Embarking on a Family Adventure: Holiday in South Africa with a Child
Meet the Mulder family – Ivar, Joan, and our little explorer, Lise (3.5 years old). We decided to embark on a long trip before Lise starts primary school, and our destination of choice was South Africa. Our decision was influenced by the country’s stunning nature, abundant wildlife, and warm climate. We planned our visit during the fall, when the average temperature is around 25 degrees Celsius.
Instead of opting for a tour operator, we booked our tickets, car, and accommodation independently. And now, it’s time to kickstart our South Africa with child adventure! The 11-hour flight went surprisingly well, thanks to the inflight entertainment. Our first stop was the African Family Farm in Houtbaai, a paradise for children with plenty of facilities.
Exploring Cape Town and Surroundings
For the first five days, we explored Cape Town. We visited Table Mountain, watched the penguins at Boulders Beach (take the 2nd exit for a shorter walk), and went to Cape of Good Hope (watch out for the monkeys!). We also took a boat trip to see the sea lions at Camps Bay and Clifton beaches, visited the famous Cape Town Waterfront, the Two Oceans Aquarium, and Chapman’s Peak. The weather was amazing, with temperatures ranging from 25-35 degrees Celsius. However, the strong wind made it essential to use sunscreen. We bought a special UV protection suit for Lise and wore our hats diligently.
After five days of exploring Cape Town and its surroundings, we headed to Swellendam and the De Hoop Nature Park.
Tips & Tricks for Traveling in South Africa with a Child
- Always carry sunscreen & sunblock when outdoors.
- The Waterfront and its aquarium are a hit with kids.
- Houtbaai is an ideal base to explore Cape Town and its surroundings.
- Enjoy a picnic or dinner at “Buitenverwachting” in Constantia.
- If you love the sea, take a boat ride from Houtbaai harbor to see the sea lions. Lise loved it!
- The African Family Farm is a perfect place to stay with kids.
For those who love traveling with kids, check out our blogs on traveling with kids to Costa Rica, Sri Lanka, and our Top 5 holiday destinations with kids.
