Luxury Family Safari: South Africa & Victoria Falls
Overview
Adventure together: Africa’s wildest wonders, made for family.
This African family safari has been thoughtfully designed with a family of four in mind, based on two children under 12 years old. The itinerary can easily be tailored for families of all sizes and ages, including multi-generational groups. Journey through some of Southern Africa’s most iconic destinations, starting in South Africa and ending in Zimbabwe with a visit to one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World – Victoria Falls. Blending spectacular scenery, world-class wildlife, vibrant culture, and curated family-friendly experiences, this trip promises unforgettable shared moments. From Cape Town and the Cape Winelands to the renowned Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve and Victoria Falls, enjoy seamless travel, award-winning accommodations, and activities suited for adventurers of all ages.
Highlights
- Game drives
- Cape Town beaches
- Victoria Falls
- Sightseeing
Destinations
South Africa | Zimbabwe
Duration
12 days
Price
From $10 470 per person
When to go
All year round
Itinerary Overview
Experiences off the beaten track.
Crafted for the bold + discerning.
Day 9-12
Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls is one of the world’s greatest natural wonders, where the mighty Zambezi River plunges into a thunderous gorge. Surrounded by rainforest, it offers awe-inspiring views and a range of activities from scenic flights to white-water rafting.
Day 1-3
Cape Town
Cape Town is one of the world’s most iconic cities, where rugged mountains meet the Atlantic in spectacular style. From world-class dining and design to secret beaches and panoramic drives, it offers a dynamic blend of natural beauty and cultural sophistication.
Day 4-5
Franschhoek
Nestled in the Cape Winelands, Franschhoek is a charming village known for its gourmet cuisine, wine estates, and mountain-backed scenery. With French flair and small-town charm, it’s the perfect destination for food, wine, and exploration.
Day 6-8
Sabi Sands
Bordering Kruger National Park, Sabi Sands is one of South Africa’s most exclusive private game reserves. Known for its luxury lodges and exceptional leopard sightings, it offers Big Five encounters and world-class safari experiences.
Day 9-12
Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls is one of the world’s greatest natural wonders, where the mighty Zambezi River plunges into a thunderous gorge. Surrounded by rainforest, it offers awe-inspiring views and a range of activities from scenic flights to white-water rafting.
Day 1-3
Cape Town
Cape Town is one of the world’s most iconic cities, where rugged mountains meet the Atlantic in spectacular style. From world-class dining and design to secret beaches and panoramic drives, it offers a dynamic blend of natural beauty and cultural sophistication.
Itinerary Breakdown
Day 1-3
Experiences
Enjoy a walk through the lush green gardens that draw on Africa’s culture and heritage. During your down time, you can visit the resort’s main infinity pool area and the separate spa island surrounded by beautiful, dense vegetation. A specially-designed Kids Only Club offers both indoor and outdoor games and activities, all supervised in a safe and happy environment.
Day 1-3
Arrive at
Cape Town International Airport
Check-in
One & Only Cape Town
Your family-friendly safari adventure kicks off in Cape Town. Upon arrival at Cape Town International Airport, a Ker & Downey® Africa representative will meet you in the arrivals hall and assist you with your luxury transfer to the hotel. Your first hotel is the iconic One & Only Cape Town, based centrally in the heart of the famous V&A Waterfront. Your family will have easy access to all the facilities and activities in this vibey area, including 200 shops and restaurants, as well as the working harbor from where to enjoy sunset cruises and seal cruises. After your check in, you can enjoy time exploring the many paved pathways around the water channels or visit the famous Two Oceans Aquarium which provides great fun for the whole family. We have also arranged a full day guided Cape Town and Peninsula where you will visit penguins in their natural habitat on the beach at Simonstown as well as get to stand at the tip of Africa (great for bragging rights!).
Accommodation
One & Only Cape Town
The One & Only Cape Town is located in the heart of the V&A Waterfront with unobstructed views of Table Mountain and the working harbor. The luxury hotel caters for families, offering spacious rooms with 2 queen size beds per room. Other features include gourmet restaurants, a fully-fledged kids club, a wellness spa, fitness center and swimming pool.
