Embarking on a journey to Southern Africa with our family was more than just a trip; it was a meticulously planned, deeply immersive, and truly unforgettable adventure that far exceeded our wildest dreams. From the thrilling wildlife encounters in South Africa’s iconic game reserves to the majestic power of Victoria Falls in Zambia and the vibrant cultural tapestry of Cape Town, every moment was packed with discovery and wonder. This comprehensive guide will share every detail of our incredible family expedition, including our carefully crafted itineraries, comfortable accommodations, exhilarating excursions, and, of course, the delicious culinary experiences we savored along the way. Get ready to dive into the heart of Africa with us!
An Unforgettable Family Safari and Cultural Journey Through Southern Africa
For years, a family adventure to Southern Africa topped our bucket list, a dream we are incredibly grateful to have transformed into a vivid reality. The opportunity to traverse continents as a family, immersing ourselves in diverse cultures and landscapes, is a privilege we cherish deeply. This journey, specifically tailored for an enriching family experience, allowed us to create memories that will last a lifetime, proving to be far more profound than we ever imagined.
Our children, ranging in age, demonstrated an amazing spirit of adventure throughout the entire expedition. Their boundless enthusiasm and eagerness to engage with every new experience were truly heartwarming. From the moment we landed, they embraced each new sight, sound, and flavor with wide-eyed wonder. Their consistent expressions of gratitude for every discovery and every shared moment made the trip even more incredible for Brandon and me. Witnessing Africa through their eyes, filled with genuine excitement and appreciation, magnified the magic for all of us.
Even weeks after returning home, the kids are still buzzing with stories, recounting the highlights and reliving the myriad magical moments we encountered. The echoes of wildlife calls, the spray of Victoria Falls, and the vibrant energy of Cape Town continue to resonate. While we dearly hope to return to this magnificent continent someday, should circumstances prevent it, we collectively agree this was, without a doubt, the defining adventure of our lives.
Meticulous Planning for a Seamless Family Safari Adventure
Successfully orchestrating a trip of this magnitude requires extensive foresight and meticulous planning. We began conceptualizing this grand family journey almost two years in advance. The seed was planted during a work trip Brandon and I took to South Africa in April 2017, where we visited friends in Johannesburg. Although that initial visit didn’t include a true safari into the bush, it ignited a deep desire to return and share the profound wonders of African wildlife with our children. We knew then that our next visit would be an immersive family safari experience.
Essential Preparation: What to Pack for Your African Family Safari
Preparing for an adventure in Southern Africa involves more than just booking flights; it requires careful consideration of what to pack, especially for a family safari. My dedicated post, Traveling to Southern Africa: How to Prepare and Pack, serves as an invaluable resource. It covers everything from understanding regional weather patterns and essential packing lists (including specific attire recommendations for safaris) to crucial personal health preparations. For a curated collection of our exact gear and clothing, you can also explore my Africa Safari Amazon List and my Africa Safari Trip LTK Collection, which provide direct links to all the items that made our trip comfortable and practical.
Partnering with a Safari Travel Expert for a Bespoke Itinerary
To ensure we maximized every moment and didn’t overlook any crucial details of our complex itinerary, we enlisted the invaluable services of a specialized safari travel expert. Cardo Kleberg from Geographic Group proved to be an exceptional partner in crafting the perfect trip for our family. His expertise was instrumental in navigating the intricate logistics of lodging, safari expeditions, unique adventures, and seamless regional travel across multiple countries.
Our safari planner’s deep knowledge allowed him to identify lodges that could comfortably accommodate our entire family together, a critical factor given that many safari camps are typically designed for smaller groups of 2-4 guests. Understanding our passion for culinary exploration, Cardo also meticulously selected accommodations renowned for their outstanding food, ensuring our dining experiences were as memorable as our wildlife sightings. Beyond comfort and cuisine, he curated a selection of kid-friendly activities and once-in-a-lifetime experiences that resonated with every family member, creating a truly bespoke adventure.
