Check out our list of recommended places to see & things to do when visiting beautiful South Africa.
African Family Safaris
African family Safaris
Want to know about the various African family safaris available? A family holiday in Africa must be one of the most rewarding and magical experiences a person can ever have. There is nothing more exciting than exploring the African wilderness together, seeing the abundance of animals in the wild, and learning more about each country’s welcoming cultures. It is a holiday that is sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.
Although the star of any family safari holiday will always be the thrilling game drives, the additional child-friendly activities and accommodation options are carefully thought out and suited for young travelers. Whether you’re looking for an adventurous escape filled with exciting game viewing or some time to relax and enjoy the beauty of the African bushveld, a family safari vacation offers something for everyone. We also recommend you check out the 10 things you simply must do when visiting South Africa.
What to consider when choosing your family safari destination
When it comes to an African safari the options are endless and it will all come down to who your family is and what they enjoy. Things that will need to be taken into consideration are the ages of the children, their hobbies and of course their sense of adventure. While some members of the family might love to spend hours and hours searching for wildlife, others might enjoy guided safari walks, cycling, horse riding, or learning about the heritage of the area. The answers to all of these questions will depend on which African county will be perfect for your family safari holiday. One of the biggest considerations will however be the age of the children. For families with very young children, it is advisable to rather stick to malaria-free environments which pretty much narrows down the options to only South Africa. Families with older children can venture into countries such as Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Kenya, Tanzania, and Mozambique.
The best time to go
There is no better or worse time to travel to Africa for a safari holiday. It is entirely dependant on what your family prefers. Vacationing as a family normally means traveling during school holidays. School holidays generally fall over December/January as well as during June and July. Depending on where you go December and January can be quite wet with scorching temperatures whereas June and July are slightly dryer and cooler.
South Africa – More than just the Kruger Park
Very young children (0-5 years) – Malaria free The Kruger National Park tends to always steal the limelight when it comes to a South African safari but keep in mind that South Africa is home to some brilliant other reserves such as Madikwe. Located just a few hours from Johannesburg, with excellent game viewing it's a great option for that safari holiday. Be sure not to forget about a self-drive coastal holiday visiting reserves in Cape Town, Durban, and along the Garden Route. A safari holiday to South Africa isn't complete without: - Learning to identify different animal spoors in the sand - Learn about the night sky and its constellations - Swimming, cycling, canoeing, and fishing - Checking out whales along the coast and visit the aquarium and waterfront. - Listening to stories around the camp-fire at night
Botswana Safaris
As a safari destination, Botswana offers so of the best safari lodges most with family-friendly tented camps and activities. It is a destination filled with adventure, so the age of the children is important. You'll get the opportunity to do activities as bush walks, river safari's, and even canoe rides down the Okavango Delta which will only be suitable for children over the age of 12. Botswana is great all year round. December holidays are wet and hot. Fly into the Delta, Moremi Game Reserve, or even Chobe National Park where you will get to see an abundance of birdlife and wildlife in their natural habitat including herd upon herd of African elephants. Bring your sense of adventure as you're sure to spot that once in a life-time sighting.
Namibia Family Safaris
Namibia has so much to offer for a family holiday. From some of the best game viewing on the continent to the arid desserts of Sossusvlei and even the picturesque coastal town of Swakopmund. Namibia is a safari destination perfect for children over the age of 6. If it's wildlife you're after you won't go wrong with a visit to Etosha National Park in Namibia. Here you'll find elephant, rhino, zebra, and giraffe all gathered around waterholes.
Kenya Family Safari options
Translated from Swahili, the word safari means journey and a family safari to Kenya is not only a wildlife spotting frenzy but an undoubtedly exciting journey. Dotted with exclusive lodges and by far the most interesting and popular culture, a trip to Kenya tops most people's bucket list. The vast grasslands in Kenya's national parks stretch for as far as the eye can see. Venture through Kenya to experience the Great Migration or travel further North to Lake Nakuru or Aberdare National Park. A family safari trip to Kenya is ideal anytime other than between March to May as that is the rainy season and is perfect for children over the age of 6 years.
Tanzania Family Safari Options
By far one of the most authentic safari experiences, a family trip to Tanzania promises exceptional game drives and cultural village tours. Get to visit a variety of National Parks from Tarangire, Lake Manyara, the Ngorogoro Crater, and the infamous Serengeti for your chance to witness the Great Migration here too. Lodges are kitted to cater to families big and small with a range of accommodation and family-friendly activities. Most families combine their Tanzanian safari adventure with a relaxing beach break in Zanzibar. African family safaris in Tanzania are certainly an option worth considering.
