Where to Go on a South Africa Family Vacation

South Africa is one of those places that seems made for family travel. Packed with culturally rich cities, wildlife typically seen in zoos, and beaches and landscapes you’ll never want to leave, it’s the kind of destination that captures kids’ imaginations and keeps parents in awe.

It takes time to get to South Africa, which is roughly the size of Texas and California combined, so a trip requires a bit of planning and ample days on the ground. For an ideal South Africa family vacation that showcases the best of the country, plan on spending two to three weeks here. Whether you’re spotting elephants and lions on safari, learning about Nelson Mandela’s legacy in Joburg, or exploring the stunning coastal scenery along the Garden Route, the country has something for every family member.

Broken down by region, here are the must-sees and top things to do in South Africa that will linger in your family memories for years to come.

Best Places to Visit on a South Africa Family Vacation

Northeastern Region

Take a safari in Kruger National Park

Ask anyone who has been to South Africa about their favorite part of their journey, and you will probably hear “going on safari.” The world-famous Kruger National Park is one of the best places to experience this unforgettable adventure. Known for its abundant wildlife, Kruger is home to the “Big Five” (lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo and rhinos). Families can join guided game drives tailored for kids that offer the chance to see animals up close while learning about the nation’s conservation efforts.

Many lodges within Kruger and its surrounding private reserves offer activities specifically for young adventurers, including safari walks, animal tracking and educational programs. Jock Safari Lodge, for example, offers a specialized kids’ program where they can track animals and go on junior ranger walks, while Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge provides family suites, a kids’ center and supervised game drives designed to spark little ones’ curiosity about the animals around them.

Beyond Kruger, reserves like Madikwe Game Reserve and Pilanesberg National Park also have lodges that feature child-friendly amenities such as play areas, dedicated guides and kid-focused game drives. Parents can relax while kids enjoy these hands-on experiences.

Discover adventure in the Drakensberg 

In eastern South Africa, the mountainous Drakensberg — one of many UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the nation — are perfect for outdoors-loving families, combining breathtaking scenery with adventure activities. Hiking trails here range from gentle walks through fields of colorful wildflowers to more challenging treks up mountain paths. Families can cool off by exploring hidden waterfalls and splashing in the natural pools beneath.

For those craving a bit more excitement, the Drakensberg has options like horseback riding, where trails lead through rolling hills and along riverbanks, and ziplining on adrenaline-pumping routes through forested areas. Or go river rafting and visit the local San rock art paintings; these ancient artworks date back thousands of years and tell the stories of the indigenous San people.

Have fun in Hartbeespoort

Known as the “Harties,” this family-friendly destination near Johannesburg and Pretoria is packed with attractions. Start with a ride on the Hartbeespoort Aerial Cableway for views over the dam, mountains and valleys. At the top is a Sky Park climbing course, a kids’ play zone and plenty of places to eat. The dam below is also a perfect spot for activities such as boat cruises to jet skiing, and there are picnic spots to relax by the water.

Afterward, make your way to the Bush Babies Monkey Sanctuary and Hartbeespoort Snake and Animal Park for encounters with local wildlife or visit the Elephant Sanctuary to interact with rescued elephants under expert guidance.

Uncover Johannesburg’s history

Johannesburg (or Joburg, as locals call it) is South Africa’s bustling heart of culture. It is also deeply connected to the legacy of Nelson Mandela, as this is where he began his legal and political career organizing and leading protests against apartheid. Landmarks such as his former home in Soweto, the Apartheid Museum and Constitution Hill are reminders of the struggles and victories of his journey.

Start your own journey at the Apartheid Museum, where interactive exhibits bring South Africa’s complex history to life. While some exhibits are best for older kids, the museum’s storytelling approach targets visitors of all ages. Then continue to Constitution Hill, a former prison where Mandela was held and now home to South Africa’s highest court. Families can take a guided tour, hear stories of resilience and justice, and see exhibits dedicated to the nation’s long battle from apartheid to democracy.

If you want to go back even farther in time, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the Cradle of Humankind. Located 30 miles outside of Johannesburg, this is one of the world’s most significant paleoanthropic sites with caves containing some of the oldest hominid fossils ever found.

Where to stay: The Palazzo Montecasino, located within Johannesburg’s Montecasino Entertainment Complex in Fourways, features spacious rooms and suites, a dedicated children’s play area and a beautiful outdoor swimming pool. It’s also close to additional attractions like the Lion & Safari Park.

Western Cape

Explore the Cape of Good Hope

Located at the southern tip of the Cape Peninsula, the Cape of Good Hope is known for its dramatic cliffs and ocean views, especially from the towering Table Mountain. With its flat-topped peak and sweeping views over the city, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a landmark begging to be explored. For a memorable ascent, hop aboard the rotating cable car, which offers 360-degree views as you make your way up to the summit. Once at the top, you’ll be able to take in the stunning views of Cape Town and the Atlantic Ocean.

If you have older kids who can manage the climb, hike to the top via several trails that wind up and around the mountain. Keep an eye out for dassies (rock hyraxes), which look like guinea pigs and can be seen lounging on the rocks.

