South Africa is an excellent destination for family trips.
With its diverse wildlife, delightful beaches, exciting theme parks, and fascinating museums, there are many attractions that cater to both adults and children. The country is particularly well-suited to older kids who can make the most of the many outdoor experiences.
What Makes South Africa Good for Kids?
Traveling with kids in South Africa is relatively easy, offering child-friendly facilities and accommodations. Most larger hotels provide cribs for babies and toddlers, and occasionally extra beds are available, so checking in advance is wise. There are also apartments with kitchens for rent, allowing families to enjoy more home-like amenities during their stay.
Many family restaurants and cafes offer high chairs and kids’ menus featuring popular dishes like pizzas, burgers, pasta, toasted sandwiches, and fish and chips. Healthy options are generally available in the entrée or side dishes of the main menu.
Public transport in South Africa is limited; therefore, hiring a car is recommended for families. Major car rental brands are available throughout South Africa, including Avis, Hertz, and Budget, often offering lower prices if booked in advance. Tourist destinations are typically safe, allowing families to explore independently, although taking guided tours through Soweto and downtown Johannesburg is advisable.
One essential tip before you go: bring your child’s full birth certificate and passport when traveling to South Africa. If both parents are not accompanying the child, additional documentation, such as a letter from the other parent and possibly a court order, may be necessary. For more information on these requirements, contacting your South African embassy is recommended.
Where Is the Best Place to Go in South Africa for Kids?
The larger cities of Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban are ideal for families, offering excellent facilities and a plethora of family-friendly activities. These cities feature theme parks, water parks, indoor and outdoor play areas, as well as museums and zoos. Children will love observing wildlife and rich flora in the nature reserves and national parks. For those seeking a laid-back beach vacation, smaller coastal towns are perfect.
Best Things to Do in South Africa with Babies and Toddlers
Take the Cable Car Up Table Mountain, Cape Town
Table Mountain dominates Cape Town’s skyline, and the view from the top is nothing short of spectacular. When traveling with young children, consider taking the cable car to the summit — children aged four and under can ride for free. The cable car rotates during the ascent, providing stunning panoramas of the region. Once at the top, keep an eye out for dassies, small rodent-like creatures, or enjoy one of the accessible trails.
See the Penguins on Boulders Beach, Cape Peninsula
Boulders Beach, featuring stunning white sand and massive boulders, is home to a colony of endangered African penguins. Kids can observe these fascinating creatures up close as they beach themselves and swim.
Although the water is chilly, the beach is generally sheltered, making it suitable for young children to safely play and enjoy splashing around. Remember, however, to keep a respectful distance from the penguins, as they are wild animals. Other fun activities for toddlers include rock pooling and exploring the boulder formations.
Best Things to Do in South Africa with Young Children
Go on a Safari
An unforgettable experience in South Africa is going on a safari. While some younger children may find the journey a bit long, most will be enchanted seeing wild animals up close.
Consider an organized game drive to increase your chances of viewing the Big Five—lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and Cape buffalo—up close. For families with younger kids, opting for a private reserve can provide a more intimate experience with wildlife in less time. Older children can enjoy a visit to Kruger National Park, where they can observe animals in their natural habitat, offering a glimpse of what South Africa once looked like.
Visit Gold Reef City, Johannesburg
This gold-mining-themed amusement park has rides and entertainment for all age groups, from toddlers to adults. Families can gain insights into Johannesburg’s gold-mining history and take an underground mine tour, suitable for children over six.
Explore the Cango Caves
While in the Cape Winelands or traveling along the Garden Route, a visit to the Cango Caves is a must. The fascinating underground chambers and tunnels date back millions of years, providing a thrilling adventure for kids.
The guided tour is accessible for all ages, with knowledgeable guides keeping children engaged throughout the experience. Nearby attractions worth visiting include an ostrich farm and Cango Wildlife Ranch, where kids can meet various animals, including cheetahs and snakes.
Spend a Few Days at Sun City
The popular resort of Sun City in South Africa’s North West Province offers diverse activities for children, such as water parks, game reserves, and adventure parks. The Valley of Waves, featuring exciting water slides and wave pools, is a favorite among kids.
Supervised activities for younger children, including mini-golf, outdoor movies, and arts and crafts, ensure that families have plenty of options. The game reserves provide opportunities to see Africa’s Big Five, while zip lines and Segway tours cater to adventure-seeking older kids.
See Fossils at the Cradle of Humankind
For kids interested in history and science, the Cradle of Humankind is an excellent destination. This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts some of the world’s most significant fossil discoveries. Children can learn about human evolution through engaging displays and guided tours of the Sterkfontein Caves, where many fossils were found.
Best Things to Do in South Africa with Tweens and Teens
Learn About South Africa’s History
Older kids can explore South Africa’s complex history through its museums and historical sites. In Johannesburg, the Apartheid Museum offers valuable insights, while historical walking tours of Soweto provide a deeper understanding of the events that shaped the nation.
In Cape Town, Robben Island, a former prison where political activists were detained, including Nelson Mandela, presents an educational opportunity. Tours encompass key historic sites, the prison, and Mandela’s cell, along with scenic boat rides offering views of the beautiful city.
Explore Johannesburg’s Street Art
Joburg is known as Africa’s street art capital, and its vibrant art scene provides both visual admiration and insight into the city’s past. The Maboneng Precinct is especially known for its compelling street art, stemming from the city’s regeneration in the 1980s and ’90s.
Teenagers can learn about the significance of murals and graffiti on guided street art tours, some of which feature interaction with local artists. If time is limited, local history tours often include visits to notable street art locations and attractions like the Orlando Towers, famed for its stunning artwork and thrill-seeking opportunities.
This article was originally published on May 3, 2023, and updated on September 1, 2023.
