Before you scour the web or wade through travel brochures, outline your trip priorities. Once you've established a budget, define the type of wildlife safari you are seeking as well as the experience you are looking for. You will want to consider the age of the kids, their interest in nature as well as their ability to sit still and follow rules set by a safari guide. Understanding your child may be more important than knowing the age limit set by the outfitter.

Guided or self-drive safari? Jeep safari, elephant trek, bush walk, or hot air balloon trip? While nearly all of the above are suitable for families traveling with children aged 12 and up, not all safari activities are appropriate for young children and many outfitters have a set minimum age. Select an activity that is appropriate for the entire family.

The best time of year to view wildlife is during the cool, dry season from July through September when vegetation is thin and animals congregate at the few remaining water holes making them easy to spot. Wildlife viewing is best in the early morning and late afternoon, when temperatures are cooler and wildlife is easier to spot. While the weather in Pilanesberg is pleasant year-round, rain showers are likely from November to February. The average daytime temperature is 31° centigrade between September and April and 22° centigrade from May to August. The average nighttime temperature is significantly cooler both in summer and winter.

Equip each child with a camera and binoculars as well as a regional checklist to mark off all wildlife sightings. Pack neutral colored clothing (bright colored clothing can disturb wildlife and white shows dirt), hats, sunglasses, and sun block for the entire family. Plan to dress in layers, while early morning and late evening game drives can be quite cold by mid-day it is likely to be quite warm if not hot. Don't forget to include a bird and animal book and plenty of film. On game drives, carry more film than you expect to use.