Here’s how to spend Christmas in Cape ...
From lunches and carols to markets and meeting Santa
Things to do with kids that parents will enjoy too
65+ activities: Jumping, quad biking, river tubing + more
Last updated: Thursday, 7 December 2023
See everything from llamas to ostriches with your toddlers, speed around circuits and down slides with your teenagers or become a scientist or ninja for a day. Here’s 65+ things to do with kids in Cape Town that even parents will love.
TUBE DOWN THE RAPIDS
Tube down the Palmiet River in an inflatable “geko”. This inflatable craft provides a comfortable way to drift lazily along the channels of the river. The Palmiet River runs through Kogelberg Nature Reserve, about an hour’s drive from Cape Town.
Ages: 12 years and up
Hours: Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm
Cost: Varies based on group size
21 Selous Road | Claremont | Cape Town | @gravityadventures | Image: Gravity Adventures
GO TO A DUCK PARADE
Visit one of the oldest working farms in South Africa, where the kids can watch over 1 000 Indian Runner Ducks waddle across the farmhouse, doing natural pest and snail control in the vineyards. The kids can feed the ducks too. You can picnic, do a wine tasting or eat at their neighbouring restaurants.
Ages: All
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 8am to 4pm
Cost: Free entry
Vergenoegd Löw The Wine Estate | Stellenbosch | @vergenoegd_low_wine_estate | Image: @saltysn0w
VISIT THIS FAMILY-FRIENDLY RESORT
Blue Rock Resort, located on the Hottentots-Holland mountainside, has a stunning freshwater lake equipped with cable systems, offering water-based activities like water skiing, wakeboarding, kneeboarding, canoeing, rock jumping, paintball and ziplining.
Ages: All ages but 6 years and up for rides/activities
Hours: Monday to Sunday, 10am to 6pm
Cost: R110 entrance fee (activities at extra cost)
Sir Lowry's Pass Road | Somerset West | @blue_rock_waterski12 | Image: @amadeart
JOIN A LIFESAVING CLUB
Your little one could become a junior lifeguard. Clifton Lifesavers Club teaches kids, sea conditions, first aid, CPR, rescue techniques, signals and radio communication. Juniors range from the age of 14 and make up all the members who are responsible for the safety of our beaches over the seasons’ weekends and public holidays.
Ages: 14 years and up
Hours: N/A
Cost: From R900
59 Fourth Beach Promenade | Clifton | @cliftonsurflifesaving | Image: Clifton Lifesavers Club
RIDE QUAD BIKES AT BLOEMENDAL
Explore this boutique wine estate on the back of a quad bike, courtesy of WILDX adventures. An awesome experience offered for 50 minutes through the vineyards, where you can pick which trail you want to do. The experience comes with breakfast or lunch served after your experience. Or you can opt for a wine tasting.
Ages: 3 years and up (Kids under 12 need to be accompanied by a guide or join as a ride along)
Hours: Monday to Sunday, 8am to 5pm
Cost: From R200 for kids and R400 for adults via wildx.co.za
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Tygerberg Valley Road | Durbanville | @wildxadv
GET TO KNOW THE OSTRICHES
Feed and pet ostriches at Cape Point Ostrich Farm, found next to Cape Point National Park. The farm also has a range of reptiles, as well as a leather shop and ostrich egg shop. Guided tours are offered on a daily basis and focus on the life cycle of an ostrich from egg to the adult bird. If you’re feeling peckish after, dine at the farm style restaurant for breakfast or lunch options.
Ages: All
Hours: Daily, 9.30am to 5.30pm
Cost: Free entry but R135 for guided tours
Plateau Road | Cape Point | Facebook | Image: @pixiprol
SPLASH AROUND AT WATERWORLD
Strand Waterworld is located directly on the beachfront and is open from September to April. Kids can choose between 3 water slides: Supertube, Speed Slide and Mini Slide, or enjoy the large adventure area. Families are welcome to pack a picnic or dine at the café.
Ages: All
Hours: Tuesday to Friday, 1pm to 6pm, Saturdays & Sundays, 9am to 6pm, School/Public Holidays; Monday to Sunday, 9am to 6pm
Cost: From R30 for spectators and R120 for watersliders
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Beach Road | Strand | @waterworld_strand
HAVE A BABY SPA DAY
Western Cape’s first family wellness centre offers a unique baby spa experience, with water-based therapy that has soothing benefits and gentle movements. And it’s not just for the little ones, parents are welcome to join the sessions.
