Family vacations in Africa: our top destinations

Are you looking for an idea of a destination for your next family vacation? Do you think that it is impossible to go on safari with the little ones? Do not panic ! This article is here to answer your questions. In South African Travellers we leave no one behind by creating itineraries suitable for the whole family: young and old included. Here are our top destinations for successful family vacations in Africa.

Family holidays on the Garden Route

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We start with our favorite family-friendly destination: the Garden Route in South Africa. Departing from Cape Town, rent your rental vehicle and set off with your tribe on an adventure up east and the Eastern Cape to Port Elizabeth.

The Garden Route is an extension of the Whale Route which begins in Cape Town. On your way you will stop at several key stages including our 5 big favorites:

Hermanus, the capital of whales

Hermanus is the whale capital but also THE destination for holidays with children. Whether you are a big or small child, the sight of these marine mammals in the bay of the coastal town can only leave you with a lasting memory. whales migrate to the shores of Hermanus from July to October each year.

Cruises departing from Hermanus or Gansbaai (a nearby fishing village) take you offshore to see the whales up close. Children are welcome on the boats from the age of 6.

For the little ones, don’t panic: you can also admire the whales simply from the Walker Bay waterfront promenade.

Pssst: If you stop in Hermanus we suggest you sleep in one of our unusual lodges in the area which offers chic and vintage caravans; happiness for the little ones who love the camping spirit without sacrificing the comfort of parents. Contact us for the organization.

Pssst 2: Read this excellent article from our favorite traveling mom on her stay with children in Hermanus to inspire you!

De Hoop Nature Reserve

This jewel of virgin Nature and ideal for a family stay. You will sleep in an authentic cottage in the heart of the reserve. Only a few kilometers from Hermanus, you will be able to admire the whales from July to November from the road that runs along the coast of the De Hoop reserve.

Other activities for holidays with children are: the many hiking trails to meet the antelopes of the reserve, mountain bike rides or even afternoons at the beach.

The reserve offers a few beaches, one of which is protected by a coral reef allowing waters much warmer than the South African normal! Ideal for family swimming.

Tsitsikamma: between kayaking and tree climbing

Tsitsikama is the star national park of the Garden Route for its high adrenaline activities while remaining suitable for families. Among them: kayak trips or tree climbing parks.

Most ? Cross the Storm River Suspension Bridge to create lasting memories in the hearts of your children. Perched above the ground, enjoy the thrill and panoramic views of the untouched nature of this corner of the world. A must-do.

Family vacations in the Eastern Cape reservations

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Addo Elephant Park National Park

Addo Elephant Park and the reserves of the Eastern Cape in general are the preferred destinations of families who wish to go on safari with the little ones. Why ? Quite simply because they are reserves located in malaria-free zones. No malaria means green light for families and younger children.

Addo Elephant Park is a national park in South Africa where the Big 5 circulate freely. The park is just a 30 minute drive from the city of Port Elizabeth. You can also reach the park as the final destination of your family road trip from Cape Town, via the Garden Route. Here again, our teams will assist you in organizing your tailor-made trip, at every step.

Read our article on Addo Elephant Park for more information about this true gem of South Africa!

Private Reserves of the Garden Route

Children under 6 are most often not accepted on safari in South Africa except in a few special cases where some private animal reserves are more flexible. Like those of the Eastern Cape and the region that revolves around the city of Port-Elizabeth.

In addition to being a zone without plaudisme, the private reserves of this region welcome children of all ages on safari. Including children under 3, on condition of privatizing your safari vehicle.

Here are our three favorite private reserves to guide you:

Botlierskop Game Reserve

Botlierskop is only 4.5 hours by car from Cape Town! It is therefore the ideal reserve to combine a safari with your family vacation in Cape Town. The reserve is also located in the heart of the Garden Route between Mossel Bay and George. You will meet 4 of the Big 5 including the lion, the elephant, the rhino and the buffalo …

Gondwana Game Reserve

Gondwana is the neighbor of Botlieskop, it too is only a few hours from Cape Town. Its more? You can meet the leopard there during your family safaris. Indeed, Gondwana welcomes 5 of the Big 5. But also the cheetah, one of the rarest animals in Africa, which likes to hunt in the 11,000 hectares of wilderness in the reserve.

Shamwari Game Reserve

The luxury asset of the Garden Route reserves. Shamwari means “my friend” in Shona, the language of the ancient local tribes. And for good reason it feels like home. The reserve houses 6 luxurious lodges to accommodate families or groups of friends as well as a camp.

The list is coming to an end although we would like to add many other gems from our favorite country. The important thing for us is that you know that there are several destinations in Africa perfectly suited to your whole tribe. If you want more information; Do not hesitate to write to us ; our rangers will be happy to organize your tailor-made trip .

See you soon on this side of the world,

Madder