Tanzania's best family holidays
Tanzania’s safari lodges seldom have traditional kids’ clubs – but that’s part of the magic. Instead of screens and structured playrooms, your children will be immersed in nature: spotting elephants and giraffes, following animal tracks with a guide, and learning about the wild in a hands-on, exciting way. The experience is shaped by the age and personality of your children, and we’ll help tailor the perfect itinerary to suit your family’s interests and needs.
For families with younger children (typically under eight) a private guided safari through northern Tanzania is an ideal first adventure. Comfortable, spacious lodges near world-famous spots like the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Lake Manyara offer a stable, hotel-style base with the flexibility to go at your own pace. Your family will travel in your own 4WD vehicle, and we can arrange this to be led by an expert guide, skilled in engaging children and making nature come alive.
For older children, we can take the adventure up a notch if you wish. More open, tented camps become an option, offering a thrilling, close-to-nature experience - with wild animals sometimes wandering nearby. Southern Tanzania also opens up with exciting fly-in safaris to Nyerere and Ruaha national parks, where families can enjoy boating safaris, open-topped game drives, and evenings around the campfire in some of Africa’s most beautiful wilderness areas.
And when it’s time to relax, Tanzania’s islands, like Zanzibar, Mafia and Pemba, offer idyllic beaches just a short hop from the bush. These stunning, white-sand shores are perfect for winding down after your safari, often at a lower cost than game lodges. Whether snorkelling over coral reefs or simply enjoying the warm waters, the beach is a perfect final chapter to your family’s Tanzanian adventure.
Explore our collection of Tanzania family safaris and family-friendly camps and lodges, and find answers to frequently asked questions about family safaris in Tanzania. Or contact us to plan a great holiday to suit your family.
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Detailed, un-edited reviews from our Tanzania travellers whose trips we tailored towards family holidays. Click below to read the traveller's full review, and see all the reviews of our Tanzania safari holidays here.
Best camps and lodges for family safaris and beach holidays in Tanzania
Tanzania offers a superb range of safari camps and lodges ideal for families, combining comfort, safety, and unforgettable wildlife experiences. While few have traditional kids’ clubs, many stand out for their welcoming atmosphere, family-sized rooms, and engaging activities that spark curiosity in young adventurers.
In northern Tanzania, lodges like Gibb’s Farm and Ngorongoro Farmhouse provide spacious accommodation, beautiful surroundings, and easy access to the Ngorongoro Crater – ideal for a relaxed, first-time family safari. Nearby, Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge offers a great mix of style, facilities, and family-friendly service, all in the heart of big game country.
If your family is after a bit more adventure, Mdonya Old River Camp in Ruaha and Lake Manze Camp in Nyerere in southern Tanzania are excellent choices for older children who can safely enjoy wilder, more open camps. These offer thrilling wildlife encounters, from elephant visits in camp to boat safaris and campfire evenings.
There are many more great accommodation options for Tanzania family safaris. Speak to one of our specialists for recommendations and advice on where to stay that perfectly suits your family’s needs.
Kiba Point
Kiba Point is an exclusive-use camp for up to eight guests on family safari holidays in Tanzania with children 8+. In a design of simple elegance, it provides excellent food and service - with its own drivers, vehicles and chefs. Note that it has steep drops and high game risks!
Hatari Lodge
Easily accessible and home to little dangerous game, Arusha is a good destination for family safari holidays in Tanzania with children of all ages. Walking and canoeing here add variation to a family safari. The 60s-themed Hatari happily arranges special meals for children.
Impala Camp
At night when you mustn’t walk unaccompanied on the ground, Impala’s family tents allow passing between two tents as they’re set on one platform. Come with up to three children (all ages) for boat trips and flexible durations of drives on your Tanzania family safari.
Lake Manze Camp
Lake Manze Camp makes for affordable Tanzania family safari holidays with sensible children, best aged 10+, in an informal atmosphere. With no electricity and a rustic design, it gives a strong sense of wilderness. Triple rooms and early dining can be arranged.
Chole Mjini
The quirky originality of Chole Mjini feels quiet but social, and it's perfect for Tanzania family beach holidays with older children. Most kids love its six wooden tree-houses, the ruins to explore and activities like dhow trips and snorkelling in Chole Bay.
Four Seasons Serengeti
Next to a waterhole, the Four Seasons Serengeti is a large, international-style hotel that makes for safe, luxurious family safari holiday in Tanzania. This is one of the few lodges with special children’s activities, coordinated by an enthusiastic guide.
