Family-Friendly Holiday Spots Around South Africa

Koro Lodge – Cederberg, Western Cape

Koro Lodge sets the benchmark for great family getaways. The lodge consists of a single private villa situated in the luxury Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve in the Cederberg. This farmhouse-turned-villa offers the serenity of untamed nature with the comfort of modern luxuries. The villa has three en-suite double rooms and a loft that sleeps four. It features a wraparound terrace, outdoor shower, infinity pool, fully-equipped kitchen, braai facilities and a fireplace. A camp cot and high chair are also readily available, and the villa has a private chef (who happily lets the kids cook too) and a guide. Activities at Koro Lodge include nature drives, treasure hunts, canoeing, picnics and mountain biking. For moms, who always deserve some timeout, there's access to the upmarket spa facilities at the main lodge.

Fairmont Zimbali Resort – Durban North

The Fairmont Zimbali Resort offers just about everything you need to have a great family vacation: plenty of family-friendly dining options, connecting rooms, sleeper couches, camping cots, a Kid’s Club jam-packed with activities and even babysitting services should Mom and Dad fancy a couples' massage at the luxurious Willow Stream Spa. Situated near the popular coastal town of Ballito, the beaches and seafront views are simply superb.

Ibhayi Guest Lodge – Port Elizabeth

If you’re looking for a relaxed family holiday away from the crowds, then Ibhayi Lodge is a great choice. In the heart of the Friendly City, it offers family rooms with private patios, wonderful garden views and a swimming pool. Little ones need a day out? The buzzing Port Elizabeth beachfront, with a variety of dining options, is only 10 minutes away. The lodge also assists in arranging day trips to the surrounding game reserves.

A Cherry Lane Self Catering and B&B – Bloemfontein

A Cherry Lane is the perfect stopover for a road-tripping family. It’s situated just south of Bloem on a peaceful smallholding with easy access to the N1 and the near the Windmill Casino. After all those hours in the car, the swimming pool and playground are sure to be a godsend! The self-catering family unit has a double en-suite bedroom with a king-size bed, a second bedroom with a double and bunk bed, a sleeper couch in the living room and a second bathroom. The unit also features a private terrace and braai area.

Gold Reef City Theme Park Hotel – Johannesburg

When it comes to fun family outings, nothing really beats good old Gold Reef City. Keep the fun going and book a stay at the Gold Reef City Theme Park Hotel. Free access to the theme park and pools is included in your stay and there are plenty of family-friendly dining options around.

The Farm Inn Country Hotel & Wildlife Sanctuary – Pretoria

True to its name, The Farm Inn Country Hotel & Wildlife Sanctuary is a genuine urban safari. Find them on the eastern side of Pretoria where their wildlife sanctuary is home to 23 indigenous species – lion, leopard and cheetah among them. The Farm Inn, a longstanding family business, has plenty to offer when it comes to keeping the kids occupied, from game drives with optional animal interaction packages to pony rides, a farmyard zoo and a jungle gym surrounded by a large playground area. Accommodation options include family units in the hotel, as well as a self-catering unit.