This 5-day family safari is specifically designed for parents travelling with children who want an authentic Big Five wildlife experience without the health risks associated with malaria zones. South Africa's North West Province is home to two exceptional malaria-free game reserves — Madikwe and Pilanesberg — both of which deliver outstanding game viewing in safe, family-friendly environments. Madikwe Game Reserve, one of South Africa's largest reserves at 75,000 hectares, was created through one of the most ambitious wildlife relocation programmes in history, the 'Operation Phoenix.' Today it supports healthy populations of all Big Five species plus wild dog, cheetah, and over 350 bird species. Your family-friendly lodge features inter-leading rooms, child-minding services, junior ranger programmes, and special children's menus — ensuring that parents relax while young adventurers are entertained and educated. At Pilanesberg, the reserve's unique location in an ancient volcanic crater creates a dramatic landscape where wildlife roams against a backdrop of hills and alkaline lakes. Specially designed family game drives with shorter routes, frequent stops, and engaging commentary keep even the youngest members of the family enthralled. Evening activities include stargazing sessions, bug hunts with torches, and storytelling around the campfire. This is an African safari that the whole family will treasure — safe, exciting, and designed to create lifelong memories for children and parents alike.
Depart Johannesburg in the morning for the approximately 3.5-hour drive to Madikwe Game Reserve in the North West Province. The drive passes through rolling highveld grasslands before descending into the bushveld. Arrive at your family lodge by lunchtime. The children are immediately enrolled in the Junior Ranger programme, receiving their own activity booklets and binoculars. After settling in, embark on the first family game drive — shorter than adult drives, with plenty of stops for questions, photos, and bush snacks. The guide keeps children engaged with games, tracking challenges, and wildlife facts.
Accommodation
Jaci's Safari Lodge — Family Suite
Meals
Lunch, Dinner
Experiences
| Group Size | Travelers | Price per Person |
|---|---|---|
| Solo / Couple | 1-2 pax | $2,400 |
| Small Group | 3-5 pax | $2,160 |
| Group | 6+ pax | $1,968 |
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Arusha, Tanzania
Professional destination management company operating across 7 African countries with dedicated teams, contracted suppliers, and local expertise in each market.
The tour includes accommodation, meals as specified in the itinerary, professional guide services, park fees, and all transfers during the 5-day journey. See the "Included & Excluded" section above for full details.
Use the booking widget on this page to select your dates and group size, then submit a booking inquiry. African DMC will confirm availability within 24 hours. Payment is processed securely through PesaPal.
Free cancellation is available up to 30 days before departure for a full refund. Cancellations 15-29 days before receive a 50% refund. Less than 15 days: no refund. Some operators may have specific policies that differ.
This tour is rated as easy. It is suitable for all fitness levels, including families with children.
Madikwe Game Reserve, Pilanesberg National Park is a popular and well-established safari destination. Your guide from African DMC will be with you throughout the journey, and all activities follow established safety protocols. We recommend travel insurance for all trips.
From
$2,400
per person
Solo / Couple pricing applied
From $2,400
per person
From
$5,800pp
