The 60 Best Things To Do with Kids in Cape Town

From action-packed obstacle courses and educational exhibitions to animal antics and outdoor adventures, there’s no shortage of fun kids’ activities to keep your little ones (and the whole family) entertained in the Mother City and the Winelands.

Where do you want to play?
City Bowl + Atlantic Seaboard
Southern Suburbs
Hout Bay + South Peninsula
Northern Suburbs
Stellenbosch + The Winelands

City Bowl + Atlantic Seaboard

Celebrate water at the Two Oceans Aquarium

This world-class aquarium is home to more than 10 000 sea animals of all shapes, sizes and colours. It’s an exciting peek into life off our shores, with a mesmerising swaying kelp forest, schools of shiny fish swimming in unison, gliding turtles and even sharks, which can also be viewed from inside a 10-metre glass tunnel. There are more exotic fish too, such as jellies, octopus, seahorses, pufferfish and moray eels. The popular penguin exhibit is always a hit with the kids, plus they can get up close to anemones and starfish at the Touch Pool.
Good to know Don’t miss the mass fishy feast during feeding time at 12pm; the penguins are fed twice a day, at 11.30am and 2.30pm. There are also three puppet shows daily.
Opening times Daily, 9.30am – 6pm
Cost R265 (adult); R200 (after 3pm)
R195 (teens, students, pensioners); R147 (after 3pm)
R120 (children 4 – 13 years); R90 (after 3pm)
Contact 021 418 3823, [email protected]
Where to find it Dock Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
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Cruise the Promenade with Electrek Scooters

A battery-powered, fat-tyred scooter is just the thing for cruising Sea Point’s glorious seaside strip. Breeze past the dog-walkers, joggers and skaters while taking in the sights, sounds and smells. These electric scooters have a maximum speed of 25km/h and a battery-power range of around 25km, so you can travel the entire Promenade (from Granger Bay to Bantry Bay and beyond) or pop into the Green Point Park for a change of scenery. Anyone from age 5 upwards can hop on and go!
Good to know Electrek also organises scooter rental or tours in Franschhoek, Hermanus and at Cape Point, and offers kids’ parties.
Opening times Daily, 9am – 6pm
Cost R250 (one hour); R350 (two hours)
Contact 082 494 3720, [email protected]
Where to find it Queens Beach Circle, Beach Road, Sea Point (or their shop at Surrey Place in Mouille Point), Cape Town
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Have an ocean adventure with Waterfront Charters

Head out to sea on board a schooner yacht, a sleek catamaran, a trawler-style fun boat or a rigid-inflatable adventure boat for a memorable family outing. From a quick half-hour seal cruise around the working harbour, or an hour-long sail into Table Bay (now with an optional djembe drumming session), to an eco-themed marine safari or a three-hour journey along the Atlantic Seaboard to Clifton, it’ll be equal parts relaxing and thrilling. In the school holidays, a combo deal with Toy Kingdom offers a ride on a toy train and a boat trip around the harbour, with face painting and popcorn.
Good to know Cruises are free for toddlers (under 5 years) but they are only allowed on motorised yachts; adventure boat trips are for over-13s only (minimum height 1.2 metres).
Times Daily, 9.30am – 5pm (winter); until 7pm in summer
Cost Seal + Harbour Cruise (30 minutes): R70 (adult), R45 (child) Book Now
Sailing in the Bay (1 hour): R370 (adult), R185 (child) Book Now
Coastal Motor Cruise: (1 hour): R370 (adult), R185 (child) Book Now
Clifton Cruise (minimum 10 passengers): From R900 (adult), R450 (child) Book Now
Ocean Safari (1 hour): R470 Book Now
Contact 021 418 3168, 064 093 5650 WhatsApp
Where to find it Quay 5, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town

Get some perspective at the Planetarium

This rainy-day favourite for generations has undergone a 21st-century makeover with a Digital Dome, making it the most advanced planetarium on the continent, providing both multi-sensory edutainment and cutting-edge scientific research facilities. With its 360-degree screen, it makes virtual voyages of the entire universe possible. The planetarium has several shows, some specifically for children. Watch Infinity Express to go on an exciting journey of discovery through the solar system, join Celeste and the moon as they explore the universe in Beyond the Sun, or see Perfect Little Planet, and more.
Good to know The Iziko SA Museum is right next door – filled with interesting exhibits ranging from fossils and dinosaurs to giant squids and enormous whale skeletons.
Opening times Tuesday – Sunday, 9am – 5pm
Shows: Tuesday – Friday, 3pm; Saturday + Sunday, 10.30am, 11.30am, 1pm + 2pm
School holiday shows: Tuesday – Sunday, 10.30am, 11.30am, 1pm + 2pm
Cost R90 (SA adults)
R50 (SA children, students + pensioners)
R130 (international visitors)
Contact 021 481 3800, [email protected]
Where to find it 25 Queen Victoria Street, Cape Town
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Paint up a storm at Artjamming

When inspiration strikes (or energy needs to be calmed and channelled), pop in at Artjamming at the V&A Waterfront. Choose a blank canvas (various sizes available), pop it on an easel, don an apron and get going on your masterpiece. There’s an array of drawing materials and acrylic paint colours to choose from, as well as stencils, sponges, spray nozzles and even hairdryers (good for artistic effects and for drying paint!). Kids can also custom-make their own slime at SlimeTime with a choice of colours, glitters, textures and flavours(!).
Good to know You’ll also find Artjamming at Lourensford Wine Estate in Somerset West.
Opening times Daily, 9am – 6pm
Cost R185 – R1 200 (depending on size of canvas)
SlimeTime: From R99
Contact 021 425 5050, [email protected]
Where to find it Above Toy Kingdom, Breakwater Boulevard, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
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Kayaking in Sea Point

A paddling adventure awaits just off the Promenade… Hop into a kayak at Three Anchor Bay beach and head out into the wide blue ocean, to see wonderful views of the city, the mountains and marine life up close. Led by experienced guides, you can paddle up past the lighthouse to Granger Bay, or down the Atlantic Seaboard to Bantry Bay.
Good to know This activity is suitable for children 6 years and older, who will share a kayak with an adult. No paddling experience is  required.
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 7.30am – 9.30am; 10am – 12pm; 5.30pm – 7.30pm
Cost R550
Where to find it Cape Kayak Adventures, 179 Beach Road, Mouille Point, Cape Town
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Captain a boat with The Little Optimist Sailing Academy

Founded by big-wave surfer, sailor and ocean activist Greg Bertish, The Little Optimist Sailing Academy is where kids get to learn the ropes and sail their own Optimist dinghy. As the world’s first sailing-therapy programme, it’s mainly focused on giving vulnerable youngsters valuable life skills, but it’s also open to children of all ages for lessons and cool birthday parties, as well as school outings (Grades 2 to 8).
Good to know All proceeds go to charity, with fees paid sponsoring a disadvantaged child to experience the joy of sailing, too.
Opening times Flexible, booking recommended.
Cost Sailing experience (20 mins): from R100 (ages 5 – 16)
Group lesson (minimum two people): from R250 per child (1 hour), R350 (2 hours)
Private lesson: from R500
Sailing programme (3/4 day): R500 – R750
Kids birthday parties (two hours): from R350 per child
Contact 066 478 8786, [email protected]
Where to find it Battery Park Canals, Dock Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
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Burn off energy at Battery Park

