The best family safari holidays in Namibia
Whether you're travelling with a private guide or driving yourselves, Namibia offers the freedom to pull over for a picnic under the acacias in a dry riverbed, scramble up giant boulders for sweeping desert views, or pause to watch rhino at a waterhole. The journey is part of the fun – and often the highlight.
This is a land of big skies, striking contrasts and boundless opportunities. Climb the towering dunes of Sossusvlei in the cool of early morning. Try sandboarding, go horse riding, or take a dune buggy across the desert. From the charming seaside town of Swakopmund, kayak among seals and enjoy delicious fish and chips on the Atlantic waterfront. Further north, the wild Skeleton Coast stretches into mist and mystery, with wind-scoured beaches once scattered with shipwrecks, and one of Africa’s largest seal colonies.
Cultural encounters add another layer of richness: spend time with Himba communities in Damaraland, or learn from extraordinary San trackers who read the bush, interpret wildlife prints, and share traditional skills of hunting and gathering. Then there’s Etosha National Park – one of Africa’s great wildlife destinations – where elephant, rhino, lion and giraffe gather in numbers at shimmering salt pans and floodlit waterholes.
Namibia’s very low malaria risk – with over 80% of the country considered malaria-free – makes it a safe and appealing choice for even the youngest explorers, while older teens will find no shortage of action-packed thrills and unforgettable experiences. Skydiving, anyone?
Travel with a hand-picked private guide: the same expert throughout your journey, handling logistics while revealing the country’s stories along the way. Alternatively, self-drive safaris on Namibia’s excellent road network are a great-value way to explore, offering flexibility and independence – ideal for families who like to do things their own way.
Whether you stay in guest-farms, tented camps, small lodges or an exclusive-use safari houses, you’ll find warm hospitality, family-friendly touches and the space to explore at your own pace. We’ve created a terrific collection of family-focused safaris in Namibia to showcase the best experiences and destinations – and help you build the perfect trip for your tribe.
Namibia’s sense of freedom is hard to match – and that’s what makes it unforgettable.
Reviews of our family safaris around Namibia
Don’t take our word for how good a Namibia family safari can be: click on the cards below to read comments from families who have done it!
You’ll find detailed, un-edited reviews of their whole trips – lodge by lodge – written by families who have been on Namibia trips organised by Expert Africa recently.
For more insights, read all the reviews of our Namibia holidays here – including many more family safaris.
Best camps & lodges for family safaris and holidays in Namibia
Namibia has a fantastic range of family-friendly places to stay, from relaxed guest-farms and small lodges to tented camps and coastal hotels. Many offer flexible mealtimes, family rooms or interleading tents, swimming pools, and outdoor space for children to explore – along with warm hospitality that makes families feel genuinely welcome.
In the wildlife areas, you’ll find camps close to national parks that cater especially well to families, with shorter game drives, private vehicles on request, and the chance to spot animals from camp. Some even have play areas or shallow pools for younger children. If you’re on a budget, there are also some great self-catering options here.
On the coast, accommodation ranges from modern hotels to characterful guesthouses, with easy access to activities like kayaking, dune adventures and wildlife cruises. Wherever you go, we can help match you with lodges that work for your route, your travel style and – most importantly – your children’s ages and interests. Whether you’re looking for comfort, flexibility or just plenty of space to relax, there’s no shortage of great options.
There are many more great accommodation options for Namibia family safaris. Speak to one of our specialists for recommendations and advice on where to stay that perfectly suits your family’s needs.
Mundulea Reserve
Mundulea offers child-friendly guiding and a hands-on approach towards family safari holidays in Namibia. It's a great reserve for inquisitive families with active children, ideally 8+, who like walking. If the camp is taken on an exclusive basis activities can usually be tailored to suit kids.
Weinberg Hotel
The Weinberg Hotel is an excellent option for families travelling in Namibia. Spacious family apartments in a separate wing have baby cots and changing tables available. The hotel restaurant has a children's menu, and there's a choice of four other restaurants on the private estate.
Elegant Farmstead
With a family room sleeping up to five, and two triple rooms, Elegant Farmstead is well suited to travellers on a family safari holiday in Namibia. Children (all ages welcome) can feed the farm animals, watch game at the waterhole or enjoy the spacious gardens and large pool.
Safari House
Like the adjacent Safarihoek, Safari House offers discounted child rates up to the age of 18. However, staying in this fenced, exclusive-use, private house allows families more freedom, with flexible activities and mealtimes – perfect for a Namibia trip with the family.
