Family Safari with Kids: 5 Myths Busted (Why A Kenya Safari is Perfect for Children)
If you're considering a family safari holiday in Kenya but hesitant about traveling with children — especially young children — you're not alone. The thought of traveling with your family to an unfamiliar continent can feel intimidating. But here's the truth: a family safari, even with young children, creates memories and experiences that will last a lifetime. Let's address the real concerns families have and why they're usually not the obstacles you think they are…
Myth 1: "Africa Is Too Dangerous for Children"
Reality: A lot of Kenya is Safe for Families
Yes, every destination has areas you should avoid. But when you discuss a family-friendly itinerary with your travel planner, you'll likely be surprised by how safe most of Kenya is for families with children of all ages.
Ol Pejeta Conservancy, where our cottages are located, is in the heart of Laikipia — one of Kenya's most stable, established wildlife regions. Private conservancies are actively managed for guest safety. Your accommodation is secure and your guides are trained and experienced with families. The roads to your private safari cottage at The Safari Cottages are established and well-maintained.
The truth: you're probably safer on a Kenya safari than you are driving through many city centres back home.
Myth 2: "Young Children Won't Remember It, So Why Bother?"
Reality: You Will Remember
Your baby might not remember the lion roaring them to sleep, but you will. You'll remember the exact moment your toddler said "elefant" for the first time when they spotted their first elephant. You'll remember them cheering you with their bottle as you drove across the open plains. You'll remember the quiet moments of connection.
And when your child is 16 or 18, they'll see photos of themselves as a baby on a family safari in Kenya. They'll have those images to connect with — proof that their family was brave enough to do something extraordinary together. That's not a small thing.
Creating memories with your kids starts from day one. Safari photos of your baby in the African bush are the kind of memories that become family stories.
Looking for animals on an afternoon game drive
Myth 3: "I'll Feel Uncomfortable Breastfeeding in Africa"
Reality: Breastfeeding Is Completely Normal Here
Everywhere you look in Kenya, you'll see African women breastfeeding. It's the most natural, normal thing in the world here. There's no social awkwardness. There's no judgment. It's just motherhood — which is exactly what it should be.
If you're traveling with a bottle-fed baby, you'll find formula, nappies, wipes, and all the essentials in supermarkets throughout Kenya, including Nanyuki (which is just an hour’s drive from The Safari cottages).
Our safari cottages are also entirely private, so you have your own, quiet space. Nobody is watching or judging - you'll have all the privacy and comfort you need for feeding your baby.
Myth 4: "The Food Won't Be Suitable for Children"
Reality: Chefs Know How to Feed Kids and The Kids Get Stuck In
Babies are born and grow up across Africa every single day - Africans know exactly how to feed and care for children. It's not exotic or mysterious — it's just part of life.
Owner/Manager Sonja, has raised her own children in the African bush and welcomes her two young grandchildren each year too. She has years of experience cooking for families with young kids and has trained our chefs to do the same. If your child is a picky eater, let us know well in advance. Most lodges will accommodate your child's dietary requirements — you're not being difficult, you're being thoughtful. The more information we have about your children's needs, the better we can care for them.
Many families find that children actually expand their diet on safari: new foods, new experiences, time away from screens and processed options. It often works out better than expected.
Family lunch at The Safari Cottages, Kenya
An evening in with games
Myth 5: "A Family Safari Will Be Prohibitively Expensive"
Reality: Family Pricing Makes It More Affordable Than You Think
Yes, safaris aren't budget travel. But when you book smart, they're often cheaper than you'd expect.
Look for accommodations that offer discounted rates or even free stays for children under 3 or under 12. Many lodges across Kenya have these policies specifically to encourage family bookings. The Safari Cottages offer family rates that make a multi-night stay really reasonable, especially in the green season (April, May - mid-June and November).
If you're heading to the Kenyan coast (before or after your safari), private villa stays can reduce costs when traveling with multiple children. You do your own cooking (or hire a chef for specific meals), which cuts accommodation costs significantly.
Calculate the full cost of a family holiday at home — flights, accommodation, meals, activities — and compare it to a safari package. You might be surprised at how competitive it actually is.
The Real Picture: Families Thrive on Safari
We've raised two children in the African bush. Our grandchildren visit Kenya every year. They love the freedom and space and connect with the wildlife and joyful staff. They spend time with our chefs in the kitchen. They help with daily tasks. They name all the animals on game drives.
A family safari isn't something you have to be brave to do. It's something your family will treasure.
Preparing Your Family for Safari
Practical steps before you travel:
Discuss wildlife safety with children ahead of time (calm, respectful observation from the vehicle)
Pack familiar comfort items (favorite stuffed animal, bedtime book, snacks they know)
Explain that guides are experienced with children and there to help and encourage them to ask questions
Let us know your children's ages, dietary needs, and any concerns in advance
Plan flexible schedules — game drives can be adjusted for rest times
“Our family of eight (including boys ages 8 and 12) stayed for three nights at these wonderful cottages. The accommodations were private and well appointed. The meals were superior, one day we gave the cook a standing ovation! Watching the elephants parade past at lunch was a highlight of our stay. There were plenty of place for our boys to explore safely during the day. Each evenings the guard, Peter, made a small bonfire for us and provided marshmallows and stories to entertain us. One evening he brought out a telescope and showed us the stars of the Southern Hemisphere! He is a real treasure.”
- December 2024 -
Ready to Book Your Family Safari?
If you're still uncertain about taking children on safari, we understand. But the answer to almost every family concern is: it works better than you think.
Our team has decades of experience with family bookings. We know what works. We know what questions to ask. We know how to structure your stay so everyone enjoys it — parents and children alike.
Get in touch with us to discuss your family safari. Tell us your children's ages, your concerns, your goals. We'll build an itinerary that works for your family and answer every question you have.
Booking your first safari comes with questions most people won't voice: Will I be safe? What if I need a wee? Will a lion eat me? This guide answers the some of the common questions we get from first time safari goers with honest, practical reassurance. Because these concerns are normal, and the answers are usually better than you're imagining.