Experiences
Enjoy a walk through the lush green gardens that draw on Africa’s culture and heritage. During your down time, you can visit the resort’s main infinity pool area and the separate spa island surrounded by beautiful, dense vegetation. A specially-designed Kids Only Club offers both indoor and outdoor games and activities, all supervised in a safe and happy environment.
Day 1-3
Arrive at
Cape Town International Airport
Check-in
One & Only Cape Town
Your family-friendly safari adventure kicks off in Cape Town. Upon arrival at Cape Town International Airport, a Ker & Downey® Africa representative will meet you in the arrivals hall and assist you with your luxury transfer to the hotel. Your first hotel is the iconic One & Only Cape Town, based centrally in the heart of the famous V&A Waterfront. Your family will have easy access to all the facilities and activities in this vibey area, including 200 shops and restaurants, as well as the working harbor from where to enjoy sunset cruises and seal cruises. After your check in, you can enjoy time exploring the many paved pathways around the water channels or visit the famous Two Oceans Aquarium which provides great fun for the whole family. We have also arranged a full day guided Cape Town and Peninsula where you will visit penguins in their natural habitat on the beach at Simonstown as well as get to stand at the tip of Africa (great for bragging rights!).
Itinerary Breakdown
Day 4-5
Experiences
Franschhoek is one of the world’s foremost culinary capitals with some of the country’s top restaurants. It is renowned for its pristine natural beauty set amongst a magnificent backdrop of mountains. For the family we recommend a picnic at one of the many wine estates in the region, and a walk in the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve. An amble along the main street of Franschhoek with its many shops and café is another fun-filled family activity.
Day 4-5
Transfer to
Franschhoek
Check-in
Mont Rochelle
After a delicious breakfast at your cosmopolitan hideaway, enjoying breathtaking views of the water channels, your dedicated guide will assist you with your luxury transfer – a 1-hour scenic drive to the winelands town of Franschhoek. Arrival at your next luxury hotel, Mont Rochelle, sees you winding up the long driveway through endless vineyards and lush gardens. This property is the perfect venue for families, and children can stay free during certain months of the year. The hotel has many surprises in store for little ones including scavenger hunts and picnics, while adults can enjoy a refreshing cocktail from the bar with 180-degree view over the Franschhoek valley. With 45 wineries in the region and many historic farms, some dating all the way back to 1690, there is plenty to do and enjoy in the Cape Winelands. We highly recommend a visit to some of the more famous farms like La Motte Wine Estate, Boschendal and Leeu Estates.
Accommodation
Mont Rochelle
Mont Rochelle is a historical luxury hotel located in the heart of Franschhoek. Currently owned by Sir Richard Branson and a part of the esteemed Virgin Limited Edition collection, the property offers numerous activities for the whole family including an outdoor heated swimming pool with inflatables for the kids and breathtaking views of the vineyards. There are also lawn games located around the grounds and plenty of beautiful picnic spots.
Experiences
Franschhoek is one of the world’s foremost culinary capitals with some of the country’s top restaurants. It is renowned for its pristine natural beauty set amongst a magnificent backdrop of mountains. For the family we recommend a picnic at one of the many wine estates in the region, and a walk in the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve. An amble along the main street of Franschhoek with its many shops and café is another fun-filled family activity.
Day 4-5
Transfer to
Franschhoek
Check-in
Mont Rochelle
After a delicious breakfast at your cosmopolitan hideaway, enjoying breathtaking views of the water channels, your dedicated guide will assist you with your luxury transfer – a 1-hour scenic drive to the winelands town of Franschhoek. Arrival at your next luxury hotel, Mont Rochelle, sees you winding up the long driveway through endless vineyards and lush gardens. This property is the perfect venue for families, and children can stay free during certain months of the year. The hotel has many surprises in store for little ones including scavenger hunts and picnics, while adults can enjoy a refreshing cocktail from the bar with 180-degree view over the Franschhoek valley. With 45 wineries in the region and many historic farms, some dating all the way back to 1690, there is plenty to do and enjoy in the Cape Winelands. We highly recommend a visit to some of the more famous farms like La Motte Wine Estate, Boschendal and Leeu Estates.
