Two Oceans Aquarium

It’s a pretty valid question when asked by a four-year old en route to the Two Oceans Aquarium in Cape Town, but it had me stumbling for a moment as, with my indicator stuck, my head craned round to see oncoming traffic, and my other finger reaching for the air conditioning that needed a mighty overhaul if you consider the angst with which it was emitting tepid air, my brain and mouth couldn’t get in synch to wrap around the rather meaty ‘Indian and Atlantic, love’.

Just as well it isn’t the Pacific Ocean that meets the Indian or the Atlantic, or my child would have spent at least ten minutes talking about specifics. The Two Oceans Aquarium based at the V&A Waterfront is probably the only major tourist attraction to which Capetonians actually go. Well okay, that and Table Mountain, Boulders beach and a couple of others. But what I’m actually trying to say in a roundabout way, is that it is a great place for locals with children, particularly given the current ‘Take 4!’ special, which allows two adults and two children to get in for R180.

Two Oceans Aquarium

The Two Oceans is beautifully laid out. There is an almost ‘other worldly’ atmosphere about it and one is immediately lost in amongst the aquarium exhibits. Every time I manage ten minutes infront of the kelp forest I make an undying promise to return on my own for contemplation to get the creative juices going. I have yet to do so, but I will!

Kelp forests, such as this one, are only displayed in two aquariums in the world – the other is Monterey Bay in America. This one in particular houses three types of giant kelp. I must say, if I were a fish, this is where I’d like to be…

On our last visit, my son had his back to the exhibit when the aquarium’s CEO (or at least I think it was he) took that moment to make a dive in his scuba gear and reared up right behind my son, who jumped about ten feet in the air much to the hilarity of all at the exhibit at the time. And you don’t have to be the CEO to dive in the kelp forest.

Two Oceans Aquarium

You’ll need an advanced scuba qualification, but with it you can feed the hundreds of fishes contained in the 800 000 litre exhibit, or dive with the sharks in the I&J Predator Exhibit (for this you’ll need an open water one or discover scuba qualificaton). See Diving at the Two Oceans Aquarium.

The Kelp Forest is by no means the only highlight at the aquarium. Exhibits are divided into an Indian Ocean and Atlantic Ocean gallery, each of which has an array of displays full of vibrant fish, crabs, eels and whatnots.

The Atlantic Ocean gallery is great for the older kids as its full of jelly fish, octopus, Knysna seahorses and giant spider crabs, whilst the Indian Ocean is full of darting, colourful fish typical of more tropical regions. So you’ll see butterfly fish, damsels (not those in distress), surgeonfish and angelfish.

A quick tip: should you need a diversion, find Nemo and Dory in amongst the Indian Ocean gallery.

Two Oceans Aquarium

Frogs beyond the pond should work its magic too. It’s a fairly new exhibit brought about by the International Year of the Frog (2008). There’s a large touch screen to magnify the different frogs, many of whom are under threat, there’s a frog puppet show, which outlines the journey of the Western lepard toad from a suburban garden to a wetland – it’s a win of an exihibit for both big and small, especially when surrounded by giant arum lillies, mushrooms and clivias.

And just when things start to get tough – you’ll have made your way through a whole floor of exhibits – you’ll head down the ramp towards the Afrisam Children’s Centre and get a few minutes respite, whilst you watch the seals continue their antics under the water. There is always a series of arts and crafts on the tables for children. It is a great space for them (and their parents) to relax and daily puppet shows  introduce them to the world of Peter the penguin, Nemo and a rather menacing shark.

Two Oceans Aquarium

Upstairs is the Sappi river meander you’ll find a colony of African penguins and rockhopper penguins, African black oystercatchers and a series of river fish, although you might have to breathe in slightly shallow breaths as it can get a little smelly and a tad warm up here.

Somewhere in between, or after, make time for the I&J predator exhibit where rays, loggerhead turtles and ragged-tooth sharks swim peacefully side-by-side and then when you can no longer remain on your feet, head down to the Shoreline Café, which, thank goodness, stays open until about 6pm and does a few mean ‘family-oriented’ meals.

It’s a good place to meet friends in the afternoon, followed by a meal if you intend missing the traffic out of town again. There is also a dedicated children’s play area that gives you a well deserved cappuccino break! (The restaurant has just been renovated and transformed into a deli/self-service facility, due to open again in the second week of November).

Two Oceans Aquarium

There is always something new going on, and various other fun things – such as sleep overs, evening lectures, competitions and gala evenings. And children can have their birthday parties here too. So when you’re next at your wits end for an outing – head off to the Two Ocean Aquarium.

Contact:
Address: Two Oceans Aquarium, V&A waterfront, Cape Town
Telephone: +27 (0)21 418-3823
http://www.aquarium.co.za/

Useful Links:
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Entrance to the Two Oceans Aquarium at the V&A Waterfront

Two Oceans Aquarium Photo Gallery – Click thumbnails to enlarge

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Lets go camping!

It’s virtually that time of the year again, when a beach holiday for the family looms on the horizon and visions of just how one is going to wiggle one’s way into one’s swim attire with a fair amount of grace occupies one’s thoughts, if only for a moment. The rest of the time is taken up with trying to find the right campsite whilst dithering about how best to fit the entire house and the kitchen sink into the boot of the car!

The KwaZulu-Natal coastline is the most obvious choice when it comes to endless summer and warm waters. Along this strip of coastline between Port Edward and Durban is an uninterrupted playground of golden beaches, rocky coves, lagoon mouths, grassy slopes and, of course, the warm Indian Ocean that invites hours of water play …

The KwaZulu Natal South Coast conjures up a humid, perpetually warm landscape of rolling green hills swept with sugarcane, hibiscus, bougainvillea and the songs of birds. There is the inevitable highrise development to contend with too, but if you select your campsite carefully there is no reason why a complete escape cannot be secured and a break spent idly swimming, braaing, diving and rock pool rummaging cannot be yours for the taking.

Don’t forget the fishing rods, mini golf sticks (the portion of the coast between Illovo and Port Edward is wall-to-wall golf courses), snorkels, boogy boards and goggles.

