Family Bonding- Africa Style
Guest Blog by Sandy Salle
Imagine bringing your family on the vacation of a lifetime that is not only safe and luxurious but also worldly,
inspirational, rich with culture, and bursting with adventure. A life-altering vacation such as this could only take place in one of the world’s few remaining unspoiled destinations: Africa.
Taking your kids to the zoo doesn’t compare to showing them wildlife in its natural habitat, and reading about Africa’s unique cultures and exotic terrain doesn’t compare to tracking with bushmen and exploring the serengeti. Africa has indescribable power to enlighten, connect, and inspire. Wouldn’t you love to share this rare and unique experience with your family?
Africa is full of accommodations and tour providers that offer family-friendly activities for all ages.
Below are just a few accommodations, destinations, and attractions perfect for an African family safari:
Olarro Lodge, Kenya: Traveling with young children—especially to an unfamiliar destination—can seem quite stressful and unappealing. Many questions arise such as, “Will I be able to enjoy my vacation without watching the kids at all times?” “Is there a trustworthy sitter?” “Will the children have a rewarding and knowledgeable experience?” At Olarro lodge, the staff understands your needs, which is why they provide one of the best Kids Clubs in all of Kenya.
The Olarro Juniors Adventurers Club (OJAC), appropriate for children 6-years-old and up, introduces kids to the African bush with child-friendly bush activities, and provides the little adventurists with an insight into the local Maasai culture and lifestyle.
During the OJAC tours, a certified and highly qualified Maasai guide introduces the kids to animal-tracking techniques, survival techniques used in traditional Maasai culture, plants used for medicinal purposes, and environmentally conscious practices.
Plettenberg Bay, South Africa: Located in the stunning area of the Garden Route, Plettenberg Bay is more than a wildlife sanctuary—it is a place rich with cultural heritage, unique learning experiences, and activities that the entire family can enjoy together. Whether your family enjoys the relaxing aspects of nature such as lying on the beach or more physically oriented activities such as hiking and touring, you’re sure to find a rewarding family experience in Plettenberg Bay.
Some of the area’s most famous family-oriented activities include a trip to Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary, a trip to an elephant sanctuary, and a walking tour through the intricate eco-systems of the Garden Route.
Hout Bay’s World of Birds: This bird park is Africa’s largest and most diverse. With over 400 different species of birds and small animals, the park provides a unique learning experience through bird and monkey sanctuaries. Some of the many birds you’ll see while on this exciting safari tour include cranes, eagles, ostriches, peafowls, and spoonbills—to name a very few.
Cape Town’s Ratanga Junction: For an exciting and fun-filled day, the Ratanga Junction amusement park is the place to go. With rides and attractions for all ages, everyone in the family is sure to find excitement. Some kids’ rides include Crocodile Swamps, Rats and Cats Bumper Cars, and the Safari Bus. For the older kids looking for an extreme adrenaline rush, the Cobra, the Slingshot, and the Crocodile Gorge will satisfy their craving for adventure.
Paarl, South Africa’s Middelvlei Wine Farm and Fairview Winery: Located in Stellenbosch, South Africa, adults can enjoy the delectable wines of Middelvlei Wine Farm while the children play with the farm’s animals. Fairview Winery is also home to a fantastic selection of fine wines and children’s attractions, such as the goat tower.
About Sandy:
Sandy Salle was is a native of Zimbabwe and was born and raised in Southern Africa. She is the Chief Executive Officer of Hills of Africa travel and is passionate about using her first-hand knowledge of Africa to create the trip of a lifetime for her clients. Currently based state-side in North Carolina, she resides with her husband and two small children. Sandy travels home to Africa several times a year and believes that the next best thing to living in Africa is sharing it with others. For more about Sandy or the Hills of Africa, please visit the Hills of Africa website: www.hillsofafrica.com and blog: www.livethemagicofafrica.com
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Africa’s culture, wildlife and landscape sound amazing! I haven’t been there yet myself, but I look forward to one day experiencing Africa’s magic for the first time with my family. Thank you for sharing some of Africa’s exciting family activities, Sandy!
Thank you so much Karla for featuring Hills of Africa on your blog! We truly appreciate this opportunity, and please let me know if there’s anything we can do for you in the future!