With the draw of the Big Five, city sightseeing and golden beaches, South Africa family holidays have the potential to provide some of the most unforgettable memories you'll ever experience together.
Not only can you observe magnificent birdlife including the colourful Knysna turaco in places like Tsitsikamma, but you can also search for striking mammals in areas such as Addo Elephant Park.
The range of wildlife experiences available from north to south make the Rainbow Nation a prime location for African adventures. So, where are the best South Africa family holiday destinations?
In this article:
- Why Holiday in South Africa with Kids?
- Top Family-Friendly Destinations
Why Holiday in South Africa with Kids?
Holidays in South Africa with kids are excellent.
The country has a minimal time difference with the UK (GMT+2), as well as direct flight options. So, travelling here is easy for families, helping to provide a convenient and stress-free start to your holiday.
English is widely spoken, the favourable exchange rates offer affordable luxury and peak travel periods align with UK half term since the seasons are reversed. Spring is September—November (perfect for October half term) and summer is December—February (ideal for February half term).
This isn't to mention the spectacular cities, scenery, culture and wildlife experiences either!
1. Cape Town
Cape Town is a cosmopolitan city that offers so much for families.
It's one of the best places in South Africa for exploring the country's craft markets, art galleries, boutiques and wide range of excellent restaurants. Heading to the vibrant V&A Waterfront treats you to the sight of the iconic Table Mountain that dominates the skyline. If you're feeling adventurous, why not hike to the top?
Boulders Beach is another stop, located southwards on the Cape Peninsula and uniquely home to a penguin colony. Kayak on the waters for a great view of the aquatic birds as they waddle on the sands.
Our Family-Friendly Cape Town & Eastern Cape Safari visits Cape Town for a few nights, allowing you the freedom to explore the city how you please. Robben Island is an educational experience the kids will love learning about. It's where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 of his 27-year sentence.
You also get to venture along the Eastern Cape, including guided tours to see abundant and varied game from towers of giraffe to herds of zebra, eland, wildebeest and troops of vervet monkeys.
Prices start from £2,995 per person for eight nights.
2. Lalibela Game Reserve
Home to the Big Five of lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino, Lalibela Game Reserve is a brilliant addition for any family holiday to South Africa.
The conservation project, which is close to Addo Elephant National Park on the Eastern Cape, is malaria-free and spans across five natural eco-systems – providing an authentic game viewing experience.
Take your game vehicle out for a spin and spot a cluster of the 350 species of bird, from elegant blue cranes to fierce jackal buzzards. Predators like cheetah and jackal also roam the 10,500 hectares.
Between learning about their role in the natural world and Lalibela's conservation efforts, enjoy the spectacular views of lush savannah grasslands while the kids partake in a host of educational activities.
3. Kruger National Park
Established in 1898 to protect big game species in the far northeast, the world-famous Kruger National Park is one of the best holiday destinations in Africa.
Rare black rhino and white rhino species reside here, the former around thorny thickets and dense bush in the south and the latter occurring mostly in woodlands between the Sabie and Crocodile rivers. In addition, African elephants frolic in the tall grass and relish in mud baths!
Because of its diverse habitats, you'll witness many of the 150 mammals and 500 bird species.
Kruger National Park is a firm family favourite for its iconic animals.
In the south, the landscapes are more varied and the game plentiful. However, the north offers remote and unique landscapes such as the fever tree forests near the border of Zimbabwe and Mozambique.
At most lodges, dedicated children's safari programmes will keep your little ones occupied and teach them about the important work done to protect the local wildlife and build community.
During your visit, you may come across a herd of zebra or catch a glimpse of a lion in the wild!
Africa Travel Specialist
"Nothing beats the heart-pumping thrill of tracking a lion, watching in awe as it roams the African bush. In South Africa, opportunities to enjoy the best-quality safari experiences like this are booked up well in advance. So, it's best to finalise plans six to twelve months beforehand to guarantee your place."
4. Waterberg
Why not explore Waterberg, one of South Africa's best kept secrets?
Just a three-hour drive north of Johannesburg, these rolling landscapes of red mountains, rocky outcrops and rugged gorges present a wondrous setting for family holidays in South Africa.
Big game such as elephant and hippo make the 12,000 hectares their home while birdlife from great egret to black-billed barbet woodpecker populate the Waterberg-Nylsvley Birding Route.
