Kid-Friendly South Africa Itinerary Ideas
Did you know that South Africa boasts its own wine country? Or that there’s a marine version of the Big 5 your family can scope out by boat off the nation’s stunning coast? From Cape Town to the Garden Route and renowned safari parks like Kruger and Sabi Sabi, a wide world of adventures awaits.
Need ideas for a kid-friendly South Africa itinerary? Check out some of our recommendations on a visit to this jewel of Africa.
Picturesque Winelands on a Family Vacation to South Africa
If your family loves incredible views, soaking up sunshine, and exploring new landscapes, then a trip to South Africa’s Winelands marks the perfect day. The region specializes in award-winners like Spier, a popular Stellenbosch option, which you’ve got to taste paired with decadent chocolate.
What about activities for the kids? They can get their fill of grape juice and leg-stretching time as they run around Napa-esque vineyards and verdant pastures. For families that want to maximize their time and cover more ground, consider a segway tour add-on.
In the Devon Valley, dive into lunch at a traditional South African barbecue, known as a braai, savoring juicy meats and treats cooked over open flames. There’s even a DIY option if you and your kids want to embrace the cook-out campfire vibe. You’ll also find plenty of places kids can run around and let off a little steam. And there are opportunities to feed farm animals and scope out wallabies.
Top off the perfect day at the Spice Route’s quaint village in Paarl. Appealing to the interests and ages of various family members is a cinch here, and we dare you to run out of fun, unforgettable activities. They include checking out an art gallery, a glass-blowing studio, and tucking into yummy plates at one of the area’s many alluring restaurants. There are also craft brewery and beer tasting options and a biltong bar, if you’re after a little adulting.
Cape Town and Your South Africa Travel Plan
From its picturesque location to its fascinating admixture of old-world opulence and cutting-edge trendiness, there’s something for everyone in Cape Town. Think world-class dining, luxurious hotels, spectacular views, and a humming nightlife. In other words, it’s easy to fill a Cape Town itinerary in a flash.
The city’s architecture is steeped in German, Dutch, and English influences. The delectable cuisine will blow you away with mouthwatering options inspired by the best in Malay and African traditions. And you’ll find no end to wine bars, brandy tasting lounges, and fashionable nightclubs. If you’re looking to spend the evening in more kid-friendly ways, consider a cultural exploration at the ballet, opera, a dramatic theater, or a concert hall.
Of course, by day, the shopping scene is varied and appeals to every style and interest. For a change of pace, visit one of the vibrant student suburbs. Or head to a local art gallery to get your fill of contemporary trends and masterpieces.
History also comes to life in Cape Town. There’s no better place to explore the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela than on a trip to Robben Island. There, South Africa’s most beloved leader served nearly three decades in prison. A visit to the site provides a visceral understanding of what he endured and overcame for the greater good of the nation.
A trip to Table Mountain offers access to many other exciting attractions and experiences. These include a visit to the Cultural History Museum and the Castle of Good Hope. Be sure to schedule extra time to savor the incredible Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. In Bo-Kaap, see an impossible array of glowing pastel buildings. And check out the eclectic shopping at Greenmarket Square. For families interested in the operations of a working harbor, head to the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, which also acts as a magnet for shopping and entertainment.
Explore the Marine Big 5
No doubt, you’ve heard of Africa’s fabled Big 5—lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalo. If you’re considering a safari to Africa, often these are among the main critters you aim to cross off your list. But you may be surprised to learn there’s a marine equivalent. Better yet, you’ve got a good chance of checking them all off your bucket list in South Africa.
Depart from Gaansbaai by boat for Dyer Island, located approximately five miles off the coast. The island is an excellent spot for avian gazing, thanks to myriad protected species who make it their home. Inhabitants include African penguins, Giant Petrels, and Cape Gannets. Turning your gaze towards nearby Geyser Rock, get ready to see seals! In fact, the landmark provides habitat for 60,000 Cape Fur Seals.
But it also contains a dangerous secret. The channel between Dyer Island and Geyser Rock is known as Shark Alley, and with good reason. Great whites frequent the area opportunistically taking advantage of unlucky seal meals. The waterways in the broader area also attract various species of whales and dolphins.
So, what are the Marine Big 5? Great whites, southern right whales, Cape fur seals, African penguins, and bottlenose dolphins. In other words, a trip to Dyer Island puts you in the perfect spot to see all of them, and then some.
Consider a Garden Route Itinerary
When you hear the term “garden,” you might think of World War II Victory Gardens or perhaps the tight-laced, sculptured 18th-century landscapes of Europe. But in South Africa, the “Garden Route” references the mother of them all—the fabled Garden of Eden.
On this route, explore pristine beaches, untamed jungles and forests, and rugged mountain ranges. You’ll also get your fill of turquoise seascapes, verdant foothills, and dramatic cliffs punctuated by tumbling waterfalls.
At the mouth of the Storms River, enter the Tsitsikamma National Park, where lush landscapes and plentiful wildlife abound. If you’re after sandy beaches, head to Plettenberg Bay, and at Knysna, visit a town situated on a large lagoon and watched over by the iconic Knysna Heads.
Endless South Africa Safari Options
A trip to South Africa definitely requires a good old-fashioned African safari. In fact, consider it the cherry on top of a fantastic family adventure. Options are endless in South Africa for fulfilling this portion of your family vacation. They include touring the Eastern Cape, renowned for its malaria-free game reserves.
Celebrated options include the Mountain Zebra National Park. True to its name, the park is home to the Cape Mountain Zebra, a rare species. You’ll also have plenty of opportunities to see cheetah, buffalo, and jackals, as well as lesser-known species like bat-eared foxes and genets.
For a Big 5 experience, head to Addo Elephant National Park, renowned for its robust elephant populations. And Shamwari Eastern Cape and Camdeboo National Park are also well-established big game viewing locations. Other options include flying to Kruger National Park, considered the flagship of South African National Parks. This also puts you in convenient proximity to Sabi Sabi, a private reserve boasting luxury lodges and a bountiful array of flora and fauna.
Kid-Friendly South Africa Itinerary
Planning a trip to South Africa? There’s no end to the incredible adventures awaiting your family on a South Africa itinerary. Whether you’re after vibrant city life, a marine wildlife adventure, a traditional land safari, or a tour of the “Garden Route,” your family will fall in love with the possibilities.
Our Whole Village is here to help you plan a family vacation that’s out of this world! We can design the ideal itinerary based on your family members’ interests and ages. What sets us apart from the pack? Everything from our diverse local connections to our travel know-how and expertise at crafting meaningful, family-friendly itineraries.
We’re here to ensure that every leg of your itinerary is filled with chances for hands-on experiences, independent exploration, unique tours, and the best in local accommodations.
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