Any parent who has traveled with children – whether internationally, domestically, or even just to the local aquarium – knows it demands an entirely new level of planning. As both a parent and a frequent traveler, I understand how time-consuming and intricate (yet thrilling) it can be to plan a family holiday and account for every detail.
Here are a few African destinations I’d highly recommend adding to your family travel bucket list. I’ve also included details on where we stayed and what we loved to help you choose the perfect spot for your family.
Family Adventures at Rubondo Island
If you think you’ve experienced a private island paradise, Rubondo Island Camp will redefine that for you.
Located on Lake Victoria, this stunning island is the ultimate getaway and truly the only place to stay – unless you’re up for sleeping under the stars al fresco. Known as “Noah’s Ark,” the island’s natural beauty and diverse wildlife are simply extraordinary. It’s also a national park!
Despite its compact size, Rubondo Island offers a wealth of activities. Since my children are younger, we skipped the guided chimpanzee trekking (recommended for older teens, ages 16 and up, or adult children).
Instead, we embarked on some incredible game drives through the forest and the savanna-like “plains.” These weren’t your typical open-top safari vehicles but rather well-equipped Land Rovers capable of navigating the terrain with ease.
We were amazed by the variety of wildlife, spotting giraffes, elephants, rhinos, hippos, and more. Birdwatching enthusiasts will also be delighted by the rich avian diversity.
One of our most memorable experiences was the Nile perch catch-and-release fishing. Everyone loved it, from my kids to my dad, who is nearly 80 years old. He fulfilled a lifelong dream of catching one of these majestic fish with his grandson, my son.
There are two ways to enjoy fishing here: either head out on a boat or fish from the beach and nearby rocks. Given that Lake Victoria is home to some massive predatory fish that attract professional anglers worldwide, we chose to stay on land – a decision that worked perfectly for our family.

Sunset cruises and guided nature walks gave us unforgettable family moments, offering quality time while the kids eagerly checked off sightings from the island’s impressive list of over 300 bird species.
The experience was both fun and relaxing, especially knowing there was only one camp in the area. This gave the children a sense of freedom, allowing them to explore safely without worrying their parents.
Beyond the organized activities, we enjoyed plenty of time on the beach and by the swimming pool. Evenings were spent around the firepit, sharing stories of the day’s highlights and soaking in the serene island atmosphere.

The tranquillity made it easy to feel like we were the only ones there. However, a word of caution: the beach isn’t suitable for long lounging sessions due to hippos and crocodiles sharing the area. That said, the pool was a perfect and refreshing alternative for cooling off.
As someone passionate about travel with a positive impact, I was delighted to learn that for every night we stayed at Rubondo Island Camp, $5 was contributed to conservation efforts and community upliftment. This made our experience even more rewarding, knowing we were giving back to the island’s ecosystem and local communities.
Why Rubondo Island is Perfect for Families
- A wide range of activities for families to enjoy together or individually
- The only accommodation in the national park, ensuring privacy and safety
- Abundant wildlife and over 300 bird species
- Unique chimpanzee trekking (for older teens and adults)
- Guided nature walks through breathtaking landscapes
- Catch-and-release fishing adventures
- Relaxing sunset cruises and boating excursions
Visiting Namibia’s Skeleton Coast

Shipwreck Lodge
From one extreme to another, we transitioned from remote island life to the vast, awe-inspiring Namibian Desert. While the name “Skeleton Coast” might sound intimidating, it actually refers to the countless shipwrecks scattered along the beaches north of Swakopmund.
Visiting this incredible destination was a humbling experience. The seemingly endless stretches of desert, ocean, and sky create a sense of vastness that is both breathtaking and grounding.
The Skeleton Coast feels remote and desolate, offering a stark contrast to the luxurious comfort of Shipwreck Lodge, where we stayed. Although there are a few lodges within the Skeleton Coast National Park, the sense of isolation remains intact, with very little chance of encountering other visitors. This remoteness created a unique opportunity for our family to connect and truly enjoy quality time together.
What to Do at the Skeleton Coast as a Family
One of the first questions kids (and adults!) will ask is, “What can we do here?” The answer: so much! With the beach and towering dunes right at our doorstep, we made the most of exploring the area. Daily walks to the ocean allowed us to soak in the raw beauty of our surroundings.