The following list attempts to veer away from the ’sardine tin’ experience, although this is difficult to do with any assurance during peak holiday season:

Villa Spa, Illovo
This is one of few campsites that offers an intimate experience with a little bit of luxury thrown in (there’s a heated pool in winter with a sauna and spa bath). The campsite is set in 10 acres of beautiful, shady garden just two minutes across the railway line from Illovo Beach. Large, lawned and shady sites are available for caravans, campervans, motorhomes and tents. They also have log chalets set in amongst the trees for those who don’t want to do the camping thing. Daily camping rates between R80 – R160 for adults, and children R50 – R120.
Contact: Gail & Anthony on telephone +27 (0)31 916-4939

Ellingham Resorts

Ellingham Resorts – Rocky Bay, Park Rynie
The resort, just down the coast from the very popular Scottburgh, is a combination of rustic log cabins, a caravan park and conference centre in one of the most gorgeous locations along the coast. Here you are privy to some of the best sea views possible, all without any sign of development – things here are still virtually ‘wild’. The park has over 160 bush enshrouded or beach facing sites to choose from, the ablutions are first rate and there are children’s areas that include a playpark, splash pool and fresh water swimming pool. Booking is essential in high season. Daily camping rates between R85 – R127, children R42 – R70.
Contact: Ellingham Resorts on telephone +27 (0)39 976-0336

MacNicol’s Bazley Beach Resort
MacNicol’s won countrywide winner in the camping and caravan resort category of the AA hospitality Awards 2008, and you can understand why. As you arrive you are met with a cup of tea, and you get help pitching the tent! Set right on the Ifafa lagoon, this sprawling campsite has a host of large, shady sites and feels almost like a nature reserve – there are over 140 bird species that you can spot here, including the fish eagle, and you’re only 100 metres from the coastline where Bazley beach offers miles of unspoilt beach. You also have access to the private beach of Ndesingaan where the conditions are safe for swimming. The lagoon too provides hours of water fun, including canoeing, paddling and wind surfing. Daily camping rates between R90 – R180 and children R45 – R95.
Contact: June McNicol on telephone +27 039 977 8863

Marlon Holiday Resort

Marlon Holiday Resort, Sunwich Port
This is a great, shady campsite set in amongst the trees with good protection from the wind, between Hibberdene and Port Shepstone. Marlon Holiday Resort, which also offers cottages, log cabins and Plettenburg homes, lies in a sheltered valley on the banks of the Damba River, which flows into the sea on an exceptionally pretty beach, just 700 metres from the resort. Swimming in the tidal pool is safe, whilst there are also other recreational facilities that include a children’s playground, swimming pool, trampoline etc. You’re assured of peace, quiet and relaxation. Daily camping rates R250 – R450 per site per night for up to 4 people sharing.
Contact: Charmaine Duffield on telephone +27 (0)39 681-3596
http://www.sa-venues.com/visit/marlonholidayresort/

Umtentweni Caravan Resort
If you’re into small and intimate, then this is the resort in Umtentweni for you, particularly if you have younger children (the bigger resorts are great for teens). This quiet and pretty campsite has been chosen by a reader survey as one of the top resorts in the country for the past ten years and it’s easy to see why. Rolling lawns wend their way right down to the Mtentweni lagoon, with modern ablution facilities and the usual jungle gym, trmpoline, swimming pool and boating on the river, it’s fun for all.  Daily camping rates between R70 – R115 for adults, R40 – R75 for children.
Contact: Tobie and Anita Mayer on telephone +27 (0)39 695-0531

Port o'Call

Port o’ Call Caravan Park
A little piece of paradise. Port o’ Call lies adjacent to the Trafalgar Marine Reserve spilling out onto five kilometres of goregeous ‘wild’ beach. Lying midway between Margate and Port Edward, not only is the beach a safe swimming beach but there is excellent snorkelling on a reef that boast 90-million-year-old fossil beds. Spend your days under milkwood, umdoni, wild fig, coral trees and ilala palms whilst listening to the crashing waves. Kids get a swimming and paddling pool, and there are spotless ablutions. If you’re into secluded seaside holidays away from it all, this is it.  Daily camping rates between R100 – R180 for adults, RR50 – R90 for children.
Contact: Port o’Call Caravan Park on telephone +27 (0)39 313-0511

Old Pont Holiday Resort
Another awesome setting on the banks of the Mtamvuna River, hence an ideal spot if you’re into watersports. Not your spot if you’re not into a bit of noise and a lot of fun, for it can get kind of vibey when it gets busy. 100 grassed, shady campsites are available, and whilst the beaches are only accessible by river, you can drive a short distance to the Port Edward main beach for safe swimming, super tube rides and a little more bustle. Take a boat and head upstream, you won’t be sorry.  Daily camping rates R240 – R340 for 4 people.
Contact: Old Pont Holiday Resort on telephone +27 (0)39 311-2211

Note about Rates:
Please note that rates were correct at time of publishing.
Please contact the resorts directly for up-to-date rates before booking.

Useful Links:
KwaZulu Natal Camping
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KwaZulu Natal Attractions
Things to Do in KwaZulu Natal

One of the attractions of selecting this reserve, and Mpila camp in particular, was that I could meet my young boys’ desire to camp, without having to sacrifice my need for a little comfort and some basic amenities. In fact the two bedded tents with en suite showers are anything but basic! I was thrilled to arrive and see two beautifully tented bedrooms, with wooden beds and cupboards and electricity, (which is on from 08h00 to 22h00) together with a wonderful reeded bathroom with flushing loo and full pressure shower. Now this was camping!

A well-equipped kitchen is connected to the two tents by a wooden boardwalk, which is raised above the ground to allow warthogs and impala to forage below you, which they literally do! Mpila is not a fenced off camp and so we were warned to watch our food on the braai, as the hyenas have a sneaky  means of removing it once your back is turned! (You need to watch young children too.)

The only hassle is the prevalence of monkeys that seem to emerge the minute one starts to prepare a meal. They are persistent and you can leave nothing out, hence even the fridge has a dog leash lock on it. On one occasion I left the kettle on the stove and returned to find a monkey drinking from it!

Bed time was most exciting when we cuddled up in our warm beds, zipped up the tents, which have mozzie screens, and drifted off into total blackness, punctuated by the odd hyena’s cry. The tents are well protected with mozzie screens and have full mosquito nets to enclose the beds, since Imfolozi falls into a malaria area. Another advantage of travelling during the winter though, is that the threat of malaria is extremely low, and we did not take prophylactics.

During the early mornings and evenings we generally tried to take a drive and sighted an abundance of zebra, impala, wildebeest, giraffe, several rhinos, hyenas and even a few lions in the distance. Our most exciting find was a pack of African Wild dogs, who had collapsed alongside the road, having indulged in an early morning kill. Mpila can easily be navigated in a standard vehicle, though a raised one is always better to spot the more rare species. We opted for a night drive run by the camp, which leaves at 18h00 and returns around 21h00. We did not see much that we had not spotted during the day, other than a few bunnies, but the excitement of travelling in an open, raised vehicle, ensured that my young boys adopted a nocturnal cycle!

