What is African Safari Group?

African Safari Group (ASG) is a luxury inbound safari travel specialist based in South Africa, founded in 2016. We plan bespoke safari experiences across Southern and East Africa for high-net-worth travellers from the UK, Europe, USA, and Australia, covering destinations including Sabi Sand, Kruger, Okavango Delta, Masai Mara, and the Serengeti.

Which safari destinations does African Safari Group cover?

African Safari Group covers all major safari destinations in Southern and East Africa, including Sabi Sand Game Reserve, Kruger National Park, Okavango Delta (Botswana), Masai Mara (Kenya), Serengeti National Park (Tanzania), Chobe National Park, Amakhala Game Reserve, and many more across South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Kenya, and Tanzania.

How does African Safari Group work?

African Safari Group provides a done-for-you safari experience. Our specialist consultants work with you from initial enquiry through to departure — advising on destinations, lodges, and timing, booking accommodation and flights, and supporting you throughout your trip. There is no obligation to book and no upfront costs for planning.

Is African Safari Group a licensed travel company?

Yes. African Safari Group is a registered inbound tour operator based in South Africa. Client holidays are protected under supplier-default insurance, ensuring bookings and payments are safeguarded in the unlikely event of a supplier becoming insolvent.

Who founded African Safari Group?

African Safari Group was founded in 2016 by Riaan Aggenbag, a South African entrepreneur and safari travel specialist. The company is co-founded and co-led with Dom Meulemans.

African Safari with Elderly Parents: Accessibility & Comfort Guide

June 10, 2026

SafariTravel TipsVacations

Can Elderly Travellers Do an African Safari?

Yes — an African safari is genuinely accessible for older and less mobile travellers, provided you choose the right destinations, lodge types, and activity level. Contrary to the assumption that safari requires physical endurance, the core experience — twice-daily game drives in a comfortable open vehicle — is available to most people regardless of mobility. The key is selecting lodges with accessible facilities, choosing flat terrain reserves (avoiding steep bushveld), and communicating any mobility or medical requirements to your safari operator clearly in advance.

Best Safari Destinations for Elderly Travellers

South Africa — Madikwe and Pilanesberg: Both malaria-free, with excellent lodge infrastructure, flat terrain well-suited to vehicle game drives, and strong medical access from Johannesburg (2–3 hours). Most lodges have accessible room options, and the dry Kalahari bushveld is less physically demanding than dense coastal forest environments.

South Africa — Private Sabi Sand Lodges: World-class lodge facilities with suite-level accommodation, short walking distances between room and vehicle, excellent medical evacuation protocols, and the highest standard of care and service. Some lodges offer accessible rooms with step-free entry and wet-room bathrooms; inquire specifically when booking.

Kenya — Masai Mara Luxury Camps: The Mara’s flat terrain and well-structured luxury tented camps are well-suited to older guests. Large comfortable tents with proper beds (not cots), short walks between tents and the main area, and professional medical support. Angama Mara and Governors Camp have strong reputations for hosting guests with mobility considerations.

What to Ask When Booking for Elderly Travellers

Key questions to ask your safari operator and lodge: Are there steps between the main area and guest rooms? Can rooms be on the ground floor? Is there a vehicle with a lower step height or a step stool/footrest for getting in and out of game drive vehicles? Is there air conditioning (important for guests with respiratory conditions)? How far is the nearest hospital or trauma facility? What is the emergency evacuation protocol and response time? Does the lodge have a nurse or first aid responder on site? Most quality lodges can accommodate elderly guests well if requirements are communicated in advance.

Game Drive Vehicle Comfort

Standard game drive vehicles are open Land Rovers or Land Cruisers with tiered bench seating — getting in and out requires stepping up approximately 50–70 cm. Most lodges provide a sturdy step stool and a ranger who assists guests in and out. Guests with severe knee or hip issues should inform the lodge in advance so the appropriate vehicle and assistance can be arranged. Drives are typically 3–4 hours with a mid-drive refreshment stop where guests can stretch; drives can be shortened or adjusted on request.

Medical Preparation for Elderly Safari Travellers

Carry at least double the required quantity of all prescription medications, split across hand luggage and checked bags. Carry a detailed medical summary from your GP listing conditions, medications, allergies, and emergency contacts — in English. Comprehensive travel insurance with emergency medical evacuation coverage is non-negotiable; ensure it covers all pre-existing conditions explicitly. Consult your GP before travel regarding anti-malarial suitability (some medications interact with common prescriptions).

Enquire Now — we specialise in designing accessible, comfortable safaris for older travellers and multigenerational family groups. Share your requirements and we will recommend the right lodges and itinerary.