I must admit I had reservations about quad biking, but riding across untouched dunes for the first time changed my mind completely. It became one of our most memorable highlights. Zooming across the vast landscapes under the open sky was exhilarating, and we even spotted well-preserved brown hyena tracks along the way.
For a calmer change of pace, we enjoyed tranquil sunset drives with snacks by the ocean. A nature drive added an educational twist as we searched for brown-hyena spoor while learning about desert-adapted wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, lions, and even baboons.
We also visited a fascinating plane wreck, believed to be a Lockheed Ventura Bomber that crashed in 1942 while delivering supplies – a must-see for history enthusiasts! Unfortunately, we didn’t have time to experience the 4×4 Hoarusib River Excursion to the stunning Clay Castles, but it’s high on our list for next time.

Another unforgettable highlight was our visit to the Mowe Bay seal colony. Along the way, we stopped at the Karimona and Suiderkus shipwrecks. The kids loved observing the seals, while the entire family was captivated by the historic shipwrecks. With a little imagination, we could almost picture these aged vessels sailing the seas in their former glory.
Insider tip: Keep an eye out during dune drives and beach walks – there are countless fascinating skeletons and bones scattered along the way. This region’s raw beauty and lack of outside distractions provided the perfect setting for meaningful family time and unforgettable adventures.
Why the Skeleton Coast is Ideal for Family Travel
- Thrilling quad biking adventures across pristine dunes
- Immersing yourself in the raw beauty of endless desert, ocean, and sky
- Beach and dune walks with incredible views
- Exploring Mowe Bay seal colony and shipwrecks
- Tracking desert-adapted wildlife on guided drives
- Relaxing sunset drives with snacks by the sea
- Uninterrupted, quality family time away from outside distractions
Marataba Safari Lodge in the Waterberg

One of the top reasons families choose Marataba Safari Lodge for their African holidays is its malaria-free location. While iconic destinations like Kruger National Park are breathtaking, Marataba offers peace of mind for families with young children or multi-generational groups.
The dramatic backdrop of the vast Waterberg Mountains made our stay even more magical. Marataba Safari Lodge has a warm, earthy charm that perfectly complements its natural surroundings. We stayed in the family tented suite, which was spacious and thoughtfully designed.
The main suite, paired with a bunk room that had our kids squealing with excitement, made for the perfect setup. Let’s be honest – is there anything kids love more than bunk beds? The lodge offered luxury with a relaxed, “home-away-from-home” vibe, allowing us to fully unwind without worrying about the kids touching everything.
Activities at Marataba Safari Lodge
There was no shortage of entertainment for the kids. The Mack & Madi Kids’ Adventure Safari Club was a major highlight, with endless activities to keep them busy. From learning how to track animals in the Eco Garden to camping under the stars and watching movies outdoors, they loved every minute.
What they appreciated most was the freedom to explore and have fun without us hovering over them.

Meanwhile, I indulged in a spa session, guilt-free, knowing the kids were happily occupied. Don’t forget to visit the Creative Lab, where your photos can be turned into personalized keepsakes – a lovely touch to remember your trip.
Note: The Mack & Madi Kids’ Club is designed for children aged 5–11, but Marataba Safari Lodge welcomes kids of all ages.
For families with older kids (16+), Mountain Lodge, Marataba’s sister property, offers activities tailored to teens and adults. Options like full-day or half-day hiking excursions provide a fantastic way to bond while exploring the breathtaking landscapes.
Why Visit the Waterberg as a Family
- Mack & Madi Kids’ Adventure Safari Club for endless family fun
- Morning and afternoon game drives with the chance to see the Big 5
- Stunning mountain views and breathtaking scenery
- Malaria-free game reserve, perfect for families with young children
- Unique rhino conservation experiences
- Spa treatments for a bit of indulgence
- Guided bush walks and tranquil water safaris
- Kid-friendly activities and child-minding services
- Perfect for bonding with teens through outdoor adventures
- Beautiful architecture and luxurious yet family-friendly accommodations
Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Kenya

