Looking for the ultimate family glamping adventure as one of your bucket lists? African safaris take luxury camping to a whole new level. These incredible family glamping destinations nail that sweet spot between wilderness adventure and family comfort. Here’s where you can watch giraffes from your private pool and let the kids earn their junior ranger stripes in style.
1. Angama Mara, Kenya – Family Glamping with a View
Ever dreamed of camping in the heart of the Maasai Mara, but not quite ready to rough it? Angama Safari Camp gives you the best of both worlds – you’re right in the middle of the action, but with all the comforts you need to keep the whole family happy. Think of it as your private wilderness hideout, complete with hot showers and gourmet meals!
When it comes to luxury family glamping in Africa, it doesn’t get better than this. Imagine waking up to hot air balloons floating past your window and the endless Masai Mara plains below.
The Sleeping Setup
Picture this: four seriously spacious tents that feel more like boutique hotel rooms (but way cooler because, hello, you’re in the wild!). Each one comes with its own ensuite bathroom and hot bucket showers – trust us, there’s something magical about washing off the day’s safari dust while hearing distant wildlife calls. Got little ones? No problem! One of the tents can fit an extra bed, so the kiddos can bunk with you.
The Good Stuff
- The whole place is yours! During standard season, you get the entire camp to yourself – how’s that for exclusive?
- Forget boring camp food – these guys cook up amazing meals over an open fire (warning: your backyard BBQs will never feel the same)
- There’s a cozy hangout tent where you can chill between game drives, play some games, or swap stories about the day’s adventures
The Fun Part
- Morning and afternoon game drives let you catch all the wildlife action (pro tip: the Great Migration views are incredible!)
- Want to meet the locals? You can visit nearby Maasai communities – a huge hit with curious kids
- Fancy breakfast in the bush? How about sundowners with a view? They’ve got you covered with perfect picnic spots
Perfect for Families
The best part? Kids of all ages are welcome here! The camp team knows exactly how to keep young wildlife enthusiasts entertained, and they’ll tailor everything to suit your family’s style. Whether you’ve got toddlers or teens, they’ll make sure everyone has a blast.
Location: Siaya County, Mara Triangle, Kenya
Website: www.angama.com
2. Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti, Tanzania – Elevated Family Glamping
Want to experience the Serengeti without sacrificing your creature comforts? The Four Seasons Safari Lodge is basically like having your own luxury treehouse kingdom in the middle of Africa’s most famous national park.
The glamping experience here takes luxury to new heights. Think of it as a treehouse kingdom in the middle of the Serengeti. Connected walkways keep little feet safe from any curious wildlife below, and there’s an infinity pool overlooking a waterhole where elephants come for their afternoon drink. Here’s the scoop on why families love it here!
Where You’ll Rest Your Head
Trust us, these aren’t your average hotel rooms. Think of them as your own slice of safari paradise:
- Cozy Rooms: Imagine waking up in a four-poster bed and stepping onto your private balcony to watch elephants drinking at the waterhole below. Yes, really!
- Fancy Suites: Level up with your own private pool on an elevated terrace. Perfect for those afternoon dips while watching giraffes stroll by (and the kids will never want to leave).
- Ultra-Luxe Villas: Going big? These bad boys are like having your own house in the Serengeti, complete with infinity pools and enough space for the whole family to spread out.
The Cool Stuff
This place takes “hotel amenities” to a whole new level:
- Discovery Centre: Think of it as the coolest classroom ever. Learn about wildlife and Maasai culture through interactive displays and real-life stories.
- Kijana Klub: A kids’ club that’ll make them forget their iPads exist. They can plant trees, cook local dishes, and hang out with actual Maasai guides!
- Spa Heaven: Because who doesn’t want a massage after a day of wildlife spotting? The outdoor bathtubs are pretty epic too.
- Gym with a View: Working out while watching zebras? Now that’s motivation!