Cardo’s responsibilities extended to booking all our regional flights within South Africa, transfers to Zimbabwe, and onward transportation to Zambia, as well as coordinating all road transfers to and from our various safari lodges. The sheer number of details and complex logistics involved in such a multi-destination trip made his guidance and expertise indispensable. His meticulous planning allowed us to relax, immerse ourselves fully in the experience, and truly appreciate every moment without the stress of managing the intricate travel arrangements. We are immensely grateful for his professional insights and seamless execution.
Our Grand Southern Africa and Zambia Travel Itinerary
Our epic family journey was a carefully choreographed ballet of flights, road trips, and unique transfers, designed to maximize our experience while minimizing travel fatigue. Here’s an overview of our ambitious and rewarding route:
- International Arrival: Our adventure began with a long-haul flight from Dallas (DFW) to Doha, Qatar, followed by a connecting flight to Johannesburg, South Africa, on Qatar Airways. This leg alone encompassed approximately 23 hours of flight time.
- Doha Layover Adventure: We capitalized on a 9-hour layover in Doha to explore the city, enjoying two memorable late-night dinners and a taste of Qatari culture.
- Safari Leg 1: Kruger National Park (Tintswalo Safari Lodge): From Johannesburg, we took a domestic flight to Hoedspruit, followed by a van transfer from the airport to Tintswalo Safari Lodge, nestled within the Manyeleti Game Reserve, an integral part of Kruger National Park.
- Scenic Road Trip and Safari Leg 2 (Lion Sands Game Reserve): A picturesque 3-hour road trip took us from Tintswalo Game Reserve to Lion Sands Game Reserve in the prestigious Sabi Sand Game Reserve, also within Kruger National Park. Along the way, we made unforgettable stops at:
- Blyde River Canyon: The third-largest canyon in the world, its sheer scale and breathtaking vistas left us awe-struck.
- Bourke’s Luck Potholes: A quick but fascinating visit to these incredible geological formations, a testament to nature’s artistry over millennia.
- Journey to Victoria Falls, Zambia: Our next major transition involved a flight from Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport to Zimbabwe International Airport. From there, a seamless van transfer took us across the Zimbabwe border into Zambia, leading us directly to the serene Tongabezi Lodge, our base near Victoria Falls.
- Cape Town Exploration: After our Zambian adventure, we flew from Livingstone Airport to Cape Town, South Africa. Here, we rented a spacious passenger van to accommodate our family and friends who joined us, allowing for independent exploration of the stunning Cape Town region.
- Return to Johannesburg: A short domestic flight took us from Cape Town back to Johannesburg, preparing for our international departure.
- Homeward Bound: The final leg of our journey was from Johannesburg to Doha, Qatar (with a comfortable 2-hour layover), and then onwards to Dallas/Fort Worth on Qatar Airways. Due to headwinds, the return journey totaled approximately 25 hours of flight time.
Exceptional Accommodations Across Southern Africa
A significant part of our trip’s success and enjoyment stemmed from the incredible accommodations we chose, each offering unique charm and unparalleled hospitality. The staff at every lodge went above and beyond, anticipating our needs and personalizing our experience to an extraordinary degree. Their genuine warmth, extensive local knowledge, and dedication to guest satisfaction truly elevated our journey, making us feel welcomed and cared for throughout. We cherished the opportunity to connect with them and learn from their expertise.
- Johannesburg: We began and ended our South African adventure by staying with our wonderful friends from business school. Their home provided a comfortable and familiar base for one night at the start and another at the end of our trip, allowing for relaxed reunions and a gentle transition into and out of our travels.
- First Safari Lodge (Kruger National Park): For three nights, we indulged in the exclusive comforts of Tintswalo Manor House, an exquisite part of the renowned Tintswalo Safari Lodge. Located in the Manyeleti Game Reserve within Kruger National Park, the Manor House offered a private and luxurious setting perfect for our family, complete with personalized service and incredible wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Second Safari Lodge (Sabi Sand Game Reserve): Our next two nights were spent at Lion Sands Game Reserve, specifically in the stunning Hi’nkwenu Residence. This lodge, situated in the prestigious Sabi Sand Game Reserve (also part of Kruger National Park), provided an intimate connection with the wild, renowned for its exceptional leopard sightings and luxurious private villas.
