WHY RICKSHAW?

The Rickshaw Travel Group ("Rickshaw Travels") was founded in May 1988. From our humble beginnings as a small travel agency, we have grown and expanded into several countries and today have 28 years of experience in the travel business, both corporate and leisure... read more .

Yes, Take Your Kids On Safari!

At Rickshaw, our clients often ask us if safari vacations are appropriate for children. And our answer is a resounding YES! Vacations in Africa have their own sets of challenges and come with some concerns, particularly when children are involved. But the risks are minimal, and with a few safety precautions, you can give your children the adventure of a lifetime and a trip they’ll never forget. Here are a few reasons why your kids should definitely go on safari with you.

1. Kids Learn About Nature When They’re In It

Sure, your kid’s smartphone or iPad can show them pictures of plants, insects and animals in Africa. But a wifi-free safari will take their interest to a whole new level when they see all the plants and animals from their computers in real life. They’ll witness (albeit, sometimes in gory detail) the circle of life – they may see animals hunting, being hunted, or just guarding their meal till the next feast. Safaris bring things kids have only seen on screens to life, with all the touch, sounds and smells that go along with it. 


 

2. Give Kids Moments They Won’t Forget

Seeing an elephant or lion in the zoo is nothing like seeing the animal in its own habitat on safari. While the Lion King or Jungle Book may have given your kids a superficial appreciation for African animals, nothing will compare to the first time they see a lion sidle up to the safari vehicle right next to them, or the awe they will feel when watching wildebeest cross the Mara river during their migration. These moments may last minutes on safari, but they will live in your child’s memory for a lifetime, and they will create moments you cherish as a family for years to come.


 

3. Kids Will Gain A New Appreciation for Animals and Conservation

Giving kids an up close and personal experience with wildlife helps to build their empathy towards other living things. Watching elephants take a bath in the mud, lionesses caring for cubs or simply seeing all the animals on the reserves living and interacting can give children a sense of awe and wonder about the majesty of the animal kingdom, and an appreciation for its place and purpose in the world. It’s never too early for kids to learn about the vital role all animals play in our environment and giving them an up-close nature experience early in life can help set your kids up with a conservationist mindset for years to come.


 

4. Kids Will Learn About New Cultures

Kids are kids everywhere in the world, and giving your kids a chance to interact with other kids and people who are different from them can open their eyes to humanity in a whole new way. Though it may be initially shocking for your kids to see the ways of life of the cultures and tribes they’ll encounter on safari, it won’t take long for them to realize that kids everywhere are just like them – it doesn’t take long for a game of football to start when a ball is around, anywhere in the world! This experience can help your kids appreciate the life they have at home, while understanding that people are people, wherever they live on the planet.


 

5. It’s SAFE

Heed the advice of your guide, and your safari will be a safe and exciting family adventure. There are many places in Africa where malaria is a concern, but insect-repellent and long clothes go a long way in ensuring the health of the whole family. If you are especially concerned, there are malaria-free zones in South Africa and Namibia, but even in Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania, there are myriad ways to stay safe. Take the necessary precautions, listen to your guides, and use your common sense, while giving your whole family the trip of a lifetime.