10 most adventurous things to do when visiting South Africa
The pride of Africa and its vast planes can be enjoyed in ultimate luxury. If you want the South Africa not only has breath taking scenery but is a platform for many activities that will literally take your breathe away.
Bloukrans Bridge Bungee Jumping
For some, the most breath taking would be bungee jumping 216 metres off Bloukrans Bridge in the Tsitsikamma area of the Garden Route. This is famous for being one of the worlds highest commercial bungee jumps. You haven’t really bungee jumped unless you’ve Bloukrans Bridge jumped! Nothing gives one a sense of sheer adrenalin more than diving off a platform with a cord tied to oneself and seeing the ground in the distant future. The Bloukrans Bridge is world-famous in the bungee-jumping community, so get those “big boy” or “big girl” pants on, and give it a go. Getting to the bridge is extremely easy as it is located on the main highway on the Garden Route, so you have no excuses for not finding it! Also, because it is not far from the Bloukrans Bridge, we recommend stopping and visiting Plettenberg Bay, it is a truly beautiful coastal town.
Tandem Skydiving in Mossel Bay
Being airborne and on cloud 9 doesn’t end at bungee and swing jumping. Tandem sky dive from 10 000 feet in the beautiful Mossel Bay. Mossel Bay isn’t the only place to sky dive in South Africa, there’s also opportunities in Bloemfontein, Cape Town and Langebaan. The thrill of being in the air plus the exquisite views is a ticket to heaven. To get started, simply sign-up with any of South Africa’s many Skydiving clubs – they will provide you with all the information that you need to get started. You will need to do some training prior to your jump, so if you’re strapped for time, make sure you check out how long before your jump you need to be there. With South Africa’s majestic scenery, taking a jump will surely provide you with absolutely magnificent views, as well as providing you with an experience that you will absolutely never forget. Dont forget to purchase a video of your dive – most Skydiving Clubs provide this as an added extra.
Tswalu Kalahari
Tswalu Kalahari - covering over 110,000 hectares of grasslands and mountains, Tswalu Kalahari is South Africa’s largest private game reserve where only 30 guests are allowed at a time in order to preserve the authenticity and magic of South Africa’s deep wildlife. Through a combined effort of conservation from the lodge and its guests the aim is to leave behind a legacy for future generations to enjoy. Tswalu offers personalised and tailor-made experiences, the exploration of endangered wildlife, diverse habitats and of course conservation. All from the breath-taking private accommodation.
Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge
Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge - Madikwe game reserve is home to this exquisite private lodge that offers 75000 hectares of land, home to the big 5 and much more. Not only is the lodge set amongst boulders and a beautiful landscape but is strategically placed in the centre of the reserve so that guests get the upper hand in order to see the best that the reserve has to offer. Another important bonus is that Madikwe is a malaria free game reserve!
Singita Lebombo
Singita Lebombo Lodg e- Lebombo Lodge offers “front row seats” to the Kruger National park and is unique in its design and structure- juxtaposing contemporary with African for a dramatic and authentic twist. The private villa boasts a roof terrace, a wine studio, a rooftop view area, friendly staff and a pool. It also has a spa, private game walks, archery, a gym, a boutique and gallery, photography, cooking classes and game drives. This lodge gives definition to exploring wildlife in style.
Royal Malewane
Royale Malewane - The Kruger National Park is home to phenomenal wildlife butt also to this luxury lodge which is situated in the greater areas of the park in the Thorny Bush Private Game Reserve. Royale Malewane offers modern luxuries in an authentic setting. The game viewings cannot be rivalled as the guides are some of the best there is and are known for getting right up close to the big 5. After a long day of sight seating guests are invited to unwind at the luxury spa. The combination of relaxation and exploration is perfection.
Ivory Lodge Lion Sands
Ivory Lodge Lion Sands - situated in Mpumalanga, Ivory Lodge is not only heaven on earth but built from earth. Steel, wood, thatch, grass, water and sand is used to create the lodge and connect guests to nature in every possible way causing the experience to be holistic and multi- dimensional. Many of the Villa’s over look the Sabie River and other comforts include a lounge and dining area, a gym, an art gallery and a spa.