Mpila has a small shop for emergency supplies, but there is no restaurant. The full reserve traverses an expanse of 960 km² and so one needs to be selective about the areas you choose to cover.

Our three nights in the tented camp cost R350 per adult and R175 per child per night (2009 rates), together with a R90 per person per day conservation levy (R45 for children). Our game drive cost R250 per adult and R125 per child.

Useful Links:
Hluhluwe Attractions
Hluhluwe Umfolozi Game Reserve
Hluhluwe Accommodation
Hluhluwe Hotels & Lodges

There are few options these days for young children that do not involve a whole load of violence, foul language and adult understanding. In fact many of the so-called children’s shows and movies these days seem to cater more for adult humour? The Puppet Theatre makes a welcome departure from that, and shows run every Saturday morning at 10h00 and 11h15.

To date we have watched The Frog Prince, Prince George and the Dragon, the Easter Rabbit, Rumplestiltskin, Hansel and Gretel and probably a host of others that I have forgotten, since shows change on a monthly basis. The stories are never longer than 45 minutes and are beautifully told by a narrator, while the puppet characters perform the story, with accompanying sounds effects, behind her.

The atmosphere is created at the outset in a lovely little room, panelled with stars and flowers and dimly lit with candles. Each show commences with the singing of “Somewhere over the rainbow”, presumably the theatre’s ‘brand song’. Oggi, the resident hedgehog, begins each show by telling a little of what is to come and warning of any potentially scary parts, such as the witch in Hansel and Gretel. The theatre is recommended for four-year-olds and up, but my three-year-old has always enjoyed it, bar the odd scary part spent on my lap!

The stories are punctuated by songs and rhymes, and the puppets themselves are cleverly handled to do everything from carrying items to smacking each other – none of the old Punch and Judy slapstick is found here! I am always amazed by the scene changes, complete with wings and backdrops, which make it feel like a ‘real’ theatre, only in bonsai form.

Entry is R15 for all, which will increase to R20 from January 2010, their first price increase in ten years! Tea, coffee, fruit juice and the odd home baked biscuit are on sale before the show. I must  confess that most shows we have attended have all begun late, but that is probably to allow for  latecomers, and always finishes on time. Birthday parties can also be hosted at the puppet Theatre, with the garden of the Waldorf school providing a lovely outdoor area in which to play.

Contact & Address:
Address: Constantia Waldorf School, Spaanschemat Rd, Constantia, Cape Town.
Telephone: +27 (0)21 783-2063 or +27 (0)21 794-2103
Times: Saturday mornings at 10h00 and 11h15. Please call to confirm show.

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Adventures of Pinocchio

We have all heard of the story of the little wooden boy who was carved from a piece of pine by the woodcarver Geppetto and who was created as a puppet but dreamt of becoming a “real boy” named Pinocchio. This fictional character has been around since 1883 and has become a well loved tale and was certainly a firm favourite of mine whilst I was growing up.

And if you are in Johannesburg or its surrounding areas you will be happy to know that Pinocchio will be the biggest pantomime ever this year with 60 artists taking part. If you already au fait with pantomimes you probably call them panto’s and already have your tickets booked. However, if you do not fall into this category let me give you a little refresher in what the pantomime is … It is a singing, dancing, comedic performance that is usually performed during the festive season (Christmas and New Year). Think audience participation, a lot of laughs, an evil villain, the Panto Dame (think man dressed as really “beautiful” woman) and leaving feeling lighter and happier.

Janice Honeyman is synonymous with pantomimes in South Africa and this year she is not holding back as there will be a fantastic cast of 60 performers taking to the Mandela Stage at the Johannesburg Theatre from 4 November 2009 to 3 January 2010.

The loving character of Geppetto will be played by tv, film and stage actor Tobie Cronjé. I have very fond memories of him playing the role of the BFG (from a Roald Dahl novel) many years ago. If you remember the South African version of the show, The Weakest Link, you will most definitely remember Fiona Coyne. Her humour and sharp wit suit her perfectly in the role of the cat who is Pinocchio’s wicked accomplice. And the role of the fox is played by well know tv celebrity Terrence Bridgett (Chico in local soapie Isidingo).

Fiona Ramsay

Fiona Ramsay, who is a leading lady of the stage, returns to the stage after a 7 year absence from pantomimes and plays the character of the magical Blue Fairy. Sibu Radebe, who has won two Naledi awards (“Best Comedy Performer” and “Best Breakthrough Performer 2008”) has been cast in the role of Pinocchio. I certainly enjoyed him in the role of Lefou, Gaston’s sidekick, in the South African production of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast earlier this year. And the ladies in the audience will be treated to a guest appearance from the heart-throb Jacques Terre-Blanche who became an overnight success thanks to the 2003 Idols series.

This year the cast is so large as there is a company of 25 dancers from the South African Ballet Theatre who are special guest stars. And the stage will definitely be full when all 60 cast members perform simultaneously.

If you need a little reminder of the story of Pinochio then here it goes. This is the story of Pinocchio who is carved out of pine by Geppetto. The story then goes on to tell us Pinocchio’s quest to become a real boy and along the way he has a number of adventures. He encounters some wicked characters who try to lead him a stray (the fox and cat), the Blue Fairy and Jiminy Cricket who tries to steer Pinocchio in the right direction. The message of the story is Geppetto’s unconditional love for his son and is something we can all take with us.

How to book:
Tickets for this show are the same prices they were in 2007 and range from R171 to R222 per person. You can purchase your tickets at Computicket or if you would like to take up the group discount offer for groups of 10 or more then telephone the theatre’s VIP ticketing on +27 (0)11 877-6854.

And don’t forget that:
When you wish upon a star
Makes no difference who you are
Anything your heart desires
Will come to you

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Yet, despite my being an avid fan of the market, it’s more than a little pricey to eat there nowadays, and rather intimidating to try and find a spot to warm your bum on a bench whilst you scoff the latest gourment product, given the throngs that descend on Woodstock on any given Saturday morning. So, for those of you in search of something new that is not only set to be equally as good but also emphasises the local, artisan and sustainability aspect of food, head off to the Earth Fair market in Tokai.

Earth Fair is also an indoor market. It lies in the South Palms (for those of you to whom this means nothing, it’s actually in the same area as Builders Warehouse in Main Road, although behind Bathroom Bizarre). There is plenty of parking, for a start, and there are activities for kids, which for many living in Tokai is something of a godsend on a Saturday morning.

