The ultimate guide to planning a family safari

From the Maasai Mara to the Aravalli Hills

Family safaris are often laced with cliché. You drive, you look and then you depart. But for us, it’s something altogether deeper – a story you’ll share for years to come. And as luxury travel experts, we’ll help you and your loved ones decide exactly how you want your story to unfold.

Meaning ‘long journey’ in Swahili, safari continues to entice travelers from around the globe. And we’re no exception. On our ventures, we’ve gazed upon the Great Migration from hot air balloons and sipped hot chocolates as the sun rises over the iconic Pride Rock, made famous by the film, the Lion King. Even learned to jump and spear throw like a Maasai warrior. We’ve seen tigers languidly weave their way through tranquil, wild forests in India and we’ve fallen asleep beneath the stars to the crackle of our own bush campfire. And you can too.

This is a luxury family safari like no other – one that is completely tailored to you and your loved ones. Whether you’re seeking adventures or conservation initiatives – or both – we’ve got the low-down on precisely where and how to experience your first (or second) family safari.

In this detailed guide all about the best family safaris, we’ll show you everything from the most incredible child-friendly safari lodges to the most unforgettable (and unusual) ways to experience your safari adventure.

Scroll on for more.

Great Migration, Kenya
Luxury travel in Africa

Where to go on a family safari

Choosing the right destination for your family safari can seem quite daunting. But that’s where we come in. Below, we’ve handpicked a few of our favorite African safaris for families, as well as some equally exciting, alternative safari destinations. From Kenya and Botswana to India and Sri Lanka – we’ll create your bespoke trip around whichever specific safari destination you desire. Let’s begin.

Family safaris in Kenya

Regarded as the ‘original’ safari destination, Kenya is ideal for an African safari with kids. With plentiful game and alternate experiences, it makes for a great choice both for first-time safari goers and those who have been on safari elsewhere. See your family’s eyes light up as they tick off the Big Five on a traditional game drive or delight in the smaller details as you explore by foot, horseback or mountain bike. The choice is yours.

A classic ‘must do’ destination due to the role it plays in the Great Migration, Kenya also offers a range of conservation-led experiences in breath-taking national parks and conservancies. Between embarking on anti-poaching patrols and getting involved with life-changing wildlife rehabilitation programs, you’ll get a unique behind-the-scenes peak into the fascinating world of safari conservation.

For the ultimate immersive adventure through Kenya, we’d recommend the following. Naturally, your family safari in Africa will be completely bespoke – these are simply some suggestions to get you started (and hopefully, excited).

naioribi kenya
pride rock borana kenya africa

First up, Nairobi. Perhaps rather surprisingly, this bustling cosmopolitan city is home to several conservation initiatives – and we’ll show you them all. Visiting the elephant orphanage at the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, you and your little ones will spend time with rescued baby elephants. Between watching them play and lending a hand at feeding time, you’ll learn about the vital work of this conservation project first-hand. Next, we’ll take you to the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife giraffe center. Here, you’ll get to see and learn more about these gentle giants. Up close and personal.

A lesser visited region in the shadow of Mount Kenya, your next stop is the rolling scenery of Laikipia. Home to the original inspiration for Lion King’s Pride Rock, watch as your kids’ eyes light up as they enjoy morning hot chocolates from this iconic childhood lookout before setting off on a leisurely game drive with the whole family (complete with handy ID cards to keep the kids engaged). Our favorite way to end the day? Sipping on refreshing sundowners at Pride Rock. Here, you’ll watch as the wild Laikipia Plateau transforms under the vibrant orange and golden hues of a Kenyan sunset. Don’t mind if you do.

To top it all off, next you’ll head into the heartland of safari. Or the Maasai Mara, as it’s also known. Entirely enchanting (and highly unmissable), this striking national game reserve is home to a thriving wildlife population – and Maasai warriors. Enrolling in Maasai Warrior School, you’ll learn spear throwing and archery techniques as well as how to run and jump like a warrior. But that’s not all. Game drives and bush walks, stargazing and delicious bush boma dinners. We’ll show you luxury travel in Kenya, Black Tomato style.

