It is quite difficult to put into words the magic of a family safari. They are exhilarating yet restful, deeply restorative and heart-filling, and all round they offer exceptional quality time with loved ones. What sets a safari apart from any other family holiday is that for a few hours each day, the whole family is together on a game-viewing vehicle or boat, out in the wilderness. This means no cell service, no screens, no busyness or distractions, no work or school responsibility, just dedicated time together searching for some of earth’s most enigmatic animals. There is such a sense of adventure and spaciousness that is missing in our day-to-day lives. And on a safari, there is something interesting for every generation in the family.

The Moffatt family - Sharon, Tom, Michele, David, Joe, Keeley and Emma (ages ranging from 12-74) recently experienced the joy of such a trip and they all highlighted that; “as high as our expectations were, they were exceeded in every way!” It started with a few fun-filled days in Cape Town, exploring the Cape’s wonders such as the penguin colony in Simonstown, the Cape of Good Hope and the Two Oceans Aquarium. They then boarded a plane and set off for Maun, Botswana to spend time at Little Vumbura and Chitabe camps in the spectacular expanse of the Okavango Delta. Next was Victoria Falls (Musi oa Tunya) where they enjoyed the thrill of a helicopter ride through the gorge, a private tour of the falls, boat cruises and white water rafting on the mighty Zambezi River. Each family member was struck by something special on the trip that resonated with them; whether it be early morning sunrises, wild dog and hyena fighting over an impala kill, hot water bottles tucked into beds each night and on the game viewers in the morning, character-filled warthogs, or a mokoro paddle over the delta at sunset. There really is something for everyone on these kinds of trips, and you can explore this itinerary HERE.

Sharon shared her thoughts on the trip with us, saying; “One of the best trips ever! Remarkable flexibility in planning - no "off the shelf" "cookie cutter" "this is our itinerary" issues. Very prompt replies to questions. Very useful suggestions. Lots of pre-trip information about travel requirements, packing lists, expected weather etc. Assistance at airports (large, small and airstrips) and with drivers, transfers, and availability "in real time" to adjust arrangements (a canceled US flight delayed our arrival in Africa - but the folks kept our hotel apprised). Found and facilitated local "added attraction" reservations: helicopter/diving excursions. Accommodations whether in Cape Town or "in the bush" at Little Vumbura, Chitabe or Victoria Falls River Lodge Villa were easily at or above expectations. The safari camp personnel and guides were top notch. Found our wildlife with ease and had encyclopedic knowledge about the fauna and the areas. It will be hard to top this one!”

Family safari’s set the stage for true connection and quality time together as you share unforgettable sightings and experiences. Sharon says, “the biggest take away was [the] bonding experience with the girls and their uncle and aunt and each other, and that our sons got to spend more time together than they have in a long time as they live in different places and both have demanding jobs. The family safari was awesome - I was nervous that everyone wouldn't get along for [a whole] 2 weeks, but it was great - all the activities and seeing wonderful sights kept everyone engaged and everyone having their own accommodation was really good in terms of us not getting on each other's nerves!” 

There is also the enormous learning opportunity that children (and adults) gain as guides narrate the wilderness story. Lessons on ecology, geography, conservation and culture naturally emerge through being immersed in nature and shared conversation. It truly is the best way to reconnect with nature, your family and yourself. The memories made are ones that are spoken about for many years to come. 

Sharon ended with; “Just wanted to say that working with Amy, Nicci and Robyn was terrific.”

Thank you Sharon and the whole Moffatt family - we are thrilled that you had such a memorable trip and we can’t wait to plan you next one!

It’s a core purpose of ours to create memories that last a lifetime for our guests. If you’re looking to create your dream family holiday, get in touch and based on the interests of your family we’ll help you create your dream African holiday.

Written by guest, Sharon Moffatt