Travelling to Kenya with infants and children can be a rewarding and enriching experience for the whole family. From the majestic wildlife safaris to the stunning beaches and rich cultural heritage, Kenya offers numerous attractions that cater to families. However, travelling with young ones requires careful planning to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. This guide provides essential tips and recommendations for travelling to Kenya with infants and children, helping you create unforgettable memories while ensuring everyone’s safety and comfort. Kenya, with its diverse landscapes and vibrant culture, is a fantastic destination for a family vacation. Whether you're exploring the bustling city of Nairobi, embarking on a safari in the Maasai Mara, or relaxing on the beaches of Manda, there are plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy. This guide will help you navigate the challenges and joys of travelling to Kenya with infants and children.
Proper planning is crucial when travelling with young children. It is important you look for hotels, houses and lodges that offer family rooms, babysitting services, and child-friendly amenities such as play areas and swimming pools. Create an itinerary that balances sightseeing with downtime. Include activities that are suitable for children, such as visits to parks, conservancies, beaches, and cultural sites.
Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unexpected events.
Ensuring the health and safety of your children is paramount: Consult your paediatrician and get the necessary vaccinations for your children before travelling. Common vaccinations for Kenya include those for yellow fever, typhoid, and hepatitis. Kenya is a malaria-endemic country. Use mosquito repellent, mosquito nets, and consider anti-malarial medication as prescribed by your doctor. Stick to bottled or boiled water, and avoid raw or undercooked food. Ensure that children stay hydrated, especially in hot climates.
Pack wisely to ensure you have everything you need for your trip; carry passports, visas, travel insurance documents, and copies of important medical records. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing for warm weather, and warmer layers for cooler evenings. Don’t forget hats, sunglasses, and swimwear. Include basic first aid supplies, prescription medications, insect repellent, and sun cream. Bring essentials such as nappies, baby wipes, formula, bottles, and a portable crib or travel bed, however many lodges can provide cots. Nappies and wipes are easily available locally. A pram is also useful for exploring.
Tailor safaris to include shorter game drives and choose lodges with child-friendly programs. Engage in sandcastle building, snorkelling, and swimming in the warm Indian Ocean. Visit Maasai villages to learn about traditional Maasai culture, or participate in cooking classes to experience local cuisine. Museums, botanical gardens, and animal sanctuaries provide fun and educational experiences for children.
Be prepared to adjust your plans based on your children’s needs and moods. Carry a variety of healthy snacks to keep your children energised and satisfied between meals. Lodges can help provide those. Ensure everyone drinks plenty of water, especially in hot weather. Consider regular breaks to rest and relax, preventing your children from getting overtired or bored.
Travelling to Kenya with infants and children can be an exciting and memorable adventure for the whole family. With proper planning and consideration for health and safety, you can ensure a fun and stress-free experience. From the captivating wildlife to the beautiful beaches and rich cultural experiences, Kenya offers a multitude of activities that cater to families with young children. Embrace the adventure and create lasting memories on your family trip to Kenya.