If your kid loves whizzing around on wheels – be it two, four or eight wheels – this 12 000-square-metre urban park at the Waterfront is the perfect safe space to do it. Apart from the world-class skatepark (with a pump hump, quarter pipes, layback banks, ledges and rails), it has a scooter path and space to rollerblade. There is also a playground with swings, a jungle gym and rocking horses, plus a multi-court for basketball, netball or soccer games. Keep an eye out for events such as sporting tournaments and skating contests.
Good to know For a fun way to get there, catch City Sightseeing’s red canal boat at the Waterfront (from behind the One&Only hotel), which has a special kid’s audio commentary. There is stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking in the canal.
Opening times Daily, 7am – 7pm
Cost Free
Canal boat: R79 (adult); R50 (child 4 – 17 years)
Contact 021 408 7600, [email protected]
Where to find it Dock Road or Albert Street, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
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Reach the top with Table Mountain Cableway

A ride in the Mother City’s famous cable car is one of the very best ways to behold the city, sea and Table Mountain in all their majesty. It’s a lovely day out in the fresh air and nature, with rocks to clamber over, the chance to play “I Spy” spotting familiar landmarks, dassies and other creatures on three easy mountain walks – or head to Woodhead Dam to visit the quaint Waterworks Museum. The self-service cafe serves popular, kid-friendly foods like pizza slices.
Good to know Afternoon visits are cheaper. For repeat visits, the Cable Card gives you access for a year (R1 500 for adults; R750 for children).
Opening times Daily, 8am – 8pm (last down 9pm), December + January
8am – 7pm (last down 8pm), February + March
Note: The Cableway is closed between July and August for annual maintenance.
Cost R450 return (adult); R295 one-way
R225 return (child; 4 – 17 years); R160 one-way
Children under 4 years free
Contact 021 424 0015, [email protected]
Where to find it Tafelberg Road, off Kloof Nek Road, Cape Town
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Soar over the city on the Cape Wheel

An exhilarating experience for kids and a source of sweet nostalgia for adults, the Cape Wheel – in its new oceanside location – delivers 360-degree views from 40 metres up. In the comfort of your air-conditioned glass cabin, play “I Spy” as you spot Waterfront landmarks, and see across the stadium, Signal Hill, Table Mountain and the city. It need not be said, but the views at twilight are perhaps the most magical. There is also a “Dine in the Sky” option, with a picnic basket (BYO food), table and double the time.
Good to know Each cabin seats up to six and two are wheelchair accessible. No booking is required, except for the VIP gondola, which has tinted windows, leather seats, a glass floor, music and a complimentary bottle of bubbly (or non-alcoholic option).
Opening times Summer (Sept – April): Daily, 10am – 10pm (weather dependent)
Winter (May – August): Monday – Thursday, 11am – 9pm; Friday + Saturday, 10am – 10pm; Sunday 10am – 9pm
Cost R175 (SA adult); R250 (international adult)
R95 (children 4 – 17 years + SA pensioners until 6pm)
Free (children up to 4 years)
Sky Dining: R320 (adult); R150 (child)
Contact 087 470 0696, [email protected] 
Where to find it The Lawns, Breakwater Boulevard, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
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Pedal through the Waterfront canals

Explore the scenic canals of the V&A Waterfront from a fun pedal boat. Each boat takes from two to six people, so you can make it an outing for the whole family, or gather together a group of young friends for a buoyant adventure (they host birthday parties, too). In the evenings, there’s the option of a sunset pedal, with fairy lights on the boat and the option to order a picnic (or bring your own).
Opening times Daily, 9am – 5pm (weather dependent)
Good to know Afternoons get very busy, so come early for better availability
Cost R100 (30 minutes); kids under 4: R50
Sunset pedal: R200 (45 minutes)
Where to find it Battery Park, Dock Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
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Explore and enjoy Green Point Park

A little Eden in the Mother City, the 10.5-hectare Green Point Park is spread out alongside the Cape Town Stadium. Enjoy a spontaneous afternoon picnicking on the lawns while the kids run free, or take a walk, run, skate or cycle beside the wetlands. There’s a labyrinth to explore, an interesting sundial to check out, plenty of space to run around and play games, an adventure playpark (ages 7 – 16 years) with swings, jungle gym, slides and tunnels, and a gated Tot Lot playground for younger kids.
Good to know The park has disabled access and dogs on leashes are allowed. Pop into the Park Café (8am – 5pm) for a light bite, sweet treats, soft serve cone or coffee.
Opening times Daily, 7am – 7pm
Cost Free
Contact 021 444 3903 / 073 302 5952, [email protected]
Where to find it South Entrance Gate, Bill Peters Drive, Green Point, Cape Town

Southern Suburbs

Keep moving at Total Ninja

If you’ve ever watched Ninja Warrior on TV, you’ll know what to expect at this indoor playpark and fitness centre. Not just a cool name, it also has the coolest combination of obstacles and inflatables to conquer. The black-and-red colour scheme, industrial aesthetic and funky lighting set the mood for some seriously fun action. Total Ninja will have kids of all ages (even grown-up ones) climbing, swinging, jumping, balancing, sliding and negotiating everything from cargo nets, monkey bars, see-saws, wonky ladders and bridges to the wrecking ball, gladiator pit, Wipeout and Warped Wall – plus there’s the Strike Arena for competitive ninjas. It’s a full-body workout, and no matter what happens, there’s always a soft landing.
Good to know There are three levels of ninja ability, including a dedicated area for “mini ninjas” (under-4s), all supervised and guided by trained professionals. The cafe serves all the family favourites, plus great coffee and even mocktails.
Opening times Monday – Friday, 10am – 9pm
Saturday + Sunday, 9am – 9pm
Cost R160 (one hour); R240 (two hours)
Under-4s: R80 (one hour); R120 (two hours)
R45 (compulsory socks)
Contact 021 745 3089, [email protected]
Where to find it Black River Park (South Entrance), Fir Street, Observatory, Cape Town
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Have an adventure at Kirstenbosch Gardens

The 36-hectare Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is a fun outing for the whole family. Pack a picnic, take a tree-top walk along the Boomslang (Tree Canopy Walkway), stop by the café for tea and scones (or milkshakes and waffles), or swing by the bookshop (which has some great reads for kids) – ask for the Kirstenbosch Adventure Map at the bookshop, which makes exploring even more fun.
Good to know For extra fun, travel there on the City Sightseeing Cape Town red bus, which has a discount family ticket. Look out for special kids workshops in the school holidays.
Opening times October – March: 8am – 7pm
April – September: 8am – 6pm
Cost R100 (SA + SADC adults with ID); R140 (African adults); R230 (international adults)
R40 (children 6 – 17 years); R60 (students with SA student card)
Free for children under 6
Free for SA senior citizens on Tuesdays (except public holidays)
Contact 021 799 8782, [email protected]
Where to find it Rhodes Drive, Newlands, Cape Town
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A-maze-ing play at Be.Up Park

For adrenaline-loving, brave-hearted youngsters, Be.Up has everything under one super-exciting roof. The trampoline zone offers nonstop bouncing fun, while those who enjoy climbing can attempt South Africa’s very first clip ’n climb walls – there are 11 and the tallest is eight metres high! Plus there’s the AltiGame zone, with elevated climbing nets and suspended swing steps, and the biggest indoor vertical/3D maze in South Africa with brightly coloured tubes, tunnels, ball ponds, trampolines and slides. There is also a separate Toddler Zone.
Good to know The café has free wifi, delicious treats and light meals. There are three-hour social sessions with neon lighting on Saturday nights.
Opening times Monday – Friday, 9am – 6pm
Saturday, 9am – 9pm; Sunday, 9am – 6pm
Note During term time it’s closed on Monday, and has shorter opening hours.
Cost R155 (one hour; trampoline zone, AltiGame; height restriction of 1.1m applies)
R115 (one hour; maze)
R105 (30 minutes; climbing zone only)
R55 (toddler zone for under 4s)
R170 (two-hour playpass: 9am –11am school holidays; anytime offpeak)
R45 (compulsory grip socks)
Contact 087 057 1400, 078 979 4582 (WhatsApp), [email protected]
Where to find it Gardener Place, Rose Innes Street, Pinelands, Cape Town
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Loads of fun at Playstation by Rush