The atmosphere strikes you immediately on walking through the door. There is music pumping through the market that sets the tone, without being at all intrusive – anything but, actually. We didn’t have to move much further than the stall immediately infront of the door for the first ten minutes or so, as the quality biscuits on offer from Empire Cafe so entranced my son that we were quickly in conversation, and Dave readily informed us that he was very happy with the market and was doing extremely well out of it.

When the stall facing the public as they enter the door does such a good marketing job then your work is that much easier, and Jacqui Simpson is someone who knows a thing or two about marketing (it wasn’t too long ago that she was doing just that for a living).

Jacqui has made sure that all of her stallholders are handpicked and sell quality products. There is nothing at the Earth Fair market that isn’t worth more than a cursory glance. This isn’t a market that brings you everything and anything. This is local food at its best. No-one here is even slightly dodgy, and the aim is that here you will easily be able to stock up on the week’s food – fruit, vegetables (organic and local), free range and organic meat, local and organic cheese, bread and biscuits, sustainable fish, local and organic beer – and sit and enjoy a meal whilst you’re at it. And people love it.

Down one side of the warehouse is a seating area, table d’hôte -style, in amongst the ‘fast food’ slow-food-style section where you can enjoy any number of scrumptious meals on offer – gourmet baguettes, falafal pitas, crepes etc. We shared a particularly good (bought on recommendation from our immediate neighbours at the table) Italian-style naan bread prepared with a delectable topping that seemed to consist of tomato and braised onion with free-range beef, topped with fresh rocket, accompanied by a non-traditional, first of its kind in South Africa, honey blonde ale produced by the Birkenhead independent micro-brewery in Stanford (containing wild Stanford fynbos honey) and a carrot juice from the Ethical co-op team.

Alongside is a kids play section that is really great! Tables with blackboard tabletops (how many times has your toddler not burst to draw all over the table!?), sand art, play dough and a series of funky stools on which accompanying parents can sit.

The organic section, immediately alongside the ’sit and eat’ section, includes smoothies and juices from the Ethical co-op , fresh produce from Funky Greens, and Kids Bites – patties, fish sticks and vegetable balls made from organic produce that are definitely worth sticking in your freezer for lunches or dinners (I bought the fish sticks, which were particularly scrummy and are free of chemicals, preservatives, and made from sustainable fish and organic vegetables – what more can you want from fast food for kids?)

Rudi’s sausages are going to have the tongues wagging sooner rather than later. I am not a meat fan – I definitely don’t do sausage, normally speaking – but the sausages my husband bought were definitely in a league of their own. Rudi’s sausages, not sold by anyone called Rudi (we were entertained by Stephane Bottalico, one of a team of four who have started the business) are free of preservatives, have no MSG, no additives to create bulk, like soya, rusk or potato starch, the spices are hand mixed and only home grown herbs are used, and the meat comes from homegrown pork, lamb and free range beef, organic springbok, eland, wild boar, ostrich and wild goose – all made according to traditional Argentine, French, German, Italian and Spanish sausage recipes. And let me tell you, speaking as a non-meat enthusiast, these guys have got it right!

Next to Rudi’s was Stokkiesdraai biltong – again hormone free, preservative free kudu, ostrich and beef biltong and droë wors – well worth a taste. On the fish side of things you can buy sustainable fish from Fish 4 Africa or the Fish Deli, and people were lining up for cheese from the Constantia Cheesery and Farm Cheese.

The good news is that Earth Fair market is also open on Wednesday evenings from 2pm until 8pm – reason to stock up midweek, and get a wonderful, festive supper in at the same time. Jacqui says that it’s taking a while to warm up, but I have no doubt that Wednesdays will become quite the hit with parents in Tokai, Bergvliet and Muizenberg given time.

Find out more about the market http://www.earthfairmarket.co.za/
Every Saturday 9.00 am – 2.30 pm
Every Wednesday 2.00 pm – 8.00 pm
Telephone: Jacqui on +27 (0)84 220-3856

Useful Links:
Things to Do in Cape Town
Cape Town Markets & Farm Stalls
Tokai Accommodation
Cape Town Accommodation

Shoreline Café

Cape Town offers some beautiful locations to spend time with your family in a relaxing and playful atmosphere. On a constant quest to find perfect family spots offering healthy child-friendly food with an appetizing menu for adults, set in pleasant surrounds with play areas, here are some of the best experiences on offer …

Shoreline Café at the V&A Waterfront was created for pure enjoyment and is situated next to the Two Oceans Aquarium. An indoor play area makes this spot a great escape for rainy days! The kiddie’s area is lined with AstroTurf and has a big TV to entertain the older chldren, while the younger members of the family will be kept very busy on the creatively designed jungle gym and slides … (Find Shoreline Cafe next to the 2 Oceans Aquarium at the V&A waterfront, Cape Town. Telephone: +27 (0)21 418-8645).

In the city, Deer Park Café in the suburb of Vredehoek is an institution with local trendy families because of its deli-style food and large play park. A healthy menu impresses parents and children alike, giving them plenty of fuel for clambering over the play obstacles and jungle gyms that fill the generous park.

Set in the residential area at the foot of Table Mountain Park, with tall trees and greenery growing amongst the peaceful neighbourhood, Deer Park Café is a wonderful way to spend time with your children, while squeezing in some gourmet treats for yourself! (Find them at 2 Deer Park Avenue, Vredehoek, Cape Town. Telephone: +27 (0)21 462-6311)

Cape Farmhouse Restaurant

A little further out in the suburb of Hout Bay, Scarecrows has been created purely for the enjoyment of the little people! Combining the magical ingredients of a huge play area and fantastic food, Scarecrows never fails in delighting the whole family.

Watch your kids play in the teepees, in the sandpits and on the junglegyms while you have a well deserved cappacino and slice of cheesecake. (Find Scarecrows at Oakhurst Farm Park, Main Road, Hout Bay. Telephone: +27 (0)21 790-0841).

The Cape Farmhouse Restaurant in Red Hill, en route to Cape Point, is the place to go for an unforgettable family day out. An old farmhouse turned restaurant creates a beautiful space to savour a long lunch, under the vines.

Geese roam around the grassy play areas which provide plenty of running space, complimented by a menu comprising of true gourmet delights. Local folk bands play live music on Saturday afternoons, so be sure to book for a truly different treat for the whole family. (Find The Cape Farmhouse restaurant 3km from Scarbourgh at the bottom of Red Hill – Junction M66 & m65. Telephone: +27 (0)21 780-1246).