Ages: 1 month and up
Hours: Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm; Saturday, 9am to 1pm
Cost: From R260
Unit G02, Paardevlei Rising | De Beers Ave | Paardevlei |@babythrpy | Image: Baby Thrpy
FEED FARMYARD ANIMALS
The Stodels Garden Center in Bellville has a plant nursery and animal farm with ponies, goats, llamas, rabbits and marmosets. There’s also a duck pond and outdoor playground directly attached to the restaurant (with a play area for younger kids who still need assistance and a larger second area where kids can jump on trampolines and jumping castles).
Ages: All ages
Hours: Monday, 10am to 6pm; Tuesday to Friday, 9am to 6pm; Saturday, 8.30am to 6pm; Sunday, 9am to 6pm
Cost: Free entry
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Eversdal Road | Bellville | Cape Town | @stodelsnursery
PLAY PUTT-PUTT FOR FREE
Melkbossie Farm Animal Sanctuary has putt-putt, pony rides, and it’s free to enter. (feel free to make a donation). You can feed the animals for just R10 per bag of feed at the animal shop. Adults can relax on the café deck overlooking Table Mountain and grab coffee and a slice of cake.
Ages: All
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9am to 5pm
Cost: Free entry
Cape Farms | Melkbosstrand | Cape Town | @melkbossie | Image: Melkbossie Farm
GET CREATIVE AND MESSY
Take the little one to a sensory and messy play class. The workshops take place at different locations around Cape Town including Newlands, Green Point, Hout Bay and Constantia. It’s aimed at fostering creativity, developing cognitive skills and promoting independent play. There are also mobile classes available.
Ages: 6 months and up
Hours: Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm
Cost: From R200
5 Baviaanskloof Road | 7 Broughton Close | Hout Bay | @the.messyhub | Image: @kellyabrahams1
BECOME A FUTURE FOOTBALL PLAYER
Little Kickers is a junior football club that offers private lessons for toddlers and kids. There are four different classes. Each class provides an introduction to the sport, while teaching football skills to kids from 18 months to 8 years old, all tailored to a different age group.
Ages: From 18 months to 8 years
Hours: Varies depending on location
Cost: R620 monthly, plus a once-off registration fee which includes your child’s shirt and shorts of R680
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8 Hillcrest Road | The Vines | Cape Town | @littlekickerssa
SPEED AROUND THE CIRCUIT
If your teen has a need for speed they’ll have a blast whizzing around the indoor circuit at Century Karting. You can race from beginner (6 minutes) to expert level (15 minutes). Or give the racing simulator a go for 10 or 20 minutes. For the future grand prix drivers, they can enter into enduro races with teams.
Ages: Minimum height to ride is 160cm
Hours: Monday to Sunday, 9am - 9pm
Cost: From R195 pp. Special packages for groups of 12 or more; book via carting.co.za
Mezzanine Level | Canal Walk Parking | @indoorkarting | Image: Century Karting
VISIT PIXIES AND FAIRIES
This wholesome fairy “village” along the West Coast is just the magical day out your family might need. Pixie and Fairy Village in Jacobs Bay has become a popular destination among young and old folks, due to its affordable entry price and its sweet nature. You can see fairies and pixies scattered around mini castles, and take a seat in a big mushroom stool.
Ages: All ages
Hours: Open daily, 9am - 5.30pm
Cost: R30 for adults, R20 for kids and pensioners
Plot 307 Main Road | Jacobs Bay | @pixie_and_fairy_village | Image: @joannecwilliams
CAMP AT JAM-PACKED FAMILY FESTIVAL
Every year, there's a magical weekend in Citrusdal where kids can fully embrace their true selves, and adults rediscover their inner-child. Think 3 days filled with crafts, games, river swims, kayaks, live music, sleeping beneath the stars. Get your tickets for Wolfie Family Festival now.
Ages: All ages
Date: Thursday, 7 March to Sunday, 10 March 2024
Cost: From R293
Wolfie Familie Festival | Wolfkop Camping Villages, Citrusdal | howl@wolfie.co.za | @wolfiefamiliefestival | Image: Wolfie Family Festival
EXPERIENCE ALL THE SENSES
Play by Nature is an early childhood development centre that provides educational, engaging and entertaining workshops for kids using the environment as the main teacher. Each week the workshops focus on a different theme (like Picasso or construction) with two main activities suited to the theme and age group.
