OVERVIEW
South Africa presents an assortment of incredible locations for an overwhelming, mesmerizing and eye-opening experience. Whether it’s penguin spotting on Boulders Beach, trekking Table Mountain, tasting juicy wines in the Vineyard lands or gripping onto the sidebars of a 4×4 safari jeep as you spot the Big 5.
A family holiday to South Africa can be an unforgettable, educational and rewarding experience for every one. Whether you want to visit museums and iconic landmarks to explore South Africa’s rich heritage in more detail, or if you want to open your eyes to the outstanding variety of wilderness that awaits. With many hotels and resorts offering spacious rooms and suites, kids clubs and family friendly facilities, you can worry less about whether a South Africa holiday can accommodate your family’s needs.
Cape Town
Famed for its picturesque waterfront and majestic views of Table Mountain, Cape Town is South Africa’s heartbeat city, with its plethora of intriguing sights, friendly hospitality and its never-ending list of things to do. Table Mountain is around 600 million years old and is a truly iconic sight, whether seen from the bustling streets or on its top overlooking the gorgeous waters and surrounding city. Robben Island, now an UNESCO World Heritage Site, was used as a prison up until 1996 and is now used as a memorial to its inmates such as Nelson Mandela. Get in touch with nature at the Kristenbosch Botanical Gardens, featuring an impressive canopy walkway bridge where the trees rise above and tropical flora can be adored from above. A bucket list option for nature lovers is to walk the Cape of Good Hope, a section of the Table Mountain National Park, you can enjoy amazing sceneries, bird watching and cycling tours.
The V&A Waterfront is one of the most recreation tourist attractions in Cape Town, due to its varied choice in restaurants, bars, cinemas and cruises. Dating back to 1860, the V&A Waterfront is the ideal base for a lazy afternoon full of delicious food and tranquil views.
Sun City
Looking for the complete family getaway in South Africa? Sun City might just be the thing you’re looking for. Made up of hotels, attractions and world-class events, South Africa’s free spirit is let loose for you to take full advantage. Sun City is home to two 18-hole par 72 golf courses. Designed to maximize and challenge its contender, these designer-made courses offer spectacular views and a child-free afternoon.
Sun City’s water world offers plenty of fun, thrill and adventure. Learn to wakeboard, water-ski or jet ski, slide down an impressive 30m slide drop, or test your skilld in the Valley of the Waves surfing simulator. As the night draws in, the entertainment is just beginning, from latest box releases in the MovieZone, theatrical performances in the Sun City Theatre to Silhouette nightclub and boutique shopping areas.
Of course, nearby safari opportunities allow you easy access on exciting game drives. Madikwe Game Reserve is one of South Africa’s largest reserves just 90-minutes from Sun City. Spot the Big 5 and other animals such as cheetah, spotted hyena, giraffe, hippo, zebra and antelopes. Another choice is Pilanesberg National Park where you can also spot the Big 5 and elephants, lions, buffalo and leopards.
Garden Route
Head to the scenic sides of South Africa in the Garden Route, idyllic beaches, dreamy lagoons, picturesque lakes, rolling hills and hues of green upon green landscapes, the Garden Route allows you to savor the breathtaking country side in a tropical setting. Knysna Elephant Park is a wonderful experience to try while stying in the Garden Route, rescued from culls, the circus and orphaned calves; Knysna Elephant Park is a truly remarkable place. Spend the afternoon volunteering, going on elephant walks, enjoying an elephant back ride or enjoy the view from afar while staying in the elephant lodge. Swartberg Pass offers sweeping views, of the green lands, best viewed as a self-drive tour.
Read more about the best things to do in South Africa
What language is spoken in South Africa?
There are an outstanding 11 official languages in South Africa including Afrikaans, English, Sotho, Xhosa and Zulu.
What is the currency in South Africa?
Currency used in South Africa is the South African Rand.
How long does it take to fly to South Africa?
A flight from London to South Africa can take around 12 hours.
What is the time difference in South Africa?
South Africa is just 1 hour ahead of the UK.
When is the best time to visit South Africa?
South Africa enjoys all year sunshine, however June, July and August are classed as the winter season, with least amount of rainfall except for the Western Cape. This is the peak time for game viewing as shortage of water attracts animals to flock to watering holes. Read more about the best time to visit South Africa.
Do I need a visa for South Africa?
You don’t need a visa for up to 90 days of travel in South Africa. You will need at least 2 blank pages when presenting your passport at immigration, whether entering or leaving South Africa. For travel advice please visit this FCO website link.
Before heading on a thrilling Safari, discover Cape Town, from Table Mountain and Robben Island…
Know Cape Town More