Halali Camp
With one of the largest pools in Namibia and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, Halali Camp makes a great stop for those travelling with children in Namibia. Its convenient location within Etosha National Park is an added plus, and it’s relatively economical too.
Nhoma Camp
Meeting Bushmen near Nhoma Camp is a sensitive, authentic insight into a fascinating culture and the bush. We highly recommend Nhoma Camp and Bushmanland for Namibia family safari holidays with interested, adventurous and enthusiasic children of all ages, ideally 8+.
Eagle's Nest
Come to Eagle's Nest for scenic drives, self-guided walks, day trips to Lüderitz and fun barbecues on your family safari holiday in Namibia. Its family chalets, which have no age restrictions, are widely spaced out and equipped with self-catering facilities.
The Delight
The Delight’s bright quirky décor and excellent breakfast bar represents a modern and refreshing option among Swakopmund’s larger hotels. With 10 loft-style family rooms and a child-friendly atmosphere this is a great option for a family holiday in Namibia.
Mountain Lodge
With discounted rates for children up to the age of 18, Mountain Lodge is a great-value destination for families travelling around Namibia. Added to this, the Etosha Heights Reserve also offers a fantastic range of activities to keep children entertained.
Mushara Bush Camp
Near Etosha, Mushara Bush Camp sleeps up to four guests in each family tent and is highly recommended for a family safari holiday in Namibia. Expect a pool, a climbing frame, a play area, flexible dining and a children's menu. Children under 3 stay free.
Safarihoek Lodge
In the private Etosha Heights Reserve, Safarihoek Lodge is unusual amongst safari lodges in offering discount rates for children up to the age of 18. This makes it (and its sister properties on the reserve) great value on a family holiday to Namibia.
Okaukuejo Camp
Inside Etosha National Park, overlooking a prolific waterhole, the fenced Okaukuejo Camp is a good option on a family safari in Namibia. It's also one of the more economical options in the area, although it can be a little rough around the edges.
Desert Horse Inn
For a family safari holiday in Namibia, consider the Desert Horse Inn, which has no age restrictions. Set in Klein-Aus Vista's semi-desert reserve, it has a relaxed, informal atmosphere, with plenty of space for children to run around.
Sossusvlei Lodge
Sossusvlei Lodge is conveniently located for access to the iconic dunes at Sossusvlei and Deadvlei. The lodge has a family friendly atmosphere and dedicated activity centre to keep children of all ages occupied on a safari in Namibia.
Wolwedans Plains Camp
Set in a valley of the Namib Desert, the spacious, comfortable wooden villa of Wolwedans Plains Camp can sleep a family of six. Come here with children of all ages for scenic drives and walks during your Namibia family holiday.
Onguma Bush Camp
Overlooking a pumped waterhole on the Onguma Reserve, Onguma Bush Camp is just 9km from the gate into Namibia’s famous Etosha National Park. As the only fenced property on the reserve it is an ideal stop off on a family safari.
Mushara Lodge
Set on the private, fenced Mushara Reserve, just east of Etosha National Park, the two-bedroom family house at Mushara Lodge, complete with a climbing frame and kitchenette, makes an ideal stop on a family safari in Namibia.
Chobe Savanna Lodge
Located on the Chobe River, this lodge features wildlife views, game drives, and boat cruises. With three family chalets and a pool, Chobe Savanna Lodge makes a great stop on a family safari in Namibia.
Andersson's at Ongava
Although it has been upgraded and is now a more upmarket lodge, Andersson’s at Ongava remains a great option for a family holiday to Namibia. The lodge is still fenced, with a family suite.
Canyon Village
The informal Canyon Village has plenty of space for children to play, a lovely pool and fun adjacent walking trails to explore, making it a good addition to a family holiday to Namibia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Namibia family safari FAQs
Namibia is one of Africa’s most rewarding destinations for a family safari – but with its vast distances, varied landscapes and range of experiences, it’s natural to have questions. These FAQs cover the essentials, helping you plan with confidence and choose the right kind of trip for your family.
Whether you’re wondering about the best time to travel, age limits for activities, safety, or what children can actually do on safari, we’ve answered the key questions below.
What is the best time to visit Namibia for a family safari?
These dry months also mean clear skies, little chance of rain, and good road conditions – perfect for self-drive and outdoor activities. It’s also Namibia’s busiest season, so booking early is recommended if you want your first choice of lodges and locations, especially in Etosha National Park and Sossusvlei.
Travel during the green season (November to April) is equally rewarding in different ways – the landscape transforms, birds are in abundance, and prices tend to be lower. But families should note that some areas can be hot and humid, and wildlife is more scattered. A few remote roads may become harder to access after heavy rains.
