When we first planned our trip to South Africa, we expected stunning landscapes, thrilling safaris, and luxurious lodges. What we didn’t expect was how deeply it would affect our family—especially our three kids, aged 9, 12 and 14.
Thanks to Hands Up Holidays, we went far beyond the usual sightseeing. We embarked on a luxury family volunteer vacation that opened our eyes, bonded us as a family, and gave our kids a new sense of purpose.
A Safari—and So Much More
Our adventure started with a few unforgettable days in the African bush. We stayed at Kwandwe, a gorgeous private game reserve where we spotted lions, rhinos, elephants, and giraffes—all from the comfort of a private safari vehicle, with expert guides and incredible hospitality.
But what made this trip truly stand out was what came next: the volunteer experience.
Volunteering in the Local Community
Chris at Hands Up Holidays arranged for us to spend three days volunteering in the local community, where we helped as reading partners, made new garden beds, assisted in the afternoon homework club, and our two eldest kids even gave computer training to staff. As part of our luxury family vacation, it was the icing on the cake.
For our kids, it was an awakening. They connected with children their age who lived lives vastly different to their own. They asked questions, listened, and began to understand the world outside their own bubble. It was making an impact in the most authentic and moving way.
Our kids also realized the power of human connection—language barriers melted away over shared smiles, high fives, and multiple games of soccer in the dusty schoolyard.
The Right Kind of Balance
This volunteering experience wasn’t about roughing it. Every evening, we returned to our luxury lodge. After gardening, I hugely appreciated the spa treatments on offer. We later headed to Cape Town and dined in top-tier restaurants, took a cable car up the mountain, and explored the Cape Winelands with a private guide. That’s what makes Hands Up Holidays so special—they blend impact with indulgence, fully tailormade.
I was impressed with how our vacation was so thoughtfully curated so we could give our best/explore amazing sights during the day and fully relax in comfort at night.
Why This Trip Changed Us
Our kids came home with more than stories about animals and adventure—they came home with empathy. They saw that their contribution could make a difference, and appreciated that we are fortunate to have the funds to travel, connect with other cultures, and help. They started asking questions about inequality, fairness, and what they can do to help in the future, perhaps even as a career. We saw our family grow closer, united by shared purpose.
This wasn’t just a vacation. It was a chance to reflect, reset, and reconnect—with each other and with the world.
If you’re seeking family luxury vacations with purpose, South Africa is an excellent choice. With its striking contrasts—between nature and urban life, luxury and hardship—it’s the perfect destination for families looking to explore, give back, develop empathy, and help their kids appreciate how fortunate they are.
- Stephanie Vanderhart traveled to South Africa with her family in July 2024