40 things to do with your family over the festive season

Gauteng

1. Visit the Johannesburg Zoo’s Festival of Lights every Thursday until Sunday from 19h00 to 22h00. From 28 November to 5 Jan 2025, this light show has life-sized animals, crafts and entertainment all in the Christmas spirit. And, it won’t break the bank. Tickets are R175 for adults and R75 for children (3-12). If you want to bring Gogo with you, it’ll be R100, so long as she can present her pensioners’ card. Grab tickets here.
   
   

   An illuminated giraffe at the Johannesburg Zoo, Festival of Lights. The Festival of Lights also offer visitors food and a night craft market till 3 January 2021. (Photo: Shiraaz Mohamed)



2. The kids may be fast but the go-karts are faster. Jozi Karts has go-karting every day at the Cresta and Northgate Shopping Centres, and opens at 10am every day. The closing times depend on the day, but regardless it is best to book. They take walk-ins, but go-karting is popular so they fill up quickly. This one might hurt your wallet a bit more because an eight-minute drive is R150 per person, but if you get extra family members involved you can get a decent deal.


3. For a bit of educational value, along with the entertainment and interactive exhibits, visit the Sci-Bono Discovery Centre’s 4IR Exhibition (Fourth Industrial Revolution). Subsidised by Gauteng’s department of education, tickets are fairly priced. You can grab a family ticket (2 adults 2 children under 18) for R180. They’re open everyday from 09h00 to 16h30, but Sunday they close at 15h30. Reach out to Sci-bono here.


4. Croc City Crocodile and Reptile Park in Fourways has thrill, fun, and learning at every point of its reptile farm. Snakes, ziplining, and crocodiles (not alligators) are all to enjoy at Croc City. It’s open every day from 09h00 to 16h30. Tickets are reasonably priced at R115 for adults and R85 for children. The ziplining is optional for an extra R110. You can walk in, but if you’re interested in seeing the crocodile feeding or interacting with the crocs, then reach out to Croc City so you know you’re prepared.


5. The Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens is perfect for a slow day with the kids. With an open garden featuring a picturesque waterfall, about 240 different bird species, and Verreauxx Eagles nearby, it is well worth a visit. It’s open every day from 8am to 5pm – tickets are R100 for adults, R25 for children, and free for pensioners every Tuesday.
   
   

   Walter Sisulu botanical gardens. Image: Glória Clegg



6. Still on the nature theme, it’ll be worth your while for a quick road trip to Krugersdorp as you seek Bothongo Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve. Wildlife tours, beautiful natural landscapes and various activities are all to look forward to at Bothongo. The guided game drives go for R495 for adults, R360 for children (5-12). Check out their website because they regularly have specials and deals, and it’s crucial to make a booking.


7. Remember when your little one pretended to be able to bend a pencil? Well, at the Museum of Illusions in Rosebank, the whole family can immerse themselves in such an experience. Interactive illusion rooms, installations and images are all to enjoy. Tickets start at R180 for children while family tickets are available at R620. Most people book for about 60min, but then also enjoy the food available.


8. The Bryanston Market is a good choice for a slower and easy-going experience after a long day of activities, or something to look forward to after some Christmas shopping. Every Tuesday and Friday from 5pm to 9pm you can enjoy live music, crafts, gift wrapping and candle dipping at the market. Tickets are free, so if you’re spending, it’s because something cool caught your eye. Check out the details here because they have a lot of fun events going on.


9. For our Pretoria readers, the National Zoological Gardens is an interesting, educational and fun experience for the entire family. You can enjoy a picnic, visit the wide range of animals, and enjoy the Sunset Safari or Night Zoo. They also have a cableway and big wheel. The pricing is varied so check out their website. You don’t need to book and it is open 365 days a year, so you can even visit on Christmas Day.


10. The Cradle of Humankind in Maropeng is home to one of humanity’s oldest human fossils, interactive exhibits and informative museums. The experience is almost as impressive as the architecture of Maropeng. It is worth the visit and travel to Muldersdrift, even on Christmas day. General access is R125, with children under six afforded free access. Gogo can also come so long as she has her pensioners’ card for R100. Learn more here.

