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Preparing Your Kids for Their First Safari: What to Pack and Expect

Writer's picture: Wakuwaku SafarisWakuwaku Safaris

Safari time with the kiddos? Get ready for a wild family adventure! But before you start dreaming of lion cubs and giraffes, let's talk prep. Safaris are thrilling but require a bit of planning to ensure everyone (yes, even your little explorers) has a fantastic time.

Items to pack

Here’s your ultimate guide to making sure your family’s first safari is as smooth as a sunset over the savannah.


What to Pack: Essential Safari Gear for Kids

Getting your packing list right is key to keeping the kids comfortable, happy, and excited throughout the trip. Here’s what you should definitely toss into your luggage:

  • Clothing: Opt for light, breathable clothes in neutral tones—think khaki, beige, and olive. Not only do these colors blend into the natural environment, making wildlife less wary, but they also keep kids cooler under the African sun. Include a few long-sleeved shirts and pants for chilly mornings or to protect against mosquito bites in the evening.

  • Sun Protection: Safaris mean long hours under the sun, so don’t forget sunblock, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses with UV protection. A light scarf or bandana is great for keeping dust out of little noses and mouths during game drives.

  • Binoculars: A must-have! Watching your kids spot their first elephant or giraffe through binoculars is a memory you won’t forget. It adds an extra layer of excitement as they feel like real adventurers discovering Africa’s wildlife.

  • Snacks: Long game drives can be tiring, and nothing spoils the mood faster than a hangry kid. Pack easy-to-eat snacks like granola bars, dried fruit, and nuts to keep those energy levels up. And don’t forget plenty of water bottles to stay hydrated!

  • Camera: Let your kids become budding wildlife photographers! Whether it’s a disposable camera or a simple digital one, they’ll love capturing their own safari memories. It’s a great way for them to see the world through their own eyes and create their personal safari photo journal.

  • Comfort Items: Long days exploring can be a bit overwhelming, especially for younger kids. Bring along a favorite stuffed animal, travel pillow, or blanket for comfort during downtime or on bumpy rides.


What to Expect: Prepping for the Safari Experience

While safaris are packed with adventure, they come with a different pace and rhythm than most family vacations. Here’s how to set the right expectations for your kids (and yourself):

  • Animal Spotting Takes Patience: The thrill of spotting lions or rhinos doesn’t always happen right away. Help your kids understand that part of the fun is the anticipation. Encourage them to enjoy the smaller discoveries too, like a family of warthogs or colorful birds.

  • Early Mornings & Cool Evenings: Game drives often start at sunrise, which means early wake-ups! Prepare your kids by gradually adjusting their sleep schedule a few days before the trip. Make sure they have a cozy jacket or hoodie for those cool morning drives—it’s all about layering!

  • Unpredictable Nature: Animals don’t follow a schedule, so embrace the unpredictability of safari life. It’s what makes each drive special! Teach your kids that sometimes nature has its own plan, and that’s what makes wildlife spotting so exciting.

  • Quiet Time Around Animals: Encourage your kids to practice their “whisper voices” before the trip. Remind them that loud noises can scare animals away, and that being calm and quiet often leads to better sightings. A game of “Who can stay quiet the longest?” might just become your new best friend on game drives!


Do’s and Don’ts: Safari Etiquette for Families

  • Do encourage your kids to ask the guide questions. Safari guides love sharing their knowledge, and it’s a great way to keep kids engaged and learning throughout the drive.

  • Don’t let them wander too far from the group, especially around wildlife. Safety is a top priority, so keep younger children close and always follow your guide’s instructions.

  • Do bring a field guide book or download a wildlife app. It’s a fun way for kids to learn about the different animals they see, from the “Big Five” to lesser-known creatures.

  • Don’t feed the animals, even if they seem curious. It’s important to keep wildlife wild, and feeding them can harm their health and alter natural behaviors.


Fun Prep Idea: Animal Wish List

Before the trip, let your kids make an “Animal Wish List” of all the creatures they hope to see. Turn it into a fun game—whoever spots the most animals from their list gets a special safari souvenir! This is not only a great way to get them excited about the trip, but it also helps them focus during game drives. They might even surprise you with their enthusiasm for spotting the smaller animals like meerkats or hornbills!