Thanda Kwazulu Natal
Thanda Safari - “Thanda” means “love” in isiZulu and that’s exactly what it portrays. A love for nature, a love for animals and a love for the Zulu culture. The experience, which can be found in the KwaZulu Natal, includes wildlife at its finest, magnificent staying quarters and an immersive experience in the culture. There is also a strong emphasis on conservation for future generations, because beauty like this should last many lifetimes!
Wine Estates near Cape Town – Discover 8 of the very best
Wine Farms SOUTH AFRICA - 8 OF THE VERY BEST
Sit back, relax and enjoy the show… with a glass of wine of course. South Africa is famous for many things, but its wine farms boast some of the best in the world. Like everything else South Africa does, the wine is made with a passion and a special flair and can be drunk alongside some of the most beautiful scenery. If you’d like to age as well as some of these bottles, come check out the 8 best spots to de stress, soak in some spectacular scenery and drink in some liquid heaven in the form of wine.
Babylonstoren
Babylonstoren – mentioned first is the trendy wine farm Babylonstoren, found on Klapmuts Simondium Road, Simondium, it differs from the other wine farms as it places emphasis on organic food and dining. Babylonstoren has two unique restaurants which offer a “pick, clean and serve” philosophy as the food served comes straight from the garden and reflects the season at the time. Along with the restaurants, Babylonstoren offers a bakery and a tea ritual. Babylonstoren dates back to 1692 making it one of the best preserved Cape Dutch farm in the Cape. Along with the wine and restaurants, there are breath-taking gardens, a spa, hotel, cellar and they even offer workshops.
Boschendal
Boschendal – claiming the title as one of the oldest wine farms in South Africa, Boschendal was founded in 1685 and is as exquisite as ever. Some things really do better with age. You can find the wine farm in the Drakenstein Valley (Pniel Road, Groot Drakenstein, Franschoek) among dramatic scenery of mountains, gardens and vines. On the estate are some awesome picnic spots, so its a great idea to take the whole family for a picnic in the tranquil surroundings. Boschendal has a rich history but more recently, in 2013, it was purchased by Sam and Rob Lundie where it has become an agricultural dream allowing local communities to prosper. Boschendal has produced many award-winning wines that have been acclaimed in the international market.
Fairview
Fairview – David and Victoria Beckham, Chrissy Teigen and John Legend, Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds, but there’s no better pairing than Cheese and Wine available at the magnificent Fairview farm. Wine and dine at Fairview where they offer some of the finest of both of those categories while still placing an emphasis on sustainable and artisanal produce. If you, like us are a fan of a good “cheese-and-wine” lunch, then look no further than Fairview. This is done by the micro- businesses that fall under the Fairview umbrella and has been done since its founding way back in 1693. Fairview can be found on Suid- Agter Paarl Road, south west Paarl – well worth a visit.
Groot Constantia
Groot Constantia – Groot Constantia is easily found in the buzzing city of Cape Town itself on Groot Contantia road, Contantia Cape Town. The wine farm gets its name “Constantia” after the Latin word for constancy or steadfastness which is a principle that Groot Constantia maintains today. A typical day at the wine farm would include exploring the Cape Dutch Manor house, see the wine museum and cultural history museum, wine tasting, inspiring South African art, world class cuisine, chocolate and wine pairing and walking tours of the vineyards and cellars. Sounds like a perfect day in the Cape.
Chamonix
Chamonix – Chamonix does something truly unique. The wine farm experience doesn’t start and end with wine, it has a private game reserve right next door so its not only nature and its beverages that are appreciated, but the incredible wild life as well (TIP: if you ask them nicely they will take youon a gamedrive at dusk with some of their splendid wines !). Not only that, but Chamonix also offers crystal clear, fresh bottled water from the underground springs in the Franschoek mountains. This spectacular experience is located on Uitkyk Street, Franschoek and brings together the synthesis of so many of South Africa’s treasures in a truly spectacular enviroment.
Delaire Graff
Delaire Graff consider their estate to be the “Jewel of the Cape Winelands” and it would be extremely hard to argue that this is not the case – located off Helshoogte pass in the famous Stellenbosch, Delaire Graff is truly heaven on earth. The majestic scenery is only a start, combined with luxury hospitality and doesn’t get better. Delaire Graff offers smooth and rich wine but also in depth art and culture but hosting some spectacular works of art. It also has a lodge and spa, an estate, dining option and boutiques offering some unsurpassed South African hospitality to all visitors.
