Safari, Sun Fun: Best South African Resorts for Families

Planning a family holiday in South Africa can be both exciting and overwhelming. You want adventure, relaxation, and activities that keep the kids entertained, all while keeping your budget in check. Fortunately, South Africa has resorts that perfectly balance all three. From wildlife encounters to beach fun and mountain retreats, there’s a holiday here for every type of family. 

Whether you’re looking for family safari lodges, sun-filled beaches, or wellness retreats, here’s a guide to the best resorts for a South African family escape. 

Family Safaris: Adventure for All Ages 

A family safari is the ultimate way to introduce kids to wildlife. But choosing the right lodge makes all the difference – some cater to adults, while others are designed for families. 

Kruger Gate Hotel: Mpumalanga 

Found at the entrance to Kruger National Park, Kruger Gate Hotel offers a perfect balance of comfort and adventure: 

• Game Drives: Family-friendly morning and evening drives ensure kids stay engaged. 
• Facilities: Pools, kid-friendly dining, and spacious family rooms make downtime just as fun as spotting the Big Five. 
• Accessibility: Short drives to several South Africa safari lodges in Kruger mean less time in the car and more wildlife experiences. 

Many lodges in Kruger also offer junior ranger programmes, which teach children about wildlife tracking and conservation. Most programmes welcome children from age 5, though some lodges have activities for younger kids too. 

Best Time for a Safari: 

• Months: May to September (dry winter months) for easier wildlife spotting. 
• Tip: July is ideal for school-aged kids – cooler days, minimal rain, and plenty of family holiday packages. 

Other Family-Friendly Safari Regions 

• Pilanesberg National Park, North West: Great for short game drives and near Sun City for a combo adventure. 
• Eastern Cape Reserves: Smaller crowds and excellent child-focused programmes make this region ideal for families. 

Sun, Sand, and Family Fun 

South Africa’s coastline offers plenty of opportunities for a beach escape where kids and parents can enjoy their own kind of adventure. 

Blue Marlin: South Coast, KwaZulu-Natal 

Blue Marlin is ideal for families after calm beaches and safe swimming: 

• Lifeguard-supervised beaches and tidal pools for younger children 
• Self-catering options make managing meals easy 
• Activities like kayaking, snorkelling, and fishing trips for older kids 

Many family holiday packages include meals, beachfront accommodation, and some water sports, making budgeting simple. 

Club Med: KwaZulu-Natal (Opening July 2026) 

For a hassle-free, all-inclusive experience, the new Club Med in KwaZulu-Natal is set to be a top choice for families: 

• Kids’ Programmes: Structured activities for children of all ages, from arts and crafts to sports clinics 
• Parent Time: Parents can enjoy the spa, pools, or simply relax knowing the kids are safely entertained 
• Family Savings: Discounts often available for children under 12 

Mountains and Wellness 

For families looking to escape the heat and explore mountain landscapes, The Cavern Drakensberg Resort & Spa in KwaZulu-Natal delivers: 

• Hiking trails suitable for little legs and older children 
• Horse riding, swimming, and interactive activities for kids 
• Spa treatments and wellness facilities for adults 
• Multi-generational friendly – grandparents can relax while kids explore programmes. 

Entertainment and Adventure at Sun City 

Found in North West, Sun City Cabanas combines adventure and entertainment: 

• Water parks, golf, and live shows keep children and teens busy
• Family holiday packages often include Valley of Waves access, animal encounters, and accommodation.  
• Easily accessible from Johannesburg and Pretoria, with special deals during school holidays 

Sun City is perfect for families who want a mix of family safari experiences, resort fun, and organised entertainment. 

Choosing the Right Safari 

When deciding “Which African safari is best for family?”, keep these in mind: 

• Accessibility: Lodges near park entrances reduce travel stress. 
• Family Programmes: Junior ranger programmes, safe play areas, and kid-friendly game drives. 
• Accommodation Type: Private chalets or hotel-style rooms near pools and restaurants. 

Where is the best place to go on a safari with kids? Kruger, Pilanesberg, and Eastern Cape reserves are ideal. Shorter game drives keep children engaged without tiring them out. 

Family Packages and Discounts: Many resorts, including Sun City and Club Med, offer perks like free meals for children, discounted rates, and bundled activities. Always ask when booking – you might be surprised by the savings. 

Age Appropriateness: Most family safari lodges accept children from 5 years old, but some have programmes for younger kids. 

Plan Your Family Holiday with Pentravel 

Whether it’s a safari, beach getaway, or mountain retreat, Pentravel takes care of flights, transfers, accommodation, and family-friendly activities, making it easy to book your family holiday and focus on creating lasting memories.