Waterberg is perfect for a family adventure thanks to its mix of malaria-free reserves, diverse wildlife and plethora of exciting children's activities.
There are plenty of activities for kids to enjoy, too. Whether it's a game drive in Welgevonden or exciting wildlife viewing on horseback at Ant's Nest & Ant's Hill, every nature experience is entirely unique.
All-in-all, Waterberg is an excellent holiday destination in South Africa for family adventures.
5. The Garden Route
Over on the Western Cape and Eastern Cape, discover blue duiker in the indigenous forests along the The Garden Route.
As one of the best holiday destinations in South Africa, there are countless wildlife experiences here for you to discover across 300 kilometres, from the small town of Mossel Bay to the mouth of Storms River.
Whale watching is best at Knysna and Plettenberg Bay: migratory humpbacks between May—June and the southern right species June—December. For children, this is an utterly magical experience.
To explore the wonders of the Garden Route, you can combine it with Cape Town to immerse yourself in the region's natural beauty. After spending time in Cape Town, journey east and choose how to enjoy the pristine wilderness, from bungee-jumping to game drives or other adventures.
6. Madikwe Game Reserve
South Africa's North West Province is a diverse region known for its diamond mining history, agricultural roots and extraordinary wildlife experiences.
In its malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve, rare big cats such as caracal and serval roam the lands in search of prey while scrub hare and kudu actively avoid their predators.
Madikwe Game Reserve provides excellent accommodation for families. Tuningi Safari Lodge is a child-friendly option with four family villas and two family suites to choose between.
While you're in the North West Province, your younger ones can go treasure hunting for bush gems like nests, bones and snake skins. Or, if you have older teens, they may be more interested in taking part in an afternoon game drive with you in search of the smaller animals, birds and insects around the lodge.
To enjoy adventurous activities at Madikwe, this South Africa Family Half Term Safari with Cape Town includes a four-night stay at Tuningi. Plenty of experiences are arranged to populate your days with fun.
Prices start from £5,175 per person for nine nights.
7. Wild Coast
From strolling along white sandy beaches to watching birds navigate extensive indigenous forests, the Wild Coast is a haven for outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities.
West of KwaZulu Natal and east of the Cape, it has slightly different weather with sunny days and cool nights from April—September – lending well to walking tours of the cliff tops, beaches and rivers.
The Wild Coast is a place where ancient traditions remain very much alive to this day, and something entirely different to the more tourist-oriented areas like the Garden Route.
The Wild Coast is an ideal location for a family safari holiday with older children, as you can enjoy surfing, hiking, kayaking and relaxing on the beach.
Set up high on the steep cliffs overlooking the Mbotyi River estuary and the Indian Ocean in Pondoland, Mbotyi River Lodge is greatly placed for a family holiday in South Africa.
The emphasis here is on activities. Whether it's watersports such as kayaking along the river, hiking to waterfalls cascading over cliffs or horse riding on the local trails, there's something for everyone.
Mbotyi is also home to a natural habitat for more than 100 bird species and, from June—December, there's a good chance you'll spot whales and dolphins from the shore.
8. Drakensberg Mountains
Stunning views of escarpments, beautiful waterfalls and rivers teeming with lively fish, lush vegetation blanketing the terrain – The Drakensberg is a treasure trove of natural habitats where wildlife thrive.
Discover the area's ancient San rock art and nearby private game reserves, ideal for a safari with kids. Alternatively, you may want to experience a guided hike for insights into local history, nature and culture.
Located in KwaZulu Natal, the Drakensberg Mountains area – which is malaria-free – sees large herds of grazing reedbuck and eland in addition to soaring raptors inhabiting these awe-inspiring landscapes.
It's also worth noting that the bird watching trips at Maloti-Drakensberg Park provide plenty of sightings, from curious Cape vultures to graceful African marsh harriers.
Around the boutique Fordoun Spa Hotel, experience all the activities you could hope for: mountain biking through the farm's winding trails or rejuvenating in the private swimming pool, for example.
Africa Travel Specialist
"The Drakensberg is the highest mountain range in Southern Africa, a lesser-travelled location bordering the Kingdom of Lesotho. Fun-loving families will adore the array of activities on offer and the value for money is excellent. Think snow-capped peaks in winter and silver mountain streams meandering various walking trails in summer. For a magical experience, explore the Zulu cultures and combine your visit with a battlefields route and safari."
