Traveling to Africa with Small Children

Why the Cape Region in South Africa is Perfect

Traveling to Africa with Small Children? For me, a native of Cologne living with my wife and children in Cape Town, the Cape region is the perfect place for family trips.

I have experienced countless adventures here with my children and can’t imagine a better place for them to grow up. Traveling with small children requires a lot of preparation – and the right destination. It has to be safe, child-friendly, varied, and not too exhausting. The Cape region in South Africa meets all these criteria and also offers a unique natural and cultural landscape that fascinates the whole family.

Why the Cape Region is Ideal for Small Children

Malaria-free – a huge advantage for families

I know it: malaria is a big concern for many parents. Here in the Cape region, you can travel with peace of mind because the whole area is completely malaria-free. That means no malaria tablets, no constant worries, and more freedom to enjoy the trip relaxed.

Short driving distances and child-friendly routes

Sitting with small children on long, bumpy roads can be challenging. But in the Cape region,you’ll find many highlights only up to two hours apart by car. This allows you to plan the trip calmly and flexibly, take breaks, and make each day stress-free.

Family-friendly accommodations with charm

You are warmly welcomed everywhere. Many small guesthouses, farm stays, and boutique

lodges are perfectly set up for families: large gardens, play areas, animals to pet, child-friendly menus, and often self-catering options.

My own children love the time on farms where they can play with animals.

Child-appropriate animal encounters that don’t overwhelm

For small children, it’s not about going on a lion hunt. What counts are beautiful encounters that light up children’s eyes: penguins at Boulders Beach, seals on the coast, zebras and antelopes in small reserves. All safe, exciting, and approachable.

Safe infrastructure and good medical standards

The Cape region offers excellent medical care and hygiene standards that you know from Europe. This gives many parents an additional good feeling.

Activities that Small Children Really Enjoy

Whether collecting shells on a safe beach together, taking the cable car up Table Mountain, visiting penguins at Boulders Beach, or feeding animals on a farm – there is so much here that children enjoy without being overwhelmed. My own children are enthusiastic about many small adventures, which can sometimes just be a picnic in the vineyards.

Sample Itinerary for Your Family (Approx. 12–16 days)

Cape Town (4–5 nights): The adventure begins here – Table Mountain, Waterfront, penguins, beaches.
Hermanus / Walker Bay (2–3 nights): Whale watching, seals, coastal walks.
Garden Route (4–6 nights): Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, game reserves – all with short driving distances.
Malaria-free safari (2–3 nights): For example, at Botlierskop or Gondwana Game Reserve – relaxed wildlife viewing in a safe environment.