South Africa is an amazing adventure, brimming with diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and abundant wildlife. However, with its vast terrain and numerous highlights, visiting every corner can be overwhelming, especially with small children. For a more manageable and enjoyable family trip, it’s best to focus on a specific region. The Garden Route is perfect for this!
This complete guide: South Africa with kids provides a detailed itinerary for a two-week journey along the Garden Route. This region offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and family-friendly activities, ensuring an unforgettable experience for everyone. We saw many families, especially with young children, enjoying everything from the vibrant city of Cape Town to the picturesque town of Franschhoek, the diverse wildlife of Swellendam, and the scenic beauty of Knysna and Port Elizabeth. The Garden Route has something for everyone, making it an ideal choice for a memorable family trip.
Itinerary: Why You Need to Do the Garden Route with Kids
Two weeks is not nearly enough but we chose the Garden Route for our first (but definitely not last) trip to South Africa. It offered a wide range of activities like having kidsproof safaris!
Plus, we didn’t need to take malaria pills on this route.
Read here our guide on all the family friendly activities in Capetown.
Cape Town: Day 1-4
Cape Town is a vibrant city with plenty to see and do, making it an excellent starting point for your journey.
Day 1: V&A Waterfront
Get settled in your accommodation and spend the day strolling around the lively V&A Waterfront. There’s always something happening, from live music to performances. If you have time, you can also visit the Aquarium or the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa. The V&A Waterfront is perfect for a relaxed day of exploring with kids, offering various dining options and shops.
Day 2: Beaches and Penguins
Start the day with a visit to Kaap de Goede Hoop. This scenic spot is the most southwestern point of Africa and offers stunning views and walking paths. Drive to various viewpoints along the way, and make sure to take a baby carrier for the little ones.
End the day at Boulder Beach, where you can watch the adorable penguins. These cute creatures are a hit with kids, and the beach itself is beautiful and serene.
Day 3: Table Mountain and Camps Bay
Start early to take the cable car up Table Mountain. The views from the top are breathtaking, and there are plenty of paths to explore. Spend a few hours taking in the sights. There’s a café at the top for refreshments, so you can rest and enjoy a snack. In the afternoon, relax at Camps Bay Beach, known for its stunning scenery and family-friendly atmosphere.
Day 4: Kirstenbosch and More
Spend the day at Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in the world. Kids will love exploring the various plant species and running around the expansive lawns. Alternatively, you can explore other Cape Town attractions based on your family’s interests, such as the Two Oceans Aquarium or a boat trip to Robben Island.
End the day watching the sunset at Signal hill.
Tip! Search for “Kramat Of Sheikh Mohamed Hassen Ghaibie Shah” on signal hill for this hidden viewpoint!
Franschhoek: Day 4-5
We fell in love with this cute town and spent three full days here. It was a great place to relax and enjoy some slower-paced activities. Read here our full blog about activities in Franschhoek.
- Wine Tram: Stop at different wineries with a unique view as the tram drives between the vineyards. The tram experience is enjoyable for both adults and kids, with plenty of stops to explore.
- Picnic: Spend an evening with a picnic at Holden Manz, where they provide everything you need for a comfortable and delicious outdoor meal. Our mini enjoyed himself on the blanket playing with the empty packaging of the food, while we relaxed and took in the beautiful surroundings.
- Boschendal: A large domaine where you can visit a gallery, see farm animals, explore a garden full of spices and plants, have lunch, and of course, try some wines. Boschendal is like a park on its own, offering plenty to see and do.
- Maison Chefs Warehouse: Enjoy a meal at this renowned restaurant. It’s part of a small chain but feels unique and special.
- Village Market: A great place to enjoy local crafts and food, the market on the main square or park is ideal for a relaxed afternoon.
- Pigcasso: a wine domain that’s a little bit different, it is a farm with animals but the most special animal is Pigcasso. Pigcasso is the only pig in the world who can paint.
Overall, we took it slow in Franschhoek to relax a bit and to have a better pace with the baby. If you are not into wine or fine dining you can take more days in Capetown.
Swellendam: Day 6
Visit Bontebok National Park for a self-drive safari. This smaller park is perfect for a family day out, and kids will love spotting the Bonteboks and other wildlife. We even spotted zebra’s! Afterward, have lunch in a local restaurant and stroll around the village to see historic houses. Make a stop at Diesel & Crème Café for a fun, diner-style lunch.
Tip! : Don’t forget to stargaze before heading to bed; the stars are incredible here.
Safari Days: Day 7-9
The highlight of your trip will be the safari days. There are child-friendly options in the region. We chose Oudtshoorn for its warm climate year-round.
The next days will be for relaxing and savouring every moment your lodge is providing! Try to do 2 game drives, one in the morning and one in the afternoon/early evening for maximalising viewing animals. Join a guided game drive for a chance to learn more about the park’s history and wildlife from an experienced ranger. The rangers’ stories and insights will captivate both adults and children, making it a memorable experience for the whole family. This is also your chance to get to know as much as possible about the animals!
From our restaurant and swimming pool there is a lookout over a water pond where you can enjoy while watching the animal take a sip or dip.
Other things to do in the area:
- visiting the Cango Wildlife Ranch, where kids can see crocodiles, lemurs, and even ride a camel.
