Text: Xanet van Vuuren. Photography: Gallo Images/Getty Images; Elite Photo Agency/Shutterstock; Gallo Images. Article from the November 2012 issue of Living and Loving Magazine.
Whether you’re staying home or travelling this holiday, out-and-about guide offers activities for families in almost every corner of the country.
Choices galore!
As a busy mom with an endless to do list, the last thing you probably feel like planning is what to do with your kids in the holidays, so we’ve done the hard work for you! Here’s a roundup of things to do for the whole family, no matter where you are in SA …
Go to www.livingandloving.co.za and click on ‘Our Mag’ ‘Events’ for many more outings and adventure venues! Look for event updates every week.
City Slickers – Gauteng
The Montecasino bird show
and Bird Gardens in Fourways will keep the whole family enthralled. It’s a great educational experience and after the show, a walk through the aviary completes this adventure.
Visit www.montecasino.co.za for more info.
Tres Jolie
is a fab outdoor restaurant that boasts good food and huge grounds, jungle gyms and farm animals. Their kid’s party area is particularly impressive thanks to a giant sand pit, farmyard, swings and pony rides – ideal for young and slightly older kids too. Visit www.tresjolie.co.za or call 011 794 2473 for more information.
Serendipity
in Rosebank is a cute little restaurant that’s also a saving grace for parents. While you relax or get some work done, the very capable child-minders of serendipity will keep your toddlers safe and entertained in the outdoor play area. Arts and crafts like painting hats, beading, scrapbooking and decorating cupcakes are also available for rainy days at an additional cost of between R20-R70.
Rietvlei Zoo Farm
This petting zoo, between Mulbarton and Alberton, is the perfect outdoor venue for a family braai or picnic. Relax under the shady trees or challenge the family to a game of putt-putt. Younger kids will love the Zak Tractor Cart Rides, feeding the farmyard animals and pony rides.
Visit www.rietvleilifestylecentre.co.za or call 011 024 1512/4.
SCI-Bono Discovery
Centre in Newtown is a kids’ paradise! While they find their inner ‘Dexter’, head over to the coffee shop for some down-time.
Visit www.sci-bono.co.za
Irene Diary farm
in Pretoria offers endless rolling lawns perfect for a family picnic. Pre-order a picnic basket or enjoy a buffet breakfast or lunch in the rustic barn restaurant which also offers a children’s buffet on weekends and public holidays. On your way out, pop into the Irene Dairy shop that’s packed with freshly baked breads, pies, cakes and raw milk products.
Entrance fees: Free. Visit www.irenefarm.co.za for more information.
Little Cooks Club
These classes give moms and tots the opportunity to cook delicious healthy recipes and bake together without worrying about cleaning up the mess afterwards. You’ll learn to create simple lunchbox snacks in minutes, plus it’s a great venue for birthday parties if you’re looking for something a little different.
Call Deborah Gray on 082 874 2851 or email deborahg@littlecooksclub.co.za to book a class.
Smudge
The sky is the limit at Smudge Art Centre in Craighall Park. Your little ones can play dress up, explore their creativity through art or chill out in the bookroom.
Visit www. smudgeart.co.za or call 011 501 0234 for info.
Trees Eco Fun Park
This beautiful park in Benoni offers outdoor play at its best. Children climb trees, crawl through tunnels, hide in caves or tree houses, dig in the sandpit and learn about the planets and trees. Pack some snacks and enjoy a picnic too.
Call 082 458 1504 for information.
Lemon Rose Farm
Children will love petting the bunnies and ponies in the farmyard, while watching the pigs, ostriches and chickens go about their business at Lemon Rose Farm in Boskruin. If hunger strikes, the restaurant offers a well-priced menu. Their homemade pizza’s are a must!
Call 011 794 2731 for more information.
Shady Pines
in Walkerville has great picnic spots for families. Laze under your umbrella while the kids entertain themselves on the trampoline, jungle gyms, or in the shaded sandpit with toys.
Call Kristy on 083 300 1638 for more information and to make sure they have space for you and your family.
Art Jamming
has stores in Johannesburg and Cape Town that run arts and crafts activities such as card making, sand art and painting. These will be run daily over the December holidays. They’ll also be offering free size upgrades on some canvas painting sessions from 7 December – 11 January 2013.
Visit www.artjamming.co.za or call 011 684 1608 for more information and booking times.
