A family adventure packed with wildlife, beautiful scenery and unforgettable experiences

From penguins and whales to meerkats and the Big Five, this 18 day family-friendly South Africa holiday is designed to delight all ages. Explore Cape Town’s iconic attractions, discover the Whale Coast and scenic Route 62, enjoy outdoor adventures along the Garden Route and finish with an unforgettable safari in the Eastern Cape. Staying in a collection of hand-picked family-friendly properties throughout, this self-drive itinerary combines flexibility, adventure and plenty of opportunities to create lasting memories together.

 

4 Nights Cape Town – 3 Nights Hermanus – 2 Nights Oudtshoorn – 3 Nights Garden Route – 3 Nights Eastern Cape

A team of real experts, brilliant at designing bespoke holidays.

Call 01273 923100 to start planning your South Africa holiday today.

Miles
"I’ve been travelling since my first solo trip at nineteen, exploring everything from Indonesia and Japan to Iceland and Tanzania. I believe the best holidays come from really understanding a place and shaping each trip with care and first-hand knowledge."
Miles, Sales Manager
Aerial panoramic view of Cape Town at sunset, Western Cape Province, South Africa.

Exploring Cape Town's iconic landmarks

Wander through the vibrant streets of Cape Town, visiting the stunning Table Mountain and the historical Robben Island.

Huge humpback whale emerging from the deep sea waters

Whale watching in Hermanus

Experience the thrill of spotting southern right whales along the beautiful Whale Coast, especially during the peak season from June to November.

Meerkats in the wild recently emerged from burrow in the early morning, sunning themselves and bonding before foraging. Oudtshoorn, Western Cape, South Africa

Meerkat safari in Oudtshoorn

Join an early morning adventure to observe meerkats as they emerge from their burrows in the stunning Karoo landscape.

A long concrete arch bridge spans a misty valley, surrounded by lush green forest. The scene is serene, with the bridge emerging through low-hanging clouds.

Thrilling activities on the Garden Route

Zipline through the lush Tsitsikamma forest, go horseback riding to Monkeyland, or try bungee jumping from the world’s highest bridge.

Two elephants gently interact with their trunks on a grassy plain, set against a vibrant sunset sky with orange and pink hues.

Big Five safari experience

Embark on exciting game drives in Amakhala Game Reserve, where you can spot the Big Five and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

We have just arrived back after the most incredible road trip around South Africa. Jo organised everything perfectly for us, we didn't want to come home. We would even go to say it was our best ever holiday and we have been to some lovely destinations.

Cheryl Short, South Africa

This year we decided to take our kids to see as many animals as possible. Lucy at Sundowner made it happen for us with a magical holiday to South Africa. Everything about it was easy, from booking to execution, even adjustments to fit in a meeting with friends and an extra day due to airline complications. We've been back less than 48 hours and are already planning our next trip with them.

Iain Laurie, South Africa

We recently returned from the most unforgettable honeymoon to South Africa and Seychelles… From the moment we arrived, every detail felt like it had been perfectly crafted for us.

Mehru Raza, South Africa and Seychelles

It was an amazing trip from start to finish with so many highlights along the way, thank you so much for looking after us with the itinerary you produced and the accommodation along the way, there wasn’t a thing we would change

Aaron Harper, South Africa

We had an amazing family holiday in South Africa and Mozambique thanks to the team at Sundowner. Each stop felt different and special, and the whole trip came together beautifully. We’ll be booking again.

The McGrath Family, South Africa & Mozambique
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Tour itinerary

Days 1 & 2 :

Depart London and welcome to Cape Town

Fly overnight from the UK to Cape Town.

On arrival, collect your hire car and make your way to the vibrant V&A Waterfront, where you will spend 4 nights in a two-bedroom apartment at Lawhill Luxury Apartments (STAY 4, PAY 3 for May & June). 