- Zambia (Victoria Falls): For three nights, we luxuriated at Tongabezi Lodge, choosing the magnificent Tangala House near Livingstone. This idyllic riverside retreat offered breathtaking views of the Zambezi, proximity to Victoria Falls, and a unique blend of adventure and serene relaxation.
- Cape Town: Our four nights in Cape Town were spent in a beautiful VRBO rental located in the scenic Camps Bay area, a vibrant suburb known for its stunning ocean views and pristine beaches. This spacious rental provided the perfect base for our family and friends to explore the diverse attractions of the Mother City.
An Unexpected Culinary and Cultural Layover in Doha, Qatar
Our journey to South Africa included a planned 9-hour layover in Doha, Qatar, which we eagerly transformed into an impromptu mini-adventure. Brandon and I wanted to introduce the kids to a completely different cultural experience, so we ventured out of the airport into the bustling city for some late-night exploring and culinary delights.
Despite the incredibly high temperatures (a scorching 114 degrees F even at 8 PM!), we made the absolute most of our time. Our first culinary stop was at Bandar Aden Restaurant, where we savored delicious Yemeni soft bread and Chicken Mandy – a fragrant, spiced chicken stew served with seasoned yellow rice. The flavors were exotic and incredibly satisfying, a wonderful introduction to Middle Eastern cuisine.
Next, we explored the lively Souq Waqif area, a traditional marketplace teeming with sights, sounds, and aromas. Here, we discovered a Turkish ice cream stand that provided not just a treat, but an entertaining show! The vendor, with his characteristic long-handled scoop, playfully teased and tricked us while serving the wonderfully chewy ice cream. It was a memorable and refreshing experience, much needed in the heat. We browsed the souq, enjoyed some light shopping, and Brookie even had the exhilarating experience of riding a camel – a truly unexpected highlight!
Concluding our Doha escapade, we indulged in a second dinner at Al Terrace Georgian Restaurant, where we enjoyed a festive Georgian feast. This unique culinary journey provided a perfect end to our layover before heading back to the airport, showering off the desert heat, and catching our connecting flight to Johannesburg, buzzing with the excitement of our first international stop.
Exploring Johannesburg: Friends, Elephants, and American Celebrations
Our time in Johannesburg, South Africa, bookended our safari adventure, offering a wonderful blend of reunion and discovery. We spent most of these days in the comfortable embrace of our dear friends, The Bryces, at their home. It felt like stepping back into “the good ol’ days,” filled with laughter, shared meals, and relaxed conversation, providing a perfect counterpoint to the exhilarating pace of our safari.
Soon after our arrival, we embarked on a heartwarming excursion to a nearby Elephant Sanctuary. This educational visit was incredibly impactful, offering profound insights into the intelligence, social structures, and gentle nature of elephants. We learned fascinating facts about these magnificent creatures (many of which are detailed here), and had the unique opportunity to interact with them respectfully, feeding them and feeling the incredible texture of their skin, the delicate strength of their trunks, and even their massive toenails. It was a truly humbling and memorable experience for the entire family.
Our first evening in Johannesburg was a culinary delight. I prepared a generous cheese board spread, which we enjoyed as appetizers, while the boys collaborated with Joel on making homemade pizzas in his impressive outdoor pizza oven – a truly communal and delicious experience. Our final night in Johannesburg, before flying home, coincided with the 4th of July. As the Bryces are also Americans, we celebrated from afar with a festive feast: grilled burgers, classic potato salad, creamy coleslaw, and chips, all culminating in decadent ice cream sundaes. It was a perfect blend of American tradition and South African hospitality, creating cherished memories of friendship and celebration.