Douglasdale Dairy Farm
Enjoy a morning out with the family at Douglasdale Dairy Farm in Bryanston where the children can feed and pet the calves and discover where milk really comes from.
Visit www.douglasdale. co.za or call 011 549 0411 for more information.
The a-maize-ing Mazes
in Honeydew, Johannesburg are constructed from growing maize plants and shaped into tricky labyrinths. While older kids navigate their way through the mazes, the younger ones can run around and enjoy the outdoors. Take a picnic, your hats and sun lotion.
Call 073 795 2174 for more information.
Love books
Take your kids to this quirky little bookstore in Melville for a unique story-time session that takes place every Saturday.
Then stop off at Mugg & Bean for one of their giant chocolate milkshakes.
Visit www.lovebooks.co.za or call 011 726 7408 for more information.
Maropeng
Also known as the Cradle of Humankind, Maropeng is a proudly South African World Heritage Site with a hub of cultural entertainment for the whole family, including a scientific exhibition centre. Children will really love the cave tour down the river stream. Before heading home, enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the three well-known eateries that all offer spectacular views.
Visit www.maropeng.co.za.
Butterfly Garden
If you’re looking for something different to do on the weekend, why not take your kids to the butterfly Garden at Ludwig’s roses in Pretoria.
It’s the perfect excuse for fairy dresses and tiaras! But little boys will also enjoy watching beautiful butterflies emerge from cocoons!
Visit www.ludwigsroses.co.za or call 011 458 60 45 / 083 276 4498 for directions.
Sunshine Coast KwaZulu-Natal
Flag Animal Farm
in Ballito is ideal for kids who love farm animals! You’ll have to pry your little one from the pony and beg her not to overfeed the chickens, ducks and rabbits. The cows, goats, sheep, geese and various types of birds will keep your little one fascinated as well.
Visit www.flaganimalfarm.co.za or call 032 947 2018 for more information.
Waffle House
If you’re near Ramsgate on the South Coast and the weather is ominous (or even if it’s not) head to the Waffle House. These delicious Belgian treats come in savoury versions like the tried-and-tested ham, cheese and tomato or indulge in decadent sweet options like lemon meringue or banoffee. Even breakfast is served atop a waffle and the kids will love peering over the deck to spot all the fish.
Call 039 314 9424.
Sage
We know moms breathe a collective sigh of relief when they arrive at Sage in Salt Rock. Look forward to a pram park, and a delightful menu suited to everyone’s taste buds. The gardens have plenty of space for little feet to run around, plus there are supervised activities and a shop filled with good-quality imported toys. Reservations are essential for weekends and holidays and dinner is served from 5pm.
Call 032 525 8059 for more information.
Golden Mile
Pack up the dogs and children and head to the paved walkway of the Golden Mile in Durban. Children will have great fun testing their skills (even on bikes) over the smaller ramps at the skate park. Take a stroll along the promenade and cool off at the paddling pools. Then stop off at Circus Circus Beach Cafe which is just as popular for its beach-side location as it is for its kids’ menu and play area.
Pot & Kettle
is renound for their special kiddies menu and play area complete with an awesome jungle gym. Sunday’s are the best time to visit for live melodies, a scrumptious buffet and to take in the views of the Valley of 1000 Hills.
Visit www.potand kettle.co.za.
Mover scheme
Take the kids on a bus adventure with Durban’s People Mover scheme where hard-to-miss neon green buses allow you to park your car safely at King’s Park pool and board the bus which arrives regularly. Enjoy the drive through town and hop off where it’s convenient – try Mini Town or go all the way to uShaka.
Piggy Putt
Your children will love the Piggy Putt at Piggy Wiggly Country Village on the Midlands Meander, and they’ll definitely behave after you’ve taken them for a milkshake at Little Ms Piggy Candy Store and Ice Cream Parlor.
Visit www.pigglywiggly.co.za.
Mini Town
Keeping little minds interested in learning may be a mission but if you want them to get to know Durban, then Mini Town is the place to go.
The walk around Mini Town will give them a good impression of some of Durban’s landmarks and keep them entertained with its moving trains and planes, a harbour with ships, as well as an airport.
Call 031 337 7892 for more information.
