African holiday with an 18 month old

[Samian]

Hi all,

My girlfriend and I are looking for holiday ideas in Africa with an 18 month old. We're interested in ideally a combination of beaches and Safari, although wanted to understand where is good that would have this while also being relatively child-friendly? Budget is a factor, so ideally somewhere that isn't going to bleed us dry.

Some early ideas include Mauritius, Gambia and South Africa, although we're open to any suggestions! Thanks

If you are planning to take 18 month old on safari would check there aren't age limits and vaccines needed.

Cape Town might work and the safari we went to from there takes all ages and no malaria tablets needed. The safari has children's play area. It's not the most wild safari but with an 18 month old don't think too wild would be a good idea. Called Acquila - we did as day trip but can also stay there though when we went years ago reviews said better as day trip.

There's also penguins on the beach around there. We stayed at Vineyard Hotel which was lovely and had pool and views of Table Mountain but maybe more child orientated places - we went without children.

Went to SA with my DS and DIL (who is South African) and their son when he was 22 months. It wasn't a great trip for them. Too hot and too dull for DGS. We ended up taking it in turns to stay at the various accommodations to look after him while others went on safari etc.
Maybe wait till he's older and go somewhere else now.

I love Africa so not discouraging that idea but I really wouldnt attempt a safari with an 18 month old, not sure if reputable safari companies would allow children that young. It would be very boring for a baby, lots of driving, you have to be out early or for evening drives.You arem't guarenteed to see animals or see them close up.You also need to be as quiet as possible. I really wouldnt fancy trying to keep an 18 month old quiet for two hours in a jeep.
Gambia is good for a beach holiday but apart from birds ( its great for birdwatchers) no safaris. Its relatively cheap and only 6 hours flight time as opposed to 12 for South Africa if that makes a difference to you.
Africa is a great continent to visit but I would leave the safari until the baby is old enough to appreciate it.

Even Cornwall was too much for us with an 18 month old! I would wait until he's at least 4 - he would get so much more from it.

Have you done a long flight with your child yet? They do get very bored, but every child if different.
We've just come back from SA recently and really enjoyed Cape Town. There is the most amazing aquarium there, food is great, very multicultural, penguins nearby,
We then went on to a place called Tswalu which is very welcoming for children and you have a private driver (which is what you would need if you have an 18mo) - that bit though was very expensive. Kids absolutely loves it - best trip ever, but mine are 12,10 and 7.

The other consideration is that your child won't remember their experience if you go now.