@ Imhoff Farm

Imhoff Farm, Kommetjie, is a day long experience not to be missed, making Blue Water Café the perfect venue for a family meal. A majestic farmhouse with rolling green lawns looking out onto horses grazing, sets the scene as you enjoy outstanding food. With a large jungle gym, ample space and a touch farm bordering the restaurant, your children will be entertained for hours. (Find Blue Water Café on Imhoff Farm in Kommetjie. Telephone: +27 (0)21 783-4545).

The Barnyard in Tokai is the ultimate child friendly venue, complete with farm animals, several jungle gyms, swings and play areas. Homestyle cooking feeds hungry children and parents, inbetween hours of play. (Find The Barnyard at 4 Steenberg Road, Tokai. Telephone: +27 (0)21 712-6934).

Treat the whole family to a Saturday morning at the Porter’s Estate Market in Tokai for a gourmet organic experience of food, drinks and handmade goods. Set amongst the trees of the Tokai forest, not only will you experience a day of chocolate filled pancakes and fairy cakes, your children will also have the time of their lives playing in the special kiddie’s entertainment area. (Find the market at Chrysalis Academy, behind the Tokai forest picnic area in Tokai. Telephone: +27 (0)82 823-4121).

Café Roux

Café Roux at the Noordhoek Farm Village is the haunt of food lovers everywhere and with a beautiful playground bordering the alfresco style restaurant, it is a welcoming space for families. Along with all the other family friendly restaurants on this list, Café Roux is an upmarket space that impresses with its relaxed gourmet menu.

Watch your children play to their hearts’ content on the tractor or inside the wendy house while you sample fresh food made with dedication and passion. (Find them at Noordhoek Farm Village, Village Lane, Noordhoek, Cape Town. Telephone: +27 (0)21 789-2538).

For lots more Family Friendly Entertainment in the Cape Town area see Cape Town Family Friendly Things to Do or to find a place to stay for your next holiday in Cape Town see Cape Town accommodation or Western Cape accommodation.

Useful Links:
Cape Town Restaurants
Cape Town Family Friendly Accommodation

Arabella Western Cape Hotel

Take your lead from Balou the bear this holiday season and ‘forget about your troubles and your strife’ at the Arabella Western Cape Hotel & Spa. Of course as the song lyrics caution, you have to know the tricks of the trade in order to survive, and this is exactly where the Arabella’s Kid’s Club at Balou’s adventure centre comes in. Balou’s offers a secure fun-filled environment where children can enjoy stimulating and creative activities, whilst mom and dad relax with a round of golf on the Arabella Golf Course – recently selected as “Best Golf Course in South Africa”, or a well deserved break at the award winning Arabella Spa.

The Arabella Western Cape Hotel & Spa, which was voted both South Africa’s “Leading Luxury Hotel” and “Africa’s Leading Family Resort” in 2009, is situated in the Overberg, a scenic hour’s drive from Cape Town – in fact it will probably take you longer to pack up your brood, than to get there. The Overberg region is situated on the Southern most tip of Africa and is the meeting point of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans …

Also known as the ‘whale coast,’ the area best known for its superb whale watching, stretches from the Hottentots-Holland Mountains in the West to Swellendam in the East, and from the Riviersonderend Mountains in the North to the Atlantic and Indian Oceans in the South. It is easily accessible over the dramatic Sir Lowry’s Pass along the N2 or by a meandering coastal road along the sea cliffs from Gordon’s Bay, through the magnificent Kogelberg Biosphere. It can also be journeyed to from other regions of the Western Cape such as the Winelands, the Garden Route, the Breede River and the Klein Karoo.

Arabella Western Cape

But once you’ve survived the car trip – what to do when you arrive? Apart from the coastline’s beautiful, child-friendly beaches, the Overberg proffers slow country rambles, which are perfect for walks, hikes and biking, through nature reserves and farmlands framed by rugged mountains and pretty fynbos landscapes. The Overberg lies in the heart of the famous Cape Floral Kingdom and is well-known for its prolific fynbos vegetation, boasting more than 8 600 plant species, many of which are unique to the area.

Animal inhabitants include many mammals, a wealth of birds, as well as reptiles, amphibians and terrestrial invertebrates, not to mention aquatic invertebrates and fish. The area is also home to prolific birdlife, including approximately half of the Blue Crane population, South Africa’s national bird and an endangered species which thrives in a man-made crane-friendly habitat. Legendary wild horses, remnant from the Boer War commandos roam freely on the plains of the Rooisands Nature Reserve and add a mystical air of intrigue for visitors, both young and old.

A cultural melting pot renowned for its hospitality, the Overberg is rich in history. This is evident in the area’s many museums, some, such as the preserved mission stations of Elim and Genadendal, which occupy entire villages. There are plenty of outings to amuse children of all ages including the Harold Porter Botanicals Gardens, the Toy and Miniature Museum and the Village Museum, both located in the quaint town of Stellenbosch. For creature lovers, Butterfly World, the Cheetah Outreach and Birds of Prey Sanctuaries, the Lion Park, as well as the Crocodile Farm, Monkey Town, Tygerberg Zoo, Wiesenhof Game Park and Stony Point Penguin Reserve – one of only two breeding grounds on the South African coastline – are sure to delight. The fascinating Shipwreck Museum in Bredasdorp is well worth a visit and the Fairy Glen Picnic Site and Fairy Forest will capture the imagination of any little girl.

Arabella Western Cape

There are also the quaint seaside towns of Hermanus, Kleinmond, Pringle Bay and Gansbaai to explore; and inland, the historic towns of Stanford and Greyton. The nearby Hemel-en-Aarde Valley boasts some of the Cape’s finest, award winning wine estates, many of which are child-friendly. A tour of the scenic Winelands will showcase a variety of the area’s highly acclaimed wine cultivars, including a visit to Blaauwklippen, one of South Africa’s oldest wine estates.

For the energetic, mountaineering, biking, hiking, walking and running trails are in abundance, as well as quad biking and water sports such as shark cage diving, white water rafting, canoeing, kayaking, sailing, diving and angling. For out-of-town visitors and tourists, a Cape Town city tour will reveal the heart of the vibrant mother city, whilst a visit to the nearby townships provides an authentic slice of South African life. Game viewing experiences are also at your finger tips, with an opportunity to view the Big 5, a mere 2 hours drive away. Whale watching in-season and other eco-marine activities such as dolphin, seal and great white shark adventures, from land or boat, are on offer, whilst a birds-eye view of the whales congregating in Walker Bay during calving season can be enjoyed by helicopter.