Phezulu Crocodile and Snake Park
is an interactive centre where kids can learn interesting facts about crocodiles and snakes. Meet Junior, the 102 year-old Nile crocodile and have a hands-on experience with Cleo the 3.2m long Burmese python, who weighs a whopping 42kg.
Visit www.phezulusafaripark.co.za or call 031 777 1000.
Funworld
Young kids will have a ball at the the Funworld cable car, while older kids will enjoy the thrill of the swingboat.
The elephant ride and carousel will also guarantee squeals of delight from your little ones. Luckily Noddy’s Snack Bar is on-hand for when you need to grab a snack.
Call 031 332 9776 for more information.
The Fairest Cape – Western Cape
Mega Putt
in Belville takes mini-golf to a new level! The 27-hole course is filled with out-of-the-ordinary obstacles. From bridge crossings to steep uphill putts, it’s unlike any you’ve ever played. The area is split into three courses, ranked from mild to difficult.
Call 021 948 5673.
Text: Xanet van Vuuren. Photography: Gallo Images/Getty Images; Elite Photo Agency/Shutterstock; Gallo Images. Article from the November 2012 issue of Living and Loving Magazine.
Whether you’re staying home or travelling this holiday, out-and-about guide offers activities for families in almost every corner of the country.
Choices galore!
As a busy mom with an endless to do list, the last thing you probably feel like planning is what to do with your kids in the holidays, so we’ve done the hard work for you! Here’s a roundup of things to do for the whole family, no matter where you are in SA …
Go to www.livingandloving.co.za and click on ‘Our Mag’ ‘Events’ for many more outings and adventure venues! Look for event updates every week.
City Slickers – Gauteng
The Montecasino bird show
and Bird Gardens in Fourways will keep the whole family enthralled. It’s a great educational experience and after the show, a walk through the aviary completes this adventure.
Visit www.montecasino.co.za for more info.
Tres Jolie
is a fab outdoor restaurant that boasts good food and huge grounds, jungle gyms and farm animals. Their kid’s party area is particularly impressive thanks to a giant sand pit, farmyard, swings and pony rides – ideal for young and slightly older kids too. Visit www.tresjolie.co.za or call 011 794 2473 for more information.
Serendipity
in Rosebank is a cute little restaurant that’s also a saving grace for parents. While you relax or get some work done, the very capable child-minders of serendipity will keep your toddlers safe and entertained in the outdoor play area. Arts and crafts like painting hats, beading, scrapbooking and decorating cupcakes are also available for rainy days at an additional cost of between R20-R70.
Rietvlei Zoo Farm
This petting zoo, between Mulbarton and Alberton, is the perfect outdoor venue for a family braai or picnic. Relax under the shady trees or challenge the family to a game of putt-putt. Younger kids will love the Zak Tractor Cart Rides, feeding the farmyard animals and pony rides.
Visit www.rietvleilifestylecentre.co.za or call 011 024 1512/4.
SCI-Bono Discovery
Centre in Newtown is a kids’ paradise! While they find their inner ‘Dexter’, head over to the coffee shop for some down-time.
Visit www.sci-bono.co.za
Irene Diary farm
in Pretoria offers endless rolling lawns perfect for a family picnic. Pre-order a picnic basket or enjoy a buffet breakfast or lunch in the rustic barn restaurant which also offers a children’s buffet on weekends and public holidays. On your way out, pop into the Irene Dairy shop that’s packed with freshly baked breads, pies, cakes and raw milk products.
Entrance fees: Free. Visit www.irenefarm.co.za for more information.
Little Cooks Club
These classes give moms and tots the opportunity to cook delicious healthy recipes and bake together without worrying about cleaning up the mess afterwards. You’ll learn to create simple lunchbox snacks in minutes, plus it’s a great venue for birthday parties if you’re looking for something a little different.
Call Deborah Gray on 082 874 2851 or email deborahg@littlecooksclub.co.za to book a class.
Smudge
The sky is the limit at Smudge Art Centre in Craighall Park. Your little ones can play dress up, explore their creativity through art or chill out in the bookroom.
Visit www. smudgeart.co.za or call 011 501 0234 for info.
Trees Eco Fun Park
This beautiful park in Benoni offers outdoor play at its best. Children climb trees, crawl through tunnels, hide in caves or tree houses, dig in the sandpit and learn about the planets and trees. Pack some snacks and enjoy a picnic too.
Call 082 458 1504 for information.
