A family adventure like no other in South Africa and Mauritius

12 December 2024

Planning a family holiday often feels like a balancing act. You want excitement and adventure to spark curiosity in your kids, but you also crave a touch of peace and serenity to truly unwind. If you’re looking for inspiration, allow one of our Travel Counsellors, Pedro, to share his recent family getaway which combined exploring South Africa’s wild beauty with relaxing on the pristine beaches of Mauritius.

A family adventure like no other in South Africa and Mauritius

A memorable stay in South Africa’s Western Cape

Our adventure began in Cape Town, where the city’s energy and spectacular scenery set the tone for an unforgettable holiday. We packed a lot into our time here, from riding the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway to watching the playful penguins at Boulders Beach, there was something to captivate every member of our group, including our youngest traveller, two-year-old Oliver. If you’re considering a similar trip, I’d suggest at least four nights in Cape Town to fully experience its magic and make time for nearby gems like Cape of Good Hope and the historic wineries of Constantia.

We also took a trip to Swellendam, a town that surprised us with its charm and depth of culture. Wandering through the Drostdy Museum felt like stepping back in time, while the local cuisine—ranging from boerekos (traditional farmers’ food) and coffee shops serving delectable cakes to fine-dining experiences—showcased South Africa’s diverse culinary heritage.

Why we chose Sanbona Wildlife Reserve for our safari

Of course, no trip to South Africa would be complete without a safari, and our stay at Sanbona Wildlife Reserve was nothing short of extraordinary. Just a four-hour drive from Cape Town, this malaria-free, family-friendly haven was the perfect introduction to safari life for our children—Sophia (9), Tomas (8), and Oliver (2).

Gondwana Family Lodge at Sanbona ticked every box for a family adventure. With interconnecting suites overlooking the stunning Anysberg Mountains, a child-friendly pool, and an Eco-Explorers programme packed with activities, the kids were as entertained as they were educated. For us parents, the complimentary childcare meant we could enjoy the twice-daily game drives while the older children immersed themselves in tailored safari activities.

The highlight? The guided bush walks where we found ourselves mere metres away from a beautiful but elusive cheetah. To say it was epic is an understatement! Along the way, we also spotted elephants, rhinos (both black and white), Cape zebras, giraffes, lions, and much more. Sanbona wasn’t just about ticking animals off a checklist—it was about really appreciating wildlife in its natural habitat and connecting with nature.

Our guide, Nicole, brought every game drive to life with her deep knowledge and ability to engage our children. Whether it was identifying animal tracks or explaining the unique biodiversity of the area, she made every moment a learning experience. Between the drives, we splashed in the pool, played games as a family, and indulged in delicious meals, including a traditional braai (BBQ) and an incredible boma dinner under the stars.

Mauritius: the perfect twin-centre escape

After our action-packed safari, it was time to unwind, and where better than Mauritius? Just a short four-hour flight from South Africa, this idyllic island provided the ideal counterpoint to our adventure.

Mauritius is so much more than just a beach destination. While we certainly loved the turquoise lagoons and stunning infinity pools, we also explored the island and learned about its culture. From sampling local street food at bustling markets to marvelling at giant tortoises, sea turtles, and even dolphins, there was never a dull moment. The kids had their fair share of fun too, with activities like kite making and pirate treasure hunts in the well-equipped kids’ clubs.

If you’re considering a similar trip, here are some tips to help you make the most of it:

Choose the right lodge: Opt for a lodge that caters to families, with activities for kids and facilities like interconnecting rooms or childcare. As a Travel Counsellor, we can help ensure you stay in the right accommodation for your needs.

Be flexible: Safari days can be long, but having options like a kids' programme allows you to balance adventure and relaxation.

Pack smart: South Africa’s temperatures can vary widely— when we arrived in Cape Town it was 11°C and we left with highs of 33°C – so bring lightweight clothing that layers well. Avoid bright colours as these can deter wildlife.

Bring your sense of adventure: No two days in the bush are alike on safari and there is always something new to discover. In Mauritius, don’t miss the chance to visit markets, waterfalls, and wildlife parks during your time there – it’s not just about the beach!

To book your family safari twin-centre holiday, contact your Travel Counsellors today.

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