The Ultimate Safari Experience: Kruger National Park’s Tintswalo & Lion Sands
Our African wildlife adventure unfolded across two magnificent private reserves within the greater Kruger National Park ecosystem. We embarked on exhilarating “game drives” (as the locals politely corrected our initial use of “safaris,” a term that signifies the entire journey, not just the drive!) from both Tintswalo Manor House, part of Tintswalo Safari Lodge in the Manyeleti Game Reserve, and Lion Sands Game Reserve, nestled within the Sabi Sand Nature Reserve – South Africa’s oldest private nature reserve. Both offered unparalleled opportunities to witness Africa’s iconic wildlife in their natural habitat.
It was an important lesson early on: when you’re out searching for animals in the national park, you’re on a “game drive” in “the bush.” The terminology highlights the authentic, immersive nature of the experience. Each game drive was conducted in a specialized open-air vehicle, led by a skilled driver and an expert tracker. The tracker, perched on a seat at the very front of the truck, possessed an incredible ability to spot animals from afar and interpret subtle signs like footprints in the sand. Together, they navigated the terrain, ensuring our safety while providing insightful commentary that educated and entertained us. Their expertise made us feel incredibly comfortable and secure, even when wild animals were mere feet away.
For those preparing for their own safari, navigating the practicalities of what to wear is key. My comprehensive guide, Africa: How to Prepare and Pack, offers detailed advice on appropriate clothing for comfort and safety in the African bush. Additionally, my Africa Safari Amazon List and Africa Safari LTK Collection provide direct links to all the essential items we found invaluable, making your packing process effortless and informed.
Unforgettable Wildlife Encounters on Safari
Our safari experience was a continuous kaleidoscope of wildlife sightings. It felt as though animals were always just around the corner, waiting to be discovered. Common sightings included large herds of zebras, towering giraffes, and majestic elephants, which we often spotted grazing peacefully. These frequent encounters were always thrilling, but the more elusive predators and rare species sparked a different kind of excitement. Spotting lions, leopards, cheetahs, African wild dogs, rhinos, hyenas, and buffalo required more patience and a touch of luck, making each sighting of these animals particularly memorable.
The role of our experienced driver and tracker was absolutely paramount in these discoveries. Their profound knowledge of the local ecosystem and animal behavior was incredible. They could effortlessly spot animals camouflaged far in the distance, and their ability to track fresh footprints in the sand allowed us to follow trails and anticipate where certain animals might be. Moreover, their understanding of animal routines often helped predict prime viewing times and locations, maximizing our chances of rare encounters.
One of the most fascinating aspects we learned was how the animals perceive the game drive vehicles. We were told that they view the truck as a single, large, non-threatening unit, rather than a collection of individual humans, which means they do not perceive us as either predator or prey. This understanding allowed us to remain surprisingly calm even when powerful animals approached or walked directly alongside our vehicle. As long as we remained quiet and respectful, they largely ignored our presence, viewing the truck with the same indifference they would a tree or a rock.
The rules for visitors in the bush were simple but strictly enforced, rooted in deep respect for the wildlife and their environment: maintain silence and never try to attract the animals’ attention. This commitment to preserving the natural behaviors and habitats of these incredible creatures is precisely what makes African safari experiences so profoundly authentic and awe-inspiring. It’s an immersion into a truly wild world, where animals roam freely, behaving as they naturally would, providing an unvarnished glimpse into their majestic lives.
Victoria Falls, Zambia: Adrenaline, Beauty, and Local Culture
Our time in Zambia, specifically based at the exquisite Tongabezi Lodge – Tangala House near Livingstone, was defined by a series of exhilarating, breathtaking, and deeply enriching experiences. It was a perfect blend of natural wonder, high-octane adventure, and meaningful cultural immersion:
- Victoria Falls: Often described as the “Smoke that Thunders,” Victoria Falls is truly the largest waterfall in the world by its combined width and height, and it simply defies photographic representation. Its sheer scale and the raw power of the water cascading over the basalt cliffs are an overwhelming spectacle. We experienced this natural wonder from multiple perspectives: walking along the path directly in front of the thundering curtain of water, soaring above and descending into its gorges in a helicopter, cruising peacefully on the Zambezi River at its very top, and most astonishingly, walking out and sitting right at the roaring edge of the falls in the Angel’s Pool.
