South Africa family holiday

Further north, the wildlife viewing in Kruger National Park is superb. Here you can stay in tented camps that enable you to best enjoy the wide skies and dramatic African landscapes. Nearer Durban, there are wetland reserves where you can spy crocs and hippos. The kids will also be intrigued by the traditional African cultures in Swaziland and KwaZulu Natal and inspired by the phenomenal scenery of the Drakensberg Mountains.

Why take the kids?

Some of our favourite activities on a South Africa family holiday include:

1. Seeing the Big Five on a Kruger National Park safari
2. Hiking up Table Mountain for superb views
3. Dodging penguins on Boulders Beach
4. Sipping local wine amidst stunning scenery
5. Thrilling to tales of Zulu battles at Rorke’s Drift
6. Witnessing unforgettable sunrises over the Drakensberg Mountains
7. Learning to surf on glorious beaches
8. Whale-watching at Hermanus

From all these many highlights, the most exciting for many children is a safari. Enjoy seeing your children as they gasp in awe at close encounters with elephants, lions, rhinos, and other big game. Kruger National Park and its surrounding private reserves offer particularly good game viewing thanks to some of the densest wildlife populations in Africa.

But a South Africa family holiday is not just about safari. Along the south coast, both Cape Town and the Garden Route are wonderful. In Cape Town, you can hike up Table Mountain, kayak past penguins at Boulders Beach, and shop ‘til you drop at the Waterfront. Robben Island is also a thought-provoking excursion for the children, with former prisoners accompanying you on a guided tour. Moving along the Garden Route there are endless activities against a backdrop of jaw-dropping coastal scenery. See our blog post for more ideas and photos of the best activities when holidaying in South Africa with kids.

It’s also worth noting that the time difference between the UK and South Africa is minimal, so you can hit the ground running without grumpy, jet-lagged children. Combine this with world-class wines, food, and hotels; you can see why South Africa family holidays are a surefire hit!

Example South Africa family itineraries

All of our South Africa family holidays are bespoke which means that they are tailor-made for your own specific family, taking into account the ages of your children, your interests, your budget, and so on. However, to give you an idea of what you could do on a South Africa family holiday, have a look at our sample itineraries Classic Cape & Garden Route, Kruger & Beach Family Safari, and Luxury KwaZulu Natal & Swaziland.

Also, check out some of the other places that you might like to visit on your family holiday to South Africa and if you need further inspiration, have a look at our South Africa photo gallery. Lastly, see what the weather will be like at the time that you want to travel.

Or simply give us a ring and we’ll be delighted to advise you on the best South Africa family holiday for you and the children.

Will all children enjoy a South Africa family safari?

For expert advice on family-friendly safaris in South Africa, and to compare with other safari destinations, check out our family safari holidays section.