacious family suites with private decks and plunge pools
- Exclusive private vehicle and dedicated ranger for personalized game drives
- Family-friendly facilities blending comfort, adventure, and nature
10. Molori Safari Lodge
Molori Safari Lodge defines ultra-luxury in the heart of Madikwe Game Reserve, offering an extraordinary safari experience where every detail is meticulously crafted. The lodge’s contemporary design perfectly complements its stunning natural surroundings, creating a seamless blend of style and wilderness.
The main lodge boasts expansive indoor and outdoor living spaces framed by floor-to-ceiling glass walls, inviting nature’s beauty right into your comfort zone. Relax in the elegant lounge, browse a collection of books in the library, or enjoy a quiet moment in the cigar bar. As night falls, the elevated dining area provides a magical setting to savor gourmet meals beneath the stars. Guests can also refresh in the infinity pool, indulge in spa treatments, or stay active at the gym.
Accommodation is equally spectacular, with five individually designed suites offering the ultimate in privacy and luxury. Each suite is a masterpiece of fine art and sophisticated interiors, with some specially configured as family units and including a grand presidential suite, ideal for those seeking exclusivity with a personal touch.
Highlights
- Ultra-luxury safari experience renowned for exquisite attention to detail
- Floor-to-ceiling glass walls with breathtaking, uninterrupted wilderness views
- Five individually designed opulent suites, including family units and a presidential suite
- Interiors showcasing fine art and refined sophistication
- Elevated dining area offering unforgettable meals under the African night sky
Why Choose South Africa for a Family Safari
South Africa is one of the top destinations for a family safari, offering a rare combination of malaria-free reserves, modern infrastructure, and a wide variety of child-friendly lodges. Families benefit from flexible game drive options, experienced guides who cater to children, and engaging activities like junior ranger programs that teach wildlife tracking and conservation in fun, hands-on ways.
Many lodges go above and beyond to accommodate young guests, providing kids’ clubs, dedicated children’s menus, babysitting services, and family-friendly facilities such as swimming pools, inter-leading rooms, and educational play areas. With easy access, diverse wildlife including the Big Five, and a strong focus on safety and comfort, South Africa delivers a safari experience that is not only adventurous but also enriching, educational, and tailored for all ages.
Useful Information
If you are planning a family safari in South Africa, we recommend reading these articles to find out when to go and where else to stay.
- Best Family Safari Lodges in the Sabi Sands
- Best Family Safari Lodges in the Kruger National Park
- Best Family Safari Lodges in the Eastern Cape
- Discover South Africa’s Top 5 Safari Destinations
- Why Go On Safari In South Africa?
For personal planning assistance and advice contact out team.
