This is a true story.
Two lucky little boys once went on a Nomad family safari with their parents.
They woke up really really early, before their parents, because those types of mornings matter when you’re six and eight. They climbed rocks barefoot. They jumped into the mud like baby elephants. They swam in the pool like hippos in the river and counted bugs and beetles with the same level of enthusiasm as they counted zebra.
Later, when the day finally caught up with them, they played games back in camp. The cook let them make a glorious mess in the kitchen. Their parents sat by the pool with a gin and tonic, thinking, quietly and gratefully, this has been a really good day.
That sums up a family safari.
Why is a family safari so great here?
Nomad has always been about family. Ours grew up out here, and we’re still drawn to the same type of safari adventure. Time in wild places is a great leveller and a shower of ‘all things important’. Digital screens are put down, days stretch on forever, and you appreciate each other’s company so much more. And when you’re traveling with children, that effect can double.
The smallest details are suddenly really important. A wildly coloured beetle crossing the path, the really cool bones of something scattered about, and guessing what it is; funny animal behaviours and expressions that always has everyone in hysterics. What might be a passing moment for an adult can become the highlight of the day when seen through younger eyes. And yes, ticking off the mammals list becomes a very serious and competitive business.
Absolute freedom and adventure
With Nomad, a family safaris isn’t about rigid schedules or rushing from one sighting to the next, barely having time to pause and take it all in. Where is the fun in all of that? Days should be full, walks, drives, swims, a lot of noise, a lot of laughter, a bit of chaos, and clothes left ALL over the camp. But equally, an afternoon nap, for all ages, is very much recommended during the hotter afternoons especially after a lazy lunch and a glass of wine (much needed for the adults). Safari suits all ages and all paces, and the days stretch out around a multitude of things.
Learning without lessons
Children learn fast out here, mostly without realising it. They learn patience by watching animals do nothing for long stretches, with a guide who points out interesting things in the minutiae. The shyest child will start to ask a lot of questions, really good ones, ones that might have the whole car debating the answer. Our guides love all of this, they love the wide-eyed enthusiasm that children bring with them, naturally and without thinking too deeply about any of it. They love explaining tracks, behaviours and 101 questions about poop, as that is always a thing!
Together at the end of the day
At the end of the day, when energy levels fade and perhaps get a little frayed, there are comfortable places around the fire or in the mess to rest weary heads. Stories get told, night sounds come out of the darkness and are always exciting, and supper outdoors never tasted better. There is so much going on around you and you only need to sit and appreciate it for a minute, knowing that bringing your family on safari was the very best thing you could have done. And if, at the end of the day, everyone is a little tired, a little dusty, and very happy, then it’s probably all gone exactly as it should.
We’d love to help you plan an adventure that brings your family together. Whether you’re dreaming of wildlife encounters in the Serengeti or quiet moments under vast African skies, we can help craft a journey that feels just right for your family. Get in touch with us.