Are there any age limits on safaris?

Nature and wild animals is fascinating for young and old. But what are Rhulani’s age limits so that our guests can fully enjoy this experience in the “Big 5 reserve" of Madikwe?

"We welcome guests of all ages" says Rolf Steiner, owner of Rhulani. An unforgettable safari experience is independent of age. "Sometimes we celebrate a 90th birthday of a guest and look after a baby, while the parents are on safari," says Rolf. For our youngest guests, we are well equipped at Rhulani. We give the children a "Kiddie's Pack" as a present with toys out of the bush, we have a “Children's Corner”, we offer baby-sitting, and sometimes we allow the youngest even to go out with the Ranger on a small tour, the so-called "Bumble Drive".

There is no room for negotiation as regards safety and securityRolf Steiner, Rhulani's Owner

As nice as the experience is for all, a few restrictions on the age should be noted in advance to avoid possible disappointments.

Game Drives

Children under the age of 6 are not permitted on safari. "This rule makes sense," says Rolf. "Parents often think, that their young child must necessarily have an elephant or lion sighting to be happy." But a 3.5 hour game drive for some children is actually very long and boring, and they would be better entertained in the lodge looking, for example, for a millipede or a squirrel.

The reason for this strict rule is the protection for the other safari guests. There is nothing worse than having to return to the camp because of a troubled child in the middle of game drive, or having the tranquility at a lion sighting interrupted by a screaming baby", says Rolf.

From 6 to 11 years children may theoretically join the normal game drives. However, the ranger in charge reserves the right to exclude the child from safaris, depending on the behavior and overall impression. From 12 years onwards, the participation in game drives is guaranteed for all guests.

However, there is also the possibility to book a private vehicle (at an extra cost) for your family. There are then no age restrictions for children, but the ranger reserves the right to increase the safety distance in certain sightings with dangerous animals.

Bush Walks

Another age restriction refers to "bush walks", which can be organized in advance. There is a national law, which states: ‘No children under the age of 16 may be taken on walks. Persons over the age of 60 need a written Doctor's Bill of Health before being permitted on a walk.’ This law is strictly followed in Rhulani. For non-compliance rangers would be at risk to lose their job license, and more importantly, these age limits ensure the safety of our guests. Madikwe is a ‘Big 5’ reserve. There is no room for negotiation as regards safety and security," says Rolf.

We hope that our guests will understand if we strictly apply the rules for safety reasons and to protect the safari experience of other guests.

If you have any further questions please contact our Front of House.