No matter the differences in age and interest of the group, there are several wilderness destinations in Zambia that are family-friendly and ensure everyone has a great time throughout.

Keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife of Kafue National Park while on a game drive © Green Safaris

Great family memories can be created during the exciting adventures you take together in the bush or the quiet times spent sharing the highlights of the day. Away from the city and without the responsibilities of home, an exclusive wilderness escape is an excellent opportunity for the family to reconnect, unwind and share treasured experiences together.

The family wildlife safari escape

Whether exploring the bush on a guided walking safari, by 4×4 game drive or boat along the Kafue River, the natural beauty and biodiversity of Kafue National Park never disappoint. Kafue is the oldest and largest of Zambia’s national parks, found in the heart of the country’s western region. After leaving the hustle and bustle of Lusaka and arriving in Kafue, you will know what travelling ‘off the beaten’ track feels like.

Have your breath taken away by the beauty of Kafue National Park’s wildlife and scenery © Green Safaris

Despite its ideal proximity to the country’s capital as well as Livingstone, Kafue remains a sanctuary of pristine Zambian wilderness that doesn’t get crowded with other travellers. This is a rarity when in many other African parks and reserves you so often have another game vehicle in your sights. It is Zambia’s secret safari gem that supports an impressive variety of habitats that home a brilliant diversity of African wildlife. In terms of notable wildlife, Kafue is a global contender, as it has the most diverse antelope population and the second-highest population of African wild dog in the world. So while on your morning or evening game drive, keep a lookout for these and all manner of other creatures – large and small, feathered and furry, and all else in between.

Make a stop during your dawn game drive for a ‘bush breakfast’ in Kafue National Park © Green Safaris

The Kafue River is a permanent, deep stretch of water that plays an important part in the park’s ecosystem and is the lifeline for the entire country. Boating safaris offer a different perspective of the landscape and life you encounter along the way, such as hippos and crocodiles, buffalos and elephants along the riverbanks, and some of the 480 bird species. There is wonderful fun to be had fishing and cruising along the river at sunrise, sunset or for a special lunch on the boat.

Enjoy the Kafue River view while bathing the kids before bed in the Family Tent at Ila Safari Lodge © Green Safaris

Kafue has so much to offer the whole family, including luxury safari accommodation with dedicated family tents that guarantee the privacy and space needed for a comfortable stay. At Ila Safari Lodge by Green Safaris welcomes children of all ages and there are two luxury riverfront tents for families of four – an extra bed can be added on request for families of five – that have indoor shower and bathtub. The main bedroom has a king bed and is separated by a curtain from the children’s room that has two single beds.

The family adventure activity escape

Livingstone is home to Victoria Falls or Mosi-oa-Tunya, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, and at the top of Zambia’s list of destinations that are visited by travellers from across the globe. From a dip in Angel’s or Devil’s Pool to white water rafting and helicopter flights over Victoria Falls, Livingstone is well-known as the adrenaline capital of Zambia, so it is an ideal place for families that love a good adventure holiday.

Create special, shared family memories as you witness the mighty Victoria Falls together © Green Safaris

It’s not all extreme sports though, as there are ample relaxing activities on the Zambezi River like sunrise and sunset boat cruises, and fishing for a variety of species, including the fierce tiger. An added bonus to your family escape to Victoria Falls is that you can also experience a wildlife safari on a game drive through Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park. A tour on Livingstone Island is a great way to learn about the area’s natural and cultural heritage from a local guide while the Falls crash down close by.

Take time out for just the two of you, enjoying sundowners on the Zambezi River ‘Sand Bar’ © Green Safaris

A family-friendly stay at Green Safaris’ Tongabezi on the Zambezi River is an exclusive Victoria Falls holiday experience. It is complete with specially trained valets who take care of you and safely introduces your children (aged five and above) to the African way of life. Along with enjoying a fun and relaxing getaway as a family, Tongabezi creates separate hosted meals for the children so that you can unwind together with chilled drinks in hand on the Sand Bar or on the floating Sampan for a romantic river dining experience.

Kick back together in the outdoor lounge at the family-friendly Garden House by Tongabezi © Green Safaris

The Garden House is secreted away from the riverbank and enclosed by a private wall, making it particularly safe and private for a family with young children. It is a luxury home away from home stay, that can sleep a family of five in two full-size en-suite bedrooms. You have your own garden, plunge pool and outdoor lounge, along with large shared indoor living spaces, including a private dining room and bar.

Chat to us if getting away to a wildly beautiful destination in Zambia sounds like your family’s idea of fun.