Enjoying one of the most sought-after locations in Cape Town, Lawhill offers spacious apartment-style accommodation ideal for families, with the shops, restaurants and attractions of the waterfront all within easy walking distance. Younger travellers will love visits to the Two Oceans Aquarium and the Cape Wheel, whilst parents can relax in the knowledge that everything is close at hand, including a swimming pool perfect for cooling off after a day of exploring.

Call 01273 923100 to start planning your holiday

Scenic harbor view with yachts docked at a marina. A vibrant red clock tower and charming gray buildings stand against a mountainous backdrop under clear skies.
Days 3, 4 & 5 :

Discover the highlights of Cape Town and the Cape Peninsula

Discover the highlights of Cape Town and the Cape Peninsula

Three full days allow time to discover the highlights of Cape Town and the Cape Peninsula. Take the cable car to the summit of Table Mountain, visit the penguins at Boulders Beach and continue to the dramatic scenery of the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve. From boat trips to Robben Island to family-friendly beaches and waterfront entertainment, there is something here for every age. See our Cape Town guide.

A large group of penguins gather on a sandy beach with turquoise water and scattered rocks. The background features green bushes and houses.
Day 6:

Whale watching, outdoor adventures and lakeside living on the Whale Coast

Leaving Cape Town behind, drive east to the beautiful Whale Coast for a 3 night stay in a two-bedroom cottage at Coot Club. Set beside the tranquil waters of the Klein River Lagoon with mountains rising in the distance, Coot Club is a wonderful family retreat with plenty of space to relax and play. During whale season, Hermanus offers some of the finest land-based whale watching in the world, whilst nearby Betty’s Bay is home to a charming colony of African penguins.

If you would prefer to reduce costs and stay in the town of Hermanus, just let us know. This is just an idea of what we can design for you. Call 01273 923100 to get your holiday designed for free!

A modern grey cabin with a gabled roof sits amidst lush greenery, overlooking a serene lake. Majestic mountains rise in the background under a soft, cloudy sky.
Days 7 & 8 :

Relaxation, water sports, hikes and vineyards!

With two full days at leisure, families can embrace the laid-back lifestyle that makes Coot Club so special. Set on the shores of the Klein River Lagoon with mountains on one side and the sweeping dunes of Walker Bay on the other, there is no shortage of ways to keep everyone entertained.

Enjoy complimentary use of kayaks and stand-up paddleboards to explore the calm waters of the lagoon, or head out on guided adventures including quad biking through the dunes, fat biking, sandboarding and scenic boat trips. Younger guests will love the open spaces and freedom to roam, whilst parents can relax by the pool or unwind with a glass of local wine as the sun begins to set.

Call 01273 923100 to start planning your holiday

Two whale tails emerge from the ocean, with splashing water against a backdrop of distant mountains and a sandy shore, evoking a sense of calm wilderness.
Day 9:

Drive along the scenic Route 62 to Oudtshoorn

Today you will be drive along Route 62 to enjoy spectacular landscapes, passing through the semi desert of Karoo, rugged mountains, orchard farms and vineyards. It is relatively quiet allowing you to just take everything in without worrying about traffic, have your cameras at the ready! You will be heading to AfriCamps Klein Karoo where you will be staying for 2 nights in a 2 bedroom luxury tent with hot tub, breakfast basket included. Another perfect family-friendly spot on a working ostrich farm with a pool.

This is a glamping experience so if you prefer a luxury hotel then let us know. We know the best places for families, having travelled many times with our own children in South Africa.

A family enjoys a sunny day outside a safari tent. A man and child sit at a wooden picnic table, while another child plays with a basketball nearby. The scene is relaxed and warm.
Day 10:

Meeting meerkats and exploring local attractions

Early this morning head on a meerkat safari. The rest of the day is free for you to explore. Take a tour of AfriCamps working ostrich farm, head out on a sunset drive with a specialist guide, take a stargazing lesson. You can also arrange to visit AfriCamps crèche where they care for 85 children from the underprivileged community. In the area, there’s the Cango Wildlife Ranch for encounters with cheetahs and lemurs and the Cango Caves.

