A family safari in Kenya is one of the best holidays you can give children: lions, elephants and giraffes up close, with short drives between parks and a beach to finish. This guide covers the best family-friendly parks, how to plan a safari around children, what it costs and which of our packages suit families.
Why Kenya is great for a family safari
- Short distances: Nairobi, Lake Naivasha, Lake Nakuru and the Masai Mara are linked by road, so you avoid long flights between parks.
- Wildlife children love: big cats, elephant herds, giraffes, hippos and rhinos.
- Activities beyond game drives: walking safaris, boat rides, cycling and animal orphanages.
- An easy beach finish: Diani Beach is a short flight from Nairobi or the Mara.
Best places for a family safari in Kenya
Nairobi
Start with the Giraffe Centre, the David Sheldrick elephant orphanage and Nairobi National Park, where giraffes graze with the city skyline behind them. Our full-day Nairobi city and national park tour from US$195 is a gentle first day for children.
Lake Naivasha
Children can walk among zebras and giraffes on Crescent Island, spot hippos from a boat and cycle through Hell’s Gate National Park. See our 3 Days Lake Naivasha Adventure.
Lake Nakuru and Ol Pejeta
Both are excellent for rhinos. Ol Pejeta also has a chimpanzee sanctuary, which older children especially enjoy.
Masai Mara
The highlight of any Kenya family safari, with lions, cheetahs and elephants on almost every drive and the Great Migration from about July to October.
Diani Beach
White sand, calm water, dolphin trips and snorkelling make Diani the perfect place to end a family safari. See our Kenya safari and beach packages.
Best family safari packages in Kenya
- 7 Days Kenya Safari: Naivasha, Masai Mara and Nairobi: from US$2,194 per person sharing, with child rates on request. A good mix of activities, wildlife and a city day.
- 4 Days Lake Nakuru and Masai Mara: from US$1,308. A short Big Five trip for school holidays.
- 10 Days Kenya Safari and Beach Holiday: from US$2,590, with time to relax at Diani after the safari.
Any of our Kenya safari packages can be run privately for your family and adjusted to your children’s ages.
How to plan a safari with children
- Book a private vehicle. You can plan shorter game drives, stop when the children need a break and go at your own pace. Read our private vs joining safari guide.
- Check age policies. Some camps and activities, such as walking safaris and balloon flights, set minimum ages.
- Choose family rooms. Family tents or connecting rooms keep everyone together.
- Mix in rest days. A pool, a lakeside afternoon or a beach finish keeps everyone happy.
- Ask about health. Talk to your doctor about vaccinations and malaria tablets suitable for children.
- Pack well. Layers for cold early mornings, sun hats, binoculars for each child and snacks for the vehicle. See our Kenya safari packing list.
How much does a family safari in Kenya cost?
Children usually pay less for park fees and often for accommodation. In the Masai Mara, non-resident children aged 9 to 17 pay US$50 per day, compared with US$100 to US$200 for adults depending on the season. A private vehicle costs the same whether two or six people use it, so families get excellent value from a private safari. Our Kenya safari cost guide explains the numbers.
Frequently asked questions
What age is best for a family safari in Kenya?
Children of most ages enjoy a safari, but from about six years old they get the most from long game drives. Younger children are welcome on many private safaris with a flexible pace.
Is a Kenya family safari safe?
Yes, when you travel with a licensed operator and follow your guide’s instructions. Children stay inside the vehicle on game drives and are supervised on walking activities.
What is the best family safari in Kenya for a short trip?
A 4-day Lake Nakuru and Masai Mara safari, or a day in Nairobi National Park followed by three days in the Mara.
Can we combine a family safari with the beach?
Yes. Most families finish with three to five nights at Diani Beach after the safari.
Plan your family safari
Tell us your children’s ages and your dates and we will design a family safari in Kenya that suits everyone. Request a free proposal.
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