1. Enjoy a beginner’s hike in Durban North’s Virginia Bush Nature Reserve with a group of people who enjoy exploring Durban’s lush trees in the hot and humid weather of eThekwini. Happening on 15 December for R99 per person, this is a simple activity that the entire family can enjoy. There is a 6km option, but also a 2km option. It would be best to get tickets because it’s not often you can enjoy the camaraderie and security of hiking with a group in Durban.


2. If you are keen for a bit of nostalgia, take the family to Northwood Crusaders Sports Club on Tuesday 31 December to enjoy a screening of The Extra-Terrestrial at an outdoor cinema. Tickets are R100 for anyone above 13 years old, R60 for anyone below that age, and free for infants. There is a R10 parking fee attached as well. Make sure to bring chairs, blankets and pillows for yourself. You can buy food and alcohol from selected vendors on site as well. Get your tickets here.


3. Sugar Rush’s Tree Trails provides a fun obstacle course while you’re hoisted among the trees. Making a booking is strongly recommended using Sugar Rush’s WhatsApp line (0710502396) or you can visit their website here. It costs R220 per person, and they strongly recommend bringing gloves for the rope burn. You can bring your own, but they also sell for an extra R30.


4. Did you really have a Durban holiday if you didn’t visit uShaka Marine World? Whether for nostalgia or if you have never been, the Wet ’n Wild waterpark section is one of their many offerings perfect for parents and younger people. They’re open from Wednesday through to Sunday, 10am until 5pm. Tickets go at R227 for adults, kids and Gogo get in for R183 so long as they can prove their age. If you have a child under three years old, then you’ve got free entry.
   
   

   Ethekwini mayor Mxolisi Kaunda shows off the shark tank at uShaka Marine World during his Durban beachfront promenade tour this week. (Photo: Ethekwini Municipality)



5. The Umgeni River Bird Park in Durban North can satisfy the appetite of any birder or avian enthusiast. It is owned by eThekwini Municipality so pricing is not as expensive as other places. Adults get in for R70, children R46, and Ouma R39 on presentation of her pensioners’ card. It is open every day from 9am to 4pm, with the last group walking at 3pm. They have a free flight bird show from Tuesday to Sunday between 11am and 2pm. No need to think about weather – the birds can handle it. However, some shows may be adjusted for strong winds, so I’d recommend giving them a


6. Umhlanga Rocks is Durban’s rich and famous lifestyle hub, and the beaches hold the same standard. Head over to Umhlanga Rocks Beach for a nice view of the lighthouse during the peak of Durban’s sunny weather. It’s a public beach so access is free, finding parking is a bit difficult if you park on small roads at Umhlanga Village you’ll be sorted. If you need a beach umbrella to avoid the burn, it’s R35 for the day. Just ask the local lifeguard for help. There are also a lot of coffee shops and trinkets available.


7. We know we just mentioned a beach, but part of the Durban experience is the Golden Mile promenade. From Suncoast Casino to North Beach, Addington and uShaka Beach, you can enjoy seven kilometres of ocean, surfing, skateboarding and more. Visit Xpression Cycle, SUP, and Surf shop near the skatepark to rent things for your day. They charge by the hour, but if money is tight, it’s just as fun without.  Check out their price list here.


8. One of Durban’s most iconic entertainment centres, Suncoast Casino, offers an opportunity for fun for everyone. If they’re feeling lucky, mom and dad can hit the casino and the kids can have a blast at the arcade, or if they’re really young, at the Cool Club. The Cool Club is a fun daycare for children between three and 12 while mom might be busy – perhaps they’ve booked a spa day for themselves. Take a look at their offering here, and contact details.


9. Durban’s tourism sector is largely based on the beauty and warmth of its beaches. Ballito is a hub where aesthetic and enjoyment have peaceful harmony. You can enjoy Thomson’s Bay’s rock pools, or Willard Beach closer to Ballito’s centre. Food and drinks are available, and so are umbrellas. It’s also quite safe.