Money-Saving Tip: Renting Gear

Going on safari doesn’t mean you need to buy all the gear. Save money by renting certain items at your destination. Many camps offer binocular rentals, so you don’t have to invest in a pair just for the trip. This can save you a considerable amount, especially if you’re traveling with a large family. Some lodges even provide kids’ safari kits with tools like magnifying glasses and bird-watching guides.


Creating Memories That Last

A safari is more than just a trip—it’s a chance to create memories that your kids will carry with them for years. Make sure to take a little time each evening to recap the day’s adventures, maybe around a campfire or during dinner. Ask your kids what their favorite sighting was or what new animal they learned about. It’s a simple way to keep the excitement alive and remind them of the special experiences you’re sharing as a family.


From the thrill of spotting a majestic elephant to the simple joy of watching zebras graze at sunset, a safari adventure can be a magical experience for kids and adults alike. With the right preparation, your family’s first safari will be a journey full of discovery, wonder, and unforgettable moments. Happy exploring, and may your binoculars always find something amazing!



Ultimate Safari Packing List for Families

Here’s a detailed, kid-friendly packing list to ensure your family is well-prepared for an unforgettable safari adventure. This list is designed to keep everyone comfortable, safe, and excited about spotting wildlife from dawn till dusk!


Packing List

Clothing

  • Lightweight, breathable clothing (neutral tones like khaki, beige, olive):

    • 3-4 short-sleeve shirts

    • 2-3 long-sleeve shirts (for cooler mornings and protection against insects)

    • 2-3 pairs of shorts

    • 2 pairs of lightweight pants

    • 1 warm sweater or hoodie (for chilly mornings and evenings)

    • Light jacket or windbreaker (for morning drives)

    • Sunhat or cap (wide-brimmed for maximum sun protection)

    • Comfortable walking shoes (for game walks or exploring around the lodge)

    • Flip-flops or sandals (for downtime at the lodge)

    • Socks (for both warm and cooler weather)

    • Swimsuit (many lodges have pools for a refreshing dip)

Sun Protection & Health Essentials

  • Sunscreen (high SPF, water-resistant)

  • Lip balm with SPF

  • Sunglasses with UV protection

  • Insect repellent (especially for areas where mosquitoes are common)

  • After-bite cream (for relief from insect bites)

  • Reusable water bottles (stay hydrated on game drives)

  • Travel-size first aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, motion sickness tablets)

Safari Gear

  • Binoculars (1-2 pairs, or consider renting at your destination)

  • Camera (digital or disposable, plus extra memory cards and batteries)

  • Smartphone lenses (for enhanced wildlife photography)

  • Portable charger (keep devices charged during long drives)

  • Small backpack (to carry essentials during game drives)

  • Field guidebook or wildlife identification app (to learn about the animals you spot)

Comfort Items for Kids

  • Favorite stuffed animal or blanket (for comfort during long drives)

  • Travel pillow (for naps during game drives)

  • Entertainment:

    • Audiobooks or music on a smartphone/tablet

    • Wildlife-themed coloring books or drawing pads

    • Simple card games (for downtime)

Snacks & Food

  • Granola bars, trail mix, and dried fruit (for energy boosts during game drives)

  • Reusable snack containers (to reduce plastic waste)

  • Gum or mints (for long drives)

Toiletries & Personal Care

  • Biodegradable soap and shampoo (eco-friendly options are best for safaris)

  • Toothbrushes and toothpaste

  • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes (for quick clean-ups)

  • Travel-size tissues

  • Moisturizer (the dry air can take a toll on skin)

Documents & Money

  • Passports and visas (if required)

  • Copies of travel insurance and health insurance documents

  • Printed copies of flight tickets and lodge reservations

  • Cash in local currency (for tips, souvenirs, and local markets)

Special Items for Kids

  • Disposable camera (kids will love taking their own photos)

  • Animal Wish List (pre-trip activity to keep them engaged during the safari)

  • Journal or scrapbook (to jot down favorite sightings and experiences)

Extras

  • Reusable shopping bags (for souvenirs and minimizing plastic use)

  • Deck of cards or small board games (for family fun back at the lodge)

  • GoPro or action camera (if you want to capture dynamic footage)


This packing list ensures your family is ready for all the surprises and excitement a safari adventure has to offer, while also keeping everyone comfortable and safe. Happy packing, and here’s to a trip filled with roaring lions, graceful giraffes, and memories that will last a lifetime!




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