Meerlust
Meerlust – Meerlust is proudly a family farm run by the Myburgh family since 1756 and can be found on the Helderberg side of the R310 to Stellenbosch. The farm has a historic manor house, classic wine cellar, family cemetery and a dovecote and bird sanctuary. The grapes grown on the estate for the production of the wine are grown with a special blend of tender love and care as they are carefully positioned to be cooled by the ocean breeze and therefore grow slowly and more succulently.
Spier
Spier– on Annandale Road, Stellenbosch you will be treated to an exquisite wine farm, Spier. Spier is built on a historical legacy but runs with modern times, creating a beautiful blend of past culture and current freshness. Spier is not only committed to its wines and food but to contributing positively to a sustainable environment. To this end, Spier have built an incredible Cheetah sanctuary to raise awareness about the plight of the Cheetah – to see these beasts is in itself an unmissable experience. Along with the wine it offers food, a hotel and a conference space.
Thanks for checking out our blog post “Wine Farms South Africa” Make sure to check out our Travel info page to get all the latest information before visiting South Africa. Also, we recommend considering a visit to the Addo Elephant National Park – include this when visiting South Africa, you won’t be sorry.
South Africa’s top 8 private game lodges
The pride of Africa and its vast planes can be enjoyed in ultimate luxury. If you want the game park experience but desire something with a more private edge, check out these gorgeous lodges to get tight and personal with a Simba and Mufasa of your own.
Sanctuary Makanyane Lodge
Sanctuary Makanyane Safari Lodge- this lodge can be found in the Madikwe Game reserve and offers a once in a lifetime experience (unless of course you can’t resist returning!), the lodge has a secure, raised sleeping deck hidden into deep into the magic of the bush where you and one other can sleep under the stars with each other, the gentle breeze and the distant call of being in the wild for company. Who says Tarzan and Jane only exist as a Disney story. Although, if this isn’t for you, there are still 8 other luxury lodges available made to blend into the rustic atmosphere and be environmentally friendly as well as beautiful..
Leopards Hill Game Reserve
Leopards Hill Game Reserve- Found in the western part of the Sabi Sand game reserve right next to the famous Kruger National Park. The game Reserve offers exquisite landscape views but also promises up close views of the big 5, of course with extra special leopard viewings. Along with the game drive they offer the opportunity for intimate bush weddings and world class cuisine on the deck of your own private lodge.
Tswalu Kalahari
Tswalu Kalahari - covering over 110,000 hectares of grasslands and mountains, Tswalu Kalahari is South Africa’s largest private game reserve where only 30 guests are allowed at a time in order to preserve the authenticity and magic of South Africa’s deep wildlife. Through a combined effort of conservation from the lodge and its guests the aim is to leave behind a legacy for future generations to enjoy. Tswalu offers personalised and tailor-made experiences, the exploration of endangered wildlife, diverse habitats and of course conservation. All from the breath-taking private accommodation.
Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge
Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge - Madikwe game reserve is home to this exquisite private lodge that offers 75000 hectares of land, home to the big 5 and much more. Not only is the lodge set amongst boulders and a beautiful landscape but is strategically placed in the centre of the reserve so that guests get the upper hand in order to see the best that the reserve has to offer. Another important bonus is that Madikwe is a malaria free game reserve!
Singita Lebombo
Singita Lebombo Lodg e- Lebombo Lodge offers “front row seats” to the Kruger National park and is unique in its design and structure- juxtaposing contemporary with African for a dramatic and authentic twist. The private villa boasts a roof terrace, a wine studio, a rooftop view area, friendly staff and a pool. It also has a spa, private game walks, archery, a gym, a boutique and gallery, photography, cooking classes and game drives. This lodge gives definition to exploring wildlife in style.
Royal Malewane
Royale Malewane - The Kruger National Park is home to phenomenal wildlife butt also to this luxury lodge which is situated in the greater areas of the park in the Thorny Bush Private Game Reserve. Royale Malewane offers modern luxuries in an authentic setting. The game viewings cannot be rivalled as the guides are some of the best there is and are known for getting right up close to the big 5. After a long day of sight seating guests are invited to unwind at the luxury spa. The combination of relaxation and exploration is perfection.
Ivory Lodge Lion Sands
Ivory Lodge Lion Sands - situated in Mpumalanga, Ivory Lodge is not only heaven on earth but built from earth. Steel, wood, thatch, grass, water and sand is used to create the lodge and connect guests to nature in every possible way causing the experience to be holistic and multi- dimensional. Many of the Villa’s over look the Sabie River and other comforts include a lounge and dining area, a gym, an art gallery and a spa.
