12 day itinerary
South-afrika
Personalized with:I want to travel at a relaxed paceMake it family friendlyInclude parks and green spacesMinimum 3 nights per stayExclude Capetown
Itinerary
South Africa is a stunning country with so much to offer, and I’m excited to help you plan a relaxed, family-friendly itinerary that includes beautiful parks and green spaces. Here’s a delightful 12-day itinerary that avoids Cape Town and allows you to soak in the natural beauty and culture at a leisurely pace.
Day 1-3: Johannesburg
Day 1: Arrival in Johannesburg
- Morning: Arrive at OR Tambo International Airport. Check into a family-friendly hotel in the Rosebank or Sandton area.
- Afternoon: Visit the for a leisurely stroll. The kids can run around, and you can enjoy a picnic.
- Evening: Dinner at a family-friendly restaurant in the area.
Day 2: and Apartheid History
- Morning: Take a guided tour of . Visit the Vilakazi Street, where both Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu lived.
- Afternoon: Head to the for an educational experience. It’s engaging for older kids and adults.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local eatery in , perhaps trying some traditional South African dishes.
Day 3:
- Morning: Take a day trip to the (about an hour from Johannesburg). Explore the and learn about early human fossils.
- Afternoon: Visit the for interactive exhibits. There’s a lovely café for lunch.
- Evening: Return to Johannesburg for a relaxed dinner.
Day 4-6:
Day 4: Travel to Pilanesberg
- Morning: Drive to (about 2.5 hours). Check into a family-friendly lodge or resort.
- Afternoon: Enjoy a leisurely afternoon at the lodge, perhaps taking a dip in the pool or exploring the grounds.
- Evening: Dinner at the lodge, followed by a night drive (if available) to spot nocturnal wildlife.
Day 5: Safari Day
- Morning: Early morning game drive. Keep your eyes peeled for the Big Five!
- Afternoon: Return to the lodge for lunch and some downtime. Consider a guided nature walk for the family.
- Evening: Dinner at the lodge, followed by stargazing if the weather permits.
Day 6: More Safari Adventures
- Morning: Another game drive or a visit to the to learn more about the park’s ecosystem.
- Afternoon: Relax at the lodge or enjoy a family-friendly activity like a bush picnic.
- Evening: Dinner at the lodge, sharing stories about your wildlife encounters.
Day 7-9:
Day 7: Travel to
- Morning: Depart for (about 3-4 hours). Check into a family-friendly rest camp.
- Afternoon: Settle in and explore the camp. Visit the camp’s shop for snacks and souvenirs.
- Evening: Dinner at the camp’s restaurant or prepare a family meal if facilities allow.
Day 8: Safari in Kruger
- Morning: Early morning game drive. The kids will love spotting animals!
- Afternoon: Return to the camp for lunch. Spend the afternoon at the camp’s pool or participate in a ranger-led activity.
- Evening: Dinner at the camp, followed by a family game night or storytelling.
Day 9: More Wildlife Exploration
- Morning: Another game drive or a guided bush walk (if the kids are old enough).
- Afternoon: Visit a nearby picnic spot for lunch and enjoy the scenery.
- Evening: Dinner at the camp, reflecting on your adventures.
Day 10-12: and
Day 10: Travel to
- Morning: Depart for (about 1.5 hours). Check into a family-friendly lodge.
- Afternoon: Visit the viewpoint for breathtaking views. Don’t miss the Three Rondavels!
- Evening: Dinner at the lodge, enjoying the serene surroundings.
Day 11: Explore
- Morning: Visit the viewpoint and take a short hike in the area.
- Afternoon: Explore the and enjoy a picnic lunch.
- Evening: Return to the lodge for dinner and perhaps a family game night.
Day 12: Departure
- Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and some last-minute exploration or relaxation at the lodge.
- Afternoon: Depart for Johannesburg (about 4-5 hours) to catch your flight home.
Tips for a Relaxed Trip:
- Travel Time: Keep travel times in mind and plan for breaks, especially with kids.
- Flexibility: Be open to changing plans based on the family’s energy levels and interests.
- Pack Snacks: Always have snacks and water on hand for the kids during drives and outings.
I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories in South Africa! Enjoy your adventure! 🌍✨