When it comes to selecting a family friendly milieu, the Arabella Western Cape Hotel & Spa offers it all. Children are heartily welcomed and child guest facilities cater to their every need, ensuring a relaxed stay for kids and parents alike. On arrival, welcome age appropriate treats add an extra sprinkling of magic for young guests. The Balou Kid’s Club is open from 09:00 – 17:00 on Saturdays and Sundays and during school holidays and caters for children aged four and up. Age appropriate leisure entertainment includes arts and craft activities, board games, puzzles, books, Lego, a fun jungle gym, DVD’s, Sony Playstation and plenty of facilitated play. Other activities include outings, horse riding, tennis, golf, mini cricket, putt-putt, scavenger hunts, volleyball, Olympics and lively competitions.

Arabella Western Cape

For younger children, the hotel offers an experienced babysitter service that care for children in the comfort of your room. The hotel’s expert chefs take special care to create uncomplicated and enjoyable children’s meals, guaranteed to satisfy even the most discerning young gourmet. For complete peace of mind, the hotel will ensure that rooms are adapted to be baby or child friendly including thoughtful extras such as nightlights, plug socket covers, anti-slip bath mats, baby baths and playpens. To make your stay as comfortable as possible, other special baby / children items specific to your needs are available on request.

With so many fun filled activities to choose from, the Overberg is an ideal family breakaway. Hole up with your cubs at the Arabella Western Cape Hotel & Spa this summer and enjoy more than ‘the bare necessities of life.’

For more information, please contact the Arabella Western Cape Hotel & Spa – Telephone +27 (0)28 284-0000, or visit their website: www.westerncapehotelandspa.co.za

Useful Links:
For more destination information please see:
Cape Whale Coast
Western Cape Attractions
Western Cape Accommodation

Butterfly World

But the surprise came, despite our having read up on Butterfly World before heading out, when we entered the covered garden (after muscling our way through the gift shop filled to the brim with butterfly memorabilia, sweets and such like) to discover a tropical paradise filled not only with butterflies but a whole heap of other wonderful animals too – like marmoset monkeys, incredible iguanas, other lizards, huge spiders (good thing that they’re in locked glass boxes), scorpions, snakes and a variety of very vocal birds!

The 1 000 square metre greenhouse – the largest butterfly park in South Africa – is a feast for sore eyes. In fact, the butterflies play second fiddle to all the other activity both at knee level (various fish ponds) and eye level (see previous para but add a wonderful selection of foliage, exotic plants and conveniently placed benches for tired moms) … But the butterflies we did see, considering that it was a winter’s day, and possibly due to the tropical conditions (be prepared to peel off the layers if you are not a fan of humidity!) were incredibly beautiful.

Butterfly World

It’s just that, well, a butterfly is a butterfly, if you’re a toddler or a child. They’re okay to look at for five minutes or if one falls over dead and you can hold it in your hands for a while.

But you’d much rather squeal whilst a marmoset monkey rummages through your mother’s handbag looking for anything resembling food or make vomitting noises when you see the colour of the blue-tongued skink’s tongue (a short-legged Australian lizard ideal for gardens with an infestation of snails).

So whilst I as an adult was mesmerised by the incredible butterflies, and would have loved to stand and watch them gorge on fruit (at various intervals, ripe fruit lies on wooden perches to attract the butterflies, flown in as pupae every week from countries such as Costa Rica, the Philippines, Malaysia and China), my tugabout was having none of it.

Butterfly World

He wanted the action and action was what he got. After working out that the suspended wooden blocks floating between the various rooms was not a weapon of destruction but a weight for the pulley on the swing door, he yanked me, somewhat to my relief given that it was cooler there, into the spider room, past a number of slumbering anacondas (did I mention that they’re also in glass cages?).

Any indigenous spiders, other than the baboon spider, which I have now learnt does not deserve its fearsome reputation as its bite has little to no effect, were sidelined by the enormous tarantulas lying virtually inactive in their respective boxes. There are snakes here too, some of which were out of their cages for people to hold.

But on, this time past someone with a green tree iguana (they grow up to 2 metres in length, but this one was nigh on a metre) perched on his shoulder for a photo moment to a grinding halt when we sighted ‘little koala bears, mommy!’.

Butterfly World

Marmosets describe little furry guys that do indeed look a little like koala bears, but with none of the jet-lag. These little chattering new world monkeys from South America move like lightening and entertain both themselves and those around them.

The reptile room was as much fun, with various iguanas, bearded dragons and blue-tongued skinks, but it was a little hot to hang around in the gardens, no matter how beautiful, for too long.

The outdoor garden was lovely to sit in on a sunny afternoon and there is a large aviary with a collection of ducks, chickens, goats, tortoises and the like for children to interact with. And, if you could face the incredibly busy restaurant and gift shop, then I believe light meals are on the menu.

Opening Times:
09H00 – 17H00, Monday to Sunday. Open all public holidays except 25 December.

Entrancs Fees:
R35.00 per adult
R20.00 for children over 3
R90.00 per family (2 adults, 2 children)
R30.00 for pensioners/college students
Children under 3 enter free

Contact Details:
Butterfly World, Route 44, Klapmuts (near Stellenbosch and Paarl), Cape Winelands.
Telephone: +27 (0)21-875-5628

Photo Credits:
Photographs used on this page are all courtesy of and © Butterfly World.

For more ideas on what to do with kids in the Cape see “Things to Do with Kids in Cape Town“.

Useful Links:
Cape Winelands Attractions
Cape Winelands Accommodation
Things to Do in Cape Winelands

Fun for kids

If you are looking at ways of keeping your kids entertained and educated this August then look no further, the Noordhoek Farm Village has the answer.  And while your kids are busy having fun you can too by browsing around one of the shops or catching up with old friends over a coffee.

The Noordhoek Farm Village is in a beautiful setting under oak trees and you will be able to shop, dine and relax here.  There are also a number of regular events that take place. Situated on the southern slopes of Chapman’s Peak Drive in the Noordhoek Valley this tranquil farm setting is only a 25 minute drive from Cape Town’s city centre …

The kids’ activities take place every Saturday this August and all the activities are free of charge. This is a fantastic way for your kids to interact with others and make some new friends. All of the activities run from 10h30 to 12h30 (a perfect opportunity for mom and dad to enjoy a lazy Saturday brunch) and are held in the fully enclosed Bandstand. So parents can be rest assured the activities will take place even if there is rain.

Saturday 1 August is Craft Day and your kids will have an opportunity to be creative and to hone in on their motor skills by using beads and paper to make craft items. The activity culminates in a puppet show.