10. Ballito’s Farmers Market is a great chance to immerse yourself in Durban’s local arts and crafts culture. Every Saturday and Sunday, with a few selected public holidays, you can get it for the house, for the kids and for the family. From 8am to 3pm, you can enjoy live music, good food, alcohol, and you can leave your kids at Little People’s Paddock, or the grumpier teens at Teens’ Coop. The market is free entry, just be sure to wear closed shoes because it does get quite muddy. Check it out here.

1. For the adrenaline junkies and thrill seekers wanting to make the most of their Christmas, a drive down to Tsitsikamma might be the move. There, you’ll find Bloukrans Bungy, with bungy jumps off Africa’s highest bridge, skywalking, zipline and more. It might break the bank with the bungy jump being R1,690 per person, with the lowest adult spend being R400 for the skywalk. It is a dangerous activity, so you need to be at least 14 years old for the bungy jump, and at least eight for the skywalk. Booking is essential, so check out their website to see what you like and what you’re keen for. It’s open every day of the year from 9am to 5pm.


2. Addo National Elephant Park, around half an hour from Gqeberha, boasts many activities and sights to do with the family. From the elephants, other big five animals, hiking trails and the majesty of the Zuurberg Mountains – it’s a beautiful experience for the family.  You can book various overnight stays or day visits using their game drives. They have a varied price offering for their various activities, but the standard daily conservation fees apply – R105 for South African residents above 12 years of age, and R56 between two and 11 years old.
   
   

   A family of African elephants drink at a waterhole in the Addo Elephant National Park. (Photo: EPA / Jon Hrusa)



3. If you have never seen a lighthouse in real life, then be sure to visit the Cape Recife Lighthouse tour. Learn the ins and outs of this fully functional lighthouse in the Eastern Cape’s Cape Recife. It’s R100 per person and comes with a free drink at Cape Recife’s new coffee shop. Tours happen from 7am to 10am, so be sure to make a booking.


4. More from Cape Recife is their Coastal Marine Safari. They have a morning ocean safari from 7am to 10am which includes a light breakfast and snacks. Or you can do the sunset version which includes sundowners. There is no age restriction, but it is definitely on the expensive side of things. If the wallet allows, R1,500 per person is definitely worth this experience. Bookings are highly essential, so make sure to check out Cape Recife’s website here.


5. In South Africa, wolves should naturally be uncommon. However, there are wolves here, and many of them are treated quite badly. If you are interested in sustaining wildlife responsibility, enjoying beautiful views and keen for a bit of educational value, the Tsitsikamma Wolf Sanctuary is the place to go. For surrendered wolves and wolf dogs, you can make a positive contribution to this non-profit with R300 for adults, R120 for children under 12, and R220 for ouma and oupa. Bookings are strongly recommended, and they are open every day – except Christmas. Check it out


6. If there is anything kids understand and undoubtedly enjoy, it is moving fast and moving easy – and for parents, you’d want to make sure that’s happening in a controlled environment. Tstitsikamma Segway Tours provide a lot of fun, and let you experience the take in the lifestyle of the Stormriver Village and indigenous forest. You can enjoy one-hour rides or two-hour rides. You just need to be at least six years old, wear closed-toed shoes and bring the family. Bookings are absolutely essential.


7. This one is a bit niche, on paper at least, but once you get there you’ll understand the appeal. The South African Air Force Museum is where you can find historical artifacts, formerly active fighter jets, and all things South African Air Force. Located in Gqeberha, it has free entry. They don’t have a functional website, but you can get a taste of what it is about on their Facebook page


8. The Tstitsikamma Canopy Tours are a prime destination for those with a little more financial strength, going at R830 per person for anyone 18 years old and above, plus another R65 in concession and permit fees. With excursions into the local indigenous forest, and sliding from platform to platform between Giant Yellowwood and Hard Pear trees, is two-and-a-half hours well spent. If you are between five and 17 years old, it’s R795. Bookings are absolutely essential, so check out their website here.