Ages: 8 months to 6 years old
Hours: Varies per workshop
Cost: R265 for 1 hour. Book a workshop
Sea Point + Claremont | @playbynature,cpt | Image: Play by Nature
TREAT THE KIDS WITH A DAY AT V&A WATERFRONT
Arts and crafts, 8 000 sea creatures and scratching for gems are just some of the special activities at V&A Waterfront that your kids will love (and will keep them busy for hours). You can now also enjoy a picnic in the sky with Cape Wheel – that’s sure to create a core memory for your kid. Find more things to do at the V&A Waterfront this winter.
Ages: From toddlers to teens
Hours: Varies
Cost: From free to R175
V&A Waterfront | Cape Town | 021 408 7600 | @vandawaterfront | Image: V&A Waterfront
PICNIC WHILE FISHING
You can enjoy an outdoor picnic or braai, at Hillcrest Quarry. You can go fishing too for species like trout, bass, carp, kurper and barbel. All fish are “catch and release”, so barbless hooks must be used. The quarry also offers lawns to relax on, plenty of parking, and a tented area to use if it gets too hot.
Ages: All
Hours: Daily, 7am to 5pm
Cost: Fishing; Adults R100, Kids 9-12, R50, Kids under 9, R25; Picnicking, all ages R25
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Tygerberg Valley Road | Durbanville | @hillcrestquarryza
BECOME A NINJA WARRIOR
Unleash your inner ninja at the largest inflatable and obstacle course in Africa. Total Ninja is a supervised activity and fitness venue inspired by the global phenomenon TV series Ninja Warrior. At Total Ninja, they get to climb, balance, jump and swing across different obstacles, plus there’s a dedicated section for mini warriors (5 and under).
Ages: Mini Ninjas, under 5 years; Total Ninja, 5+ years; Ninja Masters, 16+ years
Hours: Monday to Friday, 9am - 10pm; Saturday to Sunday, 9am- 9pm
Cost: R80 for mini warriors, R160 for adults; book via totalninja.co.za
The Warehouse | Black River Park | Observatory | @totalninjabrp | Image: Total Ninja
HAVE A HOOT OF A TIME
The World of Birds and Monkey Jungle has over 100 walk-through aviaries that are home to 3 000 birds, some in cages, and others roaming about freely. Keep your eyes peeled for the Monkey Jungle, where you can meet New World monkeys. The park also has tortoises, blue-tongued skinks, snakes, and countless other captivating creatures.
Ages: All
Hours: Monday to Sunday, 9am - 5pm (latest entry 4pm)
Cost: Free (kids under 3 years); R50 (kids 3-16 years)
World of Birds Wildlife Sanctuary | Valley Road | Hout Bay | @worldofbirds_official | Image: Vorster van Zyl
CLIMB ROCKS + TEST YOUR BRAVERY
Climbing offers opportunities for kids to develop fine muscle control and achieve personal milestones. With towering 16m high walls for climbing, 5m bouldering walls, a dedicated kids section, and even a speed climbing wall, CityRock guarantees an exciting experience for climbers. They also offer introductory courses for the newbies.
Ages: 5+
Hours: Monday to Thursday, 11am - 9pm; Friday to Sunday, 9am - 6pm
Cost: R180 for an adult day pass; R140 for a child day pass. (Gear extra rental). Book via CityRock
The Island | 9 Milner Street | Paarden Eiland | @cityrock_cpt | Image: City Rock
EXPLORE THE AQUARIUM
There’s just something about an aquarium that brings out the best in people. Adults get to be a kid again and kids get to experience a world of wonderment, sometimes for the very first time. See 8 000 wonderful creatures, walk with penguins and watch puppet shows at the Two Oceans Aquarium.
Ages: All ages
Hours: Monday to Friday, 9.30am - 6pm, Saturday + Sunday, 9am - 6pm
Cost: R235 for adults, R175 for pensioners and students, free for kids under 3. Or get a membership (works out cheaper)
Dock Road | V&A Waterfront | @2OceansAquarium | Image: Lara van Zyl
SHRED IT AT A SKATEPARK
Test their skating skills at the Shred Cape Town. Whether they’re a newbie to the sport or an up-and-coming pro, the indoor skate park is a safe space with a variety of ramps. There’s a limit of 30 riders per day session and 40 skaters per night session, so make sure to book.
