Cape Town is an action-filled city, brimming with fun activities for the whole family to enjoy. Whether you’ve got small children or teenagers, our list of family activities in Cape Town are guaranteed to spark excitement in all.
Things to do in Cape Town with Kids
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is one of Cape Town’s very best places to visit in Cape Town with family, offering a variety of activities for both adults and children. Bordering Bishopscourt and set against a phenomenal mountain backdrop, you’ll forget you’re in the city when you are immersed in this garden. Aside from its wealth of plant life, walking trails, and luscious picnic spots, the garden is host to a number of activities such as sunset concerts, an open-air cinema, and a festive carol service. If you’re visiting the garden for one of these events, make a day of it by packing a picnic and exploring the walking trails! Adults and children alike will revel in the beauty of this pocket of paradise. Ticket prices range from being free to R250 – please note that the garden no longer accepts cash payments. Entrance tickets may be bought either at the gate or online.
Located at the V&A Waterfront and home to 8,000 marine animals and more than 300 species, the Two Oceans Aquarium is a must-see attraction in Cape Town for the whole family. Kids will be overjoyed by the variety of exhibits, right from jellyfish to penguins! Both parents and children will enjoy learning about the intricacies of marine life at the microscope exhibit and watching the sharks, manta rays, turtles and more get fed at the I&J Ocean exhibit. One of the best things to do in Cape Town with kids, the aquarium provides both a fun and educational experience for all.
Day Trips from Cape Town
Approximately 90 minutes from central Cape Town is the small, historic town of Stellenbosch. Easily accessible for a family day trip, Stellenbosch is home to many restaurants, boutique shops, and wine farms. Located in the valley, Spier Wine Farm is a must-experience spot for a family day trip. Sprawling grounds, children’s play areas, dining and wine tasting, a children’s club and more make up the estate, ensuring a fun day out for all. When you start to get peckish, settle amongst the beautiful grounds with a picnic and treat the kids to a grape juice tasting!
Imhoff Farm is another of the greatest self-drive day trips from Cape Town. Located in the scenic wonder of Kommetjie, the 280-year-old farmstead is surrounded by mountains, ocean, and wetlands. Over the years the farmstead has been renovated and adapted to incorporate many family-friendly activities while retaining its original charm. The farm’s petting zoo costs just R20 and features horses, goats, ostriches, pigs, rabbits and more! Horse riding, art studios, boutique shops, and several cafes and restaurants are also located within the grounds, ensuring a fun day out for all.
The Elgin Railway Market is another great day trip from Cape Town for the whole family to enjoy. Board the steam train from central Cape Town and enjoy the view during the two-hour journey to Elgin. Once arrived, the vibrant Market awaits! Set in an old warehouse, originally crafted by Italian Prisoners of War, the building features expert craftsmanship with a steampunk feel. On Saturdays and Sundays the full market is in swing, with food and beverage stalls, crafts stalls, and local vendors. The Elgin Railway Market may still be visited during the week, however, limited stalls are open. Train tickets cost between R489.99-R3,600.00, and can be purchased here.
The Best Day Tours in Cape Town
A must-do activity in Cape Town is sight-seeing! The City Sight Seeing buses offer multiple routes and packages, allowing visitors to view the areas of the city that are of most interest to them. Stopping at many spots, including beaches, hiking trails, and small towns, the buses are a fabulous way to learn about Cape Town in an exciting and interactive way.
For families wanting to stop off and experience the city’s many landmarks, this tour is one of the most comprehensive day tours in Cape Town. Stopping off at iconic landmarks such as Table Mountain, Bo Kaap, the Cape of Good Hope, Boulder’s Beach, and more, the tour ensures an informative and exciting experience for adults and children alike. Ticket prices start from R1,029.00 per person and can be purchased here. Please note that entry fees to the landmarks are not covered by the tour.
The Ultimate Family Day Trips in Cape Town
With so many family activities in Cape Town to choose from, we guarantee that your time spent with your most loved ones will be unforgettable. To browse our family friendly villas, click here.