Hobnob with penguins at Boulders Beach

Near Simon’s Town along South Africa’s southern coast, Boulders Beach is home to a colony of endangered African penguins. This beach is one of the only places in the world where you can get close to these adorable creatures in their natural habitat. The beach itself is protected, with boardwalks that allow visitors to observe the penguins without disturbing them, but it’s an incredible opportunity to see the penguins up close and watch them swim and waddle around.

Sip South African wines in Stellenbosch

South Africa is celebrated for its diverse range of wines, such as the widely produced Chenin Blancs and the signature red Pinotage. The country’s wine regions, particularly Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl, have embraced the idea that a day in wine country can be enjoyable for all ages. Spier Wine Farm in Stellenbosch is one of South Africa’s most family-friendly wineries, where kids can enjoy a grape juice tasting while adults savor Spier’s renowned vintages. The expansive grounds feature a dedicated kids’ play area, Segway tours for those eager to explore the farm and even an eagle encounter.

Watch whales in Hermanus

Hermanus is famous for its whale-watching opportunities, especially from June to November when Southern right whales migrate to Walker Bay. The town offers land-based viewing along its clifftop paths, where your family can spot whales breaching and playing close to shore. (For a closer look, hop on a boat tour that takes you out into the bay.) Adding to the charm, the town features a “whale crier” who sounds a horn whenever whales are in sight. You can learn more about these ocean creatures via the interactive exhibits at the town’s Whale Museum.

Delve into Cape Town’s museums

When you need a break from the great outdoors, visit one of Cape Town’s numerous museums. Try the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA), Africa’s largest museum of modern art, filled with sculptures, paintings and installations. For those interested in history, the District Six Museum offers a look into the neighborhood’s cultural heritage while a must for older kids is the Robben Island Museum, where Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years. Accessible by ferry, this museum offers guided tours led by former prisoners who share powerful stories of Mandela’s time there. Finally, the Cape Town Science Centre is great for younger children, with hands-on exhibits in science and technology that make learning fun.

Immerse your family in the V&A Waterfront

The V&A Waterfront is Cape Town’s lively harbor hub, perfect for families who want to shop, dine and stroll. You’ll find open-air markets, street performers and more than 450 shops filled with everything from South African crafts to luxury brands. The Watershed Market, a mix of unique souvenirs, artisanal foods and local art, is the place to find a piece of South Africa to take home with you.

For a hands-on experience with the kids, head to the Two Oceans Aquarium to see sharks, penguins and colorful tropical fish. Families can also take a ride on the giant Cape Wheel to admire the views from 130 feet. End the day with a sunset harbor cruise and then grab a meal at any of the family-friendly restaurants with outdoor seating and kid-friendly menus.

Where to stay: One&Only Cape Town, located in the V&A Waterfront, is a 5-star resort with spacious family suites and interconnecting rooms. The resort goes above and beyond to welcome younger guests with the KidsOnly Club for children ages 4 to 11, offering supervised activities like arts and crafts, storytelling and cooking classes.

Eastern Cape

Hit the road on the Garden Route

The Garden Route is South Africa’s stunning coastal stretch in the Eastern Cape Province that weaves through forests, mountains and picturesque towns. Starting from Mossel Bay and stretching to Storms River, it takes five to six hours from start to finish without stops, but you’re going to want to turn this road trip into a multi-day adventure.

In Tsitsikamma National Park, hike the iconic suspension bridges, try ziplining through the forests or kayak along the coast. You can even explore ancient limestone formations in the Cango Caves. Knysna is a charming stop with a peaceful lagoon ideal for boat trips, while Plettenberg Bay is a beach lover’s paradise with sandy shores perfect for dolphin and whale watching. Kids can watch monkeys at Monkeyland or feed ostriches at one of the many ostrich farms in Oudtshoorn.

Build sandcastles on the beach

Port Elizabeth (also known as Gqeberha) is home to a number of beautiful beaches, including King’s Beach and Hobie Beach. King’s Beach is a long, sandy stretch with calm waves and shallow waters that make it a favorite of families; it offers changing rooms, snacks and shaded picnic spots. Meanwhile, Hobie Beach is a bit livelier with cafes, a promenade and lifeguards watching over the surf.

Walk among giants at elephant parks

Across the country, conservation-focused elephant parks provide opportunities to connect with one of the most cherished animals on the continent: African elephants. As South Africa’s third-largest national park, Addo Elephant National Park is home to more than 600 elephants and families can drive through the park to observe them roaming freely.

Where to stay: Prana Lodge, a boutique beachfront resort with private suites surrounded by gardens, is nestled along the Wild Coast in Chintsa. Families can enjoy direct access to the beach and explore rock pools as well as go horseback riding. A beach house that can hold up to eight adults and four kids provides extra-spacious and private accommodations for larger family trips.

Relevant Links:

Browse all family-friendly accommodations and activities in South Africa on Ciao Bambino

72 hours in Cape Town with kids

5 amazing things to do in Cape Town with kids

Choosing the right luxury safari for your family

Essential tips for taking an African safari with kids

Editor’s note: This post was accurate when published. We advise checking independently for the latest information and updates. Ciao Bambino does not accept responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in, or for any actions taken based on, the information presented.