5 reasons a safari is the best family vacation

May 25, 2016 | by alle contributor | Posted in Africa

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As of late, we at allé are convinced that African safaris are the best family vacations; they are exciting and exhilarating for even the most hard to please (ahem: little boys) family members, while giving those who are older just enough pampering and relaxation.

The Swahili word safari originates from the Arabic word “safar” which means a journey. The earliest safaris were focused around the trading industry. Originally, these safaris were the journey of large caravans of traders who traveled across vast landscapes to trade or sell their wares from one city to the other. The safaris at that time became associated with conquering wild beasts and returning with “trophies” ranging from skins, hides, heads, and even an entire beast. Fortunately, early naturalists and explorers like Thomas Ayres, William John Burchell and Gustav Adolf Fischer redefined the purpose of the safari, and were also instrumental in identifying several species of animals through the course of their journey.

Nowadays, a safari is a high end vacation with lots of fun adventures and exploration, best experienced with the entire family, here’s why:

1. Leave the digital world

How would you like to bring your kids to a vacation where reality beats the digital world? Kids nowadays are into technology and gadgets, and most of them enjoy adventure games. An African safari will open to them a world that goes beyond the screens and virtual reality that they are used to. A safari is meant to be an immersive experience that will also teach them to respect nature and wildlife. It is the perfect alternative to the usual family vacation destinations.

2. Learn a thing or two

Traveling is the best education you can provide your kids. An African safari is one way of providing them with an education that cannot be provided by sitting in a classroom. It is an excellent opportunity for them to learn more about nature and wildlife without having to press a mouse or a button! They will come face to face with a number of animals while learning about them, gain more knowledge about the country, meet and interact with the locals, and be introduced to the traditions and culture of the country.

3. No planning involved

African safaris for the family are masterfully planned and organized so everyone has something to experience and enjoy. It is not only educational; tailor-made safaris for the entire family provide kids with a number of fun activities including safari games, treasure hunting, walks with warriors, meet bushmen sitting around campfires, and getting up close and personal with animals in their natural habitat. This means all you have to do is sit back, relax and enjoy the safari without having to think about the usual concerns brought about by a standard family vacation. You do not have to worry about security issues, either. These safaris are well-secured with professional and experienced guides ensuring that you and your family’s welfare is top priority.

4. World class accommodations

Because these safaris are organized, you will have more quality time to spend with your kids. An African safari is the best way to unplug from your busy life, spend time with kids, and enjoy activities that cannot be experienced in the urban jungle. Accommodations are often luxurious and world class, so you can enjoy the same amenities and facilities found in top notch resorts only in a more off the beaten path setting. Just bring lots of insect repellant for your day trips!

5. Experience a whole new world

Aside from experiencing a safari, the entire family can enjoy the sights of Africa which are different from what you usually enjoy and see in vacations spent in the western hemisphere. For example, if you opt for a safari in Tanzania, you can also visit the gorgeous Kipepeo Beach, and sail across the spice island; visit the Makgadikgadi Salt Pan and the Chobe National Park in Botswana; Bungee jump at the breathtaking Victoria Falls and cruise down the Zambezi River in Zimbabwe; watch the action of the legendary great migration in Masai Mara and be blown away by the hundreds of pink flamingos at Lake Nakuru in Kenya; and have fun at the Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary and head to the Garden Route in South Africa.

Told you so; there is so much to see and do on an African safari, including sitting back and relaxing. Each country offers a safari experience like no other. The only work for you is to pick an African country (we’ll be happy to help that too) and then let us at allé handle everything else. In the meantime, you can start reading up on all the animals you’ll be seeing during your adventure.