Read more about Namibia's climate.
What’s the best age for children on safari in Namibia?
Whether you’re travelling with toddlers, primary-age kids or teenagers, there’s a trip to suit. Here’s how Namibia works for different age groups:
Under 5s – Safe, flexible and welcoming
Namibia is a top choice for families with very young children – second only, perhaps, to South Africa's Garden Route. Much of the country is malaria-free year-round, and the freedom to travel at your own pace makes a big difference. Whether you’re driving yourselves or with a private guide, you can adapt the day to your children’s needs, without the pressure of group schedules.
Many guest-farms and lodges cater well to younger families, offering family units, flexible mealtimes, shaded gardens, and child-friendly spaces, and there are also some super exclusive-use safari houses.
Wildlife sightings often happen from your own vehicle, which keeps things calm and convenient, and more relaxed for parents anxious about their children disturbing others. While shared game drives are usually limited to older children, some lodges offer shorter private outings or gentler activities like animal tracking or farm tours.
Ages 5–12 – Engaging, active, and full of variety
This is a brilliant age for a first (or second) safari. Children in this group are curious and capable, eager to explore and old enough to join in more structured activities. Namibia offers a wonderful mix of fun and discovery, from climbing sand dunes and spotting zebra on the plains, to learning how the San people find food in the bush or paddling out to see seals in coastal lagoons. Our experience tells us that children this age often love the interaction with staff at the camps and lodges – you are always keen to play, cook, chat with younger guests.
Most lodges allow children aged six or seven and up on guided game drives, though some still recommend a private vehicle for flexibility. There’s plenty of choice when it comes to accommodation too – with informal camps and small lodges offering space, freedom and a warm, relaxed atmosphere.
Teenagers – Adventurous, independent and inspired
Namibia really shines for teens. There’s a strong sense of independence and authenticity to travel here – and teenagers will relish the variety. One day might involve tracking rhino on foot with a guide; the next might include kayaking, sandboarding or visiting a cheetah sanctuary. There are chances to learn, push boundaries, and gain perspective, and all in a setting that feels genuinely adventurous without being unsafe.
At this age, teens are welcome on almost all activities and will get the most out of cultural experiences and conservation projects. With such contrasting environments across the country, Namibia keeps older children engaged from start to finish – and offers a real sense of achievement by the end.
What are the top 10 activities for children in Namibia?
- Climb the dunes at Sossusvlei
There’s nothing quite like the thrill of reaching the top of a dune at dawn and looking out across the sea of sand. Children love the challenge – and the exhilarating run or slide down is always the best part. - Kayak with seals in Walvis Bay
Paddle out among curious Cape fur seals who often hop aboard for a ride. Dolphins and pelicans make regular appearances too. Calm, shallow waters and expert guides make this a highlight for confident swimmers aged around 6+. - Track animals with a guide
Many lodges offer child-friendly tracking walks where guides point out prints, dung, scratch marks and other clues – teaching children how to ‘read’ the bush. These can be thrilling, educational and totally different from game drives. Older children can track desert rhino and elephant too. - Visit a cheetah conservation centre
Learn about big-cat rescue and rehabilitation efforts at one of Namibia’s conservation centres. These visits give families a close-up look at cheetahs and leopards – and a real sense of the country’s conservation commitment. - Explore Namibia’s extraordinary rock formations and ancient art
From the huge granite boulders of Spitzkoppe to the ancient petroglyphs at Twyfelfontein, Namibia’s geology and archaeology are endlessly fascinating. Children can scramble over rocks, search for lizards, and discover carvings thousands of years old. - Meet the San or Himba communities
Cultural visits are some of the most memorable experiences. Learn how the San use plants for medicine or how the Himba make ochre and jewellery. The lodges that we work with to offer these visits are careful to ensure they are respectful and meaningful. - Try sandboarding or dune buggies near Swakopmund
For older children and teens, there’s adrenaline on offer too – sandboarding down steep dunes or heading off-road in a buggy across the Namib’s other-worldly landscape. Guides provide all the kit and know how to keep it fun. - Go on a family-friendly game drive in Etosha
Etosha National Park is one of the easiest parks in Africa for self-drive safaris. Even short drives often deliver giraffe, zebra and elephant sightings. Many lodges offer shorter, flexible drives with private vehicles available for families – and with your own vehicle the park is your oyster! - Stargaze under Namibia’s dark skies
With little light pollution, Namibia is one of the best places in the world for stargazing. Children love spotting constellations, planets and even the Milky Way – often straight from the lodge deck or campfire circle. It’s magic! - Collect rocks, stories and memories
From petrified forests to glittering crystals in roadside stalls, children love Namibia’s sense of discovery. Each stop brings a chance to explore, touch and ask questions – creating stories they’ll talk about long after the trip.
