12-day family safari
This Tanzania family holiday safari offers fun for everyone
A family holiday is one of the safari classics
Treat your family to a holiday that your children will remember as the adventure of a lifetime!
Forget about iPads or phones. On this 12-day safari, every family member will be engaged from the first thrilling game drive to the last sunset over the savannah. You will meet Maasai families and join their traditional dances. You can also enjoy sunset buggy rides and participate in an exciting bike scavenger hunt.
All this is under the watchful eye of your private guide, who keeps the whole family engaged and safe. This journey is designed to spark curiosity and laughter. You will be guaranteed to share unforgettable memories at the dinner table for years to come.
Including private transport, an experienced safari guide, family-friendly lodges and camps, and all listed adventure activities.
Highlights of this family safari:
- Connect with Maasai families and join traditional dances
- Family adventures with sunset buggy rides, river walks, and scavenger hunts
- Witness wildlife up close in Tarangire, Ngorongoro, and the Serengeti
- Family-friendly lodges and a private guide who transforms children into little explorers
Safari schedule example
Your safari at a glance
Day 1
Arrive in the land of Mount Kilimanjaro and soak in the first African views
Day 2
Explore a farm, stroll along rivers, and enjoy a sunset together
Day 3
Adventure and wildlife spotting in Arusha National Park
Day 4
Meet the Maasai and join their traditional dances
Day 5
Sunset buggy ride in the bush of Tarangire
Day 6
Full day in Tarangire National Park to spot elephant families
Day 7
Family scavenger hunt by bike and free time to relax
Day 8
Discover the wildlife wonders of Ngorongoro Crater
Day 9
Venture into the heart of the Serengeti plains
Day 10
Game drives and footprint tracking in the Serengeti
Day 11
More wildlife encounters and a scenic drive back to civilization
Day 12
A last Maasai family visit before heading home

Day 1 – Welcome to the Land of the Kilimanjaro
Touch down in Tanzania and be whisked away to the foothills of majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, where the Simba Farm Lodge awaits. Take a deep breath of the African scented air, and let the beauty of Tanzania begin to spark your family’s adventure. It’s the perfect spot to unwind, look forward to the days ahead, and share your first African sunset together.

Day 2 – Farm adventures and sunset magic
Start your day meeting the friendly farm animals at Simba Farm Lodge, an engaging introduction for children to the wonders of wildlife that await. You are invited to pick fresh vegetables and learn all about sustainable farming. After a delightful farm experience, you set off on the Simba River hike, a gentle walk through lush landscapes perfect for young explorers. As the day winds down, gather for a sundowner, sipping drinks as you watch the sun dip behind the towering Kilimanjaro.

Day 3 – First introduction to Tanzania’s wildlife
After breakfast, head out for a day of adventure in Arusha National Park. Your family will explore the rolling hills, crater lakes, and the lush forest, while spotting giraffes, zebras, and baboons along the way. Pause for a picnic lunch by the serene Momella Lakes, famous for their striking colors and flocks of flamingos. In the afternoon, continue to your Maasai lodge, where the Maasai welcome you like part of their family, giving you a taste of local life and culture. The rhythm of local culture and the sounds of the African bush will set the scene for the days ahead.

Day 4 – Maasai warrior training and fireside stories
Spend a full day at the Maasai Lodge, immersing your family in the vibrant Maasai culture. Take a guided nature walk through the surrounding bush and learn about traditional Maasai medicine and the natural world. Test your Maasai warrior skills with spear-throwing, a tradition passed down through generations. In the evening, gather around the campfire for “Maasai TV,” enjoying captivating stories of Maasai legends, myths, and traditions.

Day 5 – Sunset safari adventure in Tarangire
Travel to the Tarangire area and settle in at Elephant Lodge, where you may spot elephants visiting the waterhole right from the pool. In the afternoon, embark on an exhilarating off-road buggy ride through the wildlife areas just outside Tarangire National Park. The open-air ride during sunset brings you closer to the African bush, a thrilling and unforgettable way to end the day.

