The possibilities are endless when planning a trip to South Africa. Here are a few options to whet your appetite.
Family Safaris
South Africa is the ultimate family safari destination, with the famous Kruger National Park being the favourite. But this is by no means the only safari option available.
Birding Safaris
Even first-timers soon get the hang of ‘twitching’, as they call it. South Africa has magnificent birding options in areas such as Nylsvley Nature Reserve in Limpopo Province and the iSimangaliso Wetland Park in KwaZulu-Natal.
Hiking Safaris
Walking in the mountains, through forests or along beaches is a treat for the whole family and there are a great number of suitable hiking safaris available. Popular hikes range from easy two-hour strolls to full-day walks and three-day trails for the super-fit.
Horse-Riding Safaris
For families who love a little adventure, why not become an African cowboy or cowgirl while visiting South Africa?
Flower Safaris
Another fantastic activity is going on a flower safari to see the Namaqualand daisies during the spring months of August and September. Fields after field of beautiful flowers – a sight to behold!
Driving Safaris
South Africa offers fantastic sightseeing opportunities. The most notable drives take in:
- The exquisite Garden Route featuring the Heads of Knysna, the beaches of Plettenberg Bay and the forests of the Tsitsikamma
- The Panorama Route in Mpumalanga which takes in God’s Window, Bourke’s Luck Potholes and the Blyde River Canyon
- The lunar landscape of the Northern Cape, at the centre of which is the exquisite Augrabies Falls.
- The majestic Drakensberg mountains
Rock Art Safaris
There are many places to view the rock art painted by our creative ancestors, the Bushmen. Rock Art holidays are fascinating and inspiring, with rich offerings in the Cederberg and the Drakensberg.
Train Safaris
A wonderful way to enjoy your time with the family is to take a train trip. Why not travel on the Premier Classe from Johannesburg to Cape Town while taking in the gorgeous scenery en route? If you’re looking for the ultimate in luxury then the Blue Train or Rovos Rail are for you. There are also a number of short steam train trips that are great fun. Try the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe in the Eastern Cape or The Banana Express along the South Coast.
Stargazing Safaris
South Africa is home to SALT, the biggest telescope in the Southern Hemisphere, which is situated in the small town of Sutherland in the Karoo. But you don’t have to go to the Karoo to stargaze; take a visit to the Johannesburg Planetarium at the University of the Witwatersrand or go on a stargazing safari in the Kruger National Park.
Taking Kids on Safari
Taking children on safari could be one of the most memorable experiences of a lifetime, but remember some of the exclusive private game lodges have an age restriction.
As long as one heeds the safety regulations, all South African National Parks are child-friendly, And some high-end luxury lodges have found ways to cater for children in fun and interesting ways. Among these are:
Jaci’s Safari Lodge
Jaci’s Safari Lodge in Madikwe welcomes children of all ages. Those under the age of seven are taken on their own special game drive called The Jungle Drive, which is geared towards kiddie’s interests. Jaci’s also provides babysitters for when the adults go on their game drives.
The great thing about Madikwe in the North West Province is that it is a malaria-free zone. When it comes to being on holiday with small children, this should be a major consideration for parents.
Ulusaba Rock Lodge
Richard Branson’s private game reserve in the Sabi Sands, Ulusaba Rock Lodge, has a Kiddies Club offering a range of activities to keep the little ‘uns occupied. Kids under six-years-old are not allowed to participate in regular game viewing or go on safari walks, but quick excursions around the lodge to spot insects and birds can be organised. The usual bedtime storytelling sessions (complete with cookies and milk) are also on offer.
Lukimbi Safari Lodge
Lukimbi Safari Lodge in the Kruger Park offers a range of programmes for children of all ages including Bush Olympics, lessons on Shangaan greetings, face and body painting, rock painting and wildlife videos.
Conservation Corporation
The exclusive CC Africa safari group also has a few lodges that are family friendly and include children’s programmes. Look out for: Ngala Game Lodge, Phinda Mountain Lodge, Phinda Forest Lodge and Bongani Mountain Lodge.
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