Thanda Kwazulu Natal
Thanda Safari - “Thanda” means “love” in isiZulu and that’s exactly what it portrays. A love for nature, a love for animals and a love for the Zulu culture. The experience, which can be found in the KwaZulu Natal, includes wildlife at its finest, magnificent staying quarters and an immersive experience in the culture. There is also a strong emphasis on conservation for future generations, because beauty like this should last many lifetimes!
South Africa Holidays – A holiday for everyone
A guide to South Africa Holidays
If you’re looking for heaven on earth and a place that literally has something for everyone, look no further than the magical South Africa. South Africa holidays are truly some of the very best holidays that you can have. And we say magical because who would have thought that one country has so many tricks up its sleeve! South Africa is the ideal place for any holiday seeker as it offers more than one could begin to imagine.
For those big city people, Johannesburg is the ultimate bustling vibe but it’s not just any city- it’s got its unique cultural twist. Craft Art Markets in town are available over the weekend and the first Thursdays of the month, art galleries stay open late at night especially for this occasion and if you’re lucky you may even catch some live bands or salsa classes.
If this still isn’t exciting enough, try out some roller coasters in the famous theme park- Gold Reef City where rides and South Africa’s mining history combine to form an exhilaratingly cultural day. South Africa holidays can provide something for everyone to enjoy.
Another unique experience near Johannesburg for those adrenalin junkies is the Lion and Rhino park where you not only get to see lions in the wild, but you actually get to pat and play with rehabilitated baby cubs. This is definitely something to boast to friends about.
Near the Lion and Rhino park are the Sterkfontein caves which are not only home to some of the world’s richest fossil history but also home to Mrs Ples which is one of the most perfect pre- human skulls ever found. So not only is South Africa the perfect holiday destination but apparently the perfect place for pre-human inhabitation.
If this is a tad on the heavy side, take a break in Sun City (near Johannesburg), where the annual Nedbank Golf Challenge takes place. There is a man- made beach, casino, game park, water slides, luxury hotels, a golf course and much more! We’ve simply mentioned some highlights of the main city Johannesburg, we haven’t even glanced at the rest of the country.
Cape Town- one of the most beautiful cities in the world is home of Table Mountain, one of the 7 Natural World Wonders but also home of many other mountains to climb, explore and see views from. The mountains also contribute to the exquisite setting. But that’s not all. Along with mountains Cape Town has the best beaches in the world including Camps Bay, Clifton, Llundudno and Muizenberg which is picture perfect thanks to the little coloured huts that live on the beach. Each beach has a dramatically coloured ocean contrasted with perfect white sand and many exotic holiday makers in peak season. Boulders Beach even offers the opportunity to sun bath next to penguins!
What makes the oceans in Cape Town very special is that some beaches are off the Atlantic Ocean and the other beaches are off the Indian ocean. One can see the exact point where these two oceans meet! This is called Cape Point and is an absolute must!
For the cherry (or rather grape on top), there are breath taking scenic wine farms that not only offer top quality wine, food and venues but are also environmentally conscious. From Cape Town to more beautiful beaches in Plettenburg Bay one can take a scenic route called the Garden Route which is proof that life isn’t always about the destination but about the journey itself.
No good African holiday is complete without a safari. The Kruger National Park, Pilanesberg and many others are the perfect opportunity to live the African dream and see some of the Big Five which are Lion, Leopard, Buffalo, Rhino and Elephant in action. This can be done in the comfort of luxury lodges or even in tents to be as close to nature as possible.
Although the big cities are given most of the attention, there are many “off the beaten track” cultural towns on the East Coast which are untouched and exquisite.
Just when you think that this couldn’t get any better, South African people are known to be some of the friendliest in the world (any one would be living in such an awesome place), with rich culture, an amazing atmosphere and deep history which can be learnt about and re-visited and many museums. All these attractions can be done under the sunny skies and perfect weather that of course South Africa is also known for.
Come on over, catch some sun, befriend some lions or ancient skulls and participate in the incredible country where dreams really do come true. South Africa holidays are waiting to be enjoyed by all!
Check out the infographic below for some useful information, and please feel free to browse our website – you should be able to find the answers to all your pre-travel queries right here on our site, you are also free to Contact Us with any queries you mayhave – you can also find a ton of more information on Wikipedia
Useful infographic for travellers to South Africa