Day 6 – Discovering Tarangire’s wildlife
Today, your children will become true little explorers! They will love scanning the bush and riverbanks, using their eyes and imagination to spot hidden animals. Elephant families roam near the winding Tarangire River, while giraffes, zebras, and impalas move gracefully among the baobabs and open plains. The game drive pauses for a picnic lunch in the heart of this vibrant landscape, allowing you as a family to soak in the sights and sounds of the African bush.

Day 7 – Scavenger hunt & pool time
Hop on a mountain bike and scavenger hunt through Mto wa Mbu to stretch your legs and satisfy your curiosity! At first glance, it may seem like just another Tanzanian village, but it has maps, clues, and a few clever challenges. You’ll discover hidden stories, meet locals, and even pick up a few words of Swahili along the way. After your playful adventure, retreat to the Mawe Mawe Manyara Lodge to unwind by the pool and enjoy some well-deserved downtime in your family villa.

Day 8 – Uncovering the secrets of the Ngorongoro Crater
Today’s adventure takes you into one of Africa’s most extraordinary natural wonders: the Ngorongoro Crater. Imagine a real-life “Lost World,” where lions prowl the plains, elephants wander past sparkling lakes, and hippos wallow lazily in the water. The crater is home to so many animals that spotting them feels like flipping through the pages of the ultimate wildlife storybook. Keep your eyes wide open. You never know what’s around the next bend!

Day 9 – Venturing into the Serengeti
Your family holiday now leads you into the legendary Serengeti. In this land, the horizon seems endless, and wildlife roams free. Scattered across the plains are giant granite outcrops called “kopjes”: nature’s climbing frames and shady hideouts. For lion cubs, they’re the ultimate playground. Your tented camp awaits in the heart of the Serengeti, surrounded by the sights and sounds of Africa’s most iconic wilderness. You might even hear lions roar and hyenas laugh at night!

Day 10 – Your own Serengeti wildlife documentary
Wake up to the endless Serengeti plains, where every hill, kopje, and grassy stretch is full of surprises. Today, this is your playground, safely accompanied by your safari guide behind the wheel. Spot zebras grazing peacefully, giraffes nibbling treetops, or mischievous lion cubs practicing their pounces. It’s like stepping into your very own wildlife documentary. And don’t forget to look for animal prints around your tented camp! Can you guess who passed by last?

Day 11 – From the savannah plains to the highlands and valleys
Whether you want to track that elusive leopard you haven’t spotted yet or watch more hippos lazing in the pool, this morning is the perfect opportunity. With a final game drive out of the Serengeti, you journey back through Maasai land, spotting herds of zebras, playful Thompson gazelles, and traditional villages along the way. You’ll arrive at the Rhotia Valley Lodge in Karatu, a comfortable hideaway where you can relax, take in the views, and wash off the Serengeti dust in the pool.