Thanda Island
Any large family looking to splash out on a private island experience for a family holiday in Tanzania should seriously consider booking a trip to Thanda Island. All of the rooms are inter-connecting and there is a huge array of activities available.
Rhotia Valley Ttd. Lodge
Rhotia Valley is a wonderful option for families. There are no age restrictions. Guests have the opportunity to visit the children's home associated with the lodge. It's a great opportunity for children to become involved with the local community.
Mkombe's House Lamai
Mkombe's House Lamai is the perfect solution to a family safari in Tanzania. There is superb wildlife in the area and, with its memorable views and two swimming pools, this fully serviced private house caters well for both adults and children.
Lupita Island Lodge
Lupita Island is an excellent choice for a family holiday, especially a multi-generational or large group. With an array of activities on the island and in the lake, and great family accommodation - is a brilliant alternative to Zanzibar.
Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge
There are no age restrictions at Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge which makes this larger international style property a good choice for families travelling with children. There is a swimming pool for children to enjoy in between game drives.
Farmhouse Lodge
Ngorongoro Farmhouse is a good-value base without age restrictions for Tanzania family holidays - and as it’s a working farm its quite fun! There are extensive lawns, plenty of animals, a pool, highchairs and games like volleyball!
Mwagusi Safari Camp
Overlooking a seasonal river in Ruaha, Mwagusi is a quirky, owner-run camp. Come for 4WD drives and brilliant service on your family safari holidays in Tanzania! We recommend it for families with mature children aged 10+.
Forest Chem Chem
For larger families looking for a luxurious and exclusive safari camp then Forest Chem Chem could be a fantastic choice. All the activities are planned around you by the experienced guides, and they offer lots of flexibility.
Lemala Ewanjan
Lemala have a children's programme 'Lemala Cubs'. This is aimed at under 12's and includes fun activities around camp with a focus of entertaining and educating younger visitors about local wildlife and the African bush.
Gibbs Farm
At Gibb’s Farm, children of all ages can learn about farming, help with cows and pigs, go on guided walks, mountain biking or play in the garden during Tanzania family holidays. Cots and highchairs are provided.
Jabali Private House
With a prime location in Ruaha National Park, Jabali Private House would be a perfect choice for a family seeking a private and exclusive experience, in luxurious surroundings, for a family safari in Tanzania.
Ikuka Safari Camp
Children over 7 years are warmly welcomed at Ikuka. The camp has recently constructed a family banda which can sleep up to five, and there is a communal swimming pool to enjoy in between game drives.
Beho Beho Bailey's Banda
Beho Beho Bailey’s Banda is great for families with older children (12+) who want to have a first class safari experience exclusively to themselves.
Ngorongoro Serena
Ngorongoro Serena is a good-value base, and larger international style property for families travelling with children over the age of 5 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Tanzania family safari FAQs
Tanzania is a superb destination for family safaris, but planning a visit here can lead to many questions. Whether you’re curious about safety, activities for children, malaria precautions, age restrictions, or the best time to visit, our FAQs have you covered.
Are Tanzania family safaris suitable for young children?
In northern parks like the Serengeti, Lake Manyara, and the Ngorongoro Crater, lodges tend to be larger and more structured – similar to hotels – with large rooms, swimming pools, and space for children to unwind. With a private 4WD vehicle and an experienced guide who knows how to engage young minds, the pace and daily activities can be adjusted to suit your family’s rhythm.
Activities like short game drives, nature walks around camp (in safe areas), storytelling, and cultural visits to local villages help keep younger kids entertained without being overwhelming. However, it’s important to note that many tented safari camps are unfenced and located in the wild, so families with small children often aren’t permitted - or may need to meet specific safety requirements.
For toddlers and very young children (under five), a safari may not be the best fit due to long drives, limited ability to roam freely, and wildlife safety concerns. In such cases, alternative destinations like South Africa's Cape region may be more suitable.
What accommodation options are available for families on a Tanzania safari?
For families with younger children, larger lodges in northern Tanzania – near the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Lake Manyara – are ideal. These properties often resemble traditional hotels, offering family suites, swimming pools, Wi-Fi, and plenty of space to move around. Some even offer interconnecting rooms or family villas, which are great for keeping everyone together.
