African Explorations

Specialist Reports Special Interest Holidays Safaris Tailormade Safari Operators African Explorations 

	African Explorations
Afex House, Holwell, Burford, Oxfordshire OX18 4JS			MAP
tel: (01993) 822 443

Tailormade specialist on the ball on the issue of taking children. Feels lodges can be more flexible than appear, especially out of season and if children are part of a larger group and reports sending young children very successfully. Also points out that childcare in the lodge costs perhaps just £10 per child per day and many don't even charge, particularly if there is a charge for a young child's accommodation. Highlights the fact that Africans love children and will ensure that their safety is paramount. Also report that the guides love answering children's questions and are keen that they should have the best experience possible.

Recommendations

Could go to Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania and definitely South Africa, Botswana or Tanzania with camps in Botswana and Zimbabwe highlighted for charging only half price for children. Private tented mobile safari because then the issue of child acceptability doesn't arise. Reports a camp in Botswana takes children as young as six and some camps in both Kenya and Botswana specialise in family safaris, children being provided with their own guide and vehicle, meeting local tribespeople and bushment, learning how to track animals, light a fire and make a twig toothbrush. Meanwhile parents enjoy a full day's game viewing uninterrupted, meeting up for lunch or dinner. . Would suggest adding on mauritius because so many places where children can be looked after, for example the Paradis four-star hotel which feels very family-oriented and do not believe adults give up anything by being there. Other beach options include private beach houses in Kenya, plus smaller hotels in the Cape.

Sample Price

Adults for two weeks from around £2,000 in South Africa and from £3,000 in East Africa, children a little over half price at the camps which would recommend although in Uganda and Tanzania usually have to pay full price. A South African beach and safari holiday would start at around £2,700 for a family of four.