The Fun Part
Here’s where the real adventure begins:
- Game Drives: Get up close with lions, elephants, and all the other stars of the show. The Big Five are basically your neighbors here.
- Walking Safaris: Stretch those legs and discover all the small stuff you miss from a vehicle. Don’t worry – the guides know what they’re doing!
- Hot Air Balloon Rides: Want to make the kids’ jaws drop? Try floating over the Serengeti at sunrise. Warning: Regular life might seem a bit boring after this.
- Maasai Hangouts: Visit local villages and learn some moves from the jumping masters themselves. Great for family photos (and bragging rights).
Pro Tip: Book well ahead, especially during migration season. And don’t forget to ask about their family packages – they often throw in sweet perks for the kiddos!
Location: Central Serengeti, Tanzania
3. Sanctuary Chief’s Camp, Botswana – Delta Family Glamping
Looking for the ultimate family glamping adventure in Botswana? Imagine staying in what feels like the world’s fanciest treehouse, right in the middle of the Okavango Delta. Sanctuary Chief’s Camp sits on Chief’s Island (yes, that’s really its name!), and it’s where luxury meets wilderness in the most amazing way.
The Sleeping Situation
- Luxury Pavilions: Think of these as your own private oasis – there are ten of them, each with enough space for the whole family to spread out. The best part? Every pavilion has its own plunge pool on the deck. Perfect for those hot African afternoons!
- The Geoffrey Kent Suite: Now this is next level! It’s like having your own private villa in the bush, with two bedrooms that can fit up to six people. The coolest part? You get your own chef, waiter, and safari guide. Plus, there’s a private bar for mom and dad, and a kitchen where the chef whips up whatever your heart desires.
The Fun Stuff
- That Pool Though: The main pool is basically Instagram heaven – picture yourself floating while watching elephants in the distance.
- Spa Time: Because who doesn’t want a massage after bouncing around in a safari vehicle all day?
- Gym with a View: Yes, you can actually work out in the bush (if you really want to).
- Kids’ Corner: There’s a special playroom where the little ones can hang out and make new friends.
The Adventures
- Game Drives: Hop in a safari vehicle with expert guides who know all the best spots to find lions, elephants, and other amazing wildlife.
- Mokoro Magic: When the water’s high enough, cruise the Delta’s channels in a traditional canoe. It’s like Venice, but with hippos!
- Helicopter Flips: Want to see what an elephant looks like from above? These aerial tours will blow your mind.
- Stargazing: Ever seen the Southern Cross? The night sky here is like nature’s own IMAX theater.
Pro Tips:
- Book in advance – this place is super popular with families
- Pack your swimsuits (obviously!)
- Bring a good camera – the photo ops are endless
- Don’t forget to try the mokoro rides – they’re a total Delta must-do
Location: Moremi Game Reserve, Okavango Delta, Botswana
Website: www.sanctuaryretreats.com/chiefs-camp
4. Lion Sands Tinga Lodge, South Africa – Premium Family Glamping Under the Stars
Ever dreamed of the ultimate family glamping experience under African stars? At Lion Sands Tinga Lodge, you can literally watch elephants from your private pool while sipping your morning coffee. No kidding – this place takes “room with a view” to a whole new level!
Sweet Dreams Are Made of This
- Swanky Suites: Picture nine ridiculously spacious hideouts, each with its own plunge pool (because why not?). The outdoor showers are a game-changer – there’s something magical about freshening up while listening to distant lion roars!
- Family Villa Goals: The Hi’Nkweni Villa is like your own private wilderness mansion. Two bedrooms mean plenty of space for the whole crew to spread out after a day of adventure.
The Good Stuff
- That Pool Though: The main infinity pool is basically Instagram heaven. Imagine floating while watching hippos do their thing in the river below.
- Spa Vibes: Because your muscles might need some love after bouncing around in a safari vehicle all day.
- Kid-Friendly Fun: They’ve got awesome activities to keep the little ones busy – no “I’m bored” moments here!