- Victoria Falls Helicopter Ride: Our 22-minute helicopter ride offered an unparalleled panoramic view of Victoria Falls, revealing its immense grandeur from above. Seeing the colossal volume of water plunging into the chasm from an aerial perspective truly drove home its immense power. The ride then descended into the mighty gorges beneath the falls, where we swooped and curved between the sheer rock walls, flying directly over the roaring water – an absolutely awesome and unforgettable experience that left us buzzing with adrenaline.
- Victoria Falls Angel’s Pool: This was perhaps the most audacious and exhilarating experience of our trip. Initially, we envisioned a calm, protected pool. We were wonderfully mistaken! This adventure involved walking right to the precipice of the falls, a natural rock pool at the very edge, where we sat and lay looking directly over the thundering drop. It was a true “living on the edge” moment! The boys, incredibly brave, went first and relished every second. Brookie, not quite tall enough for the deepest edge, still got thrillingly close. When it was my turn, despite my nerves, I reminded myself that this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The views were so overwhelmingly beautiful, with two vibrant rainbows arching directly in front of us, that I found myself close to tears. Being right there, feeling the spray, hearing the roar, and gazing down into the immense power of the falling water was simply magical. We were all on an incredible exhilaration high after this adventure!
- Zambezi River Excursions: Our lodge provided a private boat, allowing us to venture out onto the Zambezi River whenever we pleased. We cherished these serene cruises, spotting crocodiles sunning themselves on the banks and observing hippos wallowing in the water, all set against the backdrop of spectacular African sunsets. One particularly delightful surprise was a picnic lunch arranged by our lodge on a tiny, secluded island in the middle of the Zambezi. We thought we were just heading to the main lodge for lunch, but our boat suddenly stopped at this magical spot where our chef and team had prepared an exquisite meal, served at a table with an unparalleled view of the river. We spent hours savoring the delicious food, sipping drinks, and simply soaking in the serene beauty – a truly lovely and unexpected treat.
Beyond the iconic falls, our Zambian experience was enriched by more intimate local interactions. A memorable family bike ride along the rocky roads surrounding the lodge led us into a charming local village, offering a glimpse into daily life.
We absolutely loved our visit to Simoonga Village. We toured the community, had the privilege of meeting local residents, and shared heartwarming moments as our children played together with the village kids. It was a truly special afternoon, fostering connections that transcended cultural differences.
For Brandon and me, this trip also offered a meaningful continuation of a previous connection. On our earlier visit to Zambia in 2017, we had spent time at the Tongabezi Trust School, an incredible initiative supporting underprivileged children in Southern Zambia. We’ve maintained our interest in the school’s progress, and during this visit, I was overjoyed to meet the mother of one of the students I had bonded with years ago. It was wonderful to receive an update on her daughter’s well-being and hear about her positive trajectory since graduating from the school, highlighting the lasting impact of such programs.
One evening, the lodge surprised us with a captivating performance by a local tribe. Through their vibrant dance, rhythmic music, and ceremonial traditions, we gained a deeper appreciation for their rich culture – a truly immersive and unforgettable cultural exchange.
Cape Town, South Africa: Coastal Beauty, Culinary Delights, and Unique Discoveries
Our final segment in Southern Africa brought us to the stunning coastal city of Cape Town, where we were thrilled to reunite with our friends from Johannesburg for a delightful five-day stay. This period was a cherished opportunity to deepen our friendships, watch our children bond, and collectively experience the abundant beauty and diverse attractions of the Cape Town region. We had secured an incredible VRBO rental in the picturesque Camps Bay area, a vibrant suburb of Cape Town renowned for its breathtaking ocean vistas, which afforded us stunning sunset viewings each evening from the comfort of our temporary home.
Each morning in Cape Town commenced with a light breakfast at our VRBO, followed by an eagerly anticipated excursion to a different local bakery. This ritual of discovering new treats and enjoying freshly brewed coffee became a sweet and consistent highlight, a perfect way to ease into each day of exploration. Here are the bakeries that delighted our taste buds:
- Okja Café: An absolute revelation for its incredible vegan pastries. The almond croissant and cinnamon roll were simply divine, so rich and flavorful that we couldn’t believe they were plant-based!