For older, more adventurous children (usually over 8 years old), smaller, tented safari camps can be a fantastic experience. These camps bring you closer to nature, with canvas tents, open-air dining, and wildlife often visible right from camp. While less structured, they provide a real sense of adventure, often described as “luxury camping” or “glamping.” Safety measures are strict, and staff are well-trained to host families. For these we’d recommend that you consider a trip to southern Tanzania – to Nyerere National Park and Ruaha National Park.
We can discuss with you which camps and lodges are best at offering child-friendly meals (and meal times), flexible schedules, and the option to book a private guide and vehicle – something we always recommend for families, as it allows for a much more tailored safari experience.
Northern Tanzania or southern Tanzania – which is better for my family?
Northern Tanzania is generally better suited for families with younger children, or first-time safari-goers. This region includes iconic destinations like the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, and Tarangire National Park. Travel here is typically by private 4WD vehicle with a dedicated guide, allowing families to set their own pace. Accommodation includes larger lodges with modern comforts, family rooms, and more space for children to roam safely. Roads connect the parks, so there's less reliance on small aircraft, which some families with young kids might prefer.
Southern Tanzania, which includes Nyerere and Ruaha national parks, is wilder, more remote, and generally better suited to families with older, more adventurous children. Travel here often involves flying between small, tented camps. These camps offer a more immersive, “glamping” experience, with activities like boat safaris and walking excursions that appeal to older kids who can follow safety instructions closely.
But each family is different, and it’s best to speak to one of our Experts to recommend the best experience for you and your children.
Can we combine a Tanzania safari with a beach holiday?
Zanzibar is the most popular choice for a post-safari beach break. This island offers soft white sands, warm turquoise waters, and a wide variety of family-friendly resorts and boutique hotels. You’ll find options with swimming pools, kids’ menus, family suites, and plenty of space to relax. Older children can enjoy snorkelling, sailing, or exploring historic Stone Town.
Other great options include the quieter Mafia Island, known for its marine park and gentle pace, or Pemba Island, with its tranquil ambiance, lush landscape and unspoiled natural beauty.
One of the major advantages of combining safari and beach in Tanzania is the minimal travel time between the two experiences. You can go from watching lions in the Serengeti to swimming in the Indian Ocean within a matter of hours.
It’s also a cost-effective strategy – beach days are typically less expensive than game drives, making them a nice way to extend your holiday without significantly increasing your budget.
What is the best time to go on a family safari in Tanzania?
During the dry seasons, wildlife is easier to spot as animals gather around waterholes, and the lack of rain makes roads more accessible – ideal for smooth game drives with children. These months coincide with many school holidays, making it a popular period for families to visit.
If you’re hoping to witness the Great Migration in the Serengeti, then see our moving map and video of the migration’s typical seasonal pattern. Where we recommend for a trip to the Serengeti will depend very much on when you’re travelling, and what you’re keen to see.
That said, the green season, from November to March, also has its perks. Landscapes are lush and beautiful, birdlife is abundant, and there are fewer crowds. Some families prefer this quieter time, especially if they want to include cultural activities or just enjoy a more relaxed pace. This season also tends to be less expensive, which may suit larger family groups.
The long rains, from April to about mid-June are usually best avoided due to heavy rains, which can make travel challenging in remote areas. The short rains, around November and December, are not usually the best time either, unless you’re keen birdwatchers. That said, in recent years, the rain during these months has often been light.
Ultimately, the best time depends on your family’s priorities - whether it’s optimal wildlife viewing, budget, fewer tourists, or aligning with school breaks. Speak to an Expert Africa specialist to plan a family safari to Tanzania that perfectly suits your family.
Is Tanzania safe for family safaris?
Our safari destinations here are very well-established – with professional trained guides, experienced in working with children and highly knowledgeable about wildlife safety.
That said, a family safari does involve proximity to wild animals, so it’s important that children are well-supervised and able to follow instructions. Lodges and camps have strict safety protocols, and many will require families with younger children to have a private guide and vehicle to ensure the trip can be paced and managed appropriately.
What activities can families enjoy on safari?
Game drives are the core of the experience - offering the chance to see lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and more in their natural habitat. These drives are led by experienced guides who tailor the pace and stops to suit children’s attention spans and curiosity.
Beyond game drives, there are many hands-on activities that engage younger minds. Guided nature walks (in safe, non-predator areas – often close to the lodges) help kids discover animal tracks, birds, insects, and plants, turning the bush into a living classroom. Many lodges and camps organise interactive sessions where children can learn traditional skills, storytelling, or beadwork from local communities - offering a cultural dimension to the trip.
