South Africa’s Most Kid-Friendly Holiday Resorts 

School holidays are almost here (30 June – 21 July), and if you’re already hearing “I’m bored” before they’ve even started, now’s the perfect time to start planning a getaway. Luckily, South Africa is packed with family resorts that not only cater to adults needing a break, but also keep kids busy with all kinds of activities – both indoors and outdoors. Think bush adventures, pony rides, junior ranger programme s, and even in-house cinemas! 

Whether you’re a beach-loving bunch, a bush break family, or you prefer mountain air and wide-open spaces, these family resorts in South Africa go all out during the holidays.  

Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat, Cederberg 

If your kids are into wildlife and adventure, Bushmans Kloof in the Western Cape is a dream. Found in the Cederberg mountains (about 3 hours from Cape Town), it’s a perfect mix of nature, history, and fun. 

Why kids love it: 

• Nature walks: Spot Cape Mountain zebras, antelope, and more on guided trails. 
• Rock art expeditions: Learn about San culture while visiting ancient rock art sites. 
• Canoeing & fishing: Calm waters = safe fun for the whole crew. 
• Mountain biking & archery: For older kids with lots of energy to burn. 

Bushmans Kloof is one of those rare South African holiday resorts that offers both education and play. The lodge also serves healthy, delicious meals, and while you unwind at the spa or by the pool, the kids can head out with trained guides. 

Top tip for parents: Bring binoculars – the game drives are great for early morning wildlife spotting, and kids will love the “treasure hunt” feel of it all. 

Kruger Gate Hotel, Mpumalanga  

If a Kruger safari is on your bucket list, Kruger Gate Hotel is a smart choice for families. It’s located right at the Paul Kruger Gate, so you can be in the park spotting elephants, lions, and giraffes within minutes. 

Kid-friendly highlights: 

• Junior Ranger activities during school holidays. 
• Kids’ bush walks with rangers that are educational and fun. 
• Playgrounds for letting off steam. 
• Birdwatching & wildlife spotting: Equip the kids with a guidebook or app and let them tick off the Big Five and more. It’s fun, educational, and encourages a love for nature. 

Parents can relax knowing the hotel has family rooms and loads of space to roam. Plus, there’s a gorgeous infinity pool overlooking the Sabie River – perfect for that mid-day break. 

Bonus tip: Pack wildlife guides or download a birdwatching app. Kids get into spotting and ticking off animals like it’s a game. 

Alpine Heath Resort, Northern Drakensberg 

This one’s a crowd-pleaser. Located in the Northern Drakensberg, Alpine Heath Resort is one of the best resorts in South Africa for families who want space, fresh mountain air, and LOTS of things to do. 

Here’s what kids get up to: 

• Kids’ entertainment programme during school holidays. 
• Mini-golf, pony rides, and trampoline fun. 
• Outdoor activities like hiking and archery. 
• Indoor options include a games room with table tennis. 

Each chalet comes with a kitchen, but if cooking isn’t on your holiday to-do list, the on-site restaurants make feeding the troops easy. 

Pro tip: Pack warm clothes – July can be chilly in the mountains, but that also means it’s prime time for cosy family movie nights. 

The Oyster Box, Umhlanga Rocks 

Looking for a beachy break? The Oyster Box in Umhlanga is as fancy as it is fun for kids. While parents enjoy sea views and sundowners, the young ones get the VIP treatment. 

Kid-friendly perks: 

• In-house 24-seater cinema with popcorn and a rotating schedule of kid-friendly movies. 
• Holiday Club with arts and crafts, face painting, and more. 
• Bunk beds in the family suites. 
• Beach access for sandcastle building and low-tide adventures. 

You’ll find The Oyster Box on almost every list of kid friendly holiday destinations in South Africa, and it’s easy to see why. 

Parent tip: Book a spa treatment while the kids are at the Holiday Club. Everyone wins. 

Why These Resorts Are a Win for Families 

What sets these South African resorts apart is their thoughtful focus on kids – without forgetting about the grown-ups. Here’s a quick summary of what to look out for when booking a family holiday: 

• Outdoor fun is king: Kids need to move, so opt for resorts with hiking trails, pony rides, or safari drives. 
• Rainy day back-up: Look for resorts with indoor activities for kids at South African resorts, like cinemas, games rooms, or craft clubs. 
• Free fun matters: Kids’ clubs, bike rentals, and guided nature walks are often free activities for kids at South African resorts – check the holiday schedules to see what’s included. 
• Accommodation layout: Family-friendly means space! Look for separate sleeping areas or adjoining rooms to make bedtime easier. 

Ready to Book? 

Need help planning? Chat to us at Pentravel and we’ll help you book the perfect family holiday at one of the best resorts in South Africa for families. From domestic flight deals to family-friendly packages that include accommodation, meals, and kid-approved activities, we’ve got you covered. Let us take care of the details so you can focus on making memories these school holidays. Your stress-free family break starts here – book with us at Pentravel today.