- Chardonney Deli: Famous for its scone served with generous dollops of fresh whipped cream and homemade jam. A truly classic and immensely satisfying treat!
- Jason Bakery: A bustling spot where the bacon and cheese croissant, chocolate almond croissant, and blueberry muffin stood out as exceptional, offering a perfect blend of savory and sweet.
After our delightful morning bakery stops, we dedicated our days to exploring the diverse attractions Cape Town and its surroundings offer. Our itinerary was packed with memorable sites:
- V&A Waterfront: This vibrant hub is a must-visit, offering a lively atmosphere with extensive shopping opportunities, diverse dining options, boat tours, street entertainment, and excellent play areas that kept the children thoroughly engaged.
- Boulders Penguin Beach: A delightful experience where we enjoyed a leisurely walk along the boardwalk, observing the charming African penguins up close in their natural coastal habitat. Afterward, the kids bravely ventured into the chilly ocean waters at a nearby beach, swimming and jumping from large rocks.
- Babylonstoren: This magnificent winelands estate was nothing short of magical, offering far more than a typical winery. Its exquisitely maintained farm and gardens invited leisurely strolls and interactive experiences. We explored museums dedicated to wine, farming, and gardening, and perused quaint shops brimming with local artisanal goods, fresh produce, delectable pastries, and refreshing ice cream. Despite an initial downpour, the weather eventually cleared, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in its beauty. Dining at Babel, Babylonstoren’s signature restaurant, was a culinary highlight. Every dish featured locally sourced, incredibly fresh, and intensely flavorful ingredients. The chef and farmer personally visited our table, adding a unique touch to our memorable meal. We are already dreaming of returning and staying in one of their charming on-site cottages!
- Table Mountain: Our VRBO was actually located on part of Table Mountain, offering stunning perspectives. While we had planned to either hike or take the cableway to the summit, persistent overcast weather during our stay obscured the views, making it less worthwhile.
- Cape of Good Hope: The dramatic weather conditions also prevented a visit to the Cape of Good Hope this time. However, Brandon and I had the pleasure of visiting in 2017, and we fondly remember the spectacular views and the invigorating hike to the peak, where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans symbolically meet.
A truly special and unexpected highlight of our Cape Town explorations occurred at Exclusive Books V&A Waterfront. To our utter astonishment, the boys discovered my cookbooks prominently displayed on the shelves! I had no idea my books were sold in South Africa, let alone in multiple locations. It was an incredibly cool and surreal moment! I happily signed the copies they had in stock, ensuring future buyers would receive a special, personally signed edition. This discovery brought immense joy to everyone, especially to me, adding a truly unique personal touch to our incredible journey.
Cape Town’s Culinary Scene: A Feast for the Senses
Cape Town’s vibrant dining scene provided a spectacular array of culinary experiences, from casual and charming to exquisitely refined. Here are some of the gastronomic highlights:
- Den Anker Belgian Restaurant, V&A Waterfront: We savored a delightful lunch on the pier, right by a window overlooking the sparkling water. We even spotted some playful seals swimming just outside! Our leisurely meal featured classic Belgian fare: succulent mussels, crispy pommes frites, creamy cheese croquettes, fresh salads, and celebratory champagne for the adults. The kids’ menu was perfectly suited for them, and they were enchanted by sugar cookies they could decorate with edible markers, keeping them happily engaged while we enjoyed our relaxed meal.
- PIER Restaurant: One evening, the adults enjoyed a sophisticated night out at PIER Restaurant, an extraordinary culinary adventure that felt like a theatrical performance. Each course was presented with breathtaking artistry and tasted absolutely sublime, telling a unique story with every dish. Highlights included the “under the sea” appetizer course, a stunning array of exquisite seafood small bites; a warm, freshly baked bread course accompanied by an assortment of gourmet butters and spreads; and a playful “margarita” palate cleanser, which took us to the kitchen counter for tequila shots and frozen lime chasers. The experience culminated with a magnificent cheese cart, expertly curated at our table, followed by decadent desserts. It was a fabulous meal and a dining experience we will undoubtedly remember forever, leaving our hearts and bellies wonderfully full.
