It’s absolutely possible to take babies and toddlers on safari in Tanzania, but there are important factors to consider to ensure a safe and comfortable adventure. As a family-run business with a passion for providing unforgettable safari experiences, I Artist Adventure is committed to helping you navigate these challenges while introducing your little ones to the stunning wildlife and vibrant culture Tanzania has to offer.

What to Consider

What You Need to Consider for a Family Safari in Tanzania Tanzania is home to world-renowned safari destinations, including the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire National Park. However, there are a few unique aspects of safari travel that need extra attention when traveling with young children:
  1. Lodge and Camp Age Restrictions: Many safari lodges and camps in Tanzania have age restrictions, usually starting at six years old for most game activities. For more adventurous experiences like walking safaris or treks to see gorillas in the wild, the minimum age rises to 16. Be sure to check with I Artist Adventure to find family-friendly accommodation without these restrictions.
  2. Unfenced Camps: In Tanzania, many lodges, especially those in the Serengeti or Ngorongoro, are unfenced, meaning wildlife roams freely – including predators like lions and leopards. To ensure the safety of your little ones, we recommend staying in fully fenced lodges. We can help select accommodations that prioritize your family’s safety.
  3. Malaria Zones: While Tanzania offers incredible safari experiences, many regions are malaria-prone, and babies and toddlers may not be able to take malaria prophylactics. We advise you to travel with your family to malaria-free zones such as the Serengeti during certain months or ensure proper precautions are taken.
  4. Traveling by Small Planes: Flights to remote lodges often involve light aircraft, which can be uncomfortable for young children due to cramped space, lack of pressurization, and potential turbulence. For a smoother journey, I Artist Adventure recommends travel arrangements that minimize transfers to ensure your little ones stay comfortable.
  5. Limited Luggage Allowances: When traveling to Tanzania’s safari destinations, especially via light aircraft, luggage allowances can be limited. Be sure to pack everything you need for your children, including diapers, formula, and extra clothes, while adhering to the strict weight restrictions.
  6. Private Game-Drive Vehicles: When traveling with young children, many lodges prefer families to book a private vehicle for game drives. This ensures that your children can enjoy a more personalized safari experience while allowing flexibility to return to camp when they need a break. However, private vehicles can come at an additional cost, so it’s important to plan accordingly.
  7. Safari Conditions: Tanzania’s rugged terrain and hot, dusty conditions can make long road transfers and game drives challenging with toddlers. It’s essential to consider the comfort of your little ones when planning travel routes and to pack all essentials such as snacks, water, and baby-friendly toiletries.
  8. Facilities for Children: While some lodges in Tanzania offer kids' clubs and babysitting services, it’s important to check in advance. Many of the more remote lodges may not provide these amenities, but I Artist Adventure can help find options where child care is available so you can enjoy some time for yourself on safari.

Best Safari Travel Advice

Our Best Babies-On-Safari Advice for Tanzania While it might seem challenging to take babies and toddlers on a safari, Tanzania is an excellent destination for family-friendly safaris. Here are some tips to ensure your family safari is enjoyable:
  1. Consider Tanzania’s Family-Friendly Safari Regions: Tanzania has some of the best safari destinations for families with young children, including the Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater, where family-friendly lodges cater to your every need. Consider combining a safari with a relaxing beach stay in Zanzibar or the coastal regions of Tanzania, where your little ones can unwind after a thrilling safari.
  2. Break Up Your Arrival and Departure Journeys: Traveling to Tanzania often involves long-haul flights, so it’s a good idea to break up your journey with a stay in a city hotel before your safari. Spend the night in Dar es Salaam or Arusha to rest and prepare for the adventure ahead.
  3. Limit Moving Around: While it can be tempting to explore multiple lodges, we recommend limiting travel between camps for young children. Staying in one place allows you to develop a routine and minimizes disruptions from long transfers.
  4. Opt for Safari Villas: For ultimate comfort, choose a private safari villa. These can be more expensive but offer benefits such as a private chef, extra space for your family, and often a private game-drive vehicle. This provides a quiet retreat away from the hustle and bustle of other guests, ensuring your toddler can enjoy a peaceful nap.
  5. Ensure the Lodge Has a Children’s Program: Choose a lodge that offers engaging activities for young children, such as nature walks, crafts, and storytime. Many lodges in Tanzania, such as those in the Ngorongoro Highlands or Serengeti, offer professional babysitting and childminding services so that you can enjoy game drives while knowing your children are in safe hands.
  6. Add on a Beach Destination: After an exciting safari in the Serengeti or Tarangire, why not treat your family to a few days of relaxation in Zanzibar? Zanzibar offers family-friendly accommodations with stunning beaches, allowing you to unwind while enjoying the island’s rich culture and natural beauty.

Family-Friendly Accommodation in Tanzania

At I Artist Adventure, we understand the importance of finding the perfect family-friendly accommodations. We work with trusted lodges across Tanzania that are designed to cater to young children and their unique needs. Here are some recommendations:

Accommodation: Southern Tanzania

  • Selous Game Reserve: The Selous offers a more secluded and relaxed atmosphere, ideal for families. We recommend lodges that offer private villas with swimming pools and childcare services.

Accommodation: Northern Tanzania

  • Serengeti National Park: For an unforgettable experience, stay in lodges like Serian Camp or Mkombe's House Lamai which offer spacious family accommodations with easy access to safari activities.

Accommodation: Zanzibar

  • Zanzibar Beach Resorts: After your safari, unwind in one of Zanzibar's child-friendly resorts, where your little ones can enjoy the beach while you relax.

Tips from I Artist Adventure’s Safari Experts

Our team at I Artist Adventure has years of experience guiding families on unforgettable safari adventures in Tanzania. Here are our top tips for a stress-free experience:
  1. Bring a Baby Carrier: A baby carrier keeps your hands free while allowing you to keep your child close during game drives.
  2. Break Up Game Drives: Let your guide know you’d prefer shorter game drives, followed by returning to your lodge for rest and playtime.
  3. Prepare for Nappy Changes: Don’t worry about changing nappies on a game drive. We ensure that facilities are available at your lodge for this purpose.
  4. Opt for Air-Conditioned Rooms: Many lodges in Tanzania offer air-conditioned rooms to keep your family cool during the hotter parts of the day.
  5. Bring Extra Supplies: Ensure you have enough supplies like medicine, sunscreen, and baby food, as it can be challenging to find these items in remote areas.