9. Port Elizabeth
Nicknamed 'the friendly city', Port Elizabeth is a bustling location set within distance of multiple wildlife reserves and parks – one of the most perfectly placed South Africa holiday destinations for families.
A short drive north takes you up to Addo Elephant National Park, where the Big Five live across the diverse landscapes of Karoo, grassland, fynbos, thicket and forest.
Although you'd normally use Port Elizabeth as a base to explore wildlife areas, there's also the option to encounter marine life along the coastline.
On a day trip to the white sandy beaches, you may spot a pod of dolphins from the sun-soaked shores.
But by embarking further via boat from late winter to the middle of summer, you can witness southern right whales and great white sharks in the crystal-clear waters!
10. The Cape Winelands
Just outside the city of Cape Town, you'll discover charming towns and lush gardens all throughout the Cape Winelands. South Africa's largest wine-producing region encompasses Stellenbosch (the second-oldest town in South Africa), along with the former Huguenot settlements of Franschhoek and Paarl.
Although some people tend to explore here on a day out from the capital, many prefer to prolong their stay at one of the outstanding boutique hotels and luxury guesthouses found in the region: Majeka House, Avondrood, Franschhoek Country House & Villas and The Last Word Franschhoek.
In the stunning verdant winelands, Babylonstoren treats you and your family to one of the best preserved werfs (farm yards) with over 300 years of history. While strolling through the glorious garden, you'll come across clusters dedicated to vegetables, berries, bees, plants, ducks and chickens.
Children under the age of two stay for free if sharing a room with their parents in a cot.
Our Winelands, Whales and Wildlife tour invites you to experience travel through South Africa and see all the stunning scenery alongside your loved ones. Combining a relaxing Cape Town visit with guided game drives and whale watching excursions, this leisurely self-drive is the ultimate family adventure.
Prices start from £3,650 per person for 15 nights.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the best family-friendly accommodation?
What is the best family-friendly accommodation in South Africa?
There are plenty of fantastic accommodation options for South Africa family holidays, from camps that immerse you in the surrounding wilderness to luxury hotels when you need some relaxation.
Some family accommodations in South Africa offer family-sized suites and kids’ clubs for children up to 12-years-old. La Plume typically has specials on where kids under 12 stay free. It supports the Meerkat Magic Conservation Project at Oudtshoorn and will be pleased to book a sunrise or sunset tour for you.
Hlosi Game Lodge offers a dedicated 'Kids on Safari' programme, where your little ones can partake in everything from arts and crafts to game drive time. There's also a 'kiddies drive with ranger spoor identification and bug catching', which is ideal for helping to pre-occupy them during their stay.
For further information, speak with our Africa Travel Specialists over the phone.
What is the best month to travel to South Africa?
South Africa is one of the best holiday destinations Africa has to offer.
It remains sunny throughout the year, with seasons the reverse of those in the UK. The climate does vary between regions while the southernmost past of the west, including Cape Town, has a Mediterranean climate.
Most of the rainfall occurs in the winter months. In the east, the sunshine remains year-round, with travel best between October—April. Summers are hot with short, heavy rains and winters which are dry and sunny though sometimes cold at night.
How do you get around South Africa?
On family holidays to South Africa, you can fly, drive or take one of the upmarket trains like Rovos Rail.
We offer self-drive holidays in South Africa if you prioritise good value – allowing you to flexibly visit most of the country. But for safari holidays to South Africa, you generally won't need your own vehicle as you head out with a guide in an open 4×4 vehicle in the mornings and late afternoons.
One thing to bear in mind is that local guides have better ‘bush eyes’, meaning you may be missing a fair amount by not making use of their expertise and skills. We have an excellent variety of group tours which cover all of the self-drive routes.
For smaller groups or more privacy, we can tailor-make your trip with a private guide and vehicle.
Book South Africa Family Safaris with Rainbow
Between the malaria-free nature reserves and exciting wildlife activities for your kids to discover, South Africa family tours offer something for everyone. Simply Click Enquire Now or Call Us to speak with one of our Travel Specialists to start planning your ultimate safari itinerary and create ever-lasting memories together.
