Family Safaris

Looking for the perfect family holiday in Uganda?- Family Safari Holidays in Uganda

Msafiri Tours offers unforgettable family-friendly Family Safari Holidays in Uganda designed to delight both parents and children. From thrilling wildlife encounters in national parks to relaxing boat cruises and interactive cultural visits, our Uganda family holiday packages combine adventure, education, and fun. Whether you’re tracking wildlife, exploring breathtaking landscapes, or enjoying kid-friendly activities, a family safari in Uganda is the ideal way to create lasting memories together.

In Summary

Uganda is a spectacular destination for family travel, with activities suited to every age. From tracking primates in lush forests and spotting hippos on boat cruises, to cycling across savannas or enjoying watersports on the Nile, families can enjoy both adventure and cultural connection.

Share your children’s ages and interests, and we’ll help design a customized family safari itinerary—complete with lodge recommendations, kid-friendly activities, and the best travel timing. Below are some options we can combine into a tailored trip to match your budget and preferences.

Top Family-Friendly Destinations & Activities in Uganda

1. Entebbe & Entebbe Wildlife Education Centre

• Highlights: A gentle introduction to Uganda where kids can enjoy lion, giraffe, and chimpanzee exhibits, plus a walk-through aviary and play areas at the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre. 

• Nearby: The beautiful Entebbe Botanical Gardens offer birdwatching, picnic spots, and plenty of green space to let children run free

2. Ngamba Island Chimp Sanctuary

• Reachable by boat from Entebbe, this island sanctuary allows families to observe rescued chimpanzees up close during feeding sessions—an educational and heartwarming experience. 

3. Lake Mburo National Park

• A tranquil, smaller park ideal for families with younger children. Enjoy boat rides, guided nature walks, horseback safaris, and safe game drives. Notably, there are no lions here, which adds peace of mind for parents. To see more

4. Queen Elizabeth National Park (QENP)

• Offers classic safari thrills: game drives to spot elephants, buffalo, and the rare tree-climbing lions. Children also love boat cruises on the Kazinga Channel to see hippos, crocodiles, and abundant birdlife. Cultural visits add a meaningful touch. To see more

5. Murchison Falls National Park

• Uganda’s largest park, features dramatic waterfalls, boat safaris on the Nile, game drives, and possible chimp tracking in Budongo Forest. Excellent for older kids—very immersive and educational. Here to see more

6. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

• Best known for gorilla trekking (minimum age typically 15), but younger children can still enjoy forest walks, bird watching, and community visits. Here to see more

7. Kibale Forest National Park

• Famous for chimpanzee tracking (recommended for ages 12+); younger kids can enjoy Bigodi Wetland walks, birdwatching, and engaging nature and craft activities. 

8. Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

• Great for children aged 6+, where families can track rhinos on foot and learn about wildlife conservation in a safe, guided setting. Click to see more

9. Jinja & the Source of the Nile

• Ideal for families seeking active fun—boat rides, gentle tubing, horseback rides, zip-lining, and scenic walks along the Nile. Click to see more

10. Sipi Falls

• A peaceful, beautiful destination at the foothills of Mount Elgon perfect for light hikes, coffee tours, streams, and nature walks. Click to see more

11. Semuliki National Park

• A lesser-known gem featuring lowland rainforest, rich biodiversity with butterflies, birds, and primates. Great for families that want an immersive nature experience off the typical tourist trail.

12. Uganda Village Experiences

Go beyond the safari with authentic Uganda village experiences. Visit rural communities, meet local families, and discover traditional ways of life. Take part in farming, cooking, basket weaving, drumming, and dancing, while children enjoy local games and cultural activities. These experiences offer meaningful cultural immersion and support community livelihoods—making your trip both unforgettable and impactful. See Sample 

13. Uganda Volunteering Safari

Experience the best of Uganda by combining wildlife adventures with meaningful community work. A volunteering safari in Uganda lets you enjoy game drives, gorilla trekking, and cultural encounters while contributing to projects in teaching, healthcare, conservation, and local development. Perfect for families, students, and gap year travelers seeking both adventure and impact. See sample itinerary here

Family-Friendly Itinerary Example (7 Days)

A balanced itinerary often includes:

• Entebbe – wildlife centre & botanical gardens

• Kibale – for chimps and wetlands (ages 12+)

• Queen Elizabeth NP – game drives & boat safari

• Lake Mburo – walking, horseback, biking

• Optional: add Murchison Falls or Bwindi for thrilling finishes depending on kids’ ages and stamina. 

Suggested Family-Friendly Lodges & Experiences

• Wilderness Safari’s Bwindi Lodge (Bwindi NP): Spacious, story sessions, cultural visits. 

• Mweya Safari Lodge (Queen Elizabeth NP): Family suites, pool, Junior Ranger programs.

• Chobe Safari Lodge (Murchison Falls NP): Pool & play area, babysitting services.

• Kibale Forest Camp: Treehouses, birdwatching, fun for kids. 

• Ishasha Wilderness Camp: Tree-climbing lion sightings, bush breakfasts for families.

• Pakuba Safari Lodge (Murchison Falls NP): Family suites with stunning views, activities including hot-air ballooning and cultural tours.

• Kibale Lodge (Luxury): Eco-chic with butler service and deep chimpanzee encounters.

Travel Tips & Considerations

• Age Restrictions: Gorilla and chimp trekking typically require ages 12–15+; younger children can enjoy nature walks and sanctuary visits.

• Seasonal Planning: Dry seasons—June to August and December—offer the best wildlife viewing and safer travel conditions.

• Comfort & Safety: Opt for lodges with family amenities: pools, babysitting, kid meals, and flexible rooms.

• Health: Malaria prevention is essential—speak to your doctor, use repellents, long clothing, and nets.

• Pace & Logistics: Uganda’s roads can be rough; build in downtime and avoid jam-packed transfers. 

• Balance: Mix wildlife viewing with adventure and cultural interactions to keep children engaged—from dance performances to conservation education.