We know what you’re thinking… “Playstation? No thanks, my kids get enough screen time already”. But this indoor adventure park (similar to Rush in Claremont, but for younger kids aged 2 – 13) is all about real-life games and challenges. There are giant slides, climbing walls, an adventure maze with swing bridges, an indoor soccer pitch, bike track and other energy-busting activities, as well as puzzles and games for a mental workout – all supervised by trained staff so that the adults can relax in the restaurant (free wifi, wide-screen TVs and coffee).
Good to know During school holidays it opens at 9am all week. Spend R300 on food and beverages to get an hour’s free off-peak play (Monday – Thursday in term time) for your child.
Opening times Monday – Thursday, 10am – 6pm
Friday + Saturday, 9am – 10pm; Sunday, 9am – 6pm
Cost Weekends + school holidays: R90 (first hour) + R20 per every 15 minutes thereafter
Monday – Thursday in term time: R80 per hour, R140 (unlimited play)
Toddlers (under 2): R30 (first hour)
Drop and Go: R110 per hour (6 years and older)
Supervised Play: R125 (6 years and older)
Contact 021 683 3841, [email protected]
Where to find it 10 Honeywell Road, Retreat, Cape Town
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Fly like a superhero on Cape Town Ziplines

Hidden in the forests of Hout Bay, around the back of the Table Mountain range, is a zipline canopy adventure – one of the longest in Africa, over 2.3km, with 11 platforms and seven cables – that takes you down through a fynbos-covered canyon (at one point, 155 metres above the ground). No need to say it, but the views over the Cape Peninsula are spectacular. It starts with a Land-Rover trip up to the starting point, and ends with a tremendous feeling of exhilaration.
Good to know The age limit is 6 years old and the weight limit is 120kg. The experience takes around 1.5 hours, with groups of eight per time slot.
Opening times Daily, 9.30am – 5pm (last slot 3.30pm)
Cost R860
Contact 021 795 0225, [email protected]
Where to find it Silvermist Wine Estate, off Hout Bay Main Road (M63), Constantia Nek, Cape Town
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Shred trails at the Bike Park at Constantia Uitsig

Your little daredevils will adore biking over bridges and ramps, through tunnels and along dirt paths at this expansive bike park (designed by Downhill World Champion Chris Nixon). The park has a variety of pump tracks, some geared towards beginners and children (as young as 3 years old), and others offering exhilarating drop-offs for more experienced bikers.
Good to know Bikes and safety gear can be hired on site. There is also the option of skills coaching and learning to unicycle.
Opening times Daily, 9am – 5pm
Cost R70 per hour; R95 all day
From R950 (annual membership)
Free (spectators)
Contact 081 833 4488, [email protected]
Where to find it Constantia Uitsig, Spaanschemat River Road, Constantia, Cape Town
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Jump for joy at Rush Extreme Sports Park

This spacious indoor playground offers loads of activities for children (and adults) to unleash their boundless energy – diving into a foam pit, bouncing off wall-to-wall trampolines, jousting on the Battle Beam, soaring five metres high on the Super Tramp or testing their limits on the Air Walk. Other activities include trampoline-based dodgeball and slam-dunking (basketball), plus trampoline workout and Flip Out gymnastics classes. Trained staff are on-hand to provide instruction and watch over children. Cosmic Rush – a glow-in-the-dark experience with music and disco lights – takes place on Friday and Saturday nights (6pm to 8pm).
Good to know There is a coffee shop with free wi-fi and charging stations so parents have somewhere to hang out and grab a light snack.
Opening times Tuesday – Thursday, 11am – 7pm (holidays from 9am + Monday)
Friday + Saturday, 9am – 8pm; Sunday, 9am – 6pm
Cost R160 (one hour, all access)
R200 (parent + toddler, one hour)
R260 (two hours, all access)
R40 (non-slip socks, compulsory)
R200 (Cosmic Rush, two hours)
Contact 087 094 0178, 021 683 3841, 021 671 1489, [email protected]
Where to find it 25 Stegman Road, Claremont, Cape Town
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Fun for the brain at Cape Town Science Centre

With over 250 exhibits, puzzles, experiments and interactive games that cover a wide range of disciplines including maths, technology and engineering, this play centre/museum is aimed at getting young minds engaged scientifically and showing how learning can be fun. There are many mind-bending exhibits that will astound not only the kids interacting with them but adults too, including a camera obscura, AstroTrek virtual reality (walk on Mars!) and Light Room of colours. Keep an eye out for the Mindball – where children move a ball around with the power of their brain waves – and the Human Gyroscope, where they can spin around and float as if in a low-gravity environment.
Good to know The iCafe coffee shop offers refreshments, light meals and free internet.
Opening times Monday – Saturday, 9am – 4.30pm
Public holidays, 10am – 4.30pm
Cost R95
R45 (pensioners)
R340 (family package for four people)
R85 per person (groups of 10 or more)
Contact 021 300 3200, [email protected]
Where to find it 370B Main Road, Observatory, Cape Town
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Master the ropes at Acrobranch Constantia

Hidden deep within the Constantia Nek forest, in the shadow of the misty mountains, lies this treetop playground. The four obstacle courses have all the ziplines, cargo nets, and elevated platforms a budding Indiana Jones could wish for. Sessions last two hours and start every half hour. Assistants are available in case kids need a helping hand, and there’s a restaurant onsite where parents can relax.
Good to know There is another Acrobranch at Klein Joostenberg Farm in Stellenbosch, which also has a trampoline bungee for little kids and a picnic area.
Opening times September – April: Wednesday – Sunday, 9am – 6pm (last slot 4pm)
May – August: Wednesday – Sunday, 9am – 5pm (last slot 3pm)
Cost Acro-Twigs: R170; R210 (with Bungee); R70 (Bungee only)
Monkey Moves: R210; R260 (with Big Zip)
Swinging Tarzan: R250; R300 (with Big Zip)
High Flying: R310; R360 (with 3 Big Zips)
Big Zip only: R110 (3 rides per person)
Climbing gloves: R25 (compulsory from 7 years up)
Contact 021 201 1121, [email protected]
Where to find it 1 Hout Bay Main Road, Constantia Nek, Cape Town
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Old-school vibes at Let’s Go Bowling

With its top-notch ten-pin bowling lanes and computer-controlled scoring system, Let’s Go Bowling is fun for the whole family. It’s part of a greater space called Let’s Entertain U, which includes Kidz Play (a supervised indoor playground and giant jungle gym) and a video-game arcade, plus a pizza parlour. All bases covered, then. There’s a Sunday special for grandparents, and specials combining food, drinks and games.
Good to know Adults can amuse themselves in the bar, which has pool tables and big-screen sports.
Opening times Monday – Friday, 10am – 10pm
Saturday, 9am – 10pm; Sunday, 10am – 9pm
Cost R90 (one game)
R75 (Kidz Play)
R30 entry (redeemable on food and beverages)
Contact 087 378 0891, 068 270 2641 (WhatsApp), [email protected]
Where to find it Stadium on Main, Main Road, Claremont, Cape Town
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Let imaginations run free at Play By Nature