A group of ostriches walks on a dry, rocky landscape with sparse shrubs. In the background, green hills and distant blue mountains under a clear sky.
Day 11:

Say goodbye to Oudtshoorn as you experience the stunning Garden Route

Continue south to the coast and follow the Garden Route to Hog Hollow Country Lodge, where you will spend 3 nights in a Family Suite (STAY 3, PAY 3 for May to August). Nestled within a private nature reserve close to Plettenberg Bay, Hog Hollow offers a peaceful escape surrounded by indigenous forest and sweeping valley views.

This family-friendly country retreat combines understated luxury with a warm, relaxed atmosphere, making it the perfect base from which to explore the many attractions of the Garden Route.

Call 01273 923100 to start planning your holiday

Aerial view of a serene outdoor pool area surrounded by lush green trees. Features a rectangular pool, sun loungers, pergolas, and a small building. Peaceful and inviting atmosphere.
Days 12 & 13 :

Adrenaline rushes, wildlife spotting and beautiful scenery

The Garden Route is a paradise for active families, offering an endless choice of experiences both on land and water. Explore the dramatic coastal scenery and suspension bridges of Tsitsikamma National Park, paddle the peaceful waters of the Keurbooms River by kayak or stand-up paddleboard, or enjoy horse riding through forests, fynbos and along unspoilt beaches. The region is also home to a number of wildlife sanctuaries and conservation centres, providing memorable opportunities to learn about South Africa’s remarkable wildlife.

For those seeking a little more adventure, there are canopy tours through the treetops, mountain biking trails and boat trips to spot dolphins and seasonal whales off the coast. Older children and thrill-seekers may even wish to take on the famous Bloukrans Bridge bungee jump – the highest commercial bridge bungee in the world.

Ask us what we would recommend for your family.

aerial shot of 6 red kayaks in the wide sea creek between two hills holding a huge suspension bridge
Day 14:

Safari time as you head to the Amakhala Game Reserve!

Your final destination is the malaria-free Amakhala Game Reserve, where you will spend 3 nights at HillsNek Safari Camp. Set in a secluded corner of the malaria-free Amakhala Game Reserve, HillsNek Safari Camp combines the excitement of safari with a relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere. Spacious tented suites overlook the Bushman’s River, whilst personalised service and flexible guiding ensure that guests of all ages can enjoy an unforgettable wildlife experience together.

There are a number of lovely safari options in the Eastern Cape to suit a wide range of budgets – call us on 01273 923100 to discuss the options.

Head on close up of 5 elephants drinking from the plunge pool at Hillsnek Safari Camp - SA - Elephant Herd
Days 15 & 16 :

Big Five safari adventures in the Eastern Cape

Enjoy two full days of safari activities designed to maximise your time in the bush. Early mornings begin with tea, coffee and freshly baked treats before setting off on a guided game drive as the reserve comes to life. Accompanied by experienced rangers and trackers, you’ll explore the diverse landscapes of the malaria-free Amakhala Game Reserve in search of the Big Five, as well as cheetah, giraffe, zebra, numerous antelope species and an abundance of birdlife.

Between safaris soak up the tranquil river views and cool off with a refreshing dip in the swimming pool whilst keeping an eye out for wildlife passing by! Afternoon tea is served before heading back out into the reserve as the golden light of late afternoon creates ideal conditions for game viewing!

Talk to us about whether your children are ready for a safari, It may be better to stay outside the reserves and dip in for safaris. Call us today for more information.

 

Lioness and 4 lion cubs walking along a dusty road in the African bush
Day 17 & 18:

Farewell to South Africa and fly home

After a final morning safari and a hearty breakfast you will drive 1hr to Port Elizabeth Airport, drop your hire car and fly back to the UK (via Johannesburg).

 

Welcome home… (how many photos!) If you don’t have 18 days, ask us to redesign this holiday to your requirements – call 01273 923100.

Call 01273 923100 to start planning your holiday

Cape buffalo (Syncerus caffer) standing in a field of dried grasses
wildebeest

Talk to us about your perfect trip to South Africa

Call 01273 923100 to start planning your South Africa Holiday today.

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