9. Tsitsikamma seems like the place to be in the Eastern Cape, and the town’s offering makes it understandable. Beaches, camping, forest excursions and paragliding are just a few of the things you can enjoy at the Tsitsikamma National Park. And since it’s part of South African National Parks, tickets are subsidised. The day fees for anyone above 12 years old is R70, with those younger at R35. Bookings are strongly recommended, so make sure to reach out to [email protected], and check out more of their offerings


10. Enough with Tsitsikamma, East London also has some activities for you to enjoy with the family. Three Sisters Horse Trails offers a nice trot across wetlands, rivers and open farmland. It’s R400 per person, and anyone under 11 years old does not need any riding experience. Check out their website here.

1. For an easygoing start to your Christmas plans, or as an in-between during those taxing errands, the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens is worth the effort. With a rich biodiversity and picturesque view of Table Mountain’s eastern side – you can have a stroll, have a picnic, kick about with a ball or enjoy some of the events hosted. It’s open every day from 8am to 7pm, and entry tickets vary in price, however, the most expensive ticket is only R100. You can learn more about Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden by emailing [email protected]


2. The Two Oceans Aquarium at the V&A Waterfront is a family activity you can enjoy time and time again. From the sharks to the penguins, the kelp forest and more, you’re in complete awe. They are open everyday, Monday to Sunday from 9am to 6pm. Ticket prices vary, but if you arrive after 3pm, you get a discounted ticket. Check out their website here.


3. The Iziko South African Museum in Cape Town is where education meets aesthetics and fun. Visit the museum with its cool underwater, mammalia, reptile and planetarium exhibitions. It’s a state entity so tickets are slightly cheaper. All members of the family irrespective of age get in for R60. No need to book, but it would be advised to check out their offering here.


4. Simon’s Town Boulders Beach is safe, clean, and beautiful. What makes it even better is that you could bring the entire family to look at the African Penguins along the rocks. Boulders Beach falls under the Table Mountain Marine Protected Areas, so there are rock pools for kids to swim. If you’re a South African above 12 years old, then it’s R45. Anyone between two years old and 11 gets in for R25.
   
   

   African penguins at Boulders Beach in Cape Town. (Archive photo: Ihsaan Haffejee)



5. If you are keen on something a bit out of the box and a chance to get competitive with other family members, you can go blueberry picking in Paarl. About 20 minutes from Stellenbosch, each member of the family pays R75 for a bucket that they can fill with as many blueberries as their heart desires. No need for bookings, it’s very easy for walk-ins. Check out their website here


6. Along the coast and locally inspired food – to a certain extent – there is the Hout Bay Fish on the Rocks secret gem. From calamari to hake to prawns, this order-and-go style shop next to Hout Bay’s cannons has excellent food in an interesting setting. You can also hit a hard reset on interacting with a melting pot of tourists and locals eager for some fish on the rocks. The stunning views of Chapmans Peak and the West Fort Cannons make it ideal for an affordable family trip.


7. If you are keen to bring your Pirates of the Caribbean fantasies to life, you may want to consider taking yourself, and the kids, on the Jolly Roger Pirate Boat ride at the V&A Waterfront. Along Cape Town’s captivating coastline and the profound view of open waters, you can enjoy 45 minutes to an hour-and-a-half on this pirate-themed vessel. They take scheduled trips so ensure you book in advance. The morning, lunchtime and afternoon trips are at a fixed rate and time of 45 minutes, with the sunset trip costing a bit more, but double the time.


8. The Mojo Market had to make the list because it’s right in the middle of Sea Point, Cape Town, it serves any type of person and the atmosphere is amazing. Small shop vendors serve a variety of food, there is live entertainment and alcohol for the older people. Entrance is free, but take some money to enjoy their offerings. Check out the operating times here.


9. In Oudtshoorn, you can find the Cango Wildlife Ranch with unique attractions like Cheetahland, the Amazonia Forest and Lemur Falls. You can also enjoy their Turtles or Monsoon Restaurants on offer, and extra animal encounters. They are open every day of the year, however bookings are essential. The offering is quite diverse, so have a glance at the website.


10. You can visit Stellenbosch University and from there enjoy an easy hike up Coetzenberg Mountain, with scenic views, rock pools and a dam. It is definitely worth a visit. Daytime visits are strongly recommended for safety reasons, though evening access is available. DM