In an increasingly digitised and technological world, we remain human – and little humans need to get to grips with the basics of life first, in a natural, sensory, fun way. Comprising pop-in classes (8 months – 4 years old), drop-and-go play sessions (1 – 5 year olds) and an art club (4 – 8 year olds), Play by Nature is designed to inspire creativity and spark the imagination, while developing motor skills and self-expression. Each week has a theme (from bugs and seasons to beloved storybooks and fantasy worlds), and kids are encouraged to play how they like – be it shaping clay, making natural paints, concocting potions, digging in sand or having a tea party…
Good to know There are two locations – Sea Point and Westlake (which has a coffee shop where adults can work while the kids play). Booking is essential. Outings and birthday parties are also arranged.
Opening times Vary; Monday – Friday, morning + afternoon
Cost Toddler Classes (14 months – 4 years old): R285
Play Sessions (1 – 5 years old): R180 first hour; extra hour R100
Art Club (1 – 5 years old): R300
Contact 061 505 7377, [email protected]
Where to find it Sea Point Studio: Unit 505 The Regent, 19 Regent Road, Sea Point, Cape Town
Westlake Studio: Unit 1, Gateway Park, 39 Bell Crescent, Westlake, Cape Town
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Be enchanted at the Rainbow Puppet Theatre

South Africa’s only dedicated puppet theatre has been entertaining kids since 1992. In keeping with this age-old art form, the stories are traditional too – popular fairytales come to life here (think The Frog Prince, Little Red Riding Hood, Hansel and Gretel, Rumpelstiltskin…). The theatre itself was made by a Danish woodcrafter and all the puppets (some 300 different characters), props, costumes and backdrops hand-crafted by the puppeteers over the years. As Rudolf Steiner (founder of Waldorf Education) puts it: “Puppetry is a remedy against the damage of modern civilisation, unfolding and developing the fantasy of the child.”
Good to know Check their social media for what’s showing. There are usually shows on two Saturdays a month. Recommended for ages 4+.
Opening times Saturday; 10am + 11.15am (two shows)
Cost R40 (cash at the door)
Contact 072 129 1061, [email protected]
Where to find it Constantia Waldorf School, Spaanschemat River Road, Constantia

Hout Bay + South Peninsula

Visit the penguins at Boulders Beach

A 40-minute drive from Cape Town lies Boulders Beach, home to a famous penguin colony and one of the few places in the world where you can swim with these wonderful water birds. The colony falls under the protection of SANParks and requires a conservation fee to gain access. Once there, you can watch the penguins frolic in the waves, on the seashore and among the rocks. It’s a great swimming beach for kids, too, as the boulders shelter it from strong currents. The official nesting site with viewing platforms is a short stroll down a boardwalk.
Good to know Cash-free payment at the gate.
Opening times Summer (October – March): 8am – 6.30pm
Winter (April – September): Daily, 8am – 5pm
Cost R50 (SA adults); R25 (SA children, age 2 – 11)
R100 (SADC adults); R50 (SADC children)
R215 (international adults); R105 (international children)
Contact 021 786 2329, [email protected]
Where to find it Bellevue Road/Secluse Avenue, off Mcfarlane Road (M4), Simon’s Town, Cape Town

Learn to surf at Muizenberg

Riding the waves is a rush, no matter your age. To learn how, all you need to bring is a swimming costume, towel and a bucket of enthusiasm – Surf Emporium provides the wetsuits and boards. The clubhouse is at Surfers Corner in Muizenberg, the best spot in Cape Town (and among the top 10 in the world) to learn the ropes because of the gentle rolling waves, sandy bottom and warmer water. (Plus, winter is secretly the best time of the year – you’ll be wearing a wetsuit after all). The 90-minute sessions are suited to your skill level, proceed at your pace and can be booked as a private group session (a family, for example). “Groms” under 10 get special one-on-one “freezer” lessons.
Good to know Rates for lessons depend on the number of people sharing a coach; maximum 1:5 coach-to-participant ratio.
Opening times Daily, 7.30am – 5.30pm
Cost From R340 per person (four or five people) – R495 (one person)
Four-lesson package: R1 020 – R1 485
Kids freezer lesson: R425 (one hour); R1 700 (package of 5 lessons)
Contact 021 788 8687, [email protected]
Where to find it Surfers Corner, 70 Beach Road, Muizenberg, Cape Town
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Paint plates (+ more) at Clay Café

This spot has been a favourite among grown-ups and kids seeking a splash of creativity for 25 years. Once seated, your friendly server will explain the drill, after which you’ll choose your unfired ceramics (anything from mugs and bowls to figurines and teapots), paints, brushes, tools etc. Then simply let your imagination run free while enjoying a bite to eat (from breakfast and gourmet toasties to burgers and pizza). There’s a great kiddies menu, including chocolate bubble waffles and milkshakes, and wine, beer or G&Ts for the adults.
Good to know There’s another branch in the Winelands, Clay Cafe Paarl at Groot Parys. Bookings are essential on weekends and during the holidays.
Opening times Daily, 9am – 5pm
Cost R45 per person (includes 3 paints, tools, firing and glazing)
Unfired ceramics: R80 – R480
Contact 076 810 5120, [email protected]
Where to find it Main Road, Hout Bay, Cape Town
Book through DinePlan

The Scone Shack

This crooked little shack – straight out of a fairytale (made out of recycled windows and scraps of wood) –  is a fabulous spot for sweet treats on the road to Cape Point. The land is also home to a succulent nursery, a rustic river setup (complete with rowboats) and a menagerie of friendly farm animals. The delicious scones are made in a wood-burning oven and served with jam, butter and cream. The cinnamony ice tea is also yummy, and there are a wide selection of teas as well as other cakes and puds (including gluten-free and vegan options), milkshakes, hot chocolate and fresh juices to enjoy.
Good to know It’s cash only. Note that the shack may close during winter (July to September).
Opening times Friday – Sunday, 9.30am – 5pm
Contact 079 045 1318, [email protected]
Where to find it Lalaphanzi Farm, Plateau Road, near entrance to Cape Point

Ride a pony at The Riding Centre

For little kids that are moggy about all things horsey, this is heaven. Even if they’re not (yet), it’s a lovely country-style experience to visit Hout Bay’s Riding Centre. A ride on a Welsh pony is fun (only for children under 11 years old), plus there are resident goats, a pig, a sheep, bunnies, chickens and more, and an adventure playground with a treehouse, climbing wall, monkey ropes etc. The Stable Café serves breakfasts, light lunches and milkshakes with great views.
Good to know The centre also offers riding lessons, a Pony Play Club (a fun way to learn the basics), holiday camps filled with fun activities, and fabulous themed birthday parties.
Opening times Tuesday – Friday, 8.30am – 5.15pm
Monday from 1.30pm; Saturday until 4pm
Pony rides: Tuesday – Saturday, 9.30am – 10.45am
Monday – Saturday 2.30pm – 3.45pm
Cost R80 (pony ride)
Contact 021 790 5286, [email protected]
Where to find it Main Road, Hout Bay, Cape Town
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Creatures great and small at World of Birds & Monkey Park

