family safari
 

we are looking to go to africa next summer for a safari. We are 2 adults/ 12 year old and 14 year old.we are from the US

where can I find out information about tour companies?
thanks

Melissa

Melissa, there is a wealth of information via this board. To simplify your task and to give us some idea as to how to comment you might want to focuse on maybe a country or countries of interest, particular activities (ie, game drives, cultural, etc), approximation of budget, length of trip, etc. Even before that you might also review posts on this board to see what others have experienced. Use the search function, scroll further down and review the East Africa trip index posts prepared by one dedicated Fororite, and then begin to get a feel of what is out there. You will find all sorts of trips possible, some custom tailored, some package, budget/luxury, . Then, come back to the board with your questions. It may seem daunting but really need not be.
Dick

thanks
melissa

Melissa:
Here are the links to the trip indexes. They include information about the tour companies

East Africa Trip Index
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...p;tid=34725679

South Africa Trip Index

http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...p;tid=34772027

Lucky kids!

To answer your question...

Though not an all inclusive list, these companies have been used with success by members posting on Fodors. These all specialize in Africa, which is an advantage over companies that do a variety of destinations.

East Africa:
Africa Adventure
Africa Dream Safaris
Africa Serendipty
Eastern & Southern Safaris
Gametrackers
Go2Africa
Good Earth
Roys
Sunny Safaris
Southern Cross Safaris
WildTrek Safaris

Southern Africa:
Africa Adventure
Africa Travel Resource
Destiny Africa
Eyes on Africa
Fish Eagle
Go2Africa
Masson (camping)
Taga

Have a wonderful time and please post as your trip develops.

We went to Tanzania last year on a family safari. It took me months to find all the relevant information and to feel confident about the safari operator we were going to use. I really wanted to be sure of a successful trip, when we were spending so much money. We loved it so much that I decided to set up a company putting together trips with families in mind. Have a look at www.tastanz.com. The rates will be up this weekend. If you have more questions, I'll be glad to try to answer them.

depending on how luxuarous you want to make the trip you should also consider Green Footprint Adventures (for Tanzanian Safari) www.greenfootprint.co.tz

Hello Melissa,

Lucky kids indeed! :S-

One thing you'll definitely want to think about is whether you feel comfortable giving your children anti-malarial drugs. Most people cope well with the drugs, but some parents prefer not to give them to their children.

If you would prefer not to give your children the drugs, I would recommend South Africa, which has malaria-free game reserves.

If you are fine with giving your children the drugs, then any country is an option.

Cheers,
Julian

what are the side effects to the drugs?

Hello,

The side effects vary from drug to drug, and have been known to be more severe in children and the elderly.

Because of the type of malaria prevalent in southern Africa, you essentially have three choices: doxycycline (an antibiotic); Larium; and Malarone. The main side effects (or at least the ones patients are most bothered by) are as follows:

Doxycycline: Causes enhanced sun-sensitivity, so you will need some really strong sunblock. Heartburn and stomach upset common, so needs to be taken with lots of water in an upright position. Nausea and diarrhoea also possible. Women can experience yeast infections (a common side effect of antibiotics) so if taking this one you would need to bring some Monistat or similar treatment. Antibiotics are also prone to causing allergic reactions which result in itchy red spots. Needs to be taken for quite a long time (4 weeks) after you leave the malarious area.

Lariam (Mefloquine): Known for causing psychiatric side effects, ranging from free-floating anxiety to vivid (erotic, bizarre) dreams to psychosis. Not recommended for anyone who has had psychiatric problems, such as depression or anxiety, or for people with certain medical conditions (including cardiac arrhythmias). Can also cause headache, dizziness, and sleep disturbances (insomnia/drowsiness). The side effects are worse if you drink alcohol around the same time you take the drug. Taken once a week -- some people find it hard to remember this. Also needs to be taken for 4 weeks after leaving the malarious area.

Malarone (atovaquone+proguanil): Can interfere with sleep-wake cycles and accentuate jet lag, as well as causing headache, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhoea. Mouth ulcers sometimes occur. Only needs to be taken for a week after leaving the malarious area. Quite expensive if not covered by your insurance ($5/pill).

These drugs also interact with other drugs, so if you or your children are on any regular meds you should consult your doctor. No matter which one you take, it's a good idea to do a 'trial' with the drug before you leave -- that way if the side effects are unacceptable, you can switch.

Personally, I take Malarone. I did find that it made me sleepy rather earlier in the day than normal for the first day or two, but otherwise I didn't have any noticeable side-effects -- but everyone is different.

You can read more about malaria and anti-malarials on the CDC website:

http://www.cdc.gov/malaria/index.htm

Cheers,
Julian

thanks for the info about the drugs
melissa