Cape Town Travel Guide | Family Friendly

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Destination: Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
Trip length: 13 days
Trip dates: February 01 - February 14
Travel style: family friendly
Budget: $$$
Accommodation: hotel, villa
Activities: arts and culture, family activities, festivals and events, gastronomy, outdoor adventures, sightseeing and tours

Picture of Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa

Key Facts

location: Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
currency: South African rand (ZAR)
religion: Christianity
population: 4,336,880
language: Afrikaans, English, Xhosa

electricity: 230V, 50Hz, Type M?
time zone: SAST (UTC+2)
country code: +27
internet access: Widely available, high speed, affordable
climate: Mediterranean climate

Itinerary

Day 1

Today, explore the beautiful Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, known for its diverse flora and the stunning views of Table Mountain. Then, visit the Two Oceans Aquarium, a fascinating experience for the whole family, offering an up-close look at marine life. Finally, enjoy a delightful family dinner at the V&A Waterfront.

Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
Spend the morning exploring the diverse and breathtaking flora of Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers panoramic views of Table Mountain and a wonderful outdoor experience for the family.
Two Oceans Aquarium
Discover the mesmerizing marine life of both the Atlantic and Indian Oceans at the Two Oceans Aquarium. A perfect experience for the family with interactive exhibits and a diverse collection of marine species.
V&A Waterfront
Indulge in a delightful family dinner at the V&A Waterfront, offering a diverse selection of restaurants and beautiful waterfront views. A great way to end the day.

Day 2

Enjoy an adventurous day at Seal Island, home to a large colony of Cape fur seals, followed by a trip to Boulders Beach to see the charming African penguins. In the evening, explore the historic streets of the Bo-Kaap neighborhood and savor the authentic Cape Malay cuisine for dinner.

Seal Island
Embark on an exciting boat tour to Seal Island and witness a large colony of Cape fur seals, a thrilling experience for the family. Learn about their behavior and natural habitat from knowledgeable guides.
Boulders Beach
Visit the iconic Boulders Beach to observe the charming African penguin colony and enjoy a relaxing time on the pristine sandy shores, making it a perfect family-friendly day out.
Bo-Kaap Neighborhood
Discover the vibrant and historic Bo-Kaap neighborhood, known for its colorful houses and rich cultural heritage. Enjoy a guided walking tour and learn about the Cape Malay heritage, followed by a delicious Cape Malay dinner.
Cape Malay Cuisine
Savor the authentic flavors of Cape Malay cuisine for dinner, offering a blend of aromatic spices and unique flavors, providing a true taste of South African heritage.

Day 3

Spend the day exploring the majestic Table Mountain, taking a cable car to the summit for breathtaking panoramic views. In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic drive along Chapman's Peak for stunning coastal vistas, followed by a visit to the Hout Bay Market for local crafts and artisanal treats.

Table Mountain
Take a cable car ride to the summit of Table Mountain, marveling at the panoramic views of Cape Town and its beautiful coastline. Enjoy a family-friendly hike at the top, surrounded by unique flora and fauna.
Chapman's Peak Drive
Embark on a scenic drive along Chapman's Peak, known for its dramatic coastal scenery and stunning viewpoints. A perfect family activity to enjoy the natural beauty of the Western Cape.
Hout Bay Market
Explore the vibrant Hout Bay Market, offering a variety of local crafts, artisanal products, and delicious food stalls. Perfect for picking up souvenirs and enjoying local treats with the family.

Day 4

Discover the enchanting Kirstenbosch Treetop Canopy Walkway, offering a unique perspective of the gardens from above. Then, embark on a family-friendly horseback riding adventure through the scenic vineyards of Stellenbosch, followed by a visit to the Eagle Encounters rehabilitation center.

Kirstenbosch Treetop Canopy Walkway
Experience the beauty of Kirstenbosch from a unique perspective while walking on the Treetop Canopy Walkway. Enjoy stunning aerial views of the gardens and the surrounding mountainous landscape.
Stellenbosch Horseback Riding
Embark on a family-friendly horseback riding adventure through the scenic vineyards of Stellenbosch, a delightful way to experience nature and the charming countryside.
Eagle Encounters
Visit the Eagle Encounters rehabilitation center, home to a variety of bird species. Enjoy educational talks and interactive experiences with rehabilitated birds of prey, a wonderful and informative visit for the family.

Day 5

Experience a day of cultural immersion with a visit to the District Six Museum, telling the story of a historic district, followed by a guided township tour in Langa and a traditional South African braai for dinner.

District Six Museum
Explore the District Six Museum, honoring the memory of a once-vibrant community forcibly removed during the Apartheid era, providing an insightful and educational experience for the family.
Township Tour in Langa
Engage in a guided township tour in Langa, interacting with the local community, and learning about the vibrant culture and history of the area, providing a meaningful and eye-opening experience for the family.
Traditional South African Braai
Savor the flavors of a traditional South African braai for dinner, offering an authentic taste of local cuisine and a welcoming cultural experience for the family.

Day 6

Embark on a thrilling wildlife safari adventure at Aquila Private Game Reserve, offering the chance to see the Big Five and other iconic African wildlife in their natural habitat. Spend the evening relaxing at the luxurious villa accommodation.

Aquila Private Game Reserve Safari
Enjoy an unforgettable wildlife safari adventure at Aquila Private Game Reserve, with the opportunity to spot the Big Five and experience the beauty of the African savannah. A must-do family-friendly activity for wildlife enthusiasts.

