So, full disclosure. We did Kenya and Tanzania (the Serengeti) about 10 years ago, pre-kids.
With young kids, you are really limited to Kruger National Park or outlying South African Parks (like Pilanesburg) because of the age limits in Botswana, Uganda, Masai Mara and other safari parks. South Africa's infrastructure is better, and you can't go off-roading, so therefore, it is kid-friendly.
BUT....
you get what you get.
It's a lot of luck, don't get me wrong. But I felt that the South African safari experience paled in comparison to our Kenya and Tanzania experiences.
Others concurred. And a few demurred.
There are tons of hotel choices. Book early so you have options.
Christmas time is peak season, so you do want to plan ahead.
December is quite cool and often rainy. So definitely dress and pack accordingly.
Evenings are quite cool... (climactic-ally and otherwise)
You'll easily see plenty of animals. Birds were a pleasant surprise. Some really lovely species.
Kid Friendly Tips:
#1: Get your kids some cameras (cheapie ones for Christmas perhaps!) They'll be much more engaged if they have something to do
#2: Have layers. Mornings and Evenings are quite cool. Hotels provide lovely, lined ponchos if it rains, but have scarves and beanies for the kids. My daughter wore boots and she was quite comfy as a result.
#3: Reiterating from my Joburg post. This was our first no-stroller trip. You especially don't need them on safari :)
#4: The all inclusive resorts are worth it. We had a lovely experience with great food, dance shows in the evenings, and a lovely experience with the game drives. South Africans are lovely about children. The chef would often make special items like grilled cheese sandwiches, french fries and chicken nuggets that were off-menu for my kiddos.
#5: We chose to take a hired van to Kruger from Joburg. I actually think the better option is to fly it and get transportation to your resort. OR, take your own vehicle and do self-drives if you're fairly confident. Infrastructure is great. The roads are fantastic. But it is a 5-6 hour journey. Have some devices for your kids to keep them entertained.
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