Fun for kids

An interactive and exciting theatrical experience is planned for Saturday 8 August with the Enchanted Parties Theatre. This will expose your kids to a number of essentials with the focus on the magic of theatre and storytelling.

Your kids will also be introduced to important lessons such as conservation and their heritage, this will all be achieved through the story of a fairy who finds herself lost on Table Mountain and her journey trying to find her way home. Magic tricks, singing and dancing all form part of the show to keep your kids enthralled.

Saturday 15 August is a day for mittens and scarves, your kids will be able to test their designing skills by customising their own mittens and scarves. They will be able to decorate, glamorise and personalise their items with buttons, ribbons and glitter paint. Bring your kid their own scarves mittens or you can purchase a scarf for them to personalise for only R5.

Celebrate a Winter Wonderland on Saturday 22 August. Kids can have fun while making their own edible snowman or snow globe.  Don’t forget to bring a jar (with a well fitted lid) and one or two personal or special items to create a unique snow scene in a bottle, this day will be all about snow!

Making Pizza

The final Saturday in August (the 29th) is Pizza Day at the Toad. Be prepared to take a flour covered happy child home with you this afternoon. Your kids will have fun learning and getting messy while baking pizza.

They will practise following directions, rolling out dough and choosing what toppings to put on their pizza, they will also discover what makes a pizza rise. Some creative skills will be tapped into while decorating their own pizza and your kids will be rewarded at the end by being able to eat the pizza they have created.

And since there are 5 Saturdays in August this year, your kids will have 5 fun filled Saturday mornings and you will be able to spend those 5 mornings enjoying all that the Noordhoek Farm Village has to offer. For more information you can visit the Noordhoek Farm Village’s website at http://noordhoekvillage.co.za/

Useful links:
For additional destination information please see:
Noordhoek Attractions
Things to Do in Noordhoek
Noordhoek Accommodation
Cape Town Accommodation

Pony Rides

Is it school holidays again?  Battling to keep the kids entertained?  Look no further than this blog for fun filled ideas to make the holidays fly by!  KwaZulu Natal may have sticky, humid summers, but it also has the most wonderful, temperate winters - perfect for spending the day outdoors.

If you live in the Ballito area what about a few hours at the Flag Farm Animal Farm?  The farm is located on the N2 North and is open daily from 9am to 4.30pm.  Children will have the opportunity to learn how to milk a cow, feed the chickens or have a pony ride.  There is a tea garden for light meals or picnic sites should Dad want to meet you after he finishes work.  The farm is also pram and wheelchair friendly.

Wave House

Does your little boy want to ‘grow up’ to be be a train driver?  Surprise him with a trip on the Umgeni Steam Train.  The train runs from either Kloof Railway Station to Inchanga Station or vice versa.  Trains leave Kloof at 8.30am and 12.30, and leave from Inchanga at 10h30 and 15h00.  Trains operate on the last Sunday of each month.  Moms can do a bit of shopping at the Inchanga Craft Market.

How about a trip to Mini Town?  For parents born and raised in Durban they might have come full circle, themselves having visited Mini Town as children!  As the name suggests Mini Town shows off scaled down, miniature versions of Durban’s landmarks; including the harbour and airport.  Located on the beachfront (Snell Parade), it would be possible to visit Mini Town and then walk along the promenade all the way to uShaka Marine World (this is a bit of trek though so make sure you are ready for a slow amble with plenty of refreshment breaks!). 

Watch the Dolphins

uShaka Marine World makes for a wonderful day out and with Sea World, Snorkel Lagoon and Wet ‘n Wild Waterworld Park (to name a few) you will never be bored!  The aquarium is one of the largest in the world and the dolphinarium is the largest in Africa so prepare to be impressed.

If the weather is inclement, you can entertain the family at the Gateway Theatre of Shopping.  Not only do they have an IMAX Theatre, but they also have a Fantasy Forest.  The Forest is open 7 days a week from 9am and offers everything from Bumper Cars, Mini Golf, Ten Pin Bowling and an amusement arcade.  You might not want to leave!  The Fantasy Forest is located on the 2nd floor, next to Ster Kinekor.

Candle Dipping

If you are up in the beautiful Natal Midlands why not visit The Junction at Nottingham Road and join in the fun at the Candle Dipping Shop.  Children can dip candles in the shapes of animals or make mom a new set of dining table candles in bright hues! 

So, if you set your mind to it holidays can be a fun filled time, and the kids might be so exhausted with all the activities that they look forward to going back to school!

SA-Venues.com has a long list of family friendly things to do in KwaZulu Natal (See KwaZulu Natal Family Entertainment). If you think of anything that’s missing from our selection please drop us a line at info@sa-venues.com. We welcome all suggestions and contributions for our Things to Do Section. Help us build a GREAT selection of Things to Do, to give tourists to South Africa an insight into some of the things only locals know about!

Useful Links:
See more KwaZulu Natal Family Holiday pages at:
Family Friendly Entertainment in KwaZulu Natal
Family Friendly Accommodation in KwaZulu Natal

Visit Kirstenbosch

I’m sure lots of Moms are wondering what to do with the Kids during the school holidays? Well, Cape Town and surrounds actually offers more than its fair share of things to do, even during the winter season.

For starters, seeing as most of us are having to watch our budgets, this is the time to take advantage of the special deals offered at some of our famous touristy “hot spots”! Not only are these places less busy right now than during the high season but you can also save quite a bit. Table Mountain has a “2 kids travel free with every paying adult” special (see http://www.tablemountain.net/) and Robben Island’s ticket prices have been reduced to R50.00 per child under 18 for the holidays. The Two Ocean Aquarium at the Waterfront is free to kids under 4 and 4-13 year olds pay R40.00 entrance fee. They are geared for children with special exhibits that will be fun for kids. (See http://www.aquarium.co.za/kids/default.php)

Cool Runnings

In the northern suburbs, the Cool Runnings Toboggan Track in Bellville will offer hours of fun and Ratanga Junction is also an obvious choice. Also visit Intaka Island which is a 5 minute drive within Century City. This award winning, 16 hectare multi-purpose nature area, is home to 177 species of indigenous plants and 120 bird species. (Intaka Island has been awarded conservation status by Cape Nature). The Island is open from 7:30 am to 5:00 pm, seven days a week. The family ticket (2 adults 3 children) is only R20.00. There is a self guided trail (a 45 minute, 2 km trail), on which you can do some fantastic bird watching, view their award winning breeding Heronry, 7 different habitats and a wealth of different species. There are 9 stations you will have access to on the trail, each offering an intimate look into the bird and water life as well as flora and fauna and more. (see: http://www.intaka.co.za/)

Try Artjamming

In the City Bowl take your kids and friends and try “Artjamming”. Artjammers are not given instructions or classes, and no drawing or painting skills are needed. Artjammers are provided with canvases, acrylic paints on tap, and tools to freely express themselves … sounds like a mess and lots of fun! (see http://www.artjamming.co.za/).

