South Africa makes the top 4 most child-friendly countries to visit in Africa (Getty Images/Thomas Barwick) When planning a vacation, especially with family, it's crucial to consider the destination's child-friendliness. A study by Go2Africa looked into the most child-friendly countries to visit, both globally and in Africa. Seychelles is featured as the top most kid-friendly country to visit in the world and in Africa, followed by Morocco and South Africa (on the continent).
For more lifestyle news, go to the News24 Life front page . There are many important things to consider when planning a vacation, such as the time of year, travel logistics, safety, and the list goes on, but another important thing to consider, especially when travelling with a family, is whether the destination is child-friendly. While solo travel and all other forms also require a crazy amount of planning, travelling with kids also needs a lot of consideration.
From choosing family-friendly hotels and activities to keep the kids happy and entertained to restaurants catering to their tastes and those little picky eaters. To find out which hotels are the most child-friendly worldwide and in Africa, tour operator Go2Africa identified states that are the best for families by finding out how many highly rated, family-friendly hotels, attractions, and restaurants there are in each location on Tripadvisor. ALSO READ | All the countries South Africans can visit without visas "Choosing the right country for your family holiday is crucial because it ensures that every member, from the youngest to the oldest, finds joy and excitement in the experience.
A well-chosen destination caters to diverse interests, offers safe and engaging activities, and creates memories that bind families together in a unique cultural tapestry," said Liesel Van Zyl, Product Manager and luxury travel expert at Go2Africa. These were then ranked based on the total percentage. Top family-friendly countries in Africa Focusing on African states, the study found that the Seychelles is the best country to visit with kids, both globally and in Africa.
It boasts the most family-friendly hotels, attractions, and restaurants, making it the top choice for parents. Some features that make it child-friendly are that various bays are shielded by offshore reefs, protecting young ones from the open sea. This also creates shallow waters that are much safer for children.
The country is also not known to have dangerous animals, natural disasters, or vaccination requirements. Morocco Second on the list is Morocco, which offers several activities to entertain both parents and kids. The country has historic cities that boast colourful markets, like Marrakech, Fes, and Chefchaouen.
It also offers elaborate architecture and lively street performances. South Africa South Africa ranked third as the most family-friendly country on the continent, offering beaches, lively cities, relaxing resorts and various Big 5 safari parks, including the Kruger National Park. Newsletter Daily Life Take a breather in your busy day with this curated collection of real-life stories, sitdown interviews, everyday tips and expert insights.
Sign up "Safaris provide an immersive way to learn about diverse ecosystems, conservation efforts, and the importance of protecting endangered species. The guided tours, led by knowledgeable local experts, offer engaging stories and facts that captivate young minds, making the learning process both fun and impactful. "Moreover, many safari lodges and camps are specifically tailored towards families, with accommodations and activities designed specifically for children, ensuring their safety and comfort," said Product Manager and luxury travel expert at Go2Africa Liesel Van Zyl.
The findings also revealed that South Africa has a well-developed tourism infrastructure that provides safety when travelling with children. Namibia Namibia came in fourth place, especially for families seeking adventure and unique experiences. This includes the Namibian safari in Etosha National Park to see elephants, lions, giraffes and other wildlife.
The country's accommodations have also been found to offer many kid-friendly programmes, including swimming pools and interactive conservation experiences, among many other activities. "The breathtaking landscapes of Africa—from the sweeping savannahs of the Serengeti to the lush wetlands of the Okavango Delta—offer endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. "These experiences help children develop a sense of wonder and curiosity about the world around them, fostering a deeper connection with nature," Van Zyl said.
On the global front, the top 10 countries to visit include Seychelles, Samoa, Costa Rica, New Zealand, Luxembourg, Iceland, Belize, Montenegro, Vanuatu, and Ireland. READ MORE | Explore Switzerland's spectacular peaks and lakes with one magical rail pass We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day.
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