Where to Celebrate Galentine’s Day in South Africa
Valentine’s Day is all well and good, but what about Galentine’s Day? Don’t miss the...
Do you want to have more family weekend getaways in 2025? This year, South Africans can enjoy a few long weekends thanks to public holidays. So, there are ample opportunities to take to the road and explore natural escapes. Here are our top picks for families:
If you live in Gauteng, you have a ton of getaway options on your doorstep, but we love the Magaliesberg Mountains and Pilanesberg National Park for the outdoor activities and wildlife.
Red Rocks in the South African Magaliesberg Plateau | Photo: Olena Kalinova
Close to Johannesburg and Pretoria, the Magaliesberg is a well-loved destination for family getaways. Not only is it beautiful because of its rich biodiversity, but there is just so much to do here with kids! This region offers a range of outdoor activities that will keep you and your family busy for an entire long weekend.
Lake in Dinokeng Game Reserve, Gauteng | Photo: Byron Sullivan via Getty
Just 40 minutes from Pretoria, this park is known for its diverse wildlife and stunning scenery. There are several campsites within the park for families keen to rent a camping-equipped 4×4 or campervan, as well as self-catering chalets. Home to the Big Five, this national park is perfect for families wanting to go on an adventure to see wildlife:
The Western Cape is dotted with adorable small towns and coastal retreats that offer perfect respites from city life. Here are two options for families in Cape Town looking for relaxing long weekend getaways:
Hermanus, Western Cape | Photo: CMX via Getty
If you want your weekend getaway to be a combination of serene nature and adventurous activities as well as wine farms, restaurants, and art, Hermanus is a fantastic choice. Hermanus has transformed from a sleepy coastal village into a thriving town. There’s a lot to see and do during a long weekend here:
Sunset over Victoria Bay, Western Cape | Photo: alberto_cabrera_luna via Getty
Opt out of the busy Garden Route spots and head to Victoria Bay instead. Close to George, this cove has crystal-clear waters and is a perfect stop during a family road trip. There’s a golden coastline to relax on; just behind this is a lawn perfect for picnics.
KwaZulu-Natal is home to incredible parks that are perfect for family getaways near Durban. Here are two options that will take you through breathtaking natural settings and wildlife hotspots:
Giant’s Castle, Drakensberg, KZN | Photo: Olaf Holland via Getty
In the Central Drakensberg Region, Giants Castle National Park is just three hours from Durban and home to the bearded vulture and the eland. The park has large, multi-bed chalets, perfect for families. This region is famous for its nature walks – pack your walking shoes to take on the trails.
Impala Antelopes at Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, KZN | Photo: Louis-Michel DESERT via Getty
This park is one of the oldest in South Africa and is home to a large population of elephants. Lions, rhinos, and hippos can also be seen during game drives here. There are a range of self-catering lodges and camps in the park.
Limpopo and surrounds are home to one of the best self-drive routes in the country as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site marking the remains of a once great civilisation.
Blyde river canyon, Limpopo | Photo: Daniele Codegoni via Getty
Located in Mpumalanga and famous for the Panorama Route, Blyde River Canyon features lush subtropical cover, stunning green hills, and blue waters. There are a range of incredible viewpoints to visit for sweeping views of the canyon. This canyon is one of the largest in the world. There are opportunities for hiking, swimming, and canoeing, as well as several campsites and self-catering accommodation options available.
Mapungubwe National Park, Limpopo | Photo: dr322 via Getty
Gain an insight into the history of South Africa by visiting this national park to learn more about the country’s first kingdom, Mapungubwe. This kingdom was a pre-Shona kingdom between 1050 AD and 1270 AD, and you can find out more about their complex society while visiting this national park.
Whether you’re in Gauteng, the Western Cape, KZN, or Limpopo, there are several incredible places that are perfect for family weekends away. Check when the next long weekend is and plan an adventurous family-friendly getaway!