Lemon Rose Farm
Children will love petting the bunnies and ponies in the farmyard, while watching the pigs, ostriches and chickens go about their business at Lemon Rose Farm in Boskruin. If hunger strikes, the restaurant offers a well-priced menu. Their homemade pizza’s are a must!
Call 011 794 2731 for more information.
Shady Pines
in Walkerville has great picnic spots for families. Laze under your umbrella while the kids entertain themselves on the trampoline, jungle gyms, or in the shaded sandpit with toys.
Call Kristy on 083 300 1638 for more information and to make sure they have space for you and your family.
Art Jamming
has stores in Johannesburg and Cape Town that run arts and crafts activities such as card making, sand art and painting. These will be run daily over the December holidays. They’ll also be offering free size upgrades on some canvas painting sessions from 7 December – 11 January 2013.
Visit www.artjamming.co.za or call 011 684 1608 for more information and booking times.
Douglasdale Dairy Farm
Enjoy a morning out with the family at Douglasdale Dairy Farm in Bryanston where the children can feed and pet the calves and discover where milk really comes from.
Visit www.douglasdale. co.za or call 011 549 0411 for more information.
The a-maize-ing Mazes
in Honeydew, Johannesburg are constructed from growing maize plants and shaped into tricky labyrinths. While older kids navigate their way through the mazes, the younger ones can run around and enjoy the outdoors. Take a picnic, your hats and sun lotion.
Call 073 795 2174 for more information.
Love books
Take your kids to this quirky little bookstore in Melville for a unique story-time session that takes place every Saturday.
Then stop off at Mugg & Bean for one of their giant chocolate milkshakes.
Visit www.lovebooks.co.za or call 011 726 7408 for more information.
Maropeng
Also known as the Cradle of Humankind, Maropeng is a proudly South African World Heritage Site with a hub of cultural entertainment for the whole family, including a scientific exhibition centre. Children will really love the cave tour down the river stream. Before heading home, enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the three well-known eateries that all offer spectacular views.
Visit www.maropeng.co.za.
Butterfly Garden
If you’re looking for something different to do on the weekend, why not take your kids to the butterfly Garden at Ludwig’s roses in Pretoria.
It’s the perfect excuse for fairy dresses and tiaras! But little boys will also enjoy watching beautiful butterflies emerge from cocoons!
Visit www.ludwigsroses.co.za or call 011 458 60 45 / 083 276 4498 for directions.
Sunshine Coast KwaZulu-Natal
Flag Animal Farm
in Ballito is ideal for kids who love farm animals! You’ll have to pry your little one from the pony and beg her not to overfeed the chickens, ducks and rabbits. The cows, goats, sheep, geese and various types of birds will keep your little one fascinated as well.
Visit www.flaganimalfarm.co.za or call 032 947 2018 for more information.
Waffle House
If you’re near Ramsgate on the South Coast and the weather is ominous (or even if it’s not) head to the Waffle House. These delicious Belgian treats come in savoury versions like the tried-and-tested ham, cheese and tomato or indulge in decadent sweet options like lemon meringue or banoffee. Even breakfast is served atop a waffle and the kids will love peering over the deck to spot all the fish.
Call 039 314 9424.
Sage
We know moms breathe a collective sigh of relief when they arrive at Sage in Salt Rock. Look forward to a pram park, and a delightful menu suited to everyone’s taste buds. The gardens have plenty of space for little feet to run around, plus there are supervised activities and a shop filled with good-quality imported toys. Reservations are essential for weekends and holidays and dinner is served from 5pm.
Call 032 525 8059 for more information.
Golden Mile
Pack up the dogs and children and head to the paved walkway of the Golden Mile in Durban. Children will have great fun testing their skills (even on bikes) over the smaller ramps at the skate park. Take a stroll along the promenade and cool off at the paddling pools. Then stop off at Circus Circus Beach Cafe which is just as popular for its beach-side location as it is for its kids’ menu and play area.
Pot & Kettle
is renound for their special kiddies menu and play area complete with an awesome jungle gym. Sunday’s are the best time to visit for live melodies, a scrumptious buffet and to take in the views of the Valley of 1000 Hills.
Visit www.potand kettle.co.za.
Mover scheme
Take the kids on a bus adventure with Durban’s People Mover scheme where hard-to-miss neon green buses allow you to park your car safely at King’s Park pool and board the bus which arrives regularly. Enjoy the drive through town and hop off where it’s convenient – try Mini Town or go all the way to uShaka.
