South Africa family holidays

Grootbos is set in a pristine nature reserve only a short two hour drive from vibrant Cape Town and 50km from the whale watching capital of Hermanus. Grootbos Nature Reserve has a  long-standing commitment to conservation, culture and community and preserves 21000 hectares of vulnerable fynbos vegetation as well as supporting the local communities in many different ways. A premier marine destination Grootbos offers the marine Big 5, whales, sharks, penguins, seals and dolphins right off its coast, with guests able to explore both the land and the ocean as part of their luxury experience.

Children of all ages are welcome at Grootbos, with a family friendly lodge and a whole host of activities tailored just for them. Combining adventure, fun and learning in a natural setting. Children can go on exciting treasure hunts, entomology excursions and trips to the beach on-site at Grootbos. Horse riding is popular as is the beach & cave experience where children can explore caves, swimming and rock pools.

The Madikwe Game Reserve is located close to the edge of the Kalahari Desert and offers a truly unique and diverse game viewing experience. This reserve is popular with families due to its malaria-free status and family-friendly lodges. At Jaci's Safari Lodge children as young as five can go on safari, all children can take guided tracking lessons and bushveld bread baking and childminding is also available for younger children ensuring the whole family can enjoy their stay. Lelapa Lodge at Madikwe Safari House offers a kid's adventure safari club where everything is taken care of to ensure children are having fun and learning at the same time.

Riverdene Lodge in the Shamwari Game Reserve offers an excellent kids programme, making children part of the adventure. With interconnecting rooms, a spectacular 'jungle gym' and childminders available for younger children this lodge is a fantastic choice for families visiting the Eastern Cape, an excellent add-on to a Garden Route self-drive or Cape Town stay.

Plettenburg Bay is the perfect stop for families along the Garden Route to take a few days out to relax by the coast. with apartment and villa style options there is plenty of spacious accommodation to choose from and plenty to keep the whole family entertained, having a car is essential to visit the many local attractions near to Plettenberg.

The Garden Route offers wonderful wildlife experiences perfect for the whole family. Monkeyland is a sanctuary home to many species of free-roaming monkeys, children can learn about these fascinating creatures and watch them up close as they explore the vast park. Jukani, a big cat sanctuary near Plettenburg Bay teaches about the conservation efforts designed to protect these majestic creatures and is home to some of the rarest species of big cat in the world.

South Africa’s seasons are the opposite of those in the UK – summer runs from December to March, while winter occurs between June and August. You’ll need to plan your South Africa trip carefully, for the best possible chances of seeing the ‘Big Five’ and other wildlife.

This is a great time to visit Cape Town or driving along the Garden Route. If you’re planning to go on safari in one of the Eastern Cape game reserves, summer is the best time to go. During these long, hot days, the animals tend to congregate around waterholes, making them easier to spot. 

Meanwhile, further north, Kruger National Park is a year-round destination. But the dry season – May to September – is the best time to go on safari here. The animals are easier to see at this time of year, as the vegetation is very sparse.