A cacophony of calls, squawks, chirps, whistles, screams and other sounds will greet you as you enter this four-hectare tropical garden, home to walk-through aviaries housing over 3 000 rescued birds and beasts. You’ll encounter birds of every feather – parrots, swans, owls, storks, emus, vultures and more – as well as serval (wild cats), dassies, foxes, porcupines, tortoises and other small reptiles. There’s a special section of the jungle reserved for the cute but mischievous squirrel monkeys, who will clamber all over you given the chance.
Good to know There is a café, but you can bring a picnic to enjoy on the Flamingo Terrace.
Opening times Daily, 9am – 5pm (last entry 4pm)
Monkey Jungle: 11.30am – 1pm; 2pm – 3.30pm (guided tours)
Feeding: 11.30am + 3.30pm (penguins); 12.30pm (pelicans); 1.30pm (cormorants); 4.15pm (birds of prey)
Cost R130 (adults)
R50 (children 3 – 16 years)
R85 (students + pensioners)
Contact 021 790 2730, [email protected]
Where to find it Valley Road, Hout Bay, Cape Town

Play putt-putt in a cave at The Scratch Patch

Whatever the weather outside, you can take on 18 holes of mini-golf in the underground course at the Scratch Patch. Befitting its cave setting, you’ll need to negotiate rock features, caverns, mine obstacles, ancient relics, waterfalls, UV sections and fabulous mineral displays. Then head over to the Scratch Patch for your sparkly reward: beautiful semi-precious stones that can be found include tiger’s eye, agate, rose quartz (the love stone), healing amethyst, jasper, sodalite and all-powerful clear quartz crystal. It’s an exciting and evocative experience that’s been delighting kids for over 40 years.
Good to know There is another Scratch Patch & Cave Golf at the V&A Waterfront.
Opening times Monday – Friday, 8.30am – 4.45pm (last entry 4pm)
Saturday, Sunday + holidays, 9am – 5pm (last entry 4pm)
Cost R45 (R40 per person for groups of 10 or more)
Scratch Patch: R40 – R175 (depends on the size of the collection bag)
Contact 021 786 2020, [email protected]
Where to find it Dido Valley Road, Simon’s Town, Cape Town

Pet animals at Higgeldy-Piggeldy Farmyard

Cuteness all around, in a scenic setting with views of mountains, vineyards and the sea, this neat farmyard in Kommetjie is a real taste of country life for city kids. They can feed and pet the goats, sheep, cows, rabbits, ponies and their feathered friends, including emus. There’s also a goat tower and a playground, with old farm machinery to clamber on. The farmyard is right alongside Blue Water Café, where parents can relax and enjoy a meal. The menu has good kids’ options, but they’ll also insist on a visit to The Ice Cream Silo.
Good to know Imhoff Farm has more to offer for a family day out, including pony and horse rides and, for grown-ups, padel courts, a 4×4 track, beer garden, wine shop, artisan shops and other eateries.
Opening times Daily, 9am – 4pm
Cost R20
Contact 021 783 4545, [email protected]
Where to find it Imhoff Farm, Kommetjie Road, Kommetjie, Cape Town

Northern Suburbs

Bounce for joy at Freedom Adventure Park

This mega indoor playground is a bit like being inside a space-themed video game, and caters for all ages with a vast range of activities. Think trampolines galore (including duo reaction gaming), a Leap of Faith onto a massive airbag, 22-metre-long extreme race slides and 8-metre drop slides, a 30-metre zipline and a 50-metre via ferrata (clip-and-climb) ropes course. There’s also a pedal-kart track, a Ninja Run with 11 obstacles and Astro soccer and basketball. On Friday nights from 6pm, it’s all UV-lit. In addition, there’s a Toddler Zone, a drop-and-go supervised option (6 – 11 years old) and helpers for differently abled visitors over 18 years old.
Good to know There are work pods for adults to use, plus a pizzeria and Bootleggers coffee to fuel up. There’s another smaller Freedom Adventure Park for young kids in Tokai.
Opening times Daily, 9am – 9pm (sessions start on the hour every hour)
Cost R150 per hour; R400 (all-day pass)
R85 per hour (4 years and under); with one adult for full park access R200 per hour
R250 per hour (ages 6 – 11 drop-and-go, Monday – Thursday only)
Cosmic Glow Fridays: R250 per person (3 hours)
R50 (non-slip socks)
Note There are also three-hour specials on first Thursday and first Saturday nights, and a four-hour special every Sunday night.
Contact 083 279 4453, [email protected]
Where to find it Level 2, Canal Walk Mall, Century Boulevard (off N1), Century City, Cape Town
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Scale new heights at CityRock

You could sit on the couch watching action films on Netflix – or you can harness up and make like Spider-Man. This 3 600m2 indoor climbing gym offers various walls for different types of climbing, solo or with a partner, for the experienced or newbies. CityRock allows youngsters on its climbing walls (age 5 – 12 in the dedicated Kids Zone) as long as children under 16 years have an adult/parent accompanying them. It also offers courses so parents and kids can learn to supervise and climb safely.
Good to know Bookings are required for children under 13 years.
Opening times Monday – Thursday, 11am – 10pm
Friday – Sunday + public holidays, 9am – 6pm
Cost R170 (child, 5 – 18 years) for two hours
R210 (adult); R180 (student/pensioner),
Bouldering: R170 (adult), R130 (student)
Gear: R110 (shoes + harness); R80 (shoes or harness)
R260 (intro to climbing)
Contact 021 447 1326, [email protected]
Where to find it The Island, 9 Milner Street, Paarden Eiland, Cape Town
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Biking bliss at Bloemendal Trail Park

Bloemendal Estate on the slopes of Tygerberg Hill is one of the largest wine farms in the Durbanville Valley – which is also renowned mountain-biking country. The expansive Trail Park caters for all ages, with routes suitable for beginners and young children, and bikes for rent. The Push Bike Trail allows parents to keep an eye on their little ones and there is a kiddies pump track. Once you’ve all worked up an appetite, head to the café for some signature Bean Riding coffee, smoothies, milkshakes, beer on tap, toasties, burgers, boerie rolls and more.
Good to know Bloemendal also has a great playground (huge slides, jungle gyms, treehouses) next to Bon Amis restaurant, and a kids’ juice and ice-cream pairing (plus wine-tasting and nougat, biltong, pizza or ice-cream pairings for adults).
Opening times Monday – Friday, 8am – 6pm (5pm in winter); Thursday until 9pm
Saturday + Sunday, 8am – 5pm
Cost R50 (child under 18); R75 (adult)
Kids’ bike rental: R125 per hour
Adult rental: hardtails: R150 per hour; dual-suspension R350 per hour; e-bikes R350 per hour
Contact 060 657 6344, [email protected]
Where to find it Tygerberg Valley Road (M13), Durbanville, Cape Town
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Go on an expedition to Intaka Island

You might think it’s a random patch of greenery next to the Canal Walk mall, but you’re missing out. Intaka Island is a 16-hectare wetland and environmental education centre offering a wonderful urban nature outing, as it’s home to 212 kinds of fynbos and 120 bird species (plus an elusive mongoose and other critters). There are two bird hides where you can watch nature unfold; two pram-friendly footpaths to explore the island, stopping at info stations along the way (or you can take a guide with you); lawns for picnicking, plus boat rides or guided kayaking adventures on the Grand Canal and around the island. There is also a monthly night market on the island.
Good to know There is an Intaka Kids Club (R50 per year) with organised activities, sleepovers and special school holiday programmes, plus themed hikes (full moon, frog hike etc). There is also a new Tramway at Century City that goes to Ratanga Park (free entry), which can extend your adventurous outing and is great for a picnic amid the lush vegetation and water features.
Opening times Daily, 7.30am – 7pm (October – April); 7.30am – 5.30pm (May – September)
Boat rides: Saturday – Thursday, 9.30am – 3.30pm; Friday, 9.30am – 2pm
Cost R35 (teens + adults); R100 (including boat ride)
R22 (children 3 – 11 years + pensioners); R90 (including boat ride)
Kayaking: R140 per person
Contact 021 552 6889, [email protected]
Where to find it 2 Park Lane (off Century Way), Century City, Cape Town