Piggy Putt
Your children will love the Piggy Putt at Piggy Wiggly Country Village on the Midlands Meander, and they’ll definitely behave after you’ve taken them for a milkshake at Little Ms Piggy Candy Store and Ice Cream Parlor.
Visit www.pigglywiggly.co.za.
Mini Town
Keeping little minds interested in learning may be a mission but if you want them to get to know Durban, then Mini Town is the place to go.
The walk around Mini Town will give them a good impression of some of Durban’s landmarks and keep them entertained with its moving trains and planes, a harbour with ships, as well as an airport.
Call 031 337 7892 for more information.
Phezulu Crocodile and Snake Park
is an interactive centre where kids can learn interesting facts about crocodiles and snakes. Meet Junior, the 102 year-old Nile crocodile and have a hands-on experience with Cleo the 3.2m long Burmese python, who weighs a whopping 42kg.
Visit www.phezulusafaripark.co.za or call 031 777 1000.
Funworld
Young kids will have a ball at the the Funworld cable car, while older kids will enjoy the thrill of the swingboat.
The elephant ride and carousel will also guarantee squeals of delight from your little ones. Luckily Noddy’s Snack Bar is on-hand for when you need to grab a snack.
Call 031 332 9776 for more information.
The Fairest Cape – Western Cape
Mega Putt
in Belville takes mini-golf to a new level! The 27-hole course is filled with out-of-the-ordinary obstacles. From bridge crossings to steep uphill putts, it’s unlike any you’ve ever played. The area is split into three courses, ranked from mild to difficult.
Call 021 948 5673.
There’s never a dull moment at Imhoff farm in Kommetjie. Sit back and enjoy stunning views, great food and unique shops.
From a play park and kiddies activities to animal rides, there’s plenty for little ones to do. The famyard is a firm favourite with kids, as they can pet and feed the many animals that roam around. Opening times: Mon – Sun 9am – 5pm.
Cost: R10 per person. Visit www.imhofffarm.co.za.
Ice Cafe
If the kids are hankering for ice cream take them to Ice Cafe in Kalk Bay for a serving of arguably the most delicious Italian ice cream in Cape Town.
Dig into a variety of flavours – from cinnamon and strawberry to ginger, apple, apricot sorbet, and black cherry and brandy. Then let hubby take the kids to spend time on the beach while you poke your head into all the quirky antique stores.
Opening times:
Mon-Sun 10am to 5pm.
Call 021 788 4816 for more information.
Bugz Family Playpark
in Kraaifontein has so much to offer. Children will love the play areas with play houses, a tree house and even a castle! Magic shows and token rides like the Choo Choo train, swing horses, toddler tractors and worm train will have your kids begging for more! Opening times: Mon – Sun 9am to 5pm. Entrance fees: Adults and children – R25 (Includes use of free play areas.) Pensioners – free. Token Rides – R5 per token. *VIP Wristbands – R65 (Includes entrance fee and token rides excluding quads and paintball.
Visit www.bugzplaypark.co.za or call 021 988 8836.
Orange Country Free State
Maselspoort
While it’s nice and warm, make sure to take your kids to Maselspoort in Bloemfontein where they can swim and play with tubes in the pools. Then, let them run around while you have a braai or a picnic.
Opening times: Mon – Sun 7am to 6pm.
Entrance fees: Mon – Sat: Adults – R30, Children under 12 – R10.
Visit www.maselspoort.co.za for more information.
Bloemfontein Zoo
Take the children to see the tigers, hippos, panthers, antelope and bird species at the Bloem Zoo. Braai facilities are provided, so pack a picnic and enjoy the day or grab a bite to eat at the restaurant while the kids get rid of their surplus energy on the playground.
Opening times: Winter (April to August): 8am to 5pm, Summer: (Sept to March): 8am to 6pm.
Entrance fees: Adults – R39, Toddlers – R14.
Visit www.bloemfontein.co.za or call 051 405 8484.
Lazy Days in Limpopo
Animal Touch Farm
Your little ones will fall in love with Jacob the donkey and the miniature ponies, Maya, Misty, Pepe and Inca at Mangela Animal Touch Farm in Tzaneen. While the kids enjoy feeding the animals, you can supervise and munch on delicious homemade pancakes in the tea garden.