The Really Fun Part
- Game Drives: Hop in a specially kitted-out vehicle with guides who know the park like the back of their hand. These folks can spot a leopard tail from a mile away!
- Walk on the Wild Side: Fancy stretching your legs? Join a guided bush walk to discover all the cool stuff you miss from the vehicle.
- Hippo Happy Hour: Get up close(ish) with these amazing river giants. Warning: They’re way bigger in real life!
- Stars Like You’ve Never Seen: The night sky here will make your jaw drop. No city lights = star-spotting paradise.
- Meet the Locals: Pop into nearby communities to see the real South Africa. Great for giving the kids some perspective (and amazing photo ops).
Location: Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga, South Africa
Website: www.lionsands.com
5. Cottars 1920s Camp, Kenya – Vintage-Style Family Glamping
Cottar’s 1920s Camp in the Maasai Mara is like stepping into an old-school adventure movie – but with all the modern comforts your family needs. Think vintage vibes meet luxury glamping! But don’t let the classic vibes fool you – there’s plenty of modern luxury in these glamping tents. Kids can play bush volleyball, take a dip in the pool, or join the junior guide program. Evening campfire stories under the stars? That’s glamping done right!
The Sleeping Setup
The family tents here are next level – super spacious and designed to make both parents and kids feel at home. Picture canvas walls, antique furnishings, and enough room for everyone to spread out after a day of adventure. It’s like your great-grandparents’ safari camp got a serious upgrade!
The Chill Zone
- Pool Paradise: Yes, there’s a pool in the bush! Perfect for cooling off while watching wildlife do their thing
- Spa Time: Because who doesn’t want a massage after bouncing around in a safari vehicle all day?
- Food Heaven: They’ve got everything from fancy bush dinners to kid-friendly favorites. Picky eaters? No problem!
The Really Cool Stuff
Get ready for some serious adventure:
- Game Drives: Spot lions, elephants, and more with guides who know every inch of the Mara
- Walk with Warriors: Head out with real Maasai warriors who’ll show you all the secrets of the bush
- Maasai Warrior School: Let the kids learn how to track animals and throw spears (safely, of course!)
- Waterfall Fun: Splash around in natural pools and try your hand at fishing
- Star Party: The night sky here will blow your mind – zero light pollution means amazing stargazing
- Village Visits: Meet local Maasai families and learn about their awesome culture
- Bug Safari: Kids love this one – it’s like a treasure hunt but for cool insects!
Location: Olderkesi Conservancy, Masai Mara, Kenya
Website: www.cottars.com
6. Sanctuary Olonana, Kenya – Riverside Family Glamping
Take family glamping to the next level at this riverside paradise. Sitting right on the Mara River, these luxury glamping tents offer prime hippo-watching territory. The family tents are super spacious (hello, private deck hot tubs!), and the kids’ club here turns glamping into an educational adventure – think beadwork with Maasai mamas and mini game drives just for the young ones.
Where You’ll Rest Your Head
There are 14 gorgeous suites scattered along the river, including some perfect for families. And we’re not talking about squeezing an extra bed in the corner – these family suites are seriously spacious! The kids get their own space, you get yours, and everyone gets to wake up to the sound of the Mara coming to life.
The Chill Zone
- Pool Time: The pool here is basically an infinity-edge wildlife viewing platform. Spot an elephant while doing your laps? Just another day at Olonana!
- Spa Heaven: Because game drives are basically African massages (if you know, you know). The real massages here will fix that right up.
- Food Scene: From fancy farm-to-table dinners to kid-friendly favorites, they’ve got you covered. Picky eaters welcome!
The Adventure Part
Here’s where the fun really kicks in:
- Game Drives: Hop in a specially kitted-out vehicle with guides who know every leopard’s favorite tree
- Meet the Maasai: Visit local villages and learn some killer jumping moves (warning: the kids might practice at home)
- Bush Walks: Get up close with the small stuff you miss from the vehicle – it’s like a real-life nature documentary
- Balloon Adventures: Want to make the kids’ jaws drop? Try floating over the Mara at sunrise. Trust us, it’s worth the early wake-up call!
