There is a strong demand from families seeking a safari holiday in a malaria-free area, due to the health risks associated with taking young children to malaria-endemic regions. Lalibela’s prime location makes it an ideal choice for families traveling with children who wish to combine an unforgettable safari experience with visits to the Garden Route and Cape Town. To enhance the family safari experience, we have developed a thoughtfully designed children’s programme that balances adventure with quality family time. At Mark’s Camp, game drives are a true family affair—children aged 2 years and older join their parents on game drives. To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience, families with children of similar ages share vehicles, fostering a friendly and sociable environment. For the safety and comfort of our youngest guests, children under 2 years of age are not permitted on game drives. Instead, they remain safely at the lodge under the care of professional childminders. The children’s programme also includes a variety of engaging activities such as arts and crafts, educational games, bush skills and guided walks, and African storytelling. Specially prepared child-friendly meals are served, and babysitting services are available during select times—including during adult dinners and game drives.

Lalibela is a dedicated conservation project spanning approximately 10,500 hectares (26,000 acres), home to the iconic Big 5—lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo, and leopard—as well as other remarkable predators such as cheetah, hyena, jackal, and lynx. Unique to this region of South Africa, we are privileged to host vast expanses of Savannah Grassland, the biome with the highest carrying capacity. This rich environment supports large herds of plains game including zebra, impala, wildebeest, red hartebeest, blesbuck, and eland, which in turn sustains an impressive population of free-roaming lions. Game viewing takes place during the early morning and late afternoon, led by experienced game rangers in open safari vehicles. Should you have specific wildlife interests, please inform your ranger, who will gladly tailor the experience to accommodate your preferences while aligning with the group’s itinerary. Typical game drives last about three hours, featuring a refreshing coffee stop in the morning and a scenic sundowner break at sunset. Evening drives often return after dark, with times adjusted seasonally. We recommend bringing warm clothing even in summer, along with essentials like binoculars, cameras, and a sunhat. For guests seeking an extended adventure, optional late-night game drives are available by prior arrangement at an additional cost.

Big 5 Walking Safaris: Experience an exclusive Big 5 Walking Safari within Lalibela’s main reserve, guided by expert rangers. This immersive walk offers close encounters with Africa’s iconic wildlife, teaching tracking, animal behavior, and the sights and sounds of the bush. Suitable for guests aged 18 to 70. Weather dependent; bookings must be made during your stay. Additional cost, payable on departure at Reception. Soft Walking Safaris (Non-Big 5 Area): Lalibela’s expanded 2,000-hectare predator-free breeding zone offers soft walking safaris in a safe, relaxed environment. Ideal for families and all ages, enjoy up-close views of zebra, giraffe, warthog, and antelope, with an educational and gentle bush experience. Open to all ages. Weather dependent; bookings must be made during your stay. Additional cost, payable on departure at Reception.