Boat safaris, available in places like Nyerere National Park, are another hit with families, offering close-up views of hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds from the safety of a guided vessel. Balloon safaris over the Serengeti are a thrilling option for older children, providing a bird’s-eye view of the landscape.
Walking safaris and fly-camping are ideal for older teenagers (over 16 years old) looking for something very adventurous. Under the care of a highly trained and experienced guide, your family could step out into the wild and explore the African landscape up close and personal, away from the noise of a vehicle and other people. Or go fly-camping and sleep under the star-filled African sky, the ultimate "get away from it all" experience.
Evenings around the campfire are perfect for sharing stories, roasting marshmallows, and stargazing. Many camps also offer child-specific activities like wildlife quizzes, nature scavenger hunts, or junior ranger programs.
With the right itinerary and guides who understand family dynamics, these activities create a safari experience that’s adventurous, immersive, and packed with unforgettable moments.
Are there malaria risks in Tanzania, and how can families stay safe?
To keep your family safe, it’s essential to take preventative measures. Before travelling, consult a doctor about antimalarial medication, which is recommended for visitors to Tanzania. Other key precautions include:
- Using insect repellent containing DEET, especially in the evenings and early mornings.
- Wearing long-sleeved clothing and long trousers at night to minimise skin exposure.
- Choosing accommodation with mosquito nets and well-screened rooms. Many lodges provide nets and insect-proof tents for added protection.
- Avoiding stagnant water where mosquitoes breed, and staying indoors during peak mosquito activity times (dusk and dawn).
How much does a family safari in Tanzania cost?
Budget-friendly family safaris generally use larger lodges with fixed schedules and shared game drives, costing from £250 / $325 per person per day. However, these tend to be busy, rushed, crowded, inflexible, and seldom tailored to suit children. Expert Africa does not recommend this as an option.
Mid-range family safaris – with private guides, more comfortable accommodation, and more flexible itineraries – typically cost between from £500 / $650 per person per day. These are a better option for families wanting a balance of comfort, adventure, and personal attention.
Luxury family safaris, including fly-in itineraries to remote camps and top-tier lodges, usually cost from £1,000 / $1,300 per person per day. These offer exceptional service, gourmet meals, and exclusive access to wildlife-rich areas, and can be tailored to suit your family's specific interests and requirements.
Don’t forget to factor in flights (both international and internal), park fees, tips, travel insurance, and extras like balloon safaris or cultural excursions. Children under 12 often benefit from discounted rates at lodges, on flights, and in park entry fees.
Expert Africa can help tailor an experience to suit your budget and needs. Speak to one of our Experts to find out what’s possible.
Our collection of family safari holidays across Africa
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From gorilla trekking in Rwanda’s lush forests to encountering elephants in Zimbabwe or tracking cheetahs in Kenya’s Laikipia, there’s an adventure for every family.
Where to see wildlife species in Tanzania
Maximise the chances of seeing your favourite animals based on traveller sightings reports from the field.
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
3,664 sightings from 4,527 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
2,366 sightings from 5,027 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
1,286 sightings from 3,847 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
1,048 sightings from 3,313 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
2,624 sightings from 4,787 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
2,996 sightings from 4,438 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
3,093 sightings from 3,729 observations
Chimpanzee
Pan troglodytes
The chimpanzee is our closest living relative. This highly intelligent great ape is a forest animal with a sophisticated social life. Any encounter in the wild is a memorable experience.
100% SUCCESS
28 sightings from 28 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
1,763 sightings from 3,562 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
4,419 sightings from 4,857 observations
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
1,608 sightings from 2,326 observations
Gerenuk
Litocranius walleri
With its slender frame and extraordinarily long neck, this unmistakable East African antelope resembles an attenuated impala and often stands on its back legs browse high shrubs.
73% SUCCESS
113 sightings from 155 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
4,273 sightings from 4,981 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
3,217 sightings from 3,610 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
598 sightings from 2,424 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
577 sightings from 2,435 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
76 sightings from 403 observations
Striped Hyena
Hyaena hyaena
The striped hyena is the most widespread of the world’s hyenas, but absent from southern Africa. A rarely-seen nocturnal scavenger, it is shyer and more solitary than its spotted cousin.
13% SUCCESS
141 sightings from 1,094 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
4,642 sightings from 5,521 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 3,978 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
69 sightings from 4,020 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
755 sightings from 2,494 observations
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