Meet some big birds at Cape Town Ostrich Ranch

Cape Town with Kids

Get up-close to these bizarre birds at the Ostrich Ranch, home to several different species (including their foreign cousins, emus and rheas). During a guided tour, children will get to touch, feed and sit on the birds, stand on their giant eggs, and maybe even see some babies or the male’s mating dance. Afterwards, there’s a playground, arts and crafts, a shop with ostrichy products and a gemstone scratch patch, plus a restaurant to refuel (how about scrambled ostrich egg for six, made at your table?).
Good to know Booking a time slot at the restaurant gives you free access to the other animal encounter experience, feeding goats, tortoises, lambs, turkeys and peacocks. There are also crocs and cheetahs.
Opening times Daily, 9am – 5pm (last tour at 4pm)
Cost Guided tours: R139 (adults)
R129 (children 7 – 16 years); R79 (children 2 – 6 years)
R89 (pensioners + students)
Contact 021 972 1955, [email protected]
Where to find it Van Schoorsdrif Road, Philadelphia (via the N7)
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Happy, smiley times at Bugz Playpark

This indoor and outdoor kids’ universe has a dizzying array of activities – from a choo-choo train ride and worm train, dragon and horse swings, ziplines, slides and monkey bars to pedal bikes, rowing boats, toddler tractors, sandpits, a large wooden treehouse, mud kitchen, doll’s houses, jungle gym and a very large splash pool (summer only). If the weather’s not playing nicely, Bugz also has a huge indoor play area, complete with obstacle courses, seesaws, huge rainbow balls and more. Plus there’s a petting farm, where kids can feed and spend time with tortoises, bunnies, geese, ducks, guinea pigs and parrots.
Good to know There are age limits on certain rides. Tickets are sold at the entrance; no bookings. Food and drinks are sold on site.
Opening times Saturday, Sunday + holidays, 10am – 4pm
Cost R190 (children 3 – 12 years, all rides); R100 (rainy day, no rides)
R60 (adults + teens, includes train); R45 (pensioners, includes train)
Free (children 0 – 3 years)
Petting farm: R25 per person
Contact 021 988 8836, [email protected]
Where to find it 56 Tarentaal Road, Joostenbergvlakte, Kraaifontein

Fun adventures at Ipic Play Park

You’ll find this colourful playground and obstacle course in Durbanville (with a convenient coffee shop and gym on site too). Ipic caters to children of all ages, with a Toddler Town, Lego Building Club and miniature climbing wall for younger kids, and more acrobatic adventures for older ones (with some open to teens and adults too). Exhilarating challenges include climbing walls, the Giant River Run (four parallel slides 18 metres long), the Blaster Tower, Bullseye Climb (an extreme high-rope course) and Jump Zone (around 14 different-sized trampolines).
Good to know Booking a time slot is essential as only limited numbers are allowed at one time.
Opening times Daily, 8am – 6pm; Friday until 9pm; Sunday until 7pm
Cost Epic Play (6 years and older): from R90 for one hour
Junior Play (3 – 5 years): from R80
Toddler Play: from R60
Adult Play: from R90
R35 (compulsory grip socks)
Contact 021 205 3844, [email protected]
Where to find it Aurora Shopping Centre, corner of Burton and Aurora Streets, Durbanville, Cape Town

Go with the flow at The Shred Skate Park

This industrial-urban-cool indoor/outdoor skateboarding haven has all the free-flowing, adrenaline-buzzing surfaces, contours, ramps, bowls, pipes and rails to thrill any skater – in a safe, secure, weather-sheltered environment. You book for three-hour sessions (or a double session or all day). If you need to learn the ropes or want to up your skills, you can sign up for lessons with Thalente Biyela (skateboards, helmets and pads included). There are also open nights (all wheels welcome – including rollerblades and BMXes) on Wednesdays for teens 16 years and older; plus once a month Vans hosts a free ladies-only night (also suitable for girls).
Good to know The Eiland Eatery serves all the delicious fuel skaters need. It is also available for birthday party bookings.
Opening times Daily, 8am – 6pm; Wednesday Skate Night until 9pm
Cost R99 (3-hour session); R160 (double session); R200 (full day)
R50 (open nights)
R400 (one-hour lesson)
Note Mondays are half price, and weekday mornings are cheaper.
Contact 021 510 2918, 076 198 6268 (WhatsApp), [email protected]
Where to find it 68 Auckland Street, Paarden Eiland, Cape Town

Embrace the cold at The Ice Station

Cape Town’s ice-skating rink has been around since 1971, offering the novelty of a winter wonderland experience in “sunny SA” – especially for kids. They (or you) might be nervous about stepping onto the ice at first, but in no time you’ll all be gliding around the Olympic-size rink. The freedom of movement ice-skating offers is exhilarating! There is a supervised mini rink for the little ones (under 5 years old) and skating lessons on Saturday morning and Tuesday evening.
Good to know Skating sessions are an hour, 90 minutes or two hours, depending on the time of day, with a 15-minute or half-hour break between. GrandWest also has 10-pin bowling, a games arcade and Lazer Tag.
Opening times Monday + Tuesday, 10am – 4pm
Wednesday + Thursday, 10am – 7.30pm
Friday + Saturday, 10am – 11.30pm
Sunday, 10am – 8.30pm
Cost R70 – R95 (depending on length of session; includes skate hire)
R40 (mini rink, children under 1.3m tall)
R10 (non-skater)
Contact 021 535 2260, [email protected]
Where to find it Grand West Casino & Entertainment World, 1 Jakes Gerwel Drive, Goodwood, Cape Town
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Stellenbosch + the Winelands

Be enchanted at Wonderdal

This one-of-a-kind, state-of-the-art edutainment centre blends creative design, award-winning educational resources and world-class technology in a 1 000-square-metre interactive space. Children aged 5 to 13 years learn through play as they journey through the worlds of science, nutrition and nature in seven zones. It’s an exercise in immersive fantasy, designed to make children feel part of a story – as they explore, they will be accompanied by the Amuki, the virtual inhabitants of Wonderdal. They can only be seen and interacted with if you’re wearing a special magical bracelet – and they love to pop up unexpectedly from their secret corners.
Good to know Each session lasts one or two hours, so parents are free to go and enjoy Hazendal Wine Estate’s other attractions while the kids play.
Opening times Tuesday – Sunday, 9am – 5pm (Monday in school holidays)
Cost One hour: R85 (weekdays); R140 (Friday – Sunday + holidays)
Two hours: R125 (weekdays); R190 (Friday – Sunday + holidays)
R40 (compulsory safety socks, reusable for future visits)
Contact 021 205 5624, [email protected]
Where to find it Hazendal Wine Estate, 60 Bottelary Road (M23), Stellenbosch
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Free-wheelin’ at Polkadraai

Polkadraai Farm is famous for its strawberries, but it also has another new attraction: a family-friendly bike park with a picnic area and food court run by Burger Brothers (where you’ll also find waffles, milkshakes and good coffee). There are trails for all levels of rider, including a pump track for younger bikers, a kiddies track (under 8 years) and beginner’s skills trail. There is also access to the 130km of Bottelary Hills trails. Come here to ride through pristine fynbos, vineyards and countryside, then relax with a meal and explore the rest of the farm’s attractions.
Good to know Catch the Polkadraai Express tractor-train for a ride around the strawberry fields, have a game of mini-golf, jump on the pedal-karts or enjoy a pony ride. Strawberry picking is September – January.
Opening times Daily, 9am – 4pm
Cost R70 (day pass)
R100 (bike park + Bottelary Hills)
Contact 021 881 3303, [email protected]
Where to find it Polkadraai Road (M12), Stellenbosch