Day 12 – A Maasai morning and saying goodbye with a head filled with memories
End your family adventure with a visit to a Maasai homestead. This world has become more familiar by now. Peek into the daily life, kick a football with the local children, and sip tea under a shady tree. Then, it’s time to head back to Kilimanjaro Airport. But not before saying a heartfelt goodbye to your safari guide, who has become part of your family, leaving you with laughter, memories, and stories to treasure forever.
Did you know…
On an Ajabu Adventures family safari, every game drive becomes a classroom without walls! Your children can watch lion cubs practicing their pounces, learn to spot animal tracks, and test their knowledge with a wildlife quiz. All safely from the vehicle, guided by experts who make every moment memorable and full of discovery.
Plan your safari
Plan your private Tanzania family holiday with us
Would you like to experience Tanzania through your children’s eyes? From sneaky lion cubs to hippos in the pool, Maasai villages to sunsets over the Serengeti, we’ll craft a tailor-made safari full of wonder and laughter, offering you priceless and unforgettable family memories.
Frequently asked questions
FAQ about the Tanzania family holiday safari
Didn’t find the answer you were looking for?
Is a Tanzania safari suitable for families with young children?
Absolutely! Tanzania is a fantastic choice for families with young children. Kids are welcome in the national parks, and children under 15 enjoy discounted entry fees. Lodge staff and locals are wonderfully warm with children, helping, playing, and even singing along. We’ll help you create a perfect balance of wildlife adventures, pool time, and relaxing moments, combined with family-friendly lodges, ensuring a fun and stress-free Tanzania family holiday for the whole family.
How long should a family safari be for a first-time visit to Africa?
We recommend 7 to 12 days for a first-time family safari. This gives you time to explore a mix of national parks, enjoy cultural encounters, and include sufficient pool time and fun activities to keep the children curious and excited. Most importantly, we design the trip at a relaxed pace: no rush, just plenty of time to enjoy each experience together.
Do I need to worry about vaccinations or health precautions for my kids?
We understand that health and safety can be the biggest concern when planning a safari with children, but you will never be alone. Our team has first-hand experience traveling in Tanzania with young kids, and we will guide you every step of the way. For peace of mind, we recommend visiting a healthcare professional 2 – 3 months before your trip. You can discuss malaria prevention and vaccinations best suited for your children’s ages, health issues, and the regions you’ll be visiting. Please find more practical advice in our Travel Tips.
What accommodation is best for my family: safari lodges, tented camps, or hotels?
Each option has its charm, and we’ll help you choose what fits your family best. Safari lodges offer pools and spacious family rooms, ideal for relaxing after game drives. Tented camps bring you closer to nature with soft beds, en-suite bathrooms, and verandas to enjoy the sounds of the wild. Family tents are limited, so booking early is essential. Keep in mind that safari lodges and camps inside the wildlife areas aren’t fenced, so children must always be accompanied. This is a small reminder that you’re truly in the wild. Whichever style you choose, we handpick family-friendly places, balancing safety, comfort, and authenticity.
Are safaris safe for kids? What about the animals and travel between parks?
Safety is our top priority on every safari. You and your children will be in the capable hands of our skilled guides, experienced drivers who know the parks inside out. They plan each day carefully with you, so you know exactly what to expect. From the vehicle’s comfort, you can watch lions, elephants, and giraffes up close, all at a safe distance. We know where the best health clinics are, and every traveler is covered by AMREF Flying Doctors insurance for added peace of mind. Follow the guidance of your guide and lodge staff, and every moment becomes pure adventure: children will marvel at the wildlife, discover the wonders of nature, and experience local culture, all while creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Can we combine a safari with a beach stay in Zanzibar?
After a thrilling safari, spending a few days in Zanzibar is the perfect way for every family member to unwind. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, read one or two books under swaying palms, and treat yourself to tropical cocktails. For those seeking adventure, dive into the underwater world and spot fish in every color and shape imaginable. Or feel the wind in your hair while trying a kiteboarding lesson. Zanzibar offers the perfect mix of relaxation and fun, giving everyone a well-deserved balance of downtime and adventure.
How much driving is involved? Won't it be tiring for children?
While safaris do involve some driving, the journey is all part of the adventure. We plan manageable routes with plenty of variety. In your private vehicle, with unlimited stops, every turn brings new surprises, from giraffes nibbling at the treetops in the distance to Maasai children racing donkeys along the roadside. Extra fun activities like short walks, mountain biking, or canoeing break up the drives and entertain the whole family. For younger explorers, we also offer safari quizzes to keep the little minds busy.
Is the food kid-friendly at the lodges and camps?
Meals are freshly made daily with wholesome, local ingredients, such as colorful vegetables, juicy fruits, and flavorful dishes that give an authentic taste of Tanzania. Usually, you’ll have a few options, and larger lodges often offer buffet-style dining, so kids can fill their plates just the way they like. Of course, special dietary needs can be arranged if requested in advance.
On safari days, picnic lunches are a special treat: sandwiches wrapped in paper, fruits, a box of juice, and even a little sweet surprise, all neatly packed so you can enjoy lunch under a shady tree. Bottled water is provided throughout the day, and drinking water is always available in the vehicle, so everyone stays hydrated as you explore the wild.