In the Southern Suburbs, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens offers free entry to kids throughout the school holidays and the Silvertree Restaurant has special kids entertainment on. If your older kids love horse riding, while you love nothing better than to sit sipping cappuccino and watch the younger kids swing from a huge tree-house in a lovely garden, then Millstone in Pinelands is for you! (See Millstone Café).

Go Fly a Kite

On the False Bay Coast, spend a day exploring Kalk Bay with the kids. There are plenty of kid-friendly restaurants with play areas or pop in at Planet Kids in Muizenberg with the little ones. They encourage parents or guardians to stay and either join in or watch their little ones play and refreshments can be ordered from the Flying Saucer Cafe and they have a large range of magazines to browse through when you get tired of bouncing around with the kids! Another fun thing to do is to go fly a kite – Muizenberg beach is a great place for this – or visit the Scratch Patch in Simons Town!

SA-Venues.com has a long list of family friendly things to do in the Western Cape (See Western Cape Family Entertainment). If you think of anything that’s missing from our selection please drop us a line at info@sa-venues.com. These listing are NOT advertisements (i.e. they are unsolicited and non-commercial – all have been either suggested to us or researched ourselves) and we welcome suggestions and contributions from the public to our Things to Do Section. Help us build a GREAT selection of Things to Do, to give tourists to South Africa an insight into some of the things only us locals know about!

Useful Links:
See more Family Friendly pages at:
Family Friendly Entertainment in the Western Cape
Family Friendly Accommodation in the Western Cape

RiverBend Lodge

The first in our feature on “Family-friendly Game Lodges” is the 5-Star RiverBend Lodge in the Addo Elephant National Park in the Eastern Cape. Children of all ages are welcome at River Bend. Various activities are on offer including a playroom where hours of fun can be had.

The team at RiverBend are geared towards every need and children will be taken on walks with their guide, baking biscuits with the chef or doing mini treatments with the Beauty Therapist. There is also a dedicated channel on their television network on which children are able to choose from a selection of videos to be played.

When you need some time to yourselves and your children will not be joining you on a game drive or for dinner, RiverBend have trained child minders to take care of your precious ones whilst you relax and enjoy the beauty of the Addo Elephant Park.

For full details about RiverBend Lodge please see:
RiverBend Lodge Information and Photographs
Current Rates and Special Offers (They have a fabulous special on now valid to end September 2008).

Related Pages:
Eastern Cape Accommodation
Eastern Cape Family-friendly Venues
Eastern Cape Game Reserves

Family Holidays

Newly launched on SA-Venues.com is our Child-friendly Accommodation section. Catering specifically for families travelling with children from birth (age 0-3 months) to teenagers, the section features over 1,200 establishments catering for children, including family hotels, game lodges that cater for kids, guest houses, bed and breakfasts, self catering holiday suites and apartments that welcome children of all ages.

And whilst you are looking for that perfect family holiday destination in South Africa, visit the Family-friendly Provinces pages for some great ideas on what to do with the little ones in different parts of the country.

Port Elizabeth boasts fantastic beaches, an oceanarium and snake park at which to entertain children, the Garden Route is a wonderful escape for families with children of all ages, particularly for those children who can join you on walks through magical forests where the elusive knysna loerie serves as part of an entertaining diversion.

Cape Town holds a host of activities, both in and outdoors, like the Two Oceans Aquarium (with a wonderful child-friendly restaurant) at the V&A Waterfront and the Cape Peninsula National Park. In KwaZulu Natal the beaches of both the north and south coast make holidaying with children an absolute pleasure.

Family Holidays

In Mpumalanga, The Bundu Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre and Game Reserve is a must for little ones; and try to stop off at Elmswood furniture tea garden, where farm animals are available to pet in lovely surrounds.

In Johannesburg there are a number of fun activities for children: The Johannesburg Zoo in Parkview, with a farmyard section specially designed for under-sixes. In the North West Province, Hartebeespoort Dam is a great place for a family vacation and a visit to the De Wildt Cheetah Farm, one of the most renowned centres for breeding cheetahs, is a wonderful educational outing.

Family-friendly Links:

• Western Cape Family Friendly
• Garden Route Family Friendly
• Eastern Cape Family Friendly
• Kwazulu Natal Family Friendly
• Mpumalanga Family Friendly
• Gauteng Family Friendly
• Limpopo Family Friendly
• North West Province Family Friendly
• Free State Family Friendly
• Northern Cape Family Friendly

Bring your family, bring your friends and visit us in Sunny South Africa for a once in a lifetime Family Holiday!

Lalibela for Kids

Since opening, Lalibela were aware that there is a huge demand for families wanting a safari holiday in a malaria-free area. Lalibela’s location makes it ideal for adults travelling with children who are wanting to combine a family safari with the Garden Route and Cape Town.

Over the last 12 months Lalibela have looked at various programmes catering for families and have come up with a children’s programme which optimizes the safari experience with quality family time.

Each family is different and children require varying degrees of attention, which is why the emphasis at Lalibela is to be as flexible as possible to ensure memorable family holidays.

In the early morning Lalibela’s child minders come on duty so that parents can leave for their morning game drive. The children are given a chance to wake up, get dressed and be ready for the day. Parents are welcome to stay behind and accompany their children on the kiddies game drive.

Lalibela for Kids

Breakfast is served and then it is time for the activities of the morning – with a snack in hand, they’re off with their game ranger in their own special vehicle on a short game drive taking care to avoid any close encounters with dangerous game. After the adults game drive and brunch, there is time for the family to spend together – there’s the playground with jungle gym and sandpit or many games to play.

Before the adults go out on their afternoon game drive, high tea is served for both adults and children. After heading out on their afternoon game drive, the children return to the lodge for an early dinner before getting creative with some arts and crafts activities. Time before bed is spent listening to exciting stories of Africa, its people and the wildlife. During all this time the children are looked after by accomplished child minders while their parents enjoy their evening game drive and dinner back at the lodge.

Contact Lalibela Game Reserve on:
Telephone: +27 (0)41 581 – 8170
Or Visit: Lalibela Game Reserve

Useful Links:
Eastern Cape Game Reserves
South Africa Game Lodges
South Africa