Discover Kenya

Climbing the Table Mountains in South Africa
See lions on safari in Botswana

A luxury family safari in South Africa

A great destination all year round, South Africa is a place where cityscapes and wilderness blend in effortless harmony. Here, wildlife is big and bold – and undeniably unique. Not only will you set off in search of rhinos and lions on your bespoke family safari, but you’ll also seek out whales and sharks – and the rarest creature of them all, the scale-covered Pangolin. This is something a little different (and more than a little exhilarating).

Boasting a fascinating ecosystem spanning 1000km2, the vast expanse of the Kalahari is a sight to behold. Peppered with local meerkat colonies and roamed by black rhinos, antelope, cheetah, hyena, and lions – out here it’s just you and the wildlife. Exploring by daylight, slumbering beneath starlight. This is the life.

From the sand-dusted wilds to the bright lights, the delights of Cape Town await. Soaking up the cosmopolitan atmosphere of this bustling city, you’ll dine to your heart’s content in the many local bars and restaurants dotted along the Victoria and Albert Waterfront. Next, a step back in time. Heading out to Robben Island, you’ll walk in the footsteps of Nelson Mandela himself before exploring the colorful neighborhood of Bo Kaap – gaining an intriguing insight into Cape Malay history and culture.

Seeking a fresh perspective? Head to the mountains – or Table Mountain, to be precise. Choosing between hikes and cable car rides on the way up, for your descent, we’d opt for a more adventurous route – abseiling. A great place for adventure with a beautiful backdrop, as you make your way down from 112m off Table Mountain, you’ll be met with unprecedented views over Cape Town. Alternatively, take to the waters on your own private yacht. Stopping off at well-known surf spots and natural reserves, you’ll charter your way to Hout Point, Cape Point, and the Boulder Beach penguin colony. One thing’s for sure – Cape Town has a lot to offer. And you won’t want to miss it.

However, it probably won’t be long until you hear the call of the wild once more. And we know just the place. Overlooking the beauty of Walker Bay, forest-carpeted hills, and landscapes peppered with indigenous Fynbos (a special type of vegetation found only in South Africa) – Grootbos Private Nature Reserve is a tranquil haven for those seeking the wonders of South Africa’s wildlife. On land, discover antelope and black-backed jackals. By sea, head out in search of the whales that grace the coast. And for the thrill-seekers in your family, we’ll also give you the chance to head into the deep blue for a swim with Great Whites.

Explore South Africa

botswana elephant crossing
Okavango Delta, Botswana

A Botswana safari with kids

Beautiful green wetlands, tranquil winding rivers, and verdant little islands. From grandparents right down to the toddlers, Botswana is great for multigenerational family trips and is sure to leave every family member beaming as you immerse yourself in the glamping lifestyle in ‘Africa’s last Eden’. Or the Okavango Delta, as it’s otherwise known. Camping on the banks of the Khwai River, you’ll even be able to spot elephants wandering by from the comfort of your own luxury tented suite. It doesn’t get much better than that. Except, perhaps, exploring by mokoro.

Unlike other types of family safaris in Africa, this one will see you peacefully gliding over water in a mokoro – a traditional Botswanan dug-out canoe. As you’re being punted around the luscious wetlands of the Delta and its tiny islands, keep your eyes peeled for leopards, water buffalo, elephants and hippos.

Arranging stays in seldom visited areas on the Gomoti River System, here we’ll take you off the beaten track – and into the heart of nature. Whether you choose to travel by foot or explore the exciting waterways on a fun mokoro adventure is up to you. And with evenings spent around the campfire, you’ll have plenty of time for family bonding and story swapping. Beneath the stars, amid the wilderness.

