5 top countries for a safari holiday with teenagers
There’s nothing like the African bush for transforming a grumpy teen into a smiling companion (I know, I’ve been there!) They might quail at the prospect of no WiFi, Spotify or any of the other things they can’t live without, but the variety of wildlife and safari activities in the wilderness is so completely removed from the hum-drum of every day that they’ll be enchanted, and hopefully enchanting, in no time.
Here are our top countries for a safari holiday with teenagers:
Kenya – Visit Kenya and as well as seeing a large amount of Africa’s incredible wildlife at close quarters you can swim and tube in rivers, jump off waterfalls, track animals with Samburu and Masai guides, ride horses and camels, sleep under the stars, fish, walk with local guides through the land where they live, and camp in places of great beauty. And if you’re tired after all this, then relax for a few days on Kenya’s glorious Indian Ocean coast (for the not tired then there’s water skiing, sailing and snorkelling to enjoy!)
Stay: Borana Lodge, Offbeat Mara Camp, Kinondo Kwetu
Mountain biking at Borana
Kenya’s glorious Indian Ocean coast offers watersports galore, Kinondo Kwetu
Zambia – Activities range from bungee jumping and helicopter flips at the Victoria Falls, to walking and canoeing in the Lower Zambezi National Park. No two days are the same and there’s prolific wildlife in quiet reserves. Home to some of Africa’s original private safari houses, wonderful bush camps, and fine guides, it’s a great choice for families with teenagers looking for a proper African adventure.
Livingstone is adventure capital, Tongabezi
Canoe safari at Chongwe River House
Stay: Tongabezi, Chongwe River House, Mchenja Bush Camp.
South Africa – If you’re keen to avoid malarial areas then head to South Africa. With safari highlights including horse riding, Big 5 game viewing, playing with habituated Meerkats, star gazing and swimming with penguins there’s something for everyone. Add Cape Town, the Winelands and superb beaches along the Garden Route and you’ve a real winner.
Stay: Morukuru Owner’s House, Ant’s Nest, Cape Grace.
Riding with giraffe at Ant’s Nest, South Africa
A peaceful spot for some R&R at the Cape Grace pool
Tanzania – Families on the hunt for a really wild experience will love the southern parks of Selous or Ruaha. There’s excellent walking, fun river activities – including the chance to cast a line to a ferocious tiger fish – and the opportunity to night-drive too. The Serengeti offers a classic East African wildlife experience with a chance to see the wildebeest migration while the Ngorongoro Crater is sure to drop the jaw of even the most jaded teen. Combining with some R&R on Zanzibar and you’ve a classic beach and bush safari.
Stay: Mkombe’s House, Kiba Point, Entamanu Ngorongoro, Breezes Beach Club
Catamaran sailing at Breezes Beach Club, Zanzibar
Wildlife hotspot at Entamanu Ngorongoro
Botswana – Home to some of Africa’s most exclusive camps, exciting predator action and dense wildlife populations Botswana is a true safari classic. The Okavango Delta is a great spot for a mobile safari where you can explore from your own private camp. You’ll have a private guide and vehicle too so the pace is set by you, for you. Teens will find the charismatic guides great fun and it’s a perfect way to please a variety of ages. The camp moves every couple of days so you can explore various habitats to get a range of both wildlife and activities.
Stay: Kanana Camp, Drumbeat mobile safaris
What Next?
If you are interested in a safari holiday with teenagers to Africa get in touch and we will suggest ideas and itinerary options for all types of children and age ranges.
I think that Zimbabwe should have featured in this article. There are great things for tourists of all ages in Zim and you will not find a safer country with friendlier people. It offers a very genuine product which is unspoilt by being overly commercial. So worth a visit!