South Africa is a beautiful country filled with gorgeous places and memorable experiences. Still, the memory could very easily deteriorate into one of horror when traveling with kids. As beautiful as South Africa is, you need to know just where to take your kids to make sure they have a wonderful time. Choose between lovely beaches, mountain climbing, Elephant Rides or a hot balloon ride, amongst others. And if you have the time, why not do it all! If your kids have fun, you will too.
1. Tswalu Kalahari, Northern Cape
This is the largest game reserve in South Africa. But more than that, it is one of the most beautiful places on earth. Experience Africa’s Safari lifestyle in luxury. This privately owned game reserve is one your kids will not stop talking about. Get to see baby Meerkats, Antelope, Cheetah and many other wild animals. You can even take the Safari on horseback! The most exciting thing is that children are welcome with a junior ranger program including bush walks with lessons on how to make and fire their own bow and arrows, and the opportunity for them to cook their bush dinner.
2. Teniqua Treetops
What kid would not love living in a tree-house for some part of their vacation? Fulfill their fantasies with this amazing eco resort. Get an exceptional view of the forest while you’re at it and who knows, you might spy some of its inhabitants. Warning: this is not suitable for toddlers!
3. Ant Collection, Limpopo Province
This is a very private resort that offers family Safaris. They are really flexible so you can get a safari to suit your family’s needs. Situated just 3 hours drive from Johannesburg, it is ideal for kids of all ages. They also offer horse riding lessons and children’s play areas with toys.
4. Salt Rock Hotel
A beach resort located on the shores of the Indian ocean, kids are just going to love this place. There is a playground not too far from the beach where they can run around and have fun. The hotel is child friendly and has a children’s games room. The kids also get to try their hands at fishing and if Dad and Mom are so inclined, they can pay a visit to the world class golf course.
5. Grootbos Private Nature Reserve
This private reserve is a romantic place to be but the kids are not left out. The treasure hunt is a highlight that takes about 45 minutes to complete and is suitable for all ages. Kids get to experience nature during the treasure hunt and get close to different species of bird and animal life. There is also a supervised playground available.
6. See the Whales
If you happen to be in Cape Town around July to November, you need to visit Hermanus. Apart from the really lovely view and the great beaches for swimming, this is the time the whales come out. Your kids would really be excited to see a whale or two, and so would you.
7. Garden Route Game Lodge
Not far from Cape Town, this is a reserve with so many animals and birds. The children’s program here is designed so as to stimulate interaction between children and nature. It is very nice.
8. Oudtshoorn
There’s just so much to see and do in this place that it’s difficult to know where to start from. At Oudtshoorn, you get to experience wildlife and even touch a Cheetah. There are these huge caves with limestone formations called the Cango caves and Ostrich farms. It is a place that older kids would really love.
South Africa is a wonderful vacation destination and is ideal for the whole family. Kids will have a great time if you just know where to go.