- Oudtshoorn is known for its ostrich farms, and a visit to one of these farms can be a fun and educational experience for kids. In the afternoon, go on a guided game drive to see other wildlife.
- visit the Cango Caves, a series of spectacular underground caverns. The standard tour is suitable for all ages and is a fascinating experience for the whole family.
Knysna area and Port Elizabeth: Day 10-14
Day 11: Tsitsikamma National Park
Drive to Tsitsikamma National Park and visit the Tsitsikamma Bridge. Enjoy a hike along the Suspension Bridge Trail or the Waterfall Trail, followed by lunch at the park’s restaurant. The suspension bridge offers breathtaking views of the Storms River Mouth and surrounding coastline.
Day 12: Robberg Nature Reserve
Take a day trip to Robberg Nature Reserve for a hike along the Robberg Peninsula. The reserve offers several trail options ranging from 2 to 9 kilometers, making it suitable for families. Enjoy a picnic lunch and take in the stunning coastal views. If time allows, visit Sardinia Bay for a beach experience.
Day 13: Addo National Park
Your final adventure takes you to Addo National Park, home to over 600 elephants and a wide variety of other wildlife. Start your day with a self-drive safari through the park. The well-maintained roads and clear signage make it easy to navigate with kids, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to spot elephants, lions, zebras, and more. Pack a picnic lunch and take a break at one of the park’s scenic picnic spots, where you can enjoy your meal while surrounded by nature.
As the day comes to an end, head back to Port Elizabeth and enjoy a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant, reflecting on the incredible experiences of the past two weeks. On your last day, take some time to explore any remaining sights in Port Elizabeth or simply relax before your flight.
Where to eat | complete guide: South Africa with kids
Some places we loved and where child friendly as well:
Cape Town and Area
- Den Anker: Centrally located on the V&A Waterfront, Den Anker offers a beautiful view and a vibrant atmosphere. It’s an excellent spot for lunch or dinner, featuring Belgian cuisine with highlights such as mussels and a variety of Belgian beers.
- La Parada Constantia: This restaurant features a nice terrace, perfect for enjoying the beautiful surroundings while dining. It offers a range of tapas-style dishes, making it great for a light lunch or a relaxed dinner.
- Cheyne’s Restaurant: Located in Hout Bay, Cheyne’s offers the best Asian fusion cuisine, combining flavors from Japan, China, and other parts of Asia. The innovative dishes and intimate dining experience are exceptional, ideal for dinner.
- Kloof Street House: Known for its excellent meat dishes, Kloof Street House features a cozy terrace and a beautifully decorated interior, especially enchanting at night. It’s perfect for a romantic dinner.
- Ginja: Offering a stunning view of the harbor, Ginja is best for lunch, providing a delightful dining experience with a menu that includes a variety of contemporary dishes.
- Foxcroft Restaurant: A fancy yet child-friendly restaurant, Foxcroft serves amazing food with a welcoming atmosphere. Their menu is perfect for a sophisticated lunch or dinner, offering modern European cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
- Life Grand Cafe Waterfront: Ideal for a warm day, this cafe has a lovely terrace where you can relax and enjoy your meal. It’s great for breakfast, brunch, or a light lunch, featuring a diverse menu with something for everyone.
Franschhoek
- Chef’s Warehouse at Maison: Set in a beautiful location, this restaurant offers fine dining with a relaxed atmosphere. The menu is a must-try, and the sight of chickens running around the terrace provides entertainment for children. It’s ideal for lunch or dinner.
- Holden Manz: Known for their delicious picnic packages, Holden Manz provides blankets and pillows to sit on, making for a comfortable and enjoyable experience on their beautiful estate. Perfect for a leisurely lunch.
- The French Connection Bistro: This bistro offers fine dining in a charming setting, ideal for lunch or dinner with a menu featuring French-inspired dishes.
- Cafe du Vin: A great spot for breakfast, known for their delicious waffles and other breakfast treats.
- Col’Cacchio: Offers delicious oven-baked pizzas, making it a fantastic option for a casual lunch or dinner.
- La cotte Farm: lovely interior and an extensive brunch menu!
- Cheese Plates in Wineries: A delightful way to enjoy the local wines, perfect for a leisurely lunch.
Swellendam
- Diesel and Creme: A unique diner-style restaurant with a fun atmosphere, perfect for a casual lunch. They’re famous for their gourmet milkshakes and comfort food.
- Field and Fork: The food is very good, focusing on modern South African cuisine, but it might feel a bit less comfortable with a child. It’s ideal for a more formal dinner.
- Republic of Swellendam: This restaurant offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere with a diverse menu. It’s great for a family-friendly lunch or dinner, featuring a mix of South African and international dishes. It even has a childrens playroom and lots of toys for your little ones!
Have a perfect trip with our complete guide: South Africa with kids
The Garden Route offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and family-friendly activities. It’s an ideal choice for a complete guide: South Africa with kids, ensuring an unforgettable experience for everyone. We saw many families, especially with young children. From the vibrant city of Cape Town to the picturesque town of Franschhoek, the diverse wildlife of Swellendam, and the scenic beauty of Knysna and Port Elizabeth, the Garden Route has something for everyone. This itinerary allows you to see the best of South Africa at a pace that’s comfortable for families, making it a trip to remember.
Enjoy our trip with the complete guide: South Africa with kids!