What to do and see in South Africa, South Africa: The Best Things to do Good for Kids

January 3, 2022 Marianna Hollaway

in the African Union  (light blue)
Restaurants in South Africa

1. Chapman's Peak Drive

Hout Bay Road Between Noordhoek and Hout Bay, 7872 South Africa +27 21 791 8220 http://www.chapmanspeakdrive.co.za/
Excellent
82%
Good
15%
Satisfactory
2%
Poor
0%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 1,126 reviews

Chapman's Peak Drive

Chapman’s Peak Drive toll road winds its way between Noordhoek and Hout Bay on the Atlantic Coast on the south-western tip of South Africa. Chapman’s Peak Drive is one of the most spectacular marine drives in the world. Chapman’s Peak Drive is affectionately known as #Chappies.

Reviewed By Loolew - Nice, France

The drive takes you up the side of Chapman's Peak. It's well secured from falling rocks now. The view of Hout Bay Karbonkelberg and round the corner, Noordhoek and it's beach are just stunning. Don't miss it

2. Shamwari Private Game Reserve

Shamwari Game Reserve N2 between Port Elizabeth & Grahamstown, Port Elizabeth South Africa +27 42 203 1111 [email protected] http://www.shamwari.com
Excellent
93%
Good
6%
Satisfactory
1%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 434 reviews

Shamwari Private Game Reserve

Please visit the official Shamwari Game Reserve Lodges page on TripAdvisor for more info, images, video & slideshow. Search "Shamwari Game Reserve lodges".Shamwari is the best private game reserve situated in the malaria free Eastern Cape,South Africa.This privately owned 25 000 hectares of prime natural terrain has received numerous international awards.Shamwari is an exploration of nature with close encounters of free roaming wildlife and the coveted big five with a choice of unique luxury lodges, an exclusive private villa and the adventurous Explorer Camp.Luxury accommodation is offered in 7 different game lodges at Shamwari Game Reserve, all of which are 5 Star graded. Choose a game lodge that perfectly compliments your ideal African experience

Reviewed By laurdan - London, United Kingdom

Hey guys you stole a part of my heart that will stay with you forever! From the moment we drove onto Shamwari land I was in heaven I couldn't believe after all the years waiting that I was going on Safari and would enter what to me is sacred land "Born Free Foundation" We stayed at Bayethe lodge and loved every minute of it, the sounds in the morning were amazing of the animals waking up and we would stand on our terrace to breathe in the bush and just look out at the reserve and say hello to the little monkeys that would stop by on the off chance of something to eat. The food is amazing from breakfast to dinner and nothing is too much trouble, the staff really looked after us and treated us like royalty. They always greeted us with a smile. Our spa treatments were relaxing and listening to the animals outside at the same time was just perfect. Our ranger was JB who was so much fun and made the four day trip so enjoyable sharing his experiences and knowledge with us, we adopted him as our South African son and we were so sad to leave him when our time came to go. He really enjoys his work and I can honestly say he loves driving that jeep! He made sure we saw so much on Safari, all of the big 5 and more. We had cocktails in the bush one afternoon and then a picnic another day and the most fabulous coffee and hot chocolate one cold morning. Many thanks for all of the little special surprises JB x On our last day we went to the Born Free Foundation within Shamwari, which is a bitter sweet experience.....but not to be missed. I loved everything about my trip to Shamwari and it will stay in my heart forever. I often think of them all there and hope one day I can return xx

3. Hermanus Cliff Path

Westcliff Rd, Hermanus, Overstrand 7200 South Africa +27 28 312 2629 http://www.hermanustourism.info/blog/2015/02/walk-along-the-cliffs-in-hermanus
Excellent
79%
Good
19%
Satisfactory
2%
Poor
0%
Terrible
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Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 606 reviews

Hermanus Cliff Path

Reviewed By 290robertt - Palm Springs, United States

We walked this every day in Hermanus - amazing views of the bay and mountains and if you are fortunate you will see whales in October and November! It is a beautiful pathway or trail along the ocean and used by locals and visitors alike. It will feast your eyes and spirit!

4. Victoria & Alfred Waterfront

19 Dock Road, Cape Town Central 8001 South Africa +27 21 408 7600 [email protected] http://www.waterfront.co.za/
Excellent
60%
Good
31%
Satisfactory
7%
Poor
1%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 14,179 reviews

