Overview
Unlike other African countries, family holidays to South Africa are not just about a safari. You can explore diverse parts of the country and perhaps have some time on the beach as well.
Family Holidays in South Africa
Most families choose South Africa because they want to combine a safari with other highlights. And the fact that it's mostly malaria-free is also a plus.
But where to go? There’s no substitute for talking to us over the phone. As a starting point, look at our article on the Best Destinations for Family Holidays in South Africa. There we summarize some possibilities for you…
Malaria & Family Safaris in South Africa
Malaria is only a concern in a small part of South Africa. Mainly around the Kruger National Park. There are plenty of malaria-free safari areas that offer excellent game-viewing. The three main ones are the Eastern Cape, the Madikwe Game Reserve and the Waterberg.
However, before deciding to go down the malaria-free route, remember that in South Africa, mosquitos are not usually a year-round pest. Even the well-known Kruger Park is a seasonal malaria area. There are many months, (May to mid September), when it is too cool at night for mosquitos to survive. Happily, this is also the best game-viewing time. (It's also the time when South African families visit the Kruger National Park.)
So have a look at our recommended Malaria Free Game Reserves.
Talk to our safari consultants about the best months to travel. We also identify child-friendly safari lodges and hotels. The ones which welcome children. And not just merely tolerate them.
Beach Holidays in South Africa
If you are visiting in July or August, then it’s winter in South Africa. So ideally you need to head to the northern part of South Africa to Coastal Maputaland. If you are coming in the South African summer months of November to March there are great beaches all along the Southern Coast in Cape Town, Hermanus, Arniston, Wilderness, Plettenberg Bay and on the Dolphin Coast in KwaZulu Natal.
Or click to download our Insiders Guide to Family Safaris full of more helpful tips.
Other Useful Articles on South African Family Holidays
Kids on safari - 8 tips for a bicker-free time
Top 20 things to do in Cape Town with Kids
Tips for South African Family trips with Older Kids or Teenagers
Top Things to do with Kids on the Garden Route
Treetop Canopy Tour Experience
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Highlights
- South Africa, with its warmth and sunshine, its wildlife and its outdoor culture, offers plenty to please children and their parents.
- It’s not just about a safari. There are so many family-friendly places to visit: Cape Town, the Garden Route, the Whale Coast and of course all its beaches…
- Many game-reserves are in malaria-free areas.
- There are non-stop flights from Europe, and there is no jet lag.
Learn which safari destinations will suit YOUR family
Take our Easy Quiz to narrow your family safari options Check out our Family Safari QuizNatasha Jantjies
Africa Travel Specialist
Popular tours & safaris
We arrange trips to more than 100+ destinations throughout the African continent.