Be creative at the Tree House at Boschendal

The Tree House playground at Boschendal is probably the best and biggest “jungle gym” in the Cape, with acorn hideouts, slides, walkways, platforms, mushroom pods and pyramids. A daily edutainment programme for kids (aged 3 – 12) lets them get their hands dirty and have good old-fashioned fun in a nurturing environment while you enjoy the rest of what the farm has to offer. The programme includes animal hour, garden hour, arts & crafts, music and movement, as well as play sessions where they’re free to explore the various interactive elements designed to spark their curiosity and creativity. Lunch hour sees them become mini chefs and make their own pizzas or burgers to eat (there’s dessert as well). Book them in for just an hour, or for longer sessions (up to 7 hours).
Good to know Look out for the special Tree House Holiday Programme over school holidays. Activities include pony rides, nature crafts, drumming and slip ’n slide sessions. Booking is essential with only 15 slots available per day.
There’s also a MTB pump track next to the Tree House playground in the main werf area that is open to all visitors (BYO bike).
Opening times Tree House Programme: Daily, 9.30am – 4.30pm
Cost One hour: R90; lunch hour: R190; full day: R710 (includes lunch)
Tree House Holiday Programme: from R330 for a three-hour afternoon programme to R800 for a full day.
Contact 021 870 4273, [email protected]
Where to find it Boschendal Wine Estate, R310/Pniel Road, Franschhoek
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Whiz through a wine farm with Scootours

Hop on a stable, nonmotorised Monster Mountain scooter and experience the Winelands differently – downhill, with the wind in your hair. The eco-friendly, nonmotorised scooters are a unique way of traversing the dirt paths, vineyards and slopes of Franschhoek and Stellenbosch. The scooters are easy to control, and your children will be handling them under the watch of professional guides. Head to Chamonix Wine Farm in Franschhoek or Banhoek Chilli Oil Company on the Helshoogte Pass in Stellenbosch for tons of freewheeling fun.
Good to know Children 10 years and older can drive their own scooter; younger children (from 4 years old) can ride as a passenger with an adult.
Opening times Chamonix: Monday – Saturday, 9.30am – 2.30pm
Banhoek: Monday – Saturday, 8am – 3.30pm
Cost Chamonix: R820 (adult); R385 (child) Book Now
Banhoek: R640 (adult); R250 (child) Book Now
Where to find it Chamonix: 40 Uitkyk Street, Franschhoek
Banhoek Chilli Oil Company: Swart Street, off R310, Kylemore, Stellenbosch

Enter a magical garden at Babylonstoren

Babylonstoren’s magnificent food garden is world-famous and the sophisticated farm offerings are a drawcard, but it offers endless fun for children too. A gigantic garden to explore and a working farmyard with roaming turkeys, ducks, geese, chickens and tortoises, and donkeys they can feed, plus riverside walks, giant bird’s nests to crawl in to, a greenhouse that serves tasty scones, an ice-lolly van, a sweets and treats shop (plus gelato) and Old Bullfrog, a water feature with a splash spiral and water spouts.
Good to know The new Soetmelksvlei section of the farm (visited on a prebooked tour) offers a fascinating peek at life in the late 19th century, with craftspeople going about their chores (milling, milking, carpentry, metal forging etc). There’s also an indoor playhouse in the old cellar, lots of farm animals, ox-wagon rides and a restaurant.
Opening times Daily, 9am – 5pm (last entry 4pm)
Soetmelksvlei: Wednesday – Sunday, 9am – 4pm (shuttles leave every half hour, from 8.30am – 1pm)
Cost R150 (adult); children under 18 free.
Soetmelksvlei: R350 (adult); R100 (child 4 – 17 years)
Contact 021 863 3852, [email protected]
Where to find it Klapmuts-Simondium Road, Simondium, near Paarl

Chill out at the Blaauwklippen Family Market

This historic Stellenbosch wine farm’s weekend market is a must-visit. Kids (and adults) can be introduced to a world of interesting flavours – from Dutch kroketten and Asian dumplings to Greek gyros and bratwurst – plus there are ice creams and pastries. Pedal-karts, a jumping castle, pony rides, farm animals (goats, alpacas etc) and a jungle-gym playground will keep kids entertained while you browse the clothing, accessory and artisanal produce stalls.
Good to know The Specialized Experience Centre for mountain-biking is based at Blaauwklippen; it has a fantastic children’s play area with a pump track, bikes to rent and a massive jungle gym. Skateboarders are also welcome.
Opening times Market: Saturday + Sunday, 10am – 4pm
Bike Park + Play Park: Monday – Sunday, 9am – 5pm
Cost Free entry
Bike Park: R85 (weekends + holidays); free weekdays
Contact 021 880 0133, [email protected]
Where to find it Strand Road (R44), Stellenbosch

Catch the steam train to Elgin

Few things are more evocative than a steam-train ride… Ceres Rail’s grand old locomotives make a full-day round trip to Elgin in the Overberg on weekends, departing from the city and travelling up and over Sir Lowry’s Pass (one of the steepest rail lines in South Africa). Enjoy breathtaking mountain and ocean scenery, and views of fynbos-covered hills, farmlands and orchards. Drinks and snacks are available to purchase on board. The destination is the steampunk-style Elgin Railway Market, where live music and street-food stalls create a fun day out, and kids can let off a little steam of their own in the play area.
Good to know There are two bar areas serving cocktails, beer, bubbly and wine; the Bar Lounge car is for adults only.
Opening times Most Saturdays, selected Sundays + public holidays, 7.30am – 6.30pm
Cost R750 (adult); R599 (pensioner); R550 (child); kids under 3 free Book Now
R975 (lounge car seat) Book Now
R1 150 (observation car seat – selected dates only) Book Now
Family Coupé: R2 200 (two adults + 2 children) Book Now
Family Compartment: R3 950 (seats six adults maximum) Book Now
Where to find it  AC Marriott Hotel platform, Dockrail Road, Foreshore, Cape Town

Family fun at Spice Route Destination

Spice Route Destination’s delightful village-style setup is a wonderful daytrip for the whole family. Start with the “Spies Route” scavenger hunt clue-solving game that explores the whole property. Then youngsters can play in two big playgrounds, or access the Paarl Trails network (with plenty of accessible tracks for beginners) on their mountain bikes. Wilderer’s Kids Adventure includes paint-your-own cookies, colouring-in, a juice tasting and pizza, while the grownups can enjoy various drinks pairings and tastings, and browse the artisanal shops. Come together again for lunch at La Grapperia Pizza & Bistro – and don’t forget to pop in at The Chocolate Room by Beyers for treats and ice cream.
Good to know The Spies Route game takes 45 minutes, and is most suited to older kids (age 12 up) or with adult supervision for younger ones.
Opening times Daily, 8am – 4pm
Cost R80 (Spies Route game)
R200 (Wilderer Kids Adventure)
R80 – R100 (Paarl Trails day permit)
Adult passport: R320 (five tastings)
Contact 021 863 5200, [email protected]
Where to find it Suid Agter Paarl Road, Paarl