Ages: 10+
Hours: Tuesday to Thursday, 8am - 9pm; Friday to Monday, 8am- 6pm
Cost: From R40 to R99 for a 3 hour session; R120 to R200 for a full day. Note: It’s half-price on Mondays. Book a session
68 Auckland Street | Paarden Eiland | @the_shred_skatepark | Image: The Shred
PET A PIG + EAT SCONES
Kids will adore exploring this rustic cafe (it’s worth the drive). Indulge in homemade jams, pecan nut pie and wood-fired scones at The Scone Shack, where animals roam freely between (and sometimes on-top) of the tables. Meet piggies like Rasher or Bacon, and maybe Rooster the chicken will pop by your table.
Ages: All
Hours: Friday to Sunday, 9.30am–6.30pm
Cost: Menu varies. Note: only cash or EFT accepeted
Lalaphanzi Farm | Plateau Road | Cape Point | @scone_shack | Image: Travelling Gypsy
BECOME A SCIENTIST FOR A DAY
Learning doesn’t have to be a bore for your little one. The Cape Town Science Center offers a unique educational opportunity. The centre teaches science, technology, mathematics, and engineering. Students can actively participate in hands-on experiences, see epic displays, and maybe be inspired to be the next great scientist.
Ages: 3+
Hours: Monday to Saturday, 9am-4.30pm; public holidays, 10am–4.30pm
Cost: R80 for adults and kids (3+ years); R40 for pensioners; R280 for a family package (4 people); R70 p/p for groups (10+ people). Book on ctsc.org.za.
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HIT GOLF BALLS INTO A DAM AND SHOOT SPOONS
Spend an activity-filled day letting kids run wild in the playpark with trampolines, slides, jungle gyms and more. Or hit golf balls into a dam and practice target shooting (hitting spoons). Plus, meet resident donkeys Dunkin, Dixie and Daisy at the Purple Windmill market. Pop into the Plaamol Market for handmade goods and enjoy wood-fired pizza and drinks on the lawn.
Ages: All
Hours: Monday to Sundays, 7am - 10pm
Cost: Free entry
Uitspan Farm | R44 | Klapmuts | @the_purple_windmill | Image: The Purple Windmill
PRACTISE YOUR MUSICAL SKILLS
Let your kids unleash their inner rock star at one of the workshops and courses at the School of Rock. Workshops include lessons on harmonies, musicianship, stage performance and more.
Ages: 3 to 17
Hours: Monday to Thursday, 9am - 7pm; Friday, 9am - 5.30pm; Saturday, 9am - 3pm
Cost: Rates differ depending on course; more information online
24 Protea Road | Newlands | @schoolofrockclaremont | Image: School of Rock
EAT ICE-CREAM IN A FARM VILLAGE
With its charming and relaxed farm atmosphere, Noordhoek Farm Village has loads of activities for both kids and adults. Young explorers can play ball, ride bikes or run freely on the astro-lawn, while parents explore the cafes, boutiques and bars. Not to mention, a “kick-ass” ice-cream shop and wood-fired pizzas is available.
Ages: All
Hours: Monday - Friday, 8am - 10pm; Saturday to Sunday, 8am - 2pm
Cost: Free entry
Corner of Village Lane and Noordhoek Main Road | Noordhoek | @noordhoekfarmvillage | Image: Noordhoek Farm Village
MEET THEN ADOPT A DONKEY
Teach kids the importance of compassion as you explore the Eseltjiesrus Donkey Sanctuary, a place where caring hearts meet previously neglected and elderly donkeys. Meet locals like KitKat, Ziggy, Popeye, and over 20 more animals. Visitors may enter the donkeys’ space accompanied by a trained guide and interactions are at the discretion of the donkeys.
Ages: All (kids must be accompanied by an adult)
Hours: Thursdays to Sundays, 10am to 4pm
Cost: Entrance by donation
Langeberg Road | McGregor | @eseltjiesrusdonkeysanctuary | Image: Eseltjiesrus Donkey Sanctuary
LET YOUR CREATIVITY BLOOM
The Flower Cafe hosts a selection of flower-arranging workshops, masterclasses and kids parties. From enchanting magic gardens to flower pressing and flower crowns, your little one's creativity will blossom. The team can also create a personalised celebration for up to 20 kids. Parents can join in the fun or bring their laptops to catch up on work in the cosy cafe.
