Fun Family Activities in South Africa

South Africa is a fantastic spot for family vacations.

With its varied wildlife, stunning beaches, thrilling theme parks, and captivating museums, the country offers numerous attractions ideal for both adults and kids. It's especially great for older children who can fully enjoy the wide range of outdoor activities.

Why is South Africa a great place for kids?

Traveling with children in South Africa is quite manageable, thanks to family-friendly facilities and accommodations. Most larger hotels offer cribs for infants and toddlers, and additional beds may be available—it's best to confirm when you make a reservation. You can also find rental apartments with kitchens and vacation homes for added comfort.

Many family-friendly restaurants and cafes provide high chairs and have kids' menus featuring items like pizzas, burgers, pasta, toasted sandwiches, and fish and chips. Some places even offer kid-friendly versions of local dishes. For healthier choices, you can often find suitable options in the entrée or sides section of the main menu.

Public transportation in South Africa is somewhat limited, so renting a car is advisable for family travel. Major car rental companies like Avis, Hertz, and Budget are available, including at the airport, though booking in advance can yield better rates. Tourist areas are generally safe, and you can explore many recommended spots independently; however, guided tours in Soweto and downtown Johannesburg are suggested for added safety and insight.

An important tip before you travel: bring your child's complete birth certificate along with their passport to South Africa. If the child is not traveling with both parents, you'll need additional documents, including a letter from the absent parent and possibly a court order. Check with your South African embassy for detailed requirements.

What are the top destinations in South Africa for kids?

The major cities of Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban are fantastic for families, offering facilities for young children, great dining options, and accommodations. They also boast a variety of family-friendly activities, such as theme parks, water parks, play areas (both indoor and outdoor), museums, and zoos. Kids will delight in observing wildlife and flowers in the nature reserves and national parks. For a more laid-back beach getaway, consider the smaller coastal towns.

Top activities for families with babies and toddlers in South Africa

Ride the cable car up Table Mountain in Cape Town

Table Mountain is a striking landmark in Cape Town, and the views from its summit are breathtaking. If you're visiting with young kids, the best way to reach the top is by taking the cable car—children under four can ride for free. You can also bring prams and strollers directly onto the car, but if you plan to explore the mountain trails, a baby carrier or sling may be more convenient.

The cable car journey is an experience in itself, rotating slowly as it ascends the mountain, providing stunning views of Cape Town and its surroundings. Once you reach the summit, don’t forget to scan the area for dassies, small creatures resembling guinea pigs, or embark on one of the accessible hiking trails.

Visit the penguin colony at Boulders Beach, Cape Peninsula

This pristine white sand beach, framed by large boulders, is home to a colony of endangered African penguins. Kids can observe these charming birds up close as they waddle along the shore, swim in the clear waters, and interact playfully.

While the water may be chilly, the beach offers a sheltered environment with gentle waves and shallow areas, making it ideal for young children to splash and play. Just keep in mind that the penguins are wild, so maintain a safe distance. For added fun, babies and toddlers can enjoy rock pooling and exploring the unique boulder formations.

Top activities for families with young children in South Africa

Embark on a safari

One of the most exciting things to do in South Africa is going on a safari. While younger kids might find the travel times a bit tough, many will be thrilled to see wild animals up close in their natural environment.

Join an organized game drive to maximize your chances of encountering the Big Five – lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and Cape buffalo – up close. For families with younger kids, consider a game drive in a private reserve where a smaller area allows for quicker sightings. For older children, visiting Kruger National Park provides a chance to see animals in their natural habitat, offering a glimpse into what the country—and much of the continent—was like in the past.

Discover Gold Reef City in Johannesburg

This gold-mining-themed amusement park offers attractions and entertainment for every age, from toddlers to adults. Visitors can also delve into Johannesburg’s gold-mining history and take an underground mine tour (suitable for children over six). If you’re with older kids, consider pairing your trip to Gold Reef City with a visit to the nearby Apartheid Museum.

Uncover the wonders of the Cango Caves

If you’re spending time in the Cape Winelands or traveling along the Garden Route, don’t miss a chance to explore the Cango Caves. Kids will be thrilled to navigate the expansive underground chambers, tunnels, and impressive rock formations that date back millions of years.

The standard guided tour of the caves is suitable for all ages, with engaging guides who ensure kids stay entertained throughout. On your way to the caves, consider stopping at a few other attractions, such as an ostrich farm and Cango Wildlife Ranch, where children can encounter cheetahs, snakes, crocodiles, and more.

Enjoy a few days at Sun City

The renowned resort of Sun City in South Africa's North West Province offers an array of thrilling activities for children of all ages, such as water parks, game reserves, and adventure parks. The Valley of Waves, featuring exciting water slides and a wave pool, is particularly popular with kids.

Younger children can participate in supervised activities, including mini-golf, outdoor movies, and arts and crafts. The resort's game reserves provide chances to spot Africa's Big Five, while zip lines and Segway tours offer thrilling adventures for older kids.

Discover fossils at the Cradle of Humankind

The Cradle of Humankind in South Africa is a fantastic destination for kids fascinated by history and science. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to some of the most significant hominid fossil discoveries, including the renowned 'Mrs Ples' and 'Little Foot.' Kids can explore the evolution of humankind through interactive exhibits and take a guided tour of the Sterkfontein Caves, where many fossils were found.

Top activities for families with tweens and teens in South Africa

Discover South Africa’s history

Older children and teenagers can delve into the history of apartheid by visiting some of South Africa’s outstanding museums and tours. In Johannesburg, explore the Apartheid Museum or join a historical walking tour of Soweto to understand the pivotal events that shaped the nation’s past.

If you're in Cape Town, consider a visit to Robben Island, the former prison where political activists, including Nelson Mandela, were held. The tours guide you through historic locations on the island and inside the prison, allowing a look at Mandela's cell. Plus, the boat ride offers stunning views back towards the beautiful city.

Discover Johannesburg’s vibrant street art

Regarded as the street art capital of Africa, Johannesburg boasts a dynamic and colorful street art scene that not only captivates the eye but also reflects the city's history. Emerging from the city's decline in the 1980s and '90s, this art is integral to the current revitalization of the city center, especially in the renowned Maboneng Precinct where some key pieces have been government-commissioned.

Teenagers can gain insights into the significance of the city's murals, graffiti, and street art through guided street art tours of Johannesburg. These tours showcase the work of both established and up-and-coming artists, with chances to interact with local creative communities. For a quicker glimpse, many Soweto tours include a stop at the striking Orlando Towers, where the artwork on the former power station provides fantastic photo ops, and adventurous teens can even climb the towers or bungee jump from them.