Opening times: Mon – Sun 9am to 4:30pm.
Entrance fees: R10 per person.
Visit www.tznlodge.co.za or call 015 304 3290 for more information.
Geluksfontein Dairy Goat Farm
Take the children on a tour to the Geluksfontein Dairy Goat Farm. While you learn how goat milk cheeses are produced, the kids will enjoy watching how they’re milked. If you’re not in a rush to leave, head over to the Goatino Pub & Grill and taste their delicious cheeses. Opening times: Mon – Sat 8am to 5pm; Sun 9am to 4pm. Daily milk time is at 3pm. Cost: R10 per person to taste the cheeses; R25 per person for the tour and milking of the goats. Call 083 704 4229 for more information.
Mystic Monkeys Mystic Monkeys & Feathers Wildlife Park
in Rust De Winter hosts one of SAs largest private primate collections of 38 species- just up little boys’ alley! Plus there’s exotic birds, cheetahs, the white lion, tigers and foxes to marvel at. Opening times: Mon – Sun 9am to 4pm. Entrance fees: Adults – R100, Children under 13 – R50, Children under 3 – free.
Visit www.sa-venues.com
Wildthingz
In Polokwane is a bird, reptile, butterfly park and insectrarium in one!
Read up before you go and be prepared for a lot of questions from your kids.
Opening times: Tues – Sun (Bird show 1t 10am, 11am and 3pm. Snake demonstration at 4pm).
Entrance fees: Call 015 292 0906 for more information.
Green & Gold Mpumalanga
The Elephant Sanctuary in Hazyview
Spoil your family with an elephant encounter at The Elephant Sanctuary in Hazyview. Your kids will have the chance to brush them down and walking trunk-in-hand with them while filling their heads with all the fun facts about ellies.
Opening times: Mon-Sun 8am to 5pm. Entrance fees: Adults – R495, Children – R250. Booking is essential. Brush downs at 7:15am. The programme starts at 8am.
Visit www.elephantsanctuary.co.za
Perry’s Bridge Reptile Park
If they’re not scared, your kids will be mesmerised by the snakes, large lizards, crocodilians, tortoises and frogs at Perry’s Bridge Reptile Park in Hazyview. Tots might prefer the potbelly pigs. Opening times: Mon – Sun 10am to 5pm. Entrance fees: Adults – R65, Children under 14 – R40, under 5 – free. Call 084 7311563 or email reptilessa@telkomsa.net.
Sudwala Dinosaur Park
If your child is fascinated by dinasours, don’t miss the chance to take them to the Sudwala Dinosaur Park. The Sudwala Caves are just as great. Don’t forget the pram for littlies.
Opening times: (Dinosaur Park) Mon – Sun 8:30am to 5pm. (Sudwala Caves): 8:30am to 4:30pm. Cost: (Dinosaur Park): Adults – R50, Children – R30, Children under 5 – free.
Cost: (Sudwala Caves): : Adults – R70, Children under 16-R40, under 5 – free.
Visit www.dinosaurpark.co.za.
Up close with Jessica Hippo in Hoedspruit
Jessica is no ordinary Hippo! She likes to interact with humans and displays rather human-like characteristics uncommon to ordinary hippos. Take the children to meet Jessica and feed her a ginormous snack, plus her two bottles of tea. You’ll have the chance to give her a back rub with your feet and sit with her for a while.
Opening times: Mon-Sat 10am to 12pm and 3pm to 5pm. Sundays 10am to 12pm. Entrance fees: Adults – R75, Children 6 to 12 years-R30, Children under 6 – free. Visit www.jessicahippo.com or call 015 795 5249.
The Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre
Take the family to meet the rescued lions from an Egyptian Circus, Queen the crowned eagle, Chui the Lleopard and cheetah’s, Jolly and Juba at The Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre. There’s a specific mating season, so if you’re lucky, you may even get to see some baby animals when you visit.
Opening times: Daily tours from to Saturday. First tour starts at 9:30am and the second tour at 3pm. The duration of the tour is about 2½ hours. Cost: Adults-R110, Pensioners – R90, Children 7 to 12 – R55, Children under 6 – free. Visit www.moholoholo.co.za.
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Imhoff Farm
There’s never a dull moment at Imhoff farm in Kommetjie. Sit back and enjoy stunning views, great food and unique shops.