Ages: All
Hours: Mondays to Fridays, 9am - 4pm; Saturdays, 9am - 1pm
Cost: Varies, book via Flower Cafe
184 Sir Lowry Road | Woodstock | @flowercafect | Image: Flower Cafe
EAT PIZZA + EXPLORE THE PARK
This small café opens onto Rocklands Avenue park in Vredehoek. Kids have a huge open space for them to play (it’s a popular birthday spot), with swings, a slide, jungle gyms, chess tables and a carousel. Deer Park Café offers a casual dining experience, with wood-fired pizza and burgers, plus a kiddies menu. Dogs are welcome, too.
Ages: All
Hours: Daily, 8am - 9pm in winter; 8am - 10pm in summer
Cost: Free entry to park. Menu items differ
2 Deerpark Drive | Vredehoek | @deer_park_cafe | Image: @outwithkids_capetown
FREEWHEEL ON MOUNTAIN SCOOTERS
Go on an exhilarating downhill descent at Middelvlei Wine Farm, where your kids get to race each other down mountain slopes and through the vineyard on non-electric gravity scooters. All tours are led by a qualified professional guide. After all the fun, they can enjoy a boerie roll and a cool drink.
Ages: 4+ years. Children over 10 can ride by themselves.
Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 8.30am - 5pm
Cost: R290 per driver (for 10 years & up / R145 per passenger)
Middelvlei Wine Estate | Stellenbosch | @scootourscapetown | Image: Scootours
CRAFT, PAINT + EAT CAPE MALAY CUISINE
Immerse yourself in a range of workshops from canvas painting and soap making to clay painting and jewellery crafting. There's something for everyone at The Crafter's Cafe. Let the kids unwind and enjoy a delicious Cape Malay meal (the restaurant is strictly halaal).
Ages: All
Hours: Monday to Thursday, 8am - 5pm; Friday + Saturday, 8am - 7pm; Sunday, 9am - 5pm
Cost: Vary depending on the workshop. Book via crafterscafe.co.za
53 2nd Avenue | Claremont | @thecrafterscafe2022 | Image: Crafters Cafe
WATCH A CIRCUS SHOW
Create new memories with your little ones at one of Zip Zap’s Circus shows. Watching a circus show is an experience that leaves a lasting impression, and a memory so many of us share. Each show is unique, featuring different performers from their academy, from youngsters to proffessionals from all walks of life.
Ages: All
Hours: Times vary for every show.
Cost: Prices vary for every show. Look out for their latest performances here
10 Jan Smuts Street | Cape Town City Centre | @zipzapcircus | Image: Joan Ward
EXPLORE A VINTAGE STOOR ON A FARM
They can also see farm animals, like goats and chickens, roaming the grounds. Parents can take in all things vintage, from old petrol pumps and road signs to clothing and sewing machines from the 1900s, even what beauty products looked like way back then. There's a coffee shop that serves South African favourites, such as bobotie pies, “ouma se kerrie vetkoek”, jaffels. Plus, you can drink “moerkoffie” in a tin cup at Toeka Stoor.
Ages: All
Hours: Wed - Sun, 9am to 4pm
Cost: Free entrance (support by buying at the coffee shop)
Toeka Stoor & Coffee Shop | Domaine Brahms Wines | Paarl | Image: Simone Strydom
SQUISH, STRETCH, POKE AND PLAY
This ones for all the slime fanatics. The Workshops-in-the-Park lets kids spend an hour enjoying a workshop of choice: From slime making to arts and crafts. Kids can let their creativity shine, while getting messy with gooey slime. All tools provided. Book a time slot, and enjoy a fully-halaal picnic basket filled with goodies.
Ages: 5-15 years
Hours: Every Saturday,10am - 5pm
Cost: From R250. Email to book a workshop
Wynberg Park | @picnic_in_the_park_ct | Image: Image: @rizqua_barnes
PLAY ON THE BEACH AND BUILD WAFFLES
The Waffle Shack is a kiddie haven. Situated right on Onrus Lagoon and the beach, this spot is perfect to visit after (or before) a beach day. There’s a store selling beach toys like spades and buckets and the kids can build their own waffles or chow down on loaded hotdogs.