Discover Botswana

Africa luxury travel experiences

Where to stay on an African safari with kids

While the wildlife is a key part of an African safari with kids, where you stay matters a lot too. And with such a vast array of lodges and camps to choose from, picking the right one for you and your family can seem like a daunting task. But not to worry. After countless trips to this captivating continent, we know the best child-friendly safari lodges and camps around. Accompanied by the most knowledgeable guides and featuring luxurious facilities, our luxury Travel Experts will arrange the perfect stay (or stays) to make your family’s first (or second) safari truly unforgettable. In the best possible way.

vumbura in botswana
vumbura botswana

Vumbura, Botswana

Settled within the water-riddled heart of the Okavango Delta and surrounded by some of the most diverse wildlife in Africa, lies a luxury camp. Or Vumbura Plains, as it’s also known. Large open-plan living spaces, contemporary design, outdoor showers, and traditional thatched roofs. Here, large private verandas and plunge pools create a dreamlike setting in the wilderness – the perfect spot to cool off and unwind with the family after exhilarating game drives.

Hidden among the enticing flooded grassland that extends before you, Vumbura offers prime viewing conditions for elephants, wildebeest, Cape buffalo, and giraffes – all from the comfort of your own luxury tented room. Imagine waking up every morning and seeing these incredible creatures just steps away from your breakfast table. Now that’s one way to get the kids out of bed.

Venturing out into the wilderness and gliding along the waterways, keep your eyes peeled for the crocodiles, hippos, lions, leopards and cheetah that call this land home. After a day spent exploring, you’ll head back for a spot of relaxation – and a sumptuous starlit meal. One thing’s for sure, this is an ideal place for swapping stories – and for making unforgettable memories.

But that’s not all. As one of the only destinations in Africa to offer both wet and dry game-viewing year-round, this means that you also won’t have to worry about taking the kids out of school to experience the ultimate family safari in Botswana. And how you experience it is up to you – whether that be by jeep, boat, or even helicopter. But for the most breath-taking views of this thriving ecosystem, we’d recommend a hot air balloon ride. Just you and your loved ones, floating seamlessly over endless sunlit plains. Don’t mind if you do.

Wake up to wildlife just steps away

tswalu
tswalu deck

Tswalu, South Africa

Nestled in the heart of the South Kalahari, Tswalu Kalahari beckons. Made from local stone and rich red clay, and topped with traditional Kalahari thatch, this retreat’s five suites and homestead are the pinnacle of safari chic. Our favorite? The Tarkuni Homestead. Perfect for families, here you’ll have access to five bedrooms, a private pool, private chef, private boma – and well, private everything. It’ll feel like your very own home in the African bush.

Covering an area of 1000sq km, Tswalu isn’t only the largest private game reserve in South Africa – it’s also the most beautiful and unique. With a strong conservation focus and a name meaning ‘a new beginning’, we love that here you actually have to look for your game – it makes those exhilarating sightings all the more rewarding. And it makes for better stories. Whether that be seeing Black Rhino rub horns with Buffalo or spotting lions, cheetahs, and giraffes. You’ll also have the chance to seek out the rarer creatures. As you explore the endless rolling landscapes, keep a lookout for the ever-elusive pangolin and the two resident meerkat colonies.

After an indulgent float in the extensive infinity pool, you’ll sit down with the family and tuck into the barbequed delights from the typical South African boma. Between swapping stories and embarking on adventures – you’re in for a wild few days.

Feel at home in the African bush

Stay in a villa at Grootbos Private Nature Reserve
grootbos

Grootbos, South Africa

We’ve already mentioned this particular destination, but Grootbos Private Nature Reserve is most certainly a place worth mentioning twice.

After all, nowhere does safari quite like this. From exploring landscapes peppered with wildflowers (and over 750 plant species) on a flower safari to shark cage diving and exhilarating game drives. It’s up to you how wild you go.

In one of their luxury suites, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of Walker Bay and the surrounding 2500-hectare reserve from your spacious private deck. Modern luxury, contemporary design, floor length windows, and lush indigenous surroundings. Showcasing the splendor of the Cape Floral Kingdom and the incredible marine life of the southern tip of Africa, this is an idyllic haven in the great African outdoors.

Every member of every family is different. And that’s precisely why Grootbos makes for an ideal family safari adventure. With a list of activities as long as your arm (or several arms), there truly is something for everyone. Horseback riding along the beach at sunset, exploring the fynbos lowlands, whale watching, basking in the South African sunshine, feasting on 12-course meals, or swapping stories around log fires. The choice is yours.

Here, sumptuous beaches and lush forests await. And since it’s just a short 30-minute flight from Cape Town, getting here is easy. It’s leaving that’s the difficult part.