- MORO Gelato in Stellenbosch: On our drive back to Cape Town from Babylonstoren, we made a delightful stop at this charming gelato shop. Their gelato was incredibly creamy, rich in flavor, and perfectly nostalgic. They were so confident in their exceptional flavors that they didn’t even offer samples – a bold move that certainly intrigued us Americans!
- Time Out Market Cape Town: On our final day in Cape Town, we enjoyed a fantastic lunch at the Time Out Market. This elevated food hall boasts an impressive collection of local restaurant and chef concepts, offering a diverse and delicious culinary journey under one roof – a perfect way to experience the city’s vibrant food scene.
Relive the Adventure: Our Southern Africa Trip Highlights!
For a dynamic visual recap of our incredible journey, catch all the highlights of our South Africa and Zambia trip condensed into a thrilling 90-second video! It’s the perfect way to get a quick glimpse of the unforgettable moments, from wildlife encounters to breathtaking landscapes and cultural experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions About Our African Family Adventure
Planning an epic family trip to Africa often comes with a myriad of questions. Below are some of the most common inquiries we had ourselves before departing for South Africa and Zambia, along with questions we frequently received during and after our journey about travel logistics, safety, and our unique family adventures. We hope these detailed answers provide valuable insights for your own potential African escapade.
Did you feel safe when on the safari? This is a common and understandable concern, and our resounding answer is yes, we felt incredibly safe on all our game drives. Our drivers and trackers were not only highly experienced but also exuded an unwavering confidence that instantly put us at ease. Their intimate knowledge of animal behavior and the terrain meant we were always in capable hands as we ventured deep into the bush. While wild animals, including powerful predators, would sometimes brush literally against our truck, we genuinely never felt a sense of threat. It’s hard to fully grasp until you experience it, but the animals truly perceive the safari vehicle as one large, inanimate unit, rather than a collection of individuals or a potential source of prey or danger. This unique dynamic allows for incredibly close and safe encounters.
Did you feel safe in South Africa generally? Absolutely, yes! Our approach to travel, especially internationally, always involves thorough research, meticulous planning, and a heightened awareness of our surroundings – principles we apply anywhere we go. In South Africa, we ensured the children were always with us, and we kept them informed about our plans, destinations, and who we would be interacting with. We found the people of South Africa to be exceptionally friendly, hospitable, and genuinely appreciative of visitors experiencing their beautiful country. By following standard travel precautions and utilizing the expertise of our local guides and friends, our family felt secure and welcome throughout our entire visit.
Did you have to take any special medications before or during the trip? Yes, preparing our health was a priority. Approximately three weeks prior to our departure, we visited the Passport Health USA Clinic in Dallas. There, we consulted with travel health experts who assessed any potential health risks specific to our itinerary. As a result, we were prescribed travel medicine for Malaria prevention, as well as medication for Travelers’ Diarrhea, as a precautionary measure. For a comprehensive breakdown of all health preparations and more detailed packing advice, I highly recommend consulting my dedicated post, Traveling to Southern Africa: How to Prepare and Pack.
What was the weather like in South Africa? We visited South Africa during its winter season, specifically from June 19th to July 6th. The weather varied significantly by region. In the mornings and evenings, particularly on safari, it was quite chilly, with temperatures dropping into the low 40s Fahrenheit. A warm sweater or a light jacket was absolutely essential for these times. However, once the sun emerged, daytime temperatures would pleasantly rise to between 65-75 degrees F. Kruger National Park experienced dry, clear weather, which is typical for the winter season and excellent for game viewing. In contrast, Cape Town had more overcast days and we even encountered one day of heavy rain, showcasing the diverse microclimates of the country.
