Families are welcome at most properties across East Africa but some are better suited than others. There are strict rules allowing only kids of a certain age on vehicles and out on foot. It’s also worth considering your fellow travellers who might well be escaping their own kids at home! That’s why we recommend certain properties that cater to families with special activities and family-friendly accommodation.
Lewa Wilderness in Laikipia in Kenya is perfectly suited to family holidays. There are endless activities to keep kids and adults alike busy. The good news is that parents can also head out on their own for a longer walk or game drive and leave the kids under guide supervision to enjoy specially tailored activities. These include pony and camel rides, Masai games, adventures to find cave paintings, and even fishing for freshwater crabs! The gardens have a beautiful big pool and rolling lawns, and there’s a tennis court for the more energetic.
Reteti House is part of the Sarara property located in the Namunyak Conservancy in northern Kenya and is a wonderful four-bedroom home ideal for families or small groups. Located just 10 minutes’ walk from the Reteti Elephant sanctuary, children will be over the moon and probably insist on going to visit the elephants and their keepers every day. A central lounge, dining and pool area provide plenty of space for a family to spread out and enjoy long afternoons and sociable dinners between activities. The reserve is home to a unique set of species not found anywhere else, this includes over 450 reticulated giraffes, the critically endangered Grévy zebra and the fabled generuk.
Amani, Jamani and Olmeira are three exclusive-use villas ranging in size from three to seven bedrooms located at the House in Wild property in a private conservancy adjacent to the Masai Mara. This was a working farm that has been restored to a wilderness area with the Mara River snaking through the property. Each villa and the main lodge have been thoughtfully designed and the ethos is to ensure this feels like a home away from home.
Richard’s River Camp in the Masai Mara was originally built for the owners and their small children, so has been designed for a family. With just seven tents and a beautiful main area encircling the firepit, you’ll be very happy to have this camp all to yourself and your extended family. The camp is located in an enviable conservancy adjacent to the Masai Mara National Park, putting you in the middle of the action for game viewing by vehicle but also for quieter bush walks. The staff at Richard’s love having kids in camp and you can be assured they will be watched by eagle eyes.
Mkombe’s House in the Serengeti was named for one of Nomad Tanzania’s guides, who loved families and children. This home has been designed with kids in mind and is the only one like it in the Serengeti. Activities are tailored around families, and whatever you feel like doing at whatever time will be arranged. The house has been cleverly designed, with two main suites each with an adjacent room for children, making this an ideal option for two small families or two couples travelling together.