Discover an idyllic haven in the Great African outdoors

borana lodge in kenya
borana lodge room in kenya

Borana, Kenya

In the shadow of Mount Kenya on a rolling hillside in the heart of Laikipia, you’ll find Borana Lodge – one of the best child-friendly safari lodges in Africa. With multi-bedroom cottages, mini walking safaris designed for the little ones, handy animal ID cards to keep the kids engaged, custom menus, and a babysitting service, your every need will be catered to.

Taking your pick from one of the eight authentically designed cottages that speckle the ridgeline, you’ll uncover sweeping views and cozy corners in equal measure. Handcrafted by local craftsmen and decorated with bursts of color, you won’t want to leave your room. Until you see the view, that is. And your private plunge pool.

Now for the activities. Waterfall swims and rhino tracking. Canopy picnics in the Ngare Ndare Forest and fly fishing beside Mount Kenya. In this beautiful private conservancy, you’ll have the chance to try a unique approach to safari – whether it be on foot, horseback or by mountain bike. And once you’ve explored and discovered the incredible wildlife, local communities and awe-inspiring scenery on your doorstep, it’s time for sundowners atop the original inspiration for Lion King’s Pride Rock. A definite ‘do not miss’ moment.

Stay in one of the best child-friendly lodges in Africa

bush bath cottars camp kenya
pool in cottars camp in kenya

Cottars Camp, Kenya

Within a vital wildlife corridor for the Great Migration on a 7000-acre private conservancy, you’ll find yourself nestled between the Maasai Mara and Serengeti Game Reserves. This is Cottars Camp. And this is quite possibly the best address in Africa.

A family of pioneering Africa specialists, the Cottars have been roaming these plains since 1919 – so you’ll be in excellent hands. Stepping back in time to the golden age of safari, your luxury family safari tent will feature 1920s art deco influences, sumptuous four-poster beds, and extensive outdoor verandas. Our favorite part? The pop-up canvas bathtubs. Head outside for an indulgent bathing experience while you marvel at the breath-taking beauty of the savannah. Here, you’ll soak in the magic of it all. Literally.

From the billowing canvas of your own retro-fitted safari tent, you and your family will unleash and indulge your inner exploratory spirit as you set off on your very own expedition into the wilderness. Accompanied by the most knowledgeable Maasai guides, you’ll go in search of an almost-guaranteed Big Five – connecting with local communities along the way. After a wildlife-packed day, you’ll return to a tantalizing feast of Pan-African cuisine – perfectly paired with fine wine and candlelight.

There is simple luxury and an effortless charm to be found out here in the bush. And it’s something we believe everyone should do at least once. Whether you’re embarking on morning game drives or fly camping beneath the stars – there’s no doubt that a stay here will become a cherished chapter of your family’s travels.

Step back in time to the golden age of safari

walking safari in kenya
family safari kenya

The best unique activities and game drives on a family safari

Now you’ve decided where to go and where to stay on your luxury family safari, let’s look at the best ways to see and experience your trip.

Slow things down with a walking safari

Follow in their footsteps. For those seeking a new, unhurried take on safari, exploring via slow-paced guided walks is the perfect way to uncover the smaller details that are often overlooked on game drives. Examining footprints on the ground, you’ll follow them into the grass, pausing only to listen to the melodic sound of birdsong floating down from the trees.

Strolling through grasslands along the bush, you’ll leave no stone unturned – and no wildlife species undiscovered. With boots on the ground and cameras ready, this is one of our favorite ways to experience the joy of safari. And it’s perfect for young explorers too. Embarking on tailored bush walks nearer to your chosen child-friendly safari lodge, your little ones will get up close with nature at a slower pace (and a lower angle). This is the ultimate all creatures great and small approach. Just take it slow. And follow the footprints.

maasai warriors
maasai warriors in kenya

Attend Maasai school

Equal parts fun and educational, taking part in the Maasai Warrior School program is something not to be missed. It is here that your children will be given a true taste of Maasai life – and learn how to embrace their inner Maasai warrior. Between mastering the art of spear throwing and archery, they’ll also learn how to run and jump like the warriors of this particular Kenyan tribe. It’s something they’ll never forget.