Location: Mara River, Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
Website: www.sanctuaryretreats.com/olonana
7. andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge, Tanzania – Crater-Edge Family Glamping
This family glamping experience sits perched on the edge of an ancient volcano crater (don’t worry, it’s not active!), looking like something out of a fairy tale. andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge, perched on the edge of Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Crater, seamlessly blends Maasai-inspired architecture with opulent design, offering families a unique safari experience.
The Sleeping Situation
The family suites here are something else – imagine two massive rooms connected together, so parents can have their space and kids can have theirs. And the views? Let’s just say waking up to a 3-million-year-old crater outside your window beats any alarm clock!
The Fancy Stuff
- Your Own Butler: Yes, really! Each family gets their own butler who’s basically a magical problem-solver
- Spa on Demand: Want a massage in your room after a day of crater exploring? Done!
- WildChild Program: This isn’t your average kids’ club – think junior ranger activities that’ll have them forgetting their iPads exist
- Wi-Fi That Works: Because sometimes you need to make the folks back home jealous with your photos
The Really Cool Part
Get ready for some epic adventures:
- Crater Safaris: Imagine driving down into an actual crater to spot lions, elephants, and rhinos
- Meet the Locals: Hang out with Maasai warriors and the Hadzabe tribe (way cooler than any history lesson)
- Walkabout Time: Take guided walks around the crater rim – the views are insane!
- Picnic Goals: Have lunch on the crater floor – probably the most unique dining spot ever
- Lion Detective Work: Help out real conservation teams tracking and protecting lions
Hot Tip: The lodge is taking a beauty nap for renovations in 2025, but when it reopens, you’ll want to book way ahead – this place is like the hottest ticket in safari town!
Location: Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area, Tanzania
Website: www.andbeyond.com
8. Somalisa Acacia, Zimbabwe – Intimate Family Glamping
For a more intimate family glamping experience, this hidden gem in Hwange National Park is perfect. The elephant pool here is legendary – yes, you might share your glamping pool with a thirsty ele (don’t worry, there’s a separate pool for them!). Kids get their own special game drives and can help collect data for conservation projects.
Sweet Dreams Are Made of This
- The Fancy Tents: Forget everything you know about camping! We’re talking four super-luxe tents perched up on wooden decks, including two specially designed for families. Picture copper bathtubs, wood-burning fireplaces (because safari nights can get chilly!), and views that’ll make your jaw drop.
- Family Hangouts: The family tents are genius – connected rooms mean the kids are close but everyone gets their space. And those sliding doors? They open up to give you a front-row seat to the African bush show!
The Chill Zone
- Hangout Central: The main area is basically the world’s coolest living room, overlooking Kennedy Vlei where elephants love to hang out.
- Pool Time with a Twist: The splash pool isn’t just for humans – local elephants have been known to stop by for a drink. Talk about a unique pool party!
- Eco-Cool: They’re big on being green here – solar power and clever water recycling mean you can feel good about your stay.
The Adventure Part
Get ready for some serious fun:
- Game Drives: Hop in a safari vehicle and let expert guides show you Hwange’s superstars – from lions to leopards
- Walking Wild: Stretch those legs on guided bush walks – it’s like a real-life nature documentary
- Bird Bonanza: Bring your binoculars – the bird-watching here is epic
- Local Vibes: Visit nearby communities and get a taste of real Zimbabwean life
Location: Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe
Website: www.africanbushcamps.com/somalisa-acacia
9. Giraffe Manor, Kenya – Historic Family Glamping
While technically not a traditional glamping site, this unique property offers a luxury family experience that perfectly complements your safari glamping adventure. Where else can you have breakfast with giraffes poking their heads through the windows? It’s the perfect start or end to your family glamping safari, and kids absolutely lose it when they get to feed these gentle giants from their hands.