Ages: All ages
Hours: Monday to Sundays, 7am to 10pm
Cost: Menu items vary
1 Atlantic Drive | Onrus River | @milk_onthebeach | Image: Milk on the Beach
KEEP ROLLING AT THIS INDOOR PARK
Grab your knee guards and have some family fun at Rollercade. This is the first indoor roller-skating park in Cape Town and it is jam-packed with fun, music, neon lights and good ol’ roller skating. Important: bring socks with!
Ages: 3 years and up
Hours: Daily, time slots vary. Check sessions on Rollercade
Cost: R150 for 2 hour session (including skates and safety gear); R80 (bring your own); R40 for spectators
V&A Waterfront | Alfred Street | @rollercadeza | Image: Rollercade
BLOW OFF STEAM AT A BIKE PARK
This bike park is the perfect spot for little daredevils. It features a Velosolutions Pump Track and a state-of-the-art kiddies play area with a cycling track and a massive jungle gym. You can host a kiddies birthday party there too.
Ages: All
Hours: Daily, 10am to 5pm
Cost: R85 per rider
Strand Road | R44 | Stellenbosch | @blaauwklippen | Image: Sibulela Bolarinwa
PLAY AN ESCAPE GAME
Launch a torpedo, escape from prison, break a curse or uncover the truth behind Mr O’s mysterious disappearance in under 60 minutes. This thrilling escape game is something the whole family can get a kick out of. You can also play outdoors or online with HintHunt Africa.
Ages: 7 and up
Hours: Mon to Wed, 10am - 7pm; Thur to Sat, 10am - 8.30pm; Sun, 10am - 5.30pm
Cost: R1,890 for a team of 6
Watershed | 17 Dock Road | V&A Waterfront | @hinthuntafrica | Image: HintHunt
BOARD A MINIATURE STEAM TRAIN
Jump onboard a little steam train in the heart of the winelands. This picturesque journey can be enjoyed by little ones and adults alike. One train ride lasts approximately 7 minutes and takes you on a 760m journey at the Winelands Light Railway park.
Ages: All
Hours: Saturdays and Sundays, 11am - 3pm. Open daily during school holidays
Cost: R70 for one ride, R120 for unlimited rides
R304 | Stellenbosch | @winelandrail | Image: Carla Visagie
JUMP AROUND WALL-TO-WALL TRAMPOLINES
From trampolines, dodge-ball, cube foam pits, basketball courts and more! Enjoy a day of trampolining, with snacks and coffee. Plus, there’s toddler time every Friday and Sunday morning for kids under 4 at Rush Indoor Trampoline Park.
Ages: From 1 and up
Hours: Monday to Thursday, 9am - 7pm; Friday & Saturday, 9am - 8pm; Sunday, 9am - 6pm
Cost: R150 for adults; R200 for adult + toddler; book via Rush
Stadium on Main | 104 Main Road | Claremont | @rushclaremont | Image: Lara van Zyl
MAKE YOUR OWN BOW AND ARROW
Bring your kids and their mountain bikes for an unforgettable exploration with the Kiddies Bike San Tour. The children will collect materials and make their own traditional bow and arrow. They will also learn how to shoot arrows and track animals at !Khwa ttu Nature Reserve.
Ages: 6 - 12 years
Hours: Every weekend, starts 9am
Cost: R75; includes cold drinks and refreshments
Grootwater Farm | R27 | Yzerfontein | @khwattu | Image: !Khwa ttu
SPEND A DAY AT A TOY AND MINIATURE MUSEUM
This unique museum in Stellenbosch will enchant your kids, with a detailed collection of 1:12 scale miniatures, antique dolls, cuddly toys and most exciting, of South Africa's famous Blue Train.
Ages: All ages
Hours: Monday – Friday: 9am – 4.30pm, Saturday, 9am - 2pm
Cost: Free
37 Ryneveld Street | Stellenbosch | @stellenboschmuseum | Image: Stellenbosch Museum
YOU CAN MEET TINKERBELL HERE
The Riding Centre in Hout Bay is an outing the whole family can enjoy. Stop by to meet Henry, the sheep; Tinkerbell, the miniature horse, and other animals. You can also learn to ride or let the kids stop by for some pony playtime.