Both active and thought-provoking, your children will discover a way of life that is very different to their own and learn that to this tribe the wilderness is home. A highlight to any visit to the Mara, you won’t want to miss out on this unique family safari experience. It’s exciting and fulfilling. And very fun.

horseriding safari in south africa
borana horseriding safari

Saddle up for a horseback family safari

For one of the most exhilarating ways to experience safari, we’d highly recommend exploring on horseback. Galloping alongside zebras and giraffes across green-carpeted plains bathed in sunlight – there’s nothing quite like it. And with your expert safari guide, you’ll embark on your very own family adventure.

Heading out in search of some of Africa’s incredible wildlife and diverse landscapes, you’ll witness black rhinos, antelope, cheetah, hyena, and lions all going about their day-to-day life. It’s quite the sight. But that’s not all. Suitable for all levels of experience, this type of safari is available for everyone, so every member of your family can walk, trot or canter to their heart’s content. Just say the word and our luxury Travel Experts will make it happen.

Canoe trip in Botswana
Mokoro safari in the Okavango Delta

Mokoro safaris in Botswana

Travelling by mokoro (a traditional Botswanan dug-out canoe) is without a doubt the most peaceful way possible to explore the Delta’s entrancing surroundings. Simply sit back, relax and enjoy the sights and sounds of Botswana as you glide along its tranquil waters – punted along by your own expert guide. Weaving through its little islands, you’ll slide serenely through the reed-lined waterways. A unique way to learn about the Delta, in the Delta.

But that’s not all. Due to the quietness of this traditionally-styled craft, the wildlife that lives here is less likely to take fright and flee, giving you the best chance of witnessing some incredible animal encounters – and capturing the perfect snapshots. There is a sense of peace to be found here – between the reeds, beneath the trees. And a wealth of wildlife to discover. Just wait and see.

Great Migration from hot air balloon in Kenya
hot air balloon ride in maasai mara

Hot air ballooning above the Maasai Mara

Want a fresh perspective? Taking to the skies, we’ll show you the magnificent Maasai Mara from above – in your very own hot air balloon. As you lift off and the first touch of sunrise begins to illuminate the ground below, you’ll be able to witness one of the most beautiful natural landscapes that our earth has to offer. Flourishing forests, glistening rivers, and sweeping plains – all bathed in golden hues. Floating effortlessly above it all, you’ll see the majestic wildlife that populates this land. There truly is nothing more spectacular than this.

While you watch this captivating world unfold beneath you, you’ll experience picture-perfect moments aplenty with every swoop and ascent. Equal parts exciting and serene, this will be one to tell the grandkids. Unless they’re already up there with you, of course.

laikipia landscape
loisaba tracker dogs

How Field Trip classes make for a memorable African safari with kids

Education may begin in the classroom – but it certainly doesn’t end there. With a dazzling array of educational experiences focusing on conservation and social history, our Field Trip classes are the perfect final touch to any African safari with kids. This is all about learning from the world, in the world. About getting immersed and getting involved. And with exclusive behind-the-scenes-access and unique perspectives, these experiences are sure to spark (or fuel) a passion for their futures.

Inside the fight to protect Kenya’s wildlife

In Kenya’s Loisaba Conservancy, each day the dedicated anti-poaching team set out on patrols with their highly-trained sniffer dogs. Or Warrior, Machine, Memusi and Nanyokie – as they’re also known. And now, you’ll get to see them in action. Joining an anti-poaching patrol deep in the African bush, you’ll get a first-hand insight into the captivating work of safari conservation. Highlighting to your kids the importance of this conservation mission, it’ll give them an understanding of precisely what goes into protecting the wildlife they’re seeing on safari. Feet on the ground, eyes open.

This experience is all about connecting. Whether that be with local communities, the dogs themselves, or by finding a sense of purpose. All with an added element of wonder, of course. Exploring this Edenic corner of the world – spotting rhino, giraffe and elephant – your kids will get the chance to meet the dogs and their handlers – getting to know them and hearing their stories. An inspiring experience for future conservationists, activists, and vicenarians. And dog lovers.