Is there malaria in Namibia?
Doctors usually advise that there is some seasonal malaria risk in the far north, especially in the Zambezi (Caprivi) region and around the Kunene River, mainly during the wetter months from November to April.
If you are visiting a region where malaria precautions are advised, your doctor will most likely recommend a short course of antimalarial tablets. These are available in paediatric doses, prescribed by weight. While there’s no syrup form currently available in most countries, we’ve found the small tablets can easily be disguised in a spoonful of jam (a tried-and-tested trick from our own family travels!).
In addition, it’s worth taking some simple precautions:
- Use insect repellent containing DEET, especially in the early morning and evening.
- Wear long sleeves and trousers after dusk to minimise bites.
- Sleep in accommodation with mosquito nets or screened rooms – most lodges in affected areas provide these.
- Avoid areas with standing water and keep doors and windows closed in the evening.
Is Namibia safe for family safaris?
Most travel here is through quiet, rural areas – from desert lodges and coastal towns to national parks. Roads are generally in good condition, and distances between towns are long, which naturally limits exposure to busier or higher-risk areas. English is widely spoken, and locals are invariably warm, helpful and accustomed to welcoming travellers.
That said, it’s always sensible to follow a few basic precautions, just as you would anywhere:
• Don’t leave valuables on show in vehicles or unattended in public places
• Follow your guide’s advice, especially in national parks or remote areas
• Be cautious with your speed when driving, and avoid driving at night due to wildlife on the roads
• Keep cash, documents and phones secure when in towns or cities
For most families, the biggest risks are sunburn and dehydration – so pack hats, sunscreen and refillable water bottles, and take it slowly in the heat. With a little common sense, Namibia offers a safe, smooth and incredibly rewarding way to travel as a family.
How can families get around Namibia during their safari?
Another great option is a privately guided Namibia safari. You’ll have your own personal local guide and driver, who will take care of all the day-to-day driving and arrangements in Namibia. This takes the stress and hassle out of the holiday, while still giving you plenty of flexibility – and the benefit of the insider knowledge and expertise of your guide.
Another increasingly popular option is fly-in safaris, which take long-drives between Namibia’s national parks and sights out of the equation. You’ll be able to get around more quickly, meaning more time spent in each location, and less on the road – a good option for families with younger children.
Our collections of family safari holidays across Africa
Discover our hand-picked selections of amazing safaris and holidays for families.
From encountering elephants in Zimbabwe to beach and bush breaks in Kenya or close encounters with meerkats in the Kalahari, there’s an adventure for every family.
What wildlife will our family see on a Namibia safari?
If your family is looking to see particular wildlife, we can help you find the areas, camps and lodges with the best chance of seeing these.
Click on the species here to understand the chances of seeing them from various camps and lodges.
Oryx
Oryx sp.
Oryx are impressive antelopes, with a powerful physique and elegant markings set off by rapier-like horns. They cut a distinctive dash in some of Africa’s harshest landscapes.
69% SUCCESS
1,614 sightings from 2,334 observations
Cheetah
Acinonyx jubatus
The cheetah is the fastest land animal and the only cat that hunts by pure speed. Found largely in open grasslands, its slim, elegant form is today an increasingly rare sight.
33% SUCCESS
1,289 sightings from 3,855 observations
Black Rhino
Diceros bicornis
The black rhino is the smaller and rarer of Africa’s two rhino species but has the more fearsome reputation. Shy and heavily persecuted, it tends to stick to cover.
30% SUCCESS
758 sightings from 2,501 observations
White Rhino
Ceratotherium simum
The white rhino is the largest and most numerous of the world’s five rhinoceros species. They are larger, easier to see and generally more approachable than the black rhino.
44% SUCCESS
618 sightings from 1,417 observations
Elephant
Loxodonta africana
By far the biggest of the so-called Big Five – indeed, the largest land animal on the planet – the elephant shapes the very landscape it inhabits and is a defining presence on any safari.
91% SUCCESS
4,431 sightings from 4,871 observations
Lion
Panthera leo
Lions are at the top of the food chain and also most safari wish-lists, but with their numbers falling fast, any encounter with these majestic apex predators always feels like a privilege.
