Family Fun in South Africa
For intrepid families looking for the extraordinary while spending quality time together, South Africa is the place to be. Canter into the wilderness on horseback, encountering wildlife from a unique perspective. Let your excitement wander through Mashatu, an off-grid game reserve where you can admire big cats and elephants. Gaze out over the Cape’s rugged coastline from Table Mountain and top this off with an indulgent stay in a private nature sanctuary, just outside of Cape Town.
Journey highlights
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Ant’s Nest presents a flawless safari experience, with family fun and activities in mind.
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We’ve chosen Mashatu Private Game Reserve on the border of Botswana, so you can really get off grid and immerse yourself in the wilderness while enjoying a variety of fun family activities, such as mountain bike safaris and horse riding
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Cape Town offers a myriad of activities for all of your families’ interests. At the end of each day, spend your evenings relishing on delicious cuisine in Kloof Street.
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We have included two full day family fun excursions in Cape Town, allowing you and your family to fully experience the very best and fun filled activities on offer.
Our tailor made journeys include:
- Your dedicated Travel Consultant who will take care of arrangements
- Private international airport transfers in destination
- Your own private, English-speaking local guides
- Unique experiences, hand-picked by our Journeys team
- Entrance to must-see local sites
- Dedicated 24/7 team providing in-country support and guidance
- Complimentary access to My Scott Dunn – industry-leading travel app providing pre-departure information and in-journey support
When to visit
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Summer (November to March) days can get quite warm (up to 28-32 degrees on average) but it is a dry heat. Summer rainfall, normally in the form of thunder storms are usually in the evening, however, the African climate is still always unpredictable.
Fall (April to May) days can still be warm but the evenings cool down. Average day time temperature 22-28 degrees. Evenings 10-15 degrees.
Winter (June to August) days are warm (temperatures in the mid-twenties) evenings and early mornings very cold with average early morning temperatures 5-12 degrees. It very rarely rains at this time when the bush is golden and dry.
Spring (September, October) days start getting hotter, evenings and mornings could still be crisp but not as cold. A very slim chance of rain.
Itinerary
Fly into Johannesburg
Marakele National Park, Madikwe and the northwest, South Africa
Welcome to Johannesburg! With a friendly representative meeting you off the plane, you’ll be fast tracked through the airport to meet your driver, where you’ll hop in a 4x4 car to be driven to Madikwe Game Reserve to start your safari. Your base for the next three nights is Marataba Safari Lodge. All twelve suites embody African charm, and the four family suites also incorporate a second children's bedroom well stocked with toys. The Mack & Maddie Adventure Safari Club welcomes children of all ages and brings the magic of the Lion King to life, while the adults get lost in the bush.
After settling into the lodge, get your blood pumping with a world-class interpretive experience game drive in an open 4x4 safari vehicle. It is positioned at the ecological junction between the bushveld and the Kalahari meaning it is set in five distinct habitats which are home to an array of African wildlife, including the big five.
In the morning, wake to the gentle noise of exotic bird calls and watch the glow of the sun settle. Heading out on an early morning game drive, the cool breeze will revitalise you as you venture through the reserve, keeping your eyes peeled for white rhino, sable antelope, buffalo and brown hyena.
Accommodation: Marataba Safari Lodge ( 3 nights )
Northern Tuli Game Reserve, Botswana
A big game safari awaits you. Rise early today so you can enjoy a morning activity and a hearty breakfast before your driver picks you up to venture north, where you will cross over the border to Botswana. A guide from Mashatu will meet you just over the border and game drive you to Mashatu Lodge. You may catch your first sightings of elephants, as this privately-owned game reserve is home to enormous herds of these majestic animals. Arriving at Mashatu Lodge, the charismatic camp staff will welcome you into their wilderness home before you settle into your tastefully decorated, air- conditioned suite. Have a dose of relaxation as you enjoy tea and home-baked cakes on the terrace, watching elephants drinking in the waterhole and listening to the melodic sounds of kingfishers, before embarking on your afternoon game drive.
Let your excitement wander through the wild, as your expert guide gets the whole family involved in identifying lion tracks and wait in anticipation to encounter these beautiful animals. As the sun begins to set, your driver will take you to a scenic spot, perhaps overlooking a waterhole, where you can enjoy a gin and tonic (or an ice-cold mango juice for the kids!) and watch the glow of the sun settle into the dusty horizon. As darkness begins to unfold, your tracker will turn the spotlight on and scan the bush for any elusive nocturnal wildlife that may appear. Arriving back at the lodge, a candle lit table with a delicious dinner will be ready and waiting for you to devour, under the night sky brimming with stars constellations.
The remainder of your time here will be spent really immersing yourself in the wild. Feel the presence of a leopard as she watches you from the shade of an acacia tree branch while you take photos from your vehicle. Jump on a mountain bike and cycle into the limitless landscapes, watching a family of elephants ambling along the horizon.