From a play park and kiddies activities to animal rides, there’s plenty for little ones to do. The famyard is a firm favourite with kids, as they can pet and feed the many animals that roam around.
Visit www.imhofffarm.co.za.
Ice Cafe
If the kids are hankering for ice cream take them to Ice Cafe in Kalk Bay for a serving of arguably the most delicious Italian ice cream in Cape Town.
Dig into a variety of flavours – from cinnamon and strawberry to ginger, apple, apricot sorbet, and black cherry and brandy. Then let hubby take the kids to spend time on the beach while you poke your head into all the quirky antique stores.
Call 021 788 4816 for more information.
Bugz Family Playpark
in Kraaifontein has so much to offer. Children will love the play areas with play houses, a tree house and even a castle! Magic shows and token rides like the Choo Choo train, swing horses, toddler tractors and worm train will have your kids begging for more!
Visit www.bugzplaypark.co.za or call 021 988 8836.
Orange Country Free State
Maselspoort
While it’s nice and warm, make sure to take your kids to Maselspoort in Bloemfontein where they can swim and play with tubes in the pools. Then, let them run around while you have a braai or a picnic.
Visit www.maselspoort.co.za for more information.
Bloemfontein Zoo
Take the children to see the tigers, hippos, panthers, antelope and bird species at the Bloem Zoo. Braai facilities are provided, so pack a picnic and enjoy the day or grab a bite to eat at the restaurant while the kids get rid of their surplus energy on the playground.
Call 051 405 8484.
Lazy Days in Limpopo
Animal Touch Farm
Your little ones will fall in love with Jacob the donkey and the miniature ponies, Maya, Misty, Pepe and Inca at Mangela Animal Touch Farm in Tzaneen. While the kids enjoy feeding the animals, you can supervise and munch on delicious homemade pancakes in the tea garden.
Visit www.tznlodge.co.za or call 015 304 3290 for more information.
Geluksfontein Dairy Goat Farm
Take the children on a tour to the Geluksfontein Dairy Goat Farm. While you learn how goat milk cheeses are produced, the kids will enjoy watching how they’re milked. If you’re not in a rush to leave, head over to the Goatino Pub & Grill and taste their delicious cheeses.
Call 083 704 4229 for more information.
Mystic Monkeys Mystic Monkeys & Feathers Wildlife Park
in Rust De Winter hosts one of SAs largest private primate collections of 38 species- just up little boys’ alley! Plus there’s exotic birds, cheetahs, the white lion, tigers and foxes to marvel at.
Visit www.sa-venues.com
Wildthingz
In Polokwane is a bird, reptile, butterfly park and insectrarium in one!
Read up before you go and be prepared for a lot of questions from your kids.
Green & Gold Mpumalanga
The Elephant Sanctuary in Hazyview
Spoil your family with an elephant encounter at The Elephant Sanctuary in Hazyview. Your kids will have the chance to brush them down and walking trunk-in-hand with them while filling their heads with all the fun facts about ellies.
Visit www.elephantsanctuary.co.za
Perry’s Bridge Reptile Park
If they’re not scared, your kids will be mesmerised by the snakes, large lizards, crocodilians, tortoises and frogs at Perry’s Bridge Reptile Park in Hazyview. Tots might prefer the potbelly pigs.
Call 084 7311563 or email reptilessa@telkomsa.net.
Sudwala Dinosaur Park
If your child is fascinated by dinasours, don’t miss the chance to take them to the Sudwala Dinosaur Park. The Sudwala Caves are just as great. Don’t forget the pram for littlies.
Visit www.dinosaurpark.co.za.
Up close with Jessica Hippo in Hoedspruit
Jessica is no ordinary Hippo! She likes to interact with humans and displays rather human-like characteristics uncommon to ordinary hippos. Take the children to meet Jessica and feed her a ginormous snack, plus her two bottles of tea. You’ll have the chance to give her a back rub with your feet and sit with her for a while.
Visit www.jessicahippo.com or call 015 795 5249.
The Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre
Take the family to meet the rescued lions from an Egyptian Circus, Queen the crowned eagle, Chui the Lleopard and cheetah’s, Jolly and Juba at The Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre. There’s a specific mating season, so if you’re lucky, you may even get to see some baby animals when you visit.
Visit www.moholoholo.co.za.
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