Itinerary Breakdown
Day 6-8
Experiences
Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge offers a fully-fledged children’s facility named the Elefun Center. Designed by childcare professionals, the space is fun, safe and educational with interactive activities planned for children 4-12 years old including unique bushveld themed activities. The only one of its kind in the Kruger, the Elefun Center promises hours of fun for the little ones.
Day 6-8
Fly to
Skukuza Airport
Check-in
Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge
Following a gourmet breakfast at the in-house Miko Restaurant, our driver will collect your family for your luxury transfer back to the airport. It is a 1-hour drive from Franschhoek to Cape Town International Airport over the scenic Helshoogte pass. At the airport you will board your scheduled 2-hour flight to Skukuza Airport (flight price excluded and will be quoted at time of booking due to fluctuations of flight prices) in the heart of Kruger National Park. From Skukuza airport, a friendly guide will welcome you and escort you on a short mini-game drive through the Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve, to Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge. This premium African safari lodge provides twice daily game drives and guided walking safaris as well as the highest standard of luxury safari accommodation. In the evening dinner will be served either indoors under a large, thatched roof or we can arrange a special starlight dinner in a secluded clearing for an unforgettable, immersive bush experience.
Accommodation
Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge
Situated within the Sabi Sands Reserve, overlooking a vast open pan and active waterhole, Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge is luxury personified. It is also one of the oldest and most established lodges in the region, bringing wildlife adventures to families for over 35 years. The lodge combines tradition with opulence, and world-class service with phenomenal wildlife sightings.
Experiences
Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge offers a fully-fledged children’s facility named the Elefun Center. Designed by childcare professionals, the space is fun, safe and educational with interactive activities planned for children 4-12 years old including unique bushveld themed activities. The only one of its kind in the Kruger, the Elefun Center promises hours of fun for the little ones.
Day 6-8
Fly to
Skukuza Airport
Check-in
Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge
Following a gourmet breakfast at the in-house Miko Restaurant, our driver will collect your family for your luxury transfer back to the airport. It is a 1-hour drive from Franschhoek to Cape Town International Airport over the scenic Helshoogte pass. At the airport you will board your scheduled 2-hour flight to Skukuza Airport (flight price excluded and will be quoted at time of booking due to fluctuations of flight prices) in the heart of Kruger National Park. From Skukuza airport, a friendly guide will welcome you and escort you on a short mini-game drive through the Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve, to Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge. This premium African safari lodge provides twice daily game drives and guided walking safaris as well as the highest standard of luxury safari accommodation. In the evening dinner will be served either indoors under a large, thatched roof or we can arrange a special starlight dinner in a secluded clearing for an unforgettable, immersive bush experience.
Itinerary Breakdown
Day 9-11
Experiences
Included on-site activities are bird watching, a Zambezi sunset river cruise, game drives (including night drives), walks in the Zambezi National Park, and a guided tour of Victoria Falls. Child minding can also be arranged. We also highly recommend an exclusive picnic on Kandahar Island. Snacks and refreshments are included on game drives and river cruises.
Day 9-11
Transfer to
Nelspruit Airport
Check-in
Victoria Falls River Lodge
Depending on the time of your outbound flight from Nelspruit, you will check out and drive approximately 3 hours through to Nelspruit Airport, also known as Mpumalanga International Airport. As you are checking in for an international flight, you will need to be at the airport a minimum of 2 hours prior to your flight. Your dedicated Ker & Downey® Africa travel expert will arrange all these logistics for you. Once you’re in the air, it’s a quick 1 hour 45-minute flight (flight price excluded) through to the town of Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe. On arrival at the airport, a staff member from the lodge will greet you and transfer you and your family to Victoria Falls River Lodge. Set on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River, this will be your home away from home for the next 3 adventure-filled nights. As each luxury family suite offers a personal butler, you are guaranteed a private and intimate family stay. As you settle in, explore the spacious lounge, bar and dining area, along with the swimming pool and viewing decks. In the evening enjoy a gourmet dinner in the central dining area of the main complex.