Ages: Pony rides 11 and under
Hours: Monday, 1:30pm - 5:15pm; Tuesday to Friday, 8.30am - 5.15pm; Saturdays, 8.15am - 4pm
Cost: R70 per child for pony ride
Main Road | Hout Bay | @theridingcentrehoutbay | Image: The Riding Centre
MEET AND GREET AN ALPACA
Go on a barn tour or a guided walk, accompanied by aAlpacas, in Paarl. You can feed and play with these fluffy animals before havingenjoying a slice piece of cake at the coffee shop. There is also a jungle gym at Alpaca Loom.
Ages: All ages
Hours: Daily, 9.30am - 5.30pm
Cost: R20 for petting zoo
Suid Agter Paarl Road | Paarl | @alpacaloom | Image: Inge du Plessis
SWIM, SLIDE OR RIDE AT AN ADVENTURE PARK
Wiesenhof Adventure Park has a wide range of amenities, including six swimming pools, eight water slides, a climbing wall, trampoline park and a dodgeball arena. Kids can test out the obstacle course, scooter or skateboard on the pump track (safety gear included) and even go on tractor rides. There’s also 70+ built braais and picnic spots.
Ages: All
Hours: October to April: Friday to Sunday, 9am - 6pm; public holidays + school holidays, 10am - 5.30pm
Cost: From R60
Wiesenhof Adventure Park | Stellenbosch | @wiesenhofadventurepark | Image: Wiesenhof Adventure Park
PLAY WITH PAINT
Kids can enjoy a painting experience and learn creative skills where they can express themselves in a carefree environment. Let the kids’ imaginations run wild by giving them canvases and a rainbow of colours to create their own artwork at Artjamming studios.
Ages: From 8 months upwards
Hours: Open Monday to Saturday, 9am - 5pm
Cost: Prices vary depending on the size of canvas; find out more on Artjamming
Breakwater Blvd | V&A Waterfront | @artjammingsa | Image: Artjamming
EXPLORE AN OLD AMUSEMENT PARK
This former amusement park not only offers water and land-based activities but is also the “green lung” of Century City. Ratanga Park has a variety of activities, including a kiddies play area with a jungle gym, trails, open lawns for picnics and a big frame for pictures.
Ages: All
Hours: Daily
Cost: Free entry
4 Conference Lane | Century City | Image: Louise de Roubaix
SEE AFRICAN PENGUINS ON THE BEACH
Home to Africa’s only penguin colony, take a scenic drive to Simon’s Town and visit the sheltered Boulder’s Beach. Pack a beach bag and spend the day with these creatures.
Ages: All
Hours: Daily, 8am - 5pm
Cost: R39 per adult and R20 per kids (for South African citizens)
Kleintuin Road | Simon's Town | 021 786 2329 | Image: Alessandro Novero
GO FOR A SLED RIDE
Take the sled ride of your life down a curvy 1.2km track. It’s fast, it’s exhilarating and a great adventure for the whole family. Try South Africa’s first tobogganing track at Cool Runnings.
Ages: 8 years and up can ride their own sled, younger with a guardian
Hours: Monday to Friday, 11am - 6pm; weekends, 9am - 6pm; closed on rainy days
Cost: R75 (kids between 3-14); R85 for 15+; book via Toboggan
Off Carl Cronje Drive | Tygervalley | @coolrunningscpt | Image: Cool Runnings
MEET OVER 150 ANIMALS
Lend a helping hand to over 150 animals at the Fynbos Guest Farm and Animal Sanctuary. Kids can learn about and feed different animals, from zebras and llamas to emus and ostriches. The farm also offers two scenic walks, a labyrinth, kids play-area, a café, farmstall, and more.
Ages: All
Hours: Monday to Friday, 9am - 4pm; Saturday + Sunday, 8.30am- 5pm
Cost: Entrance fee of R60 per adult & R30 per child; find out more via fynbosguestfarm.co.za
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TRY YOUR LUCK WITH THESE SPORTS
Aspiring Springboks, Bafana Bafana and Proteas players can spend the holidays taking part in rugby, cricket, soccer and hockey workshops run by Sporting Chance.
Ages: 4 to 13
Hours: Monday to Friday, 9am - 5pm
Cost: Prices vary according to the workshop; find out more
Unit D4 | 1 Westlake Drive | Westlake | @sportingchance | Image: Sporting Chance
SEE A WETLAND IN THE CITY
In the middle of the Century City development is 16 hectares of wetland that’s home to an abundance of birds and other fauna and majestic flora. Kids can also participate in holiday programmes at Intaka Island.
