Planning a family holiday often feels like a balancing act. You want excitement and adventure to spark curiosity in your kids, but you also crave a touch of peace and serenity to truly unwind. If you’re looking for inspiration, allow one of our Travel Counsellors, Pedro, to share his recent family getaway which combined exploring South Africa’s wild beauty with relaxing on the pristine beaches of Mauritius.
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.
Why we chose Sanbona Wildlife Reserve for our safari
Of course, no trip to South Africa would be complete without a safari, and our stay at Sanbona Wildlife Reserve was nothing short of extraordinary. Just a four-hour drive from Cape Town, this malaria-free, family-friendly haven was the perfect introduction to safari life for our children—Sophia (9), Tomas (8), and Oliver (2).
Gondwana Family Lodge at Sanbona ticked every box for a family adventure. With interconnecting suites overlooking the stunning Anysberg Mountains, a child-friendly pool, and an Eco-Explorers programme packed with activities, the kids were as entertained as they were educated. For us parents, the complimentary childcare meant we could enjoy the twice-daily game drives while the older children immersed themselves in tailored safari activities.
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.
Mauritius: the perfect twin-centre escape
After our action-packed safari, it was time to unwind, and where better than Mauritius? Just a short four-hour flight from South Africa, this idyllic island provided the ideal counterpoint to our adventure.
Mauritius is so much more than just a beach destination. While we certainly loved the turquoise lagoons and stunning infinity pools, we also explored the island and learned about its culture. From sampling local street food at bustling markets to marvelling at giant tortoises, sea turtles, and even dolphins, there was never a dull moment. The kids had their fair share of fun too, with activities like kite making and pirate treasure hunts in the well-equipped kids’ clubs.
To book your family safari twin-centre holiday, contact your Travel Counsellors today.
Barbados' Sweetest Summer Escape is a seven-night vision of island elegance, where world-renowned hospitality meets simple luxury. Every moment is planned to feel special, from the VIP-style arrival at Grantley Adams International Airport to sunset cocktails and candlelit dinners at premium restaurants.
The Maldives has no shortage of exceptional resorts, but Six Senses has carved out a reputation for doing things a little differently. Here, luxury goes hand in hand with sustainability, wellness is woven into every stay, and experiences are designed to help guests reconnect with nature rather than simply admire it. Two of the brand's most remarkable island escapes are Six Senses Laamu and Six Senses Kanuhura. While both deliver the barefoot luxury that Six Senses is known for, each offers its own distinct personality. Whether you're dreaming of pristine reefs, laid-back island living, or some of the Maldives' finest beaches, here's how these two extraordinary resorts compare.
Thailand has long been a favourite for island escapes, but rather than choosing just one destination, why not experience several? Island hopping through the Gulf of Thailand allows you to discover a different side of the country, where each island has its own personality, from lively beach towns and world-class diving to hidden bays and peaceful luxury retreats. With reliable ferry connections making travel between the islands straightforward, it's never been easier to combine multiple destinations into one unforgettable holiday. Start with a few days in Bangkok before heading south to Koh Samui, then continue your adventure to Koh Tao and Koh Phangan, creating a trip that balances culture, relaxation, and adventure.