81% SUCCESS
3,674 sightings from 4,539 observations
Meerkat
Suricata suricatta
These highly sociable little mammals have an endearing appearance and comical antics. Found in the drier areas of Southern Africa, close encounters are a sought-after experience.
20% SUCCESS
103 sightings from 507 observations
Buffalo
Syncerus caffer
One of the ‘Big Five’, buffalo earned a fearsome reputation in hunters’ tales. By contrast, big herds of these sociable bovids are placid, but mount formidable defences against predators.
83% SUCCESS
3,100 sightings from 3,738 observations
Giraffe
Giraffa camelopardalis
The world’s tallest land mammal, giraffes are herbivores which have evolved many unique adaptations. Their iconic outlines tower above the bush in many of Africa’s wildlife areas.
86% SUCCESS
4,282 sightings from 4,994 observations
Hippo
Hippopotamus amphibius
The territorial calls of the hippo create a signature soundtrack to Africa’s rivers & wetlands. Despite an endearing smile, this aquatic herbivore has a notoriously aggressive disposition.
89% SUCCESS
3,224 sightings from 3,619 observations
Spotted Hyena
Crocuta crocuta
The spotted hyena may be thought of as ‘ugly’ and ‘cowardly’. In fact, this versatile and intelligent carnivore is one of Africa’s most fascinating and warrants attention on any safari.
55% SUCCESS
2,632 sightings from 4,798 observations
Brown Hyena
Parahyaena brunnea
This largely solitary scavenger is one of the more elusive and little-known of Africa’s carnivores. Shaggier than its spotted cousin, it occurs only in the arid southwest of the continent.
16% SUCCESS
292 sightings from 1,867 observations
Leopard
Panthera pardus
The most numerous of Africa’s big cats, leopard occur across many habitats, from wild tracts to populated areas. Their grace and their elusive nature make them a unique safari drawcard.
47% SUCCESS
2,370 sightings from 5,037 observations
Wild dog
Lycaon pictus
African wild dogs are among the continent’s most compelling animals. Much misunderstood, these rare, tie-dyed canids are amazingly efficient hunters with a fascinating social life.
32% SUCCESS
1,049 sightings from 3,322 observations
Wildebeest
Connochaetes sp.
Superficially bovine in appearance, wildebeests are known for their spectacular migrations sometimes in huge numbers. These resilient animals are some of Africa’s most successful herbivores.
68% SUCCESS
3,008 sightings from 4,452 observations
Pangolin
Smutsia sp.
Pangolins appear to be more pine cone than animal in their unique armoury of scales. These nocturnal, ant-eating oddities are not only highly elusive but also increasingly rare.
2% SUCCESS
70 sightings from 4,029 observations
Aardvark
Orycteropus afer
The aardvark is one of Africa’s most bizarre and enigmatic animals. A shy, nocturnal termite-eater, signs of its presence may be scattered about the bush whilst sightings remain elusive.
2% SUCCESS
82 sightings from 3,987 observations
Eland
Taurotragus oryx
Africa’s largest antelope, eland are culturally important from prehistoric rock art to modern game farms. Though widespread, they are also shy so sightings are uncommon and often fleeting.
49% SUCCESS
1,768 sightings from 3,572 observations
Zebra
Equus sp.
The zebra is a quintessential African animal: the horse in stripy pyjamas at the end of every child’s A–Z. There are three species, of which the plains zebra is much the most common.
84% SUCCESS
4,654 sightings from 5,533 observations
Roan antelope
Hippotragus equinus
Africa’s second largest antelope and one of its most handsome, with a powerful build and distinctive markings, roan are wary of people, but renowned for their bravery against predators.
25% SUCCESS
601 sightings from 2,430 observations
Sable antelope
Hippotragus niger
Perhaps Africa’s most beautiful antelope, sable are renowned for their combative nature, even holding off lions. Shy and restricted in range, sightings of sable are always special.
24% SUCCESS
578 sightings from 2,440 observations
Sitatunga
Tragelaphus spekii
The sitatunga is the most aquatic of Africa’s antelopes and specially adapted to its swampy habitats. Though widespread across Africa, only a handful of places offer reliable sightings.
19% SUCCESS
78 sightings from 407 observations
Looking for inspiration on where to travel next?
Visit our trip chooser to explore your options and find inspiration for your perfect African adventure
Inspire meOther collections of safaris and holidays in Namibia
Click below for our other collections of Namibia safari holidays – each a curated groups of trips selected as ideas around specific interests. Use them as the basis for trips, and then call our specialists to have a trip tailor-made specifically to suit you.
