Several years ago, the annual Virtuoso Luxe Report proclaimed that the multigenerational trip was one of the hottest trends in travel. A couple of years on, it’s one which shows no signs of abating – hardly any wonder as ever-increasing numbers of time-poor parents and grandparents eager to spend as much quality time with family as possible, are recognizing that a holiday is the perfect vehicle for doing this.
There are so many benefits to holidaying with the whole tribe. A great opportunity to reconnect, families can mix it up helping with the kids, with grandparents babysitting to give the parents a night off, while single grandparents get to travel and enjoy the company of family.
The secret to successful multi-generational holidays? Identifying the right destinations, and creating unforgettable experiences that will appeal to grandparents, parents and children alike. Unsurprisingly, more and more travel operators are recognizing this and are tailoring offerings to the needs of families traveling with younger and older relatives.
One of the most popular family get-together options, African safaris provide the perfect opportunity for multi-generational travel, incorporating everything from wildlife viewing and walking safaris, to canoe trips and cultural experiences with the Maasai.
To meet this growing demand, boutique luxury safari operator, Sanctuary Retreats now caters specifically to multigenerational travellers at many of its 12 African lodges and camps, with plenty of experiences and activities, which family members can opt in and out of and bond over shared interests. Popular safari destinations, Kenya and Botswana, offer up two of the best options.
Sanctuary Olonana, Kenya
Situated on a private stretch of the Mara River in the heart of Kenya’s most famous game reserve, the Masai Mara a key staging point for Africa’s annual Great Migration, Sanctuary Olonana is the ideal choice for a multi-generational safari. This small and exclusive camp is only a short 45 minute flight from Nairobi and offers an array of activities including game drives, cultural visits, bush dinners, sun-downers, balloon flights and scenic flights, making it a wonderful and unforgettable African safari for guests of every age.
Set in lush woodland on the banks of the Mara River in Kenya’s Masai Mara, a key staging point for Africa’s annual Great Migration, Sanctuary Olonana brings the outdoors inside, almost literally, thanks to fourteen spacious glass-sided suites, designed especially to maximise the wilderness experience for guests. Each one boasts over 130 sqm of floor space, with floor-to-ceiling glass folding doors providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the Mara River across the private decking.
Stylish, contemporary interiors are furnished with bespoke furniture including plush king-sized beds and elegant nature-inspired furnishings. Coolly elegant slate and marble ensuite bathrooms are equipped with rain showers, along with generous freestanding bathtubs – the perfect spot to relax and unwind after a long day of game viewing. Three suites also feature an extra bedroom, making them an ideal option for families.
Plus, there’s a broad range of family friendly activities on offer including tailored game drives, an excursion to a nearby Masai village to learn about how to make – and shoot, a traditional bow and arrow and mingle with locals and learn Masai songs and traditional dances, nature walks, bush treasure hunts and tree-planting.
And for parents and grandparents wanting a bit of ‘child free time’, baby-sitting facilities are available, and the Camp offers a delicious range of children-friendly menus.
http://www.sanctuaryretreats.com/lodges-camps-and-cruises/sanctuary-olonana
Sanctuary Chief’s Camp, Botswana
For the ultimate intergenerational family safari, it’s hard to go past Sanctuary Chief’s Camp. Renowned for its exceptional service, the camp is consistently ranked amongst Africa’s top resorts by Condé Nast and Travel & Leisure.
Located on Chief’s Island in the Mombo Concession of the famous Moremi Game Reserve, Sanctuary Chief’s Camp lies in the heart of Africa’s predator capital meaning you’re almost guaranteed to see the Big Five. Its 10 spacious bush pavilions are amongst the largest in the area, and each has incredible views over the surrounding Okavango Delta, which can be enjoyed from a private plunge pool or tranquil outdoor seating area. Bathrooms, which come complete with floor to ceiling windows and folding glass doors, also have a spacious outdoor shower and an indulgent, large bath tub – perfect for soaking in after a day’s game viewing.
Best of all, for families, Sanctuary Chief’s Camp has its own dedicated kid’s area, designed with children aged six upwards in mind. The area includes a fancy dress corner and a nature table, where guides are on hand to help young guests identify wildlife by their droppings – cause for much interest and amusement! There’s even an entertainment zone for children aged 11+ complete with a PlayStation and table football to keep them entertained well after the excitement of the morning’s predator safari game drive is over.
http://www.sanctuaryretreats.com/botswana-camps-chiefs
Extended Stay Offer
Now is definitely the perfect time to book a family safari holiday as Sanctuary Retreats is offering great savings of up to 40% when you stay at one or more of Sanctuary Retreats’ luxurious safari camps or lodges including either Sanctuary Olonana or Sanctuary Chief’s Camp for 4 nights or more depending on your season of travel.
Stay 4 – 6 nights and save up to 30%.
Stay 7+ nights and save up to 40%.
Terms and conditions apply.