Join an anti-poaching patrol deep in the African bush

nelson mandela tour south africa
Christo Brand tour guide south africa
Cape Town, South Africa

Make your way through the life and times of Nelson Mandela

With a unique insight into South Africa’s political past, this isn’t just any tour. Your private guide? Christo Brand – once prison guard and then close friend to South Africa’s first Black president. Working on Robben Island, at just age 19, Christo Brand became warder to none other than anti-apartheid revolutionary Nelson Mandela – a man committed to tearing down the legacy of apartheid and fostering racial reconciliation in its wake. Over the years, a close friendship developed between the two. And you’ll get to hear their story first-hand.

On a personal tour of Cape Town and the key locations of Mandela’s life, you’ll set off on a fascinating experience through time. Perilous journeys, secret negotiations, prison grounds. This is a must-do for anyone with an interest in South Africa’s turbulent history – and perfect for any future sociologists, historians or politicians.

Discover South Africa’s political past

rhino notching in kenya
rhino ear notching in kenya

Discover what it takes to save a species

A vast, 32,000-acre area within Kenya’s breath-taking Laikipia plateau, the Borana Conservancy is an oasis of flourishing African wilds. Its most renowned residents? The black rhino. And they need your help. Having witnessed an unprecedented baby boom over the past 3-4 years, to aid conservation each member of the local black rhino population must have its own ID. Or animal passport. And that’s where you come in.

During this interactive hands-on experience, you’ll get up close and personal with these majestic animals. Joining Kenya’s Wildlife Service vets and park rangers, you’ll see how they put rhinos under anesthetic and make unique patterns of notches in their ears to identify them, before releasing them back into their beautiful habitat.

Equal parts essential and unforgettable, your kids will help to ensure that the rhino population can continue to thrive and prosper for many years to come. Now that’s a legacy. Tempted? Just ask one of our luxury Travel Experts and they’ll be sure to arrange it as part of your trip.

Join the mission to conserve the black rhino

botswana hot air balloon ride view

Science and safari in the Okavango Delta

Flooded plains and verdant marshlands, tranquil waters and little islands. This is the Okavango Delta. And this is your chance to discover its secrets. Between learning about this beautiful land’s unusual scientific features and trekking to spot resident species like hippos and elephants, you’ll gain an insider’s insight into the wildlife and ecology of one of the world’s rarest (and most spectacular) natural environments.

Your adventure begins early – at 6am. Heading into the surrounding bush with your expert guide, you’ll delve beneath the surface of the environment you’re staying in, watching as it awakens at the first touch of sunrise. Here, wildlife, hydrology, and the local climate are all intertwined. And you’ll leave with a rare understanding of one of the world’s most remarkable terrains. Afterall, there’s a reason it’s called ‘Africa’s last Eden’.

Discover one of the world’s most remarkable terrains

sri lanka landscape

Family safaris in Asia

If you’ve been to Africa and want to expand your horizons, look no further. Here are some of our carefully crafted (and excitingly alternative) safaris that will see you and you loved ones seeking out tigers and elusive leopards amid ancient ruins and wild forests. Just say the word and our luxury Travel Experts will start designing your trip. Today, if you like.

An alternative safari in Sri Lanka

A verdant teardrop-shaped island situated above the cobalt expanse of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka is a breath-taking (and very different) family safari destination. Perfect for families who are hoping to explore the world further and for those who have already experienced a family safari in Africa – here, you’ll enter a world of eye-popping colors and palate-tingling flavors.

Combining pristine white sands with the wilds of Yala National Park, this truly is the best of both worlds. Heading out on game drives to the quieter corners of Yala, you’ll spot elusive leopards accompanied by your expert naturalist guide. But that’s not all. Between exploring fifth-century fortresses, learning how to make tea in the misted highlands, and studying the behavior of native wild elephants – you’ll discover the incredible diversity of flora and fauna this island has to offer.

After spending the day seeking out leopards in the wild, return for a game of beach croquet and a picnic on the sands. Equal parts relaxing and exciting – you won’t want to leave. But if you wish, we’ll arrange for you to finish off your trip with some family relaxation in the (temptingly nearby) Maldives. Just say the word and our luxury Travel Experts will show you the best of both.