Day 7

Relax and enjoy a leisurely day at the luxurious villa accommodation, making use of the private facilities and taking in the beautiful views. Indulge in a private chef experience for a delightful and exclusive family meal.

Villa Relaxation Day
Spend a tranquil and relaxing day at the luxurious villa accommodation, enjoying the private facilities and taking in the beautiful surrounding views. A perfect opportunity for the family to unwind and make the most of the exclusive villa experience.
Private Chef Experience
Indulge in a private chef experience, where a skilled chef will prepare and serve a personalized family meal, offering a unique and delightful dining experience within the villa's ambiance.

Day 8

Journey to the iconic Cape Point, exploring the stunning landscapes and diverse flora and fauna. Then, enjoy a guided tour of the historic Robben Island, a place of great historical significance.

Cape Point Exploration
Embark on an exploration of Cape Point, experiencing the breathtaking cliffs, stunning ocean views, and diverse wildlife. A family-friendly day out, with the opportunity to hike and explore the natural beauty of the area.
Robben Island Guided Tour
Take a guided tour of Robben Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and learn about its historical significance, including its role as a prison for political prisoners, providing an insightful and educational experience for the family.

Day 9

Discover the charming towns of the Cape Winelands, with visits to Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, known for their picturesque vineyards and world-class wines. Enjoy a delightful wine tasting experience and a scenic drive through the stunning countryside.

Stellenbosch Wine Tasting
Embark on a wine tasting experience in Stellenbosch, exploring the renowned vineyards and savoring a variety of world-class wines. A perfect family-friendly activity to enjoy the picturesque countryside and exceptional wines.
Franschhoek Scenic Drive
Enjoy a scenic drive through the picturesque landscapes of Franschhoek, known for its charming vineyards and panoramic views. A relaxing and enjoyable family activity to take in the beauty of the Cape Winelands.

Day 10

Immerse in South African history and culture at the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg, followed by a visit to the Soweto Township, providing an enlightening and insightful experience for the family.

Apartheid Museum
Explore the Apartheid Museum, offering a powerful and thought-provoking journey through South Africa's history, focusing on the apartheid era. An educational and eye-opening experience for the family.
Soweto Township Visit
Engage in a guided visit to the Soweto Township, interact with the local community, and learn about its fascinating history and vibrant cultural heritage, leaving a lasting impression and understanding of South Africa's complex past.

Day 11

Embark on an adventure to the iconic Victoria Falls, experiencing the awe-inspiring power and beauty of this natural wonder. Enjoy a thrilling helicopter flight over the falls for a breathtaking aerial view.

Victoria Falls Experience
Journey to the iconic Victoria Falls, experiencing the sheer power and natural beauty of this captivating wonder. Take in the breathtaking views and feel the misty spray of the falls, a must-see family adventure.
Helicopter Flight over the Falls
Savor a thrilling helicopter flight over the Victoria Falls, providing a unique and awe-inspiring aerial view of the magnificent waterfall and the surrounding landscapes, creating unforgettable memories for the family.

Day 12

Enjoy a leisurely day exploring the vibrant city of Johannesburg, with visits to the Maboneng Precinct, known for its street art and cultural scene. Then, experience an authentic South African braai for dinner.

Maboneng Precinct Exploration
Explore the vibrant Maboneng Precinct, known for its eclectic street art, cultural venues, and hip atmosphere. Engage in a walking tour to discover the local art and unique character of the precinct, creating a fun and immersive experience for the family.
Authentic South African Braai
Savor the flavors of an authentic South African braai for dinner, offering a delicious feast of grilled meats and traditional side dishes, providing a taste of local cuisine and a warm cultural experience for the family.

Day 13

Conclude the trip with a visit to the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore the fascinating exhibits at the Maropeng Visitor Centre. Then, enjoy a farewell dinner at a top-rated restaurant with panoramic views of Johannesburg.

Cradle of Humankind Visit
Visit the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore the Maropeng Visitor Centre, with its intriguing exhibits on human evolution and prehistoric artifacts. A fascinating and educational experience for the family, providing insight into our ancient origins.
Farewell Dinner with Panoramic Views
Enjoy a memorable farewell dinner at a top-rated restaurant with panoramic views of Johannesburg, savoring a gourmet meal and reflecting on the wonderful experiences of the trip with the family.

Bunny Chow

Bunny Chow is a South African fast food dish consisting of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with deliciously spicy curry, typically made with chicken, mutton, or beans. It's believed to have originated in Durban and is now enjoyed across the country.

Boerewors

Boerewors is a traditional South African sausage made from a blend of beef, pork, and spices. It's coil-shaped and is usually grilled, braaied, or pan-fried. Boerewors is a popular staple at social gatherings and is often enjoyed with pap (maize porridge) and chakalaka (spicy vegetable relish).

Bobotie

Bobotie is a flavorful South African dish made with spiced minced meat, usually lamb or beef, topped with an egg custard and baked until golden. Its aromatic flavors are influenced by Malay and Indian culinary traditions. It's often served with yellow rice and a variety of condiments.

Sosaties

Sosaties are skewered and marinated meat kebabs that are a favorite at South African braais (barbecues). The meat, typically lamb or chicken, is interspersed with apricots, onions, and peppers, creating a delicious sweet and savory flavor combination. The marinade often includes a mix of curry spices and other aromatic ingredients.

Melktert

Melktert, meaning 'milk tart,' is a classic South African dessert with a sweet pastry crust filled with a creamy custard made from milk, flour, sugar, and eggs, sprinkled with cinnamon. It's a beloved treat at family gatherings and celebrations, enjoyed with a warm cup of Rooibos tea.