Victoria & Alfred Waterfront

The V&A Waterfront is a 123-hectare mixed-use destination, and one of Africa’s most visited cultural and historical hubs. Set on the edge of a natural, historic working harbour with the iconic Table Mountain as its backdrop, it offers local and international visitors a cosmopolitan mix of experiences ranging from leisure, shopping and exclusive entertainment. It also offers prime residential and commercial property. The prime positioning of the V&A Waterfront boasts sweeping views of the ocean, city bowl and mountain peaks. Up to 100 000 people visit every day during peak season. Contributing R259.1 billion in nominal terms to the South African economy over the last twelve years, the V&A Waterfront’s cumulative contribution to the provincial GGP since 2002 was over R227 billion. The property also reported a 19% increase in retail trade sales for 2014, marking four consecutive years of consistent growth since 2011. By end 2014, total visitor numbers to the property had grown to 24 million a year. Although the V&A Waterfront remains South Africa’s favourite attraction for international visitors, they account for only 23% of all visitors. Visits by locals increased to 63%, while 14% of visitors were from upcountry. With 22 official landmarks on-site, it is also part of South Africa’s historical legacy. Jointly owned by Growthpoint Properties Limited and the Government Employees Pension Fund (GEPF), represented by the Public Investment Corporation Limited (PIC), the V&A Waterfront was developed in 1988 by the state-owned transport corporation, Transnet Limited, while official commercial trading commenced in November 1990.

Reviewed By Hevsy - Egham, United Kingdom

We had 5 days staying at a waterfront hotel. I hadn’t known what to expect but it was much bigger than I thought and had a real buzz to it. I felt very safe there. There was so much to do - boat trips, a huge shopping mall, restaurants galore, interesting buildings, street entertainment, great sculptures, a swing bridge, the ferris wheel and some wonderful African craft shops and stalls. We had trips on 2 days but on the other 2 days we just wandered round the waterfront and there was plenty to do, although be warned, you could eat your weight in calories!!!

5. Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve

R543, 2351 South Africa http://www.blydecanyon.co.za
Excellent
72%
Good
24%
Satisfactory
4%
Poor
1%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 906 reviews

Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve

The 33 km long spectacular gorge has an abundance of wildlife.

Reviewed By BradJill - Hong Kong, China

The Blyde River Canyon in the Mpumalanga province is one of the deepest canyons in the wold, measuring up to 1400 metres in height and 25 kms in length. This is one of South Africa's most impressive natural features and a major attraction area for those who enjoy the outdoors, hiking and scenery. The canyon forms the northern part of the Drakensberg escarpment and is mostly formed of red sandstone. Visitors will find outstanding viewpoints into the canyon along R532. A particularly popular stop is the Three Roundavels where you can peer deep into the canyon, viewing Blyderivierpoort Dam as well as the unique land formations on the opposite side known as the Three Roundavels. Note: A popular activity to do around the Blyde River Canyon is to take the Panorama Route self-drive tour, which takes in the above Three Roundavels in addition to other fun stops such as the Bourkes' Luck Potholes, God's Window, Pinnacle Rock as well as some impressive waterfalls which fall deep into various gorges and over the escarpment at various locations. Note: For those wanting to spend a day or two in the Blyde River Canyon area, Graskop makes for a nice place to base yourself.

6. Knysna Elephant Park

1km Off the N2 Highway Between Plettenberg Bay and Knysna, Knysna 6571 South Africa +27 44 532 7732 [email protected] http://www.knysnaelephantpark.co.za/
Excellent
70%
Good
21%
Satisfactory
6%
Poor
2%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 2,837 reviews

Knysna Elephant Park

The Knysna Elephant Park (est. 1994) was the first facility in South Africa to house and care for orphaned African elephants. Over the last 25 years, the park has cared for and raised more than 40 elephants. These animals include relocated animals, orphaned calves, elephants rescued from culls and ex-circus animals. Some have become part of the resident herd, others have moved onto other reserves and facilities in the Western and Eastern Cape, depending on their personalities, bonds with other animals and welfare needs. The present KEP herd numbers ten – the largest domesticated matriarchal herd in the country. Our style of management offers guests the opportunity to get up close and personal with our elephants, on elephant terms. Responsible and educational interactions allow guests to appreciate the awe-inspiring presence of these animals, but still give the elephants the space and freedom to choose where they want to move, what they want to eat and who they want to interact with.

Reviewed By carriannb2018

One for the bucket list, offers a intimate experience with these gentle giants where you can personally feed them and walk around with them and your personal guide. Will be back.

7. The Cango Caves

328 Approximately 30km (19 miles) from town on the R, Oudtshoorn 6625 South Africa +27 44 272 7410 http://www.cango-caves.co.za/adventure.php
Excellent
59%
Good
32%
Satisfactory
7%
Poor
1%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 4,151 reviews

The Cango Caves

Though damaged through shortsighted tourism schemes in the 1960s, these caves are still worth a visit for their eerie dark tunnels and stunning limestone formations.

Reviewed By magsboy - North Vancouver, Canada

The Cango Caves are well worth the visit to see to large underground caverns and the awesome geologic formations (we only did the Heritage Tour) and you can get some spectacular photos - we took the earliest available tour and glad we did because the tour buses were rolling up when we left and hordes of people were arriving - I do think they need to limit the numbers - and also enforce their requests for visitors not to sit and touch where they are asked not to!