Activities for Families at Ol Pejeta
There’s no shortage of activities for families at Ol Pejeta. Start your day with an early morning game drive, followed by a delicious bush breakfast in the heart of the conservancy. The night game drives are a real highlight and offer a chance to spot some of the elusive ‘Shy 5’ – aardvarks, bat-eared foxes, and possibly even leopards. These exclusive night safaris are only available in select conservancies across Africa.
Additional Experiences for Families
One of the standout experiences at Ol Pejeta is the Running the Wild program. Every Wednesday, families can join Ol Pejeta’s conservation rangers on an early morning run through the conservancy, followed by a relaxing cup of coffee. It’s an excellent way to learn about the dedicated people who work tirelessly to protect the wildlife and their habitats.
Why Visit Ol Pejeta Conservancy as a Family?
- Exclusive Rhinos and Wildlife Experiences: See and interact with the northern white rhinos in their natural habitat.
- Game Drives & Safaris: Day and night game drives offer opportunities to spot Africa’s iconic animals.
- Kid-Friendly Activities: From rhino encounters to playing with anti-poaching dogs, your children will have a blast.
- Focus on Conservation: Learn about the importance of wildlife conservation through educational experiences.
- Family-Friendly Accommodations: Ol Pejeta Bush Camp offers a peaceful setting with plenty of space for relaxation.
- Unique Cultural Experiences: Join the rangers on a “Running the Wild” experience to better understand the conservancy’s conservation efforts.
- Additional Costs: Some activities, including off-site excursions, are available at an additional cost.
Important Information for Families
- Age Requirement: Children must be over 5 years old to stay at Ol Pejeta Bush Camp.
- Customizable Experiences: The Ol Pejeta team is dedicated to tailoring experiences to suit your family’s interests and needs, ensuring an unforgettable stay.
The Wild Coast, South Africa

Our final destination is, without a doubt, one of my all-time favorite places: South Africa’s Wild Coast. It’s a spot my family has visited every September for the past eight years. There’s something truly magical about the Wild Coast that defies description.
The rolling green hills, untamed seas, vibrant nature, tranquil lagoons, welcoming locals, and even the occasional cow or donkey wandering by—it’s all part of the charm. For us, it’s the ultimate soul-nourishing retreat, where we reconnect, recharge, and escape the busyness of life.
Family-Friendly Adventures in the Wild Coast
The Wild Coast offers an abundance of activities, with something for everyone, especially kids. From swimming, hiking, and mountain biking to bodyboarding and building sandcastles, the options are endless. My kids, however, seem to have their own favorite pastime: fishing.
They can spend the entire day, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., catch-and-release fishing, showing a patience and dedication that amazes me.

The area is also filled with rock pools, where children can discover fascinating marine life. The still waters of the lagoon are perfect for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), kayaking, or even snorkeling.
One of the most surreal and magical experiences here is watching zebras or buck grazing peacefully as dolphins surf the waves and whales lobtail in the distance. The sheer harmony of these natural elements takes your breath away every time. It’s a place where stress simply melts away, replaced by joy, fun, and a profound sense of peace.
A Connection to Local Culture
While the natural beauty is a huge draw, it’s the local people who make this destination unforgettable. Over the years, we’ve visited many Xhosa villages and have always been welcomed with open arms. The opportunity to experience Xhosa culture and traditions firsthand has been invaluable, and attending a Xhosa wedding was one of the highlights of my visits.
GweGwe Beach Lodge: A Family Favorite

GweGwe Beach Lodge perfectly complements the Wild Coast experience with its relaxed luxury and design inspired by the local culture. The lodge offers everything from tasty farm-to-table meals (often served with your feet in the sand) to spacious family suites. For added relaxation, indulge in wellness treatments, enjoy a pre-packed picnic, or embark on guided marine or botany walks.
The lodge also offers child-friendly facilities, complete with games, entertainment, and supervised activities. It’s a place where kids can enjoy freedom in a safe environment, giving parents a chance to truly relax. Whether you’re hiking to a nearby waterfall or unwinding on the pristine beach, the lodge creates an environment that balances family adventure with serenity.
And if you find yourself feeling overwhelmed by all the activities, don’t worry—this is the perfect place to slow down, unwind, and finally open that book you’ve been meaning to read.
Why We Keep Returning to the Wild Coast
- The breathtaking natural beauty of rolling hills, lagoons, and untamed coastlines
- An endless variety of child-friendly activities
- Fishing, which my kids would insist be at the top of this list!
- The warmth and hospitality of the local Xhosa communities
- The ultimate combination of rest and relaxation
- Pristine beaches, peaceful lagoons, and unique wildlife sightings
- The wild, untamed coastline that surprises and delights us year after year