Cape Town, South Africa
Today it’s time for a change of scenery as you fly to Africa’s mother city, Cape Town. Touching down at the airport, a representative will whisk you through the airport with ease. As you are driven into the city, you’ll see Table Mountain dominating the landscapes and catch a glimpse of the glistening Atlantic Ocean in the distance. You’ll arrive at the elegant entrance of the Belmond Mount Nelson, with palm trees towering over you. Located just off bustling Kloof Street, this is a vibrant hideaway with a star-studded history and a truly incredible hotel to call home during your time in Cape Town. For families, we recommend you stay in one of the Deluxe Studio Suites. For the next 4 nights, delve into the heart of this captivating city. Glide up to Table Mountain in the cable car and feel your excitement build as you edge closer and closer. Relish on a picnic at the top and contemplate the views of the rugged natural beauty surrounding the city. We have included two full day family fun excursions with the Escape and Explore team, known for their in-depth local knowledge, the ability to curate entirely personalized experiences and their adventurous spirit! Firstly, jump aboard your private vehicle and allow your expert guide to take you on a private tour of the Cape Peninsula, customized to each of your interests; head to Boulders Beach where the kids will love the penguins and their antics, kayak amongst seals or stop off along the coastal route for photo opportunities with an incredible backdrop. Additionally, we have included a family fun day out in the beautiful winelands, enjoy exquisite wine tasting while your kids are entertained with a multitude of activities with the fun filled guide. In the evenings, delight your taste buds at one of Kloof Street’s many mouth-watering restaurants. We recommend Kloof Street House, an eccentric restaurant that is bursting with flavor, which has a cozy fairy-lit garden.
Accommodation: Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel ( 4 nights )
Hermanus, Garden Route, South Africa
Escape the city and delve into the wilderness of Grootbos Private Nature Reserve. Just a short drive from Cape Town, you will arrive in this ecological gem, nestled between glittering ocean and towering mountains. You will check into your two-bedroom suite; stylish and in keeping with this pristine nature, it has all the luxury comforts you need. Step out on your decking and be entranced by the view of the Atlantic in the distance, backdropped by the jagged mountains. During your three days here you can explore this 2500-hectare pristine wilderness on botanical 4x4x safaris, on horseback or by mountain bike. Enjoy an exhilarating quadbike ride along the edge of the lagoon, accompanied by astonishing views. Walk the rugged coastline and look out for breaching whales in the distance, or board a whale watching boat expedition. The choice is yours. Finally, Grootbos is well known for its innovative community project that create sustainable livelihoods in the region, and they welcome guests to visit their community gardens, craft shops as well as their impressive football foundation.
Accommodation: Grootbos Private Nature Reserve ( 3 nights )
Fly from Cape Town
Call us on 212 372 7009 to start planning your holiday.
Price Guide: (per person based on double occupancy and excludes international flights)
| Departing |
Price from*
|
Deposit from * | Enquire |
|---|---|---|---|
| February 2025 | $10,400 | $2,600 | plan your trip |
| March 2025 | $9,400 | $2,300 | plan your trip |
| April 2025 | $9,400 | $2,300 | plan your trip |
| May 2025 | $8,300 | $2,100 | plan your trip |
| June 2025 | $8,300 | $2,100 | plan your trip |
| July 2025 | $8,300 | $2,100 | plan your trip |
| August 2025 | $8,300 | $2,100 | plan your trip |
| September 2025 | $9,400 | $2,300 | plan your trip |
| October 2025 | $9,400 | $2,300 | plan your trip |
| November 2025 | $10,400 | $2,600 | plan your trip |
| December 2025 | $10,400 | $2,600 | plan your trip |
| January 2026 | $10,400 | $2,600 | plan your trip |
-
February 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$10,400
Deposit from*$2,600
-
March 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$9,400
Deposit from*$2,300
-
April 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$9,400
Deposit from*$2,300
-
May 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$8,300
Deposit from*$2,100
-
June 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$8,300
Deposit from*$2,100
-
July 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$8,300
Deposit from*$2,100
-
August 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$8,300
Deposit from*$2,100
-
September 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$9,400
Deposit from*$2,300
-
October 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$9,400
Deposit from*$2,300
-
November 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$10,400
Deposit from*$2,600
-
December 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$10,400
Deposit from*$2,600
-
January 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$10,400
Deposit from*$2,600
- plan your trip
Why Scott Dunn for Luxury Tours?
Unique to You
- We listen to your travel goals and craft unique trips that are personalized to you.
- We’re with you every step of your life’s travel journey, from honeymoons to family trips and beyond.
Seamless Service
- Global offices in the UK, US, and Singapore for 24/7 seamless service.
- We offer flexibility if your plans change so you can book with confidence and peace of mind.
Carefully Curated Collection
- We’ve curated an elevated collection of accommodation, experiences, and guides.
- Committed to fostering close global relationships to continue bringing you unique experiences.
Luxury in Every Sense
- We deliver a sense of luxury that matters most to you.
- Awarded Condé Nast Traveler’s Top Travel Specialists in the World 12 years in a row.