Giraffe Manor isn’t your average hotel – it’s basically a fairy tale come to life, where these gentle giants pop their heads through the windows to say hello.
The Sleeping Setup
Picture this: 12 gorgeous rooms that look like they’re straight out of Downton Abbey, but with giraffes! Each room has its own special charm, and some are perfectly positioned for giraffe visits. Yes, you might actually wake up to a giraffe peering into your window – how cool is that?
What’s Included (Pretty Much Everything!)
- All your meals (and trust us, the food is amazing)
- Drinks (except the fancy stuff)
- They’ll even do your laundry (because who wants to think about that on vacation?)
- Wi-Fi (for those essential giraffe selfies)
- Access to The Retreat, which is like a mini spa paradise
The Fun Stuff
- Culture Fix: Pop over to Karen Blixen’s house (the “Out of Africa” lady) for some cool history for families seeking a unique and educational experience in Nairobi.
- Giraffe Hangouts: Feed these friendly giants and maybe even get a giraffe kiss!
- Garden Games: Giant Jenga, anyone? There’s tons of outdoor fun for the whole family
- Forest Adventures: Take a walk in the woods and spot some incredible birds
- Conservation Station: Visit the AFEW Giraffe Centre and become a giraffe expert
Location: Karen, Nairobi, Kenya
Website: www.thesafaricollection.com/giraffe-manor
10. Madikwe Safari Lodge, South Africa – Malaria-Free Family Glamping
This malaria-free glamping destination is perfect for families with tiny adventurers. The ‘Eco House’ kids’ club takes glamping education to the next level – think bug catching, dung tracking (way cooler than it sounds!), and making casts of animal footprints. Plus, the family glamping suites have private plunge pools and outdoor showers for washing off all that bush dust.
Madikwe Safari Lodge: Where Family Safari Dreams Come True (Without the Mozzies!)
Looking for a family glamping safari where you don’t have to worry about malaria meds? Madikwe’s got you covered! This amazing spot combines all the luxury you want with all the wild adventures your kids dream about. Plus, there’s a kids’ club that’ll make them forget their iPads exist!
Where to Rest Your Head
- Lelapa Lodge: This is your go-to for family fun! Think spacious suites with private plunge pools (because who doesn’t want to cool off while watching zebras?), and outdoor showers that’ll make the kids actually want to clean up after a dusty game drive.
- The Other Spots: Kopano and Dithaba are super fancy too, but Lelapa is where all the family action happens. Trust us on this one!
The Cool Stuff
- Eco House: This isn’t your average kids’ club – it’s like a mini museum meets playground, packed with African artifacts and fun games. The kids might actually learn something (but don’t tell them that!)
- Kiddie Care: Need some grown-up time? The amazing child-minders here have got your back.
- Food Heaven: Finally, a place that gets kid-friendly food right! We’re talking healthy but fun meals that even the pickiest eaters will love.
The Really Fun Part
Get ready for some serious adventure:
- Mini Safari: One-hour game drives just for kids – perfect for those shorter attention spans
- Safari Club: Rock painting, cupcake decorating, dress-up fun – it’s like summer camp in the bush!
- Family Game Drives: Spot lions, elephants, and more with guides who know how to keep kids engaged
- Bush Walks: Get up close with the small stuff – perfect for curious minds
- Cultural Cool: Meet local communities and learn about life in the bush
Location: Madikwe Game Reserve, North West Province, South Africa
Website: www.madikwesafarilodge.co.za
Hot Tip: When planning your family glamping safari, book ahead – way ahead. These luxury glamping spots are seriously popular with families, especially during school holidays. And don’t forget to ask about special kids’ rates and family packages – many glamping destinations offer sweet deals during shoulder season.
Trust me, whether your kids are tiny explorers or tech-obsessed teens, a family glamping safari will blow their minds. Watching their faces light up at their first lion sighting or learning to track animals with a Maasai guide – these are the moments that make luxury family glamping in Africa pure magic. Just don’t blame us when they start begging to go back!
