A memorable stay in South Africa’s Western Cape

Our adventure began in Cape Town, where the city’s energy and spectacular scenery set the tone for an unforgettable holiday. We packed a lot into our time here, from riding the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway to watching the playful penguins at Boulders Beach, there was something to captivate every member of our group, including our youngest traveller, two-year-old Oliver. If you’re considering a similar trip, I’d suggest at least four nights in Cape Town to fully experience its magic and make time for nearby gems like Cape of Good Hope and the historic wineries of Constantia.

We also took a trip to Swellendam, a town that surprised us with its charm and depth of culture. Wandering through the Drostdy Museum felt like stepping back in time, while the local cuisine—ranging from boerekos (traditional farmers’ food) and coffee shops serving delectable cakes to fine-dining experiences—showcased South Africa’s diverse culinary heritage.

The highlight? The guided bush walks where we found ourselves mere metres away from a beautiful but elusive cheetah. To say it was epic is an understatement! Along the way, we also spotted elephants, rhinos (both black and white), Cape zebras, giraffes, lions, and much more. Sanbona wasn’t just about ticking animals off a checklist—it was about really appreciating wildlife in its natural habitat and connecting with nature.

Our guide, Nicole, brought every game drive to life with her deep knowledge and ability to engage our children. Whether it was identifying animal tracks or explaining the unique biodiversity of the area, she made every moment a learning experience. Between the drives, we splashed in the pool, played games as a family, and indulged in delicious meals, including a traditional braai (BBQ) and an incredible boma dinner under the stars.