There’s not a lot that can beat discovering Africa’s wildest places with the children, grandparents, aunties and uncles in tow. But when you need accommodation to satisfy the whole brood, what do you do? Rent one of our family safari houses, that’s what! Our handpicked bunch come in all shapes, sizes and styles, but every one is unique and perfectly suited for groups and families. Traditionally, Kenya, Tanzania and South Africa have been ahead of the game when it comes to private family safari houses, but that’s all changed now, and we’ve found the best of the bunch from across the continent.
1. Mara House
Masai Mara, Kenya
If we had to dream up our perfect family safari house, it would probably look something like Mara House in Kenya’s fabulous Mara North Conservancy. There are three cosy bedrooms, a living room with roaring log fire, an alfresco dining deck, and a shady swimming pool. But it’s the guides that really make it stand out. They know exactly how to keep young minds entertained, from visits to the local schoolroom to intriguing lessons in bush survival.
2. More Quarters Residence
Cape Town, South Africa
We haven’t met a family yet who doesn’t love Cape Town and its smorgasbord of excellent activities. But where is the best place to stay, en famille? We rather like the Residence, a charming, four-bedroom private residence adjoining the stylish More Quarters hotel. It’s a real home from home, albeit one with a fully stocked library, mini plunge pool, and piles of freshly baked croissants in the morning.
3. Flatdogs Crocodile Nest
South Luangwa, Zambia
A profusion of family safari houses have popped up in Zambia over the last few years, and one of our favourites is the Crocodile Nest at legendary Flatdogs Camp. We love the uber-stylish tented design of the two-bed house, and the splashy swimming pool overlooking the Luangwa River. But the best bit has to be the ‘bush takeaway’ service; when you start to feel a little peckish, simply radio the camp’s restaurant and order whatever you feel like, straight to your door.
4. Kwandwe Melton Manor
Eastern Cape, South Africa
Mention a family safari, and someone will undoubtedly tell you to visit Kwandwe Private Reserve. Malaria-free, and with more activities than you can shake a stick at, it’s an excellent choice for all ages. And if you stay at Kwande Melton Manor, the reserve’s premier family safari house, it’s even better. Think four enormous bedrooms, all completely private (but with interconnecting doors if required), vast living areas, an interactive kitchen and that all-important swimming pool. Stress-free, family fun guaranteed.
5. Ndomo House
Lake Malawi, Malawi
Tucked away in the southwest corner of mango-strewn Likoma Island, Ndomo House is a bright and breezy, chilled-out family pad. It’s part of boutique retreat Kaya Mawa, and guests have use of all facilities at the hotel, including the restaurant and dreamy spa. But really, you need never leave the house, for not only is there a private chef, nanny, housekeeper and watchman, there’s a vehicle and boat at your disposal too.
6. Okonjima Bush Suite
Otjiwarongo, Namibia
Namibia’s stunning 55,00 acre Okonjima Reserve is home to the AfriCat Foundation, and THE place to see leopard and cheetah in the wild – and now you can take the kids too. The stunning Okonjima Bush Suite offers two, ensuite bedrooms under thatch, a sunken lounge and a 13-metre swimming pool, carved in the shape of a mokoro. It’s the ultimate in bush luxury, and kids will love it as much as the big cats on the reserve.
7. Mkombe’s House
Serengeti, Tanzania
There’s been a noticeable lack of family safari houses in Tanzania’s world-class Serengeti National Park– until now! Welcome to Mkombe’s House, the park’s first private house and a beautiful one at that. Days can be spent with your private guide, game driving and walking across the endless plains, and when you’re not wildlife-watching, take a dip in the pool or munch on tea and sweet treats on the shady veranda.
8. Jabali Private House
Ruaha, Tanzania
Jabali Private House has set the bar high as the first family safari house in Southern Tanzania. Built around three enormous baobabs and perched high in the rocky kopjes, the three-bedroom bolt-hole is a tutorial in safari sophistication. But don’t worry – kids are very welcome, and your private guide will organise animal tracking and adventure walks through the bushes of Ruaha, whilst the chef whips up pizza and spag bol back at base camp.
9. Lewa House
Lewa Downs, Kenya
It’s not technically a family safari house, but the cottages at Lewa House are ideal for a safari with the little ones – and too cool not to mention! The two-bedroom, cocoon-like chalets look like something from a storybook, and will get kids excited before they’ve even set foot on the reserve. Owners Sophie and Calum also have children of their own so family is key, and all activities (think horse riding, heli flights, black rhino tracking and game drives) can be tailored for kids.
10. Tangala House
Victoria Falls, Zambia
We’re ending our list with a goody. Picture-perfect Tangala House sits on the banks of the Zambezi, 15 kilometres from the magical Victoria Falls. There’s a host of activities to get stuck into with your private guide, but simply staying at the house, watching ellies splashing in the river in front of you, or getting cosy in the “snuggery” as the sun sets, is a real treat.