Ages: All
Hours: October - April, 8am - 7pm; May - September, 8am - 5:30pm
Cost: R25, R15 for kids under 12
Park Lane | Century City | Cape Town | @intakaisland | Image: Katleho Mohale
MEET THE KING OF THE ANIMAL KINGDOM
Visit a lion sanctuary and see lions, including a rare white lion. You can also spot chimps on a day visit to the Drakenstein Lion Park in Paarl.
Ages: All
Hours: Daily, 9:30am - 5pm
Cost: R40 for kids; R80 for adults for SA citizens
Old Paarl Road | Paarl | @drakensteinlionpark | Image: Drakenstein Lion Park
SHOOT YOUR MATES (WITH PAINT)
Looking for a way to keep active kids busy? Let them participate in a faux battle complete with colourful ammo at Action Paintball and LaserTag.
Ages: Kids older than 11
Hours: Daily sessions, 9:30am - 1pm + 1:30am - 5pm.
Cost: R170 per person, which includes a gun, face mask, throat protector, jacket and 100 paintballs
Area 51 | Imhoff Farm | Kommetjie | @imhofffarm | Image: Imhoff Farm
HANG WITH GIRAFFES
Home to the tallest animal in the world, you’ll also find antelope, monkeys, meerkats, zebras, reptiles and more at the Giraffe House.
Ages: 2 years old and up
Hours: Daily, 9am to 5pm
Cost: R85 for adults; R55 for children between 2 - 15 years
Giraffe House | Corner R304 and R101 | @giraffehousesa | Image: Giraffe House
CRAFT YOUR OWN CERAMICS
Get messy with your kids and paint masterpieces on readymade pottery pieces. Kids can run around in the garden and playground or join in the painting fun. During or after playtime, enjoy a peaceful lunch at the Clay Café.
Ages: All
Hours: Daily, 9am to 5pm.
Price: R45 per person, includes three colours of paint, firing and glazing
4080 Main Road | Hout Bay | @theclaycafe_houtbay | Image: Clay Café
HUNT FOR HIDDEN TREASURE
Kids can take part in a treasure hunt in the quest to find the shiniest crystals and prettiest gems. There is an array of gems and crystals to pick from at The Scratch Patch.
Ages: All
Hours: Monday to Friday, 9am to 4.45pm; Sat + Sun, 9am - 5pm
Cost: R30 for a small bag
1 Dock Road | V&A Waterfront | @scratchpatchsa | Image: The Scratch Patch
LEARN HOW TO SURF WITH THE WHOLE FAMILY
Spend a fun day out in the ocean and learn how to surf at the oldest surf school in the country, which also offers holiday camps for children, at Gary’s Surf School.
Ages: 5 years and up
Hours: Daily, 8am - 5pm
Cost: From R350 per person
34 Beach Road | Muizenberg | @garysurfschool | Image: Gary’s Surf School
SPOT LEOPARDS AND OTHER BIG CATS
See one of Africa’s most beautiful wild cats. Just two hours outside Cape Town you can see lions, cheetahs, leopards and Bengal tigers at Panthera Africa Big Cat Sanctuary.
Ages: All
Hours: Daily (except Tuesdays). April to September, 10am - 3pm; October to March, 10am - 4pm
Price: R170 for kids under 13; R340 for adults
GGVJ+WQ | Stanford | @pantheraafricasanctuary | Image: Panthera Africa Big Cat Sanctuary
CRUISE ON DUIKER ISLAND
Observe marine animals on the northern beaches of False Bay with a cruise to Duiker Island. Departing from Hout Bay, the cruise is 45 minutes on the Nauticat. You can spot seals basking in the sun, majestic whales and playful dolphins. Booking and confirmation is advised 24 hours prior to the cruise.
Ages: All ages
Hours: Daily; 8.45am - 4pm
Price: R130 per adult, R70 per kids under 12; book via nauticatcharters.co.za
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PLUS: 15+ INDOOR ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS
Wanna stay indoors? Here are some great activities for the kiddies.
AND: FREE AND CHEAP THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS
Discover budget-friendly activities that cost less than R100 for the whole family to experience.
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DISCOVER MORE FAMILY-FRIENDLY ADVENTURES
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At this hidden Stellenbosch farm you can pick lavender, taste wine + more.
Visit this pixie and fairy filled magical village for R40.
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