As a country of extraordinary diversity, there is a wide array of exceptional mountain, lake, beach, forest, river, desert and bush holiday experiences on offer. For safari-loving families, there are options that range from the mountain and desert areas to the classic South African bushveld, and even, those that get you right near the ocean for a safari- and-sea getaway.

There’s really no-one-size-fits-all when it comes to choosing “the best” family safari experience because families are so diverse. It’s important to match your destination to the temperaments and needs in your own family. For instance, if you are a robust and adventurous group, you may gravitate towards a rugged safari experience in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park in the arid borderlands of the Northern Cape Province. But, if you’re first-time safari-goers with young children, then you might opt for the easy accessibility of the Pilanesburg National Park, set in a picturesque volcanic crater in the North-West Province.

Why Kruger is a top destination for family safari holidays

The crown-jewel of South Africa’s safari holidays is undoubtedly, the iconic Kruger National Park. Both local and international families are drawn to this Big 5 mecca for good reasons. Traversing both the Limpopo and Mpumalanga Provinces, Kruger is one of the largest and oldest wildlife refuges in the world.

With five distinct vegetative biomes, major rivers running through it and a sensational diversity of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and insects, Kruger offers families a multitude of opportunities to make unforgettable memories together. Getting out into a premier African wilderness together, allow parents to see wildlife in its habitat through the eyes of their children. For young ones, it’s not just the chance to experience thrilling outdoor adventures but lays the foundation for instilling a lifelong appreciation of nature and environmental conservation.

Choosing family-friendly Kruger safari accommodation

As a kingpin of South African tourism, there’s a wide choice of accommodations in and around Kruger. These range from hotels, self-catering units and super-luxury lodges to the Park’s own chalets and campsites. However, not all of these are family-friendly options, and even some that are, may not suit your family’s needs. One of the keys to ensuring your Kruger family safari is a success, is making the right choice of accommodation. Make sure your accommodation choice meets the comfort levels your family needs to be able to relax and have a good time together. Another important consideration is including some different holiday activities so that your children are not always confined to the car on game drives.

Kruger Gate Hotel’s top family-friendly features include:

• We are located right at the Paul Kruger Gate offering quick and easy access into the most game-rich area of the Park. It takes you less than one minute from our reception to get the gate, which means that just about all of your drive-time is in the Park, not getting to it.
• Two children stay free with two adults in our family room, including their complimentary breakfasts and dinners.
• There are great kid-friendly meal options at all our dining venues.
• Our family pool area includes two shallow pools, sun loungers and a pop-up bar for parents.
• Take a break from the car and enjoy family fun activities such as tennis, volleyball, outdoor chess and putt-putt in our lush gardens.
• Our proximity to Mpumalanga’s Panorama Route means that you can explore nearby towns and attractions which offer a wide range of family-friendly fun.

South Africa’s top family holiday destinations for safari lovers include:

• Mpumalanga – Kruger National Park – the southern region
• Limpopo – Kruger National Park – the central and northern regions
• KwaZulu-Natal – Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park and Mkuze Game Reserve
• Eastern Cape – Addo Elephant National Park
• Free State – Golden Gate Highlands National Park
• North West – Pilanesberg National Park
• Northern Cape – Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park