Embark on an alternative safari in Sri Lanka

Wild Bengal Tiger
tiger in ranthambore national park in india

A family safari spotting tigers in India

A land blessed with countless beautiful wildlife parks, India is the perfect spot for a luxury family safari with a twist. Here’s just a few of our favorites.

First up, Kanha National Park. In the heart of India to the setting of Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book – Madhya Pradesh – you’ll drive through silent forests in search of leopards and tigers. Keeping your eyes (and ears) open, listen out for the peacock alarm calls – a sign that the big cats are close. One thing’s for certain – you’ll soon see why this enchanting jungle inspired such an iconic novel. Simply watch as your kids’ faces light up as they spot these prowling storybook characters. Afterall, there’s nothing quite like an Indian safari.

Where the ruins of an ancient fortress hide between deciduous forests and striking parkland, Ranthambore National Park is a harmonious blend of history and nature. And it is here that your quest for a tiger sighting shall begin. Discovering natural beauty at every turn, we’ll take you to all the hidden corners you won’t want to miss – and, if you’re lucky, you’ll even spot tigers among the ruins that jut out from the spectacular scenery. It’s a marvelous sight.

In the so-called ‘land of the tigers’, it’s no surprise that Bandhavgarh National Park is one of India’s top places to spot the world’s largest cat – the Bengal Tiger. But it’s not the only creature to call this land home. Between seeking out these majestic wild cats, you’ll head off on short walks through the jungle to get up close with some of Bandhavgarh’s smaller fauna such as snakes, lizards and birds – either during the day or after dark. The choice is yours. Alternatively, we’ll take you exploring by bike. Cycling through the local village of Mardari, here you’ll see locals living harmoniously with these tigers. It’s quite the sight.

Last but certainly not least, are the green-carpeted Aravalli Hills. It is here that you’ll have your best chance to succeed in your search for the elusive leopard – encircled by beautiful natural surroundings of verdant, sloping hillsides and ancient mountains. As you drink in the scenery on your quest to find this graceful feline, you’ll pass the Jawai River, spotting vibrant clusters of pink flamingos along the way.

Seek out tigers in India

family maasai mara
borana lodge mountain bike safari

Why our safaris are great for families

A Black Tomato safari isn’t just any safari. It’s unique and unforgettable – and completely bespoke. Building our family trips from the ground up with thoughtfulness, care and an outstanding attention to detail, we’ll plan everything from the smallest details to the most remarkable of crescendos. With our totally tailor-made itineraries approach, there’s nothing quite like the family safaris we’ve created over the years.

Rob, one of our luxury Travel Experts, said it best.

“When I look back on recent safaris I’ve planned, you get a real sense of how diverse and family-friendly they are. I’ve organised quad-bike game drives, night-time open-air cinemas, wild honey gathering with beekeepers, and biplane flights. Nobody will be bored.”

No one family is the same. And we believe no safari should be either. However small or large – from the little ones to parents and grandparents – your family are the most important people in the world. But planning a trip that pleases everyone can be hard work. And that’s where we come in. As families ourselves, our family trips are made by families – for families – and we know exactly how to take away the stress, uncertainty, and those ever-frequent ‘are we there yets’.

Take The Rider, for example. Drawing its name from the personal list of things that musicians and actors request for their green rooms and hotels, we’ll ensure that your fundamentals are never forgotten. Be it a thing or a piece of information, we’ve got your essentials – those everyday things that make life that little bit easier and travelling that bit smoother. From your kids’ favorite snacks to transfer cars complete with iPads to keep them entertained. From telescopes to chessboards, and best-in-class motion sickness tablets to knowledge of allergies and intolerances. We’ve got your back.

The above family safaris exist to provide that all-important spark of inspiration (and excitement). But they’re not the fireworks themselves. With our luxury Travel Experts, you’ll get the ball rolling, bringing your dream (and entirely bespoke) family safari to life. Just say the word and we’ll make it happen.

Ready to embark on safari?

Whatever type of safari you’re looking for, our trips cover everything mentioned here and much more.

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