The Perfect Family Getaway
African Safari Family vacation getaway with children
African Safari Family vacation getaway with children

The Perfect Family Getaway

The year 2020’s restrictions shifted priorities and changed the way people travel. For example, where they go, who they go with, and what they do once they get there. From private game drives to exclusive use of facilities. There are many reasons why now would be the perfect time for a family-friendly (and Covid19-safe) breakaway. Especially to Jacana River Lodge, the perfect family getaway.

Jacana River Lodge comfortably sleeps up to 10 people. It offers guests the luxury of space – and the freedom to relax as they see fit. It lends itself perfectly to any larger group, particularly extended families. So, there’s something for everyone to do within the lodge’s safe, private, and comfortable environment.

Let’s Talk About Kids…

Trunelle Beukes, baby, Mariska Claassen, Jacana Lodge Game Veiwer

Hats off to the pioneering parents. Those who load their small children into a rugged vehicle and set off on a family getaway. Especially an overland camping safari, sleeping under the stars and roughing it with only the most basic of necessities. And honestly, while we applaud their resolve, we believe there are far easier ways of instilling a love of animals. As well as a connection to nature in children while still getting away from it all!

Most parents would like to establish an early, innate empathy and appreciation for wildlife in their children. The success of a bush holiday is dependent on several variables. For starters, its main activity, keeping still in a moving vehicle for hours on end, is something most kids abhor. Even the most ardent of young nature lover will eventually get bored!

As with any successful breakaway, the trick is to offer a variety of activities. Because you want to keep everyone in the group happy. In this regard, Jacana River Lodge is ideal. Quietly overlooking the Crocodile River, it allows for the most spectacular game viewing right on your doorstep. You can watch a herd of elephant slowly ambling to the river. Or simply how the sun sets over Africa. It is certainly a thrilling shared experience. It is also the stuff childhood memories are made of. 

Mom and children preparing food in Kitchen in Jacana Rivier Lodge

You are safe

At Jacana, you also have exclusive access to a private game vehicle and knowledgeable ranger. Thus allowing you to tailor-make the outing to suit all ages and interests in your party. It eliminates not only the often-awkward situation of sharing with strangers, especially when your kids start acting up!. But the guide will open up a fascinating world to your children. And so, turning the bush into an educational playground for young minds.

Children older than 12 can join in on a twice-weekly bush walk. Their attention will be focused on the little things. For example bird calls, animal tracks, the traditional uses of plants, and the often-overlooked world of insects and spiders.

Pro tip! Most 10-year-olds love ticking off animals on a list (and a challenge), so have one at the ready. Also, have enough binoculars on hand so each child can have their own.

The Best Of Both Worlds

Father and son in swimming pool watching elephant

Back at the lodge, you can relax in whichever way takes your fancy. Geared towards comfort, the private rim-flow swimming pool and air-conditioned interiors will keep you cool in summer; in winter you can cuddle up around a cosy fire. Enjoy a sundowner in the upper deck bar area while the sky turns orange. The calls of animals settling in for the night the only soundtrack.

Children can do the ultimate I-Spy from the viewing deck, gather around the pool table, swim or rediscover board games. You might want to insist on a digital detox. But your kids will be relieved to know that there’s full wi-fi and cable TV available! If you’re looking for intimate, private accommodation where you can gather in safety with loved ones, you’ve come home. Jacana River Lodge offers families and friends the best of both worlds. Stylish, luxurious comfort coupled with an authentic African bushveld experience. It simply doesn’t get any better than this.

Here are some tips for an African Safari family vacation. Follow us on Facebook for the latest offers

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