Families love Kenya and Tanzania, whose reputations as East Africa's quintessential safari destinations are well deserved. In fact, popularity had led to some crowded national parks and reserves, but A&K avoids them by focusing on private reserves, sanctuaries and less-visited national parks. South Africa? It's a "world in one country," offering safaris, mountain treks, desert dunescapes and big-city sightseeing in one single trip.
East or south, these African destinations make you welcome with comfortable temperatures year 'round, daily flights from the U.S. via Europe and, courtesy of British influence, familiar foods and many English speakers.
Egypt sits at the top of the African continent, but it's a world away from Kenya or Tanzania in terms of culture and activities. What child wouldn't like to visit King Tut on his home ground? Most Egyptian itineraries are centered around a Nile cruise, since most of the places people want to see are just a scarab's throw from the water, and life aboard a Nile cruiser is self-contained and comfortable.
A&K operates its own fleet of Nile boats, and has its own private docking facilities in Luxor, Aswan and Kom Ombo. Expect some early-morning starts, designed to avoid crowds, and travel or sightseeing during the hottest midday hours. Yes, it can be hot, especially in June, July and August, but there is virtually no humidity and evening temperatures cool off dramatically.