How did the kids do traveling for almost 3 weeks? The children were absolutely fantastic throughout the entire nearly three-week journey! At the time of the trip, they were ages 13, 11, 11, and 8. We found these ages to be ideal, as they were old enough to fully engage with and remember every moment of the adventure. Their enthusiasm was infectious, and they immersed themselves completely in every activity we undertook, from early morning game drives to daring adventures at Victoria Falls. Their constant expressions of thankfulness for all we did and saw were incredibly touching and truly enriched Brandon and my experience. I wholeheartedly recommend taking children on such a trip; experiencing these once-in-a-lifetime activities through their excited and appreciative eyes made the entire journey all the more magical.
Which animals were the most exciting to see on a safari? Oh, we were lucky enough to see all of them! Our first few game drives were filled with excitement for any animal sighting, but we quickly learned that some animals are far more common than others. Zebras, giraffes, and elephants were frequent and easy to spot. However, the true thrill came from finding the rarer species: lions, leopards, cheetahs, African wild dogs, rhinos, and buffalo. These were much harder to find and felt like truly fortunate encounters. Without a doubt, the cheetahs, leopards, and lions were the most captivating and exhilarating to observe in their natural habitats. Their stealth, power, and beauty are simply unparalleled.
How often do you see animals on an African safari? On our safari, we were seeing animals almost constantly! It felt like within minutes of spotting one animal, another would appear. Common sightings included graceful nyala (deer-like antelopes), majestic zebras, towering giraffes, and vast herds of elephants, all grazing peacefully across the bush during our drives. While these kept our eyes busy, our trackers were actively searching for the more elusive “Big Five” and other rare species like lions, leopards, cheetahs, rhinos, and buffalo. Beyond the large mammals, we also delighted in seeing an abundance of beautiful birds and soaring eagles perched in trees or gliding overhead. There was truly never a dull moment or sight on our game drives!
Who helped you plan the trip? We extensively relied on Cardo Kleberg from Geographic Group, and his expertise was absolutely invaluable in crafting the perfect itinerary for our family. Cardo was instrumental in finding lodges and adventures that were not only kid-friendly but also promised truly once-in-a-lifetime experiences for everyone. He meticulously handled all our regional flight bookings within South Africa, and transfers to Zimbabwe and Zambia, along with coordinating all the road transportation to and from our various safari lodges. Having an expert manage such intricate logistics and numerous details was incredibly helpful and allowed us to focus purely on enjoying the trip. We are immensely thankful for his guidance and expertise. Additionally, our wonderful friends living in South Africa took charge of planning every detail of our time in Cape Town and Johannesburg, which added another layer of comfort and local insight to our journey.
What do you wear on a Safari? This is a crucial question for comfort and practicality in the bush! I’ve dedicated an entire blog post to this topic: Traveling to Southern Africa: How to Prepare and Pack. I found it challenging to find an easy, comprehensive guide with specific links for what to pack and wear, especially for kids, during my own research. Therefore, my post includes detailed advice, numerous links, and excellent options to help you prepare. You can also directly browse my curated Africa Safari Amazon List and my Africa Safari LTK Collection for links to everything we packed, ensuring you’re well-equipped for your adventure.
Where do you pee on a safari? This is a practical question that often goes unasked, but it’s a valid concern! Surprisingly, it wasn’t something I worried about before the trip, despite my frequent need to use the restroom (having had four children!). However, on our very first game drive, we quickly learned the reality: if nature calls while you’re out in the bush, the only option is to step out of the truck and find a discreet spot in nature – affectionately referred to as going to the “bush bush”! Our drivers and guides were always incredibly skilled at finding safe, private locations. The boys embraced this option often. Brookie and I, on the other hand, managed to hold out until the very last game drive of the trip. After nearly four hours, we finally succumbed to the call of the wild, ventured into the “bush bush,” and survived! It’s all part of the authentic safari experience!
We truly hope this extensive account has answered all your questions and offered a vivid glimpse into our once-in-a-lifetime family adventure across South Africa and Zambia. To immerse yourself further in the behind-the-scenes magic of our journey, be sure to explore my Instagram Story Highlights (accessible via Africa 1, Africa 2, and Africa 3). These highlights are packed with fun videos, personal pictures, and helpful location links that I shared live during our incredible expedition.
xoxo,