Accommodation
Victoria Falls River Lodge
Set within the Zambezi National Park, Victoria Falls River Lodge has easy access to one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World – the mighty Victoria Falls. The lodge features 13 premium tents that boast private plunge pools on a large wooden deck overlooking the Zambezi River – a real highlight when the sun sets over the river.
Experiences
Included on-site activities are bird watching, a Zambezi sunset river cruise, game drives (including night drives), walks in the Zambezi National Park, and a guided tour of Victoria Falls. Child minding can also be arranged. We also highly recommend an exclusive picnic on Kandahar Island. Snacks and refreshments are included on game drives and river cruises.
Day 9-11
Transfer to
Nelspruit Airport
Check-in
Victoria Falls River Lodge
Depending on the time of your outbound flight from Nelspruit, you will check out and drive approximately 3 hours through to Nelspruit Airport, also known as Mpumalanga International Airport. As you are checking in for an international flight, you will need to be at the airport a minimum of 2 hours prior to your flight. Your dedicated Ker & Downey® Africa travel expert will arrange all these logistics for you. Once you’re in the air, it’s a quick 1 hour 45-minute flight (flight price excluded) through to the town of Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe. On arrival at the airport, a staff member from the lodge will greet you and transfer you and your family to Victoria Falls River Lodge. Set on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River, this will be your home away from home for the next 3 adventure-filled nights. As each luxury family suite offers a personal butler, you are guaranteed a private and intimate family stay. As you settle in, explore the spacious lounge, bar and dining area, along with the swimming pool and viewing decks. In the evening enjoy a gourmet dinner in the central dining area of the main complex.
Itinerary Breakdown
Day 12
Day 12
Transfer to
Victoria Falls Airport
After spending the morning stocking up at the gift shop which boasts an impressive selection of high-quality local arts and crafts, you will check out and embark on the 30-minute drive back to the Victoria Falls Airport for your onward journey home. You will be armed with a lifetime of family memories from your African vacation – from the exclusive safari destinations and luxury accommodations to the beautiful beaches, spectacular wine, scenic landscapes, and unforgettable wildlife.
See you out there!
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Family safaris in South Africa & Victoria Falls: FAQs
/01
What are some of the best family friendly lodges in South Africa?
+- One&Only Cape Town
- Mont Rochelle
- Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge
- Ellerman House
- Babylonstoren
- Belmond Mount Nelson
/02
What can I do in Cape Town?
+- The Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
- Robben Island
- The Table Mountain Cableway
- Boulders Beach and Penguin Colony
- The V&A Waterfront
- Cape Point Nature Reserve
- Ziplining at Silvermist Estate
- Land-based whale watching
/03
Where can I see traditional African cultures?
+/04
Can I enjoy a whale watching experience while on a family friendly safari in South Africa?
+- Southern Right Whales can be seen in the sheltered Bays of the Western Cape between June and October, where they can be seen breaching the shore.
- Humpback Whales can also be seen between June and October.
- Bryde’s Whales can be seen at any time of the year.
/05
What wild animals will I see on a safari adventure in South Africa?
+- The Big 5
- Cheetahs
- Giraffe
- Zebra
- Hippo
- Crocodile
- Wildebeest
- Antelope
- Warthog
- Wild dog
- Birdlife
- Meerkats
- Marine life, including southern right whales, great white sharks, dolphins, and seals
/06
What are some of the top national parks and game reserves in South Africa?
+- Kruger National Park
- Sabi Sands Game Reserve
- Madikwe Game Reserve
- Addo Elephant National Park
- Pilanesberg National Park
- Marakele National Park
/07
Is South Africa malaria free?
+/08
What family friendly experiences can I enjoy while on safari in South Africa?
+- Cooking classes
- Nature walks
- Educational bush walks
- Horse riding
- Game drives
- Whale watching