8. Montecasino

Montecasino Boulevard Cnr William Nicol / Witkoppen Roads, Sandton 2021 South Africa +27 11 510 7000 [email protected] http://www.tsogosun.com/montecasino/
Excellent
52%
Good
36%
Satisfactory
9%
Poor
2%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 1,713 reviews

Montecasino

Award-winning Montecasino - Gauteng’s number one entertainment destination - is ideally located in the heart of Fourways Johannesburg and is a spectacular 24-7 ‘World at Play’ development meticulously designed to replicate an authentic Tuscan Village. A casino, retail entertainment, corporate hospitality and events, three hotels on property and a luxury office park, it is perfectly packaged to offer the very best in stylish entertainment to deliver a unique and memorable experience. Visitors to Montecasino are immediately captivated by the Italian communal theming and vibrant social and entertainment buzz – an atmosphere that keeps them returning again and again. Catering for both the leisure and business markets through the broad range of facilities, entertainment activities, abundant parking and convenient location just off the main commuter routes; it is clear to see why Montecasino attracts over 9.3 million visitors annually. For more information go to our website or "like" us on Facebook.You would be hard pressed to find another location world-wide that churns the number of entertainment options as those found at Montecasino. From theatre productions to concerts, music and sporting festivals, gaming and casino promotions, world-class events, artists appearances and musicians – Montecasino has got it!

Reviewed By sharonbI2963PP - Pretoria, South Africa

6 Things I really like about Monte Casino- Our family really enjoyed the day. It is kitsch and cool and worth a visit- super fun! 1 It transports you, it is fantasy, it's an escape from politics, crime, the economy- the everyday worries that South Africans face. 2 Musical Theatre at Monte Casino- We enjoyed lunch and went on to see Chicago. Polished perfection. A wonderful showcase for our abundant local talent and the excitement of seeing a musical theatre star from abroad added to the experience. 3 There is something for everyone. You do not have to be a gambler to be entertained. 4 Immaculate- it is really sparkling clean. The public restrooms are pristine despite how many people go in and out of them. 5 Food- Casa Bella -questo ristorante è divino ( one must praise them in Italian even if you have to copy and paste, because you aren't)- really Bellissimo-order the pizza. 6 Cherry on top- you buy your parking ticket upon entry and it is only R10.00. That was a pleasant shock- I expected that it would be way more. Recommended for locals and visitors from abroad.

9. Durban Botanic Gardens

Sydenham Road, Durban 4001 South Africa +27 31 201 1303 http://www.durbanbotanicgardens.org.za
Excellent
51%
Good
39%
Satisfactory
8%
Poor
1%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 1,204 reviews

Durban Botanic Gardens

Rare plants, exquisite orchids and charity tea parties draw visitors to this botanical garden.

Reviewed By wrmnk001 - Berkhamsted, United Kingdom

I have visited Durban many times and I always head for the botanic gardens as it is the most beautiful place in Durban. There are always an abundance of flowers and the bird life there is amazing especially around the small lake, and of course there are the monkeys! This garden is a very pleasant way to spend a couple of hours away from busy Durban and it is free!!

10. Spier Wine Farm

Annandale Road, Stellenbosch 7600 South Africa +27 21 809 1944 [email protected] http://www.spier.co.za
Excellent
52%
Good
34%
Satisfactory
9%
Poor
3%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 1,139 reviews

Spier Wine Farm

Spier is one of the oldest wine farms in South Africa, with a recorded history dating back to 1692. Spier's winery has won multiple awards in recent years, including Producer of the Year (Mundus Vini, Old Mutual Trophy Wine Show 2011). We also performed exceptionally at the 2011 International Wine and Spirits Competition (five Best in Class Gold medals and two trophies), and were the top performing SA winery at Concours Mondial de Bruxelles for three consecutive years. The Spier cellar has ISO 22000 certification, is Fair Trade accredited, organically certified and follows the Integrated Production of Wine (IPW) criteria.

Reviewed By Peadars1 - Dublin, Ireland

I recently stayed here on holiday with my wife, and after a week of partying in nearby Cape Town I found the Spier Wine Farm to be absolutely idyllic and a wonderful place to relax and recharge the batteries ! The location is stunning, the staff were excellent, friendly and professional, and the wine was absolutely amazing and unbelievable value ! The rooms were so spacious and beautifully decorated. We chose to have a picnic on one of the days and I totally recommend doing that as you are spoiled for locations on the wonderful estate. We also stumbled on a bird of prey sanctuary which is located at the end of the estate. This was a wonderful experience and the girl/falconer was extremely knowledgeable and friendly. All in all it was a wonderful venue, extremely good value for such a high end estate and I would have no qualms in recommending it to anyone. The one downside for me was that the Estate's main restaurant (Eight) which I had read so much about was unfortunately closed as it is under renovation, but that's simply a case of bad timing on my part.

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