A hive of activity at Spier Wine Estate

With a peaceful river where ducks paddle, lush lawns and a wonderful Elemental Play Garden, this family-friendly wine farm has a host of activities that children will love (including their own grape-juice tasting). From a Mosaic Kraal, outdoor sculptures and craft market (with hour-long kids’ workshops) to a vineyard Segway tour (age 10 or older), it’s nonstop fun. Stop by the Picknickery for alfresco fare (if you want a ready prepared picnic basket order 24 hours in advance) or enjoy a hearty country lunch at Vadas Smokehouse & Bakery.
Opening times Daily, 9am – 5pm
Segway tours: Tuesday – Sunday + public holidays, 9am – 5.30pm
Cost Segway: R499 (one hour); R420 (early bird at 9am) Book Now
Kids grape-juice tasting: R50
Picnic baskets: R395 per person; R180 per child (under 12 years)
Contact 021 809 1100, [email protected]
Where to find it Baden Powell Drive (R310), Stellenbosch

Meet wildlife at Giraffe House

No, they (thankfully) don’t live in a house. This wildlife awareness centre in Stellenbosch is a farm that’s home to magnificent giraffes as well as zebras, warthogs, jackals, bat-eared foxes, meerkats, ostriches and other birds, antelope and crocodiles (plus the usual gaggle of farmyard friends). The animals are kept in different camps, and visitors can follow the pathways between them to view the animals at their own pace. The on-site shop, Bananafontein, sells refreshments (and funky T-shirts). You are welcome to bring a picnic basket.
Good to know One-on-one giraffe interaction experiences must be pre-booked. Farmyard feeding sessions are available on weekends and in school holidays.
Opening times Daily, 9am – 5pm
Cost R55 (children 2 – 15 years)
R85 (adults); R60 (pensioners)
Giraffe experience: R650 (5 – 17 years); R950 (adults)
Contact 073 609 2670, [email protected]
Where to find it Corner of R101 and R304, Muldersvlei, Stellenbosch

Walk on the wild side at Le Bonheur Reptiles & Adventures

This scenic farm offers the double attraction of reptiles and fishing. Informative tours of the Nile crocodile ponds run every 45 minutes (including an underwater viewing cabin). The snake exhibition is just as thrilling (plus you’ll also encounter chameleons, tortoises and more). Then spend the day angling for tilapia and bass (catch-and-release) – bring your own gear or rent it on site. There are also rowing boats to use on the dam (thankfully far removed from the croc ponds!), croquet lawns, braai and picnic areas and a pizza restaurant.
Good to know The Snake Show, where a handler supervises close-up encounters, is on Saturdays and Sundays at 12.10pm.
Opening times Daily, 9am – 5pm
Cost Snake show only: R84 (adults); R74 (child under 18 years) Book Now
Croc pond + snake exhibit entry: R115 (adults); R75 (children) Book Now
Croc pond + snake show: R160 (adults); R120 (children) Book Now
Contact 021 863 1142, [email protected]
Where to find it Babylonstoren Road, off the R45, Simondium, near Paarl

Quirky encounters at The Alpaca Loom

While they may look like a mix between a giraffe, goat and poodle, alpacas are actually South American relatives of camels. On this farm near Paarl, you can walk with alpacas on a halter, feed them, visit the barn where they sleep and tour the weaving studio that produces alpaca-wool products on hand-looms. In addition, there are also angora goats, donkeys, sheep, camels and even a llama. At the coffee shop, you’ll have a front-row seat of the whole herd and views of Table Mountain as you enjoy coffee or tea, cakes, pies or quiche.
Good to know The alpaca walks are at 10am and 4pm, and alpaca barn tours every hour.
Opening times Daily, 9.30am – 5.30pm
Cost Petting zoo: R20; serving of feed: R30
Alpaca barn tour: R100 (adults), R70 (children, under 3 free)
Alpaca walk: R150 per person
Contact 084 793 3666, [email protected]
Where to find it Suid-Agter-Paarl Road, Paarl

All aboard the Winelands Light Railway

Hop on board at Park Station, wait for the puffs of steam and whistles, then enjoy the seven-minute ride on a 760-metre stretch of track through a park that includes a bridge and a tunnel. The mini replica steam locomotives at Winelands Light Railway have all been lovingly hand-built by local enthusiasts, and truly are marvels to see up close. There’s also a playground, jungle gym, obstacle course and shady lawns (with balls and games supplied) in the seven-hectare park. Plus dogs are allowed, even on the train ride.
Good to know You can pack your own picnic (no alcohol or braais), or buy snacks and treats from the Tractor Shed. Train rides are weather dependent.
Opening times Saturday, Sunday + holidays: 9am – 4.30pm (last ride 4.15pm)
Note In the school holidays, electric trains run daily, with steam engines on weekends.
Cost R80 (one ride)
R130 (unlimited rides for the day)
Contact 060 586 5490, [email protected]
Where to find it Winelands Light Railway Park, R304, Koelenhof, Stellenbosch

Crazy creatures at Exotic Animal World

Exotic Animal World (previously Butterfly World) is a haven for beasties great and small, from lemurs, meerkats, ferrets, chinchillas and pygmy hedgehogs to spiders, snakes, iguanas and a porcupine, as well as colourful birds, a creepy crawly house and a freshwater aquarium that holds piranhas and more. All of the animals are former pets, donated or confiscated and handed over to the sanctuary’s care. The sanctuary is mostly an enclosed tropical garden, so it’s good for rainy days too.
Good to know There’s an on-site restaurant, Café Lemur, for refreshments and treats. Live animal demos are held on weekends and holidays at 11am and 2pm.
Opening times Daily, 9am – 5pm
Cost R88 (adults)
R49 (children; free for under 3 years)
R79 (students + pensioners)
R225 (two adults + two children)
Contact 060 646 1048, [email protected]
Where to find it R44, Klapmuts, Stellenbosch

A country day out at Rhebokskloof

To explore the stunning scenery of the Winelands, head to Rheboksloof, on the northern slopes of Paarl Mountain. It has 5km or 10km walking/hiking trails suited to families (dogs on a leash are welcome) that lead to the best viewpoints on the farm. Arrive early and enjoy breakfast afterwards; stay for lunch at the relaxed restaurant-pizzeria or pick up a picnic basket – there’s lots of space for kids to play on the lawns, as well as a jungle gym and jumping castle.
Good to know There are also excellent mountain-biking trails, including a 3km route suitable for children (with bike rental available).
Opening times Daily, 8am – 5pm
Trails open from 7am
Cost Trail permit: R80 (child); R100 (adult)
Contact 021 869 8386, [email protected]
Trails: 076 022 5141
Where to find it Off Noord-Agter-Paarl Road, Windmeul, Paarl

Go on a game drive at Villiera

This Stellenbosch wine farm known for its bubbly is also home to a 230-hectare wildlife sanctuary (a project undertaken with two neighbouring farms). With more than 100 000 indigenous trees planted, 12 dams (so plenty of waterbirds) and animals such as wildebeest, giraffe, zebra, waterbuck and springbok, it’s a wonderful first taste of safari life for young nature-lovers. The game drives allow children (which is not always the case) and last about two hours.
Good to know For adults, the experience includes a complimentary tasting on the oak-shaded terrace at The Wine Sanctuary. Booking is essential.
Opening times Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm
Saturday + public holidays, 9am – 3pm
Game drives: 10am + 2pm
Cost R370 (adult)
R180 (child under 15 years); free (child under 2 years)
Contact 021 865 2002, [email protected]
Where to find it Kraaifontein Road (R101), off the R304, Koelenhof, Stellenbosch
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If it’s raining, see our pick of the 30 Best Indoor Activities in Cape Town.

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