Family friendly safari in South Africa nearish Cape Town?

[radhabee]

I'm driving myself mad on tripadvisor so thought I'd ask the wise forumites instead...

Does anyone have any recommendations for family friendly (our kids are 2 and 4) safaris on the Western Cape? There are a number of private game reserves but reviews suggest they are more like big zoos and frequently don't cater to children under six. We are looking to spend upto four or five days somewhere and need a place that is flexible re children eg we can hire a guide and vehicle for the day.

Any recommendations gratefully received!

Thanks

[arworld]

We went to Shamwari for our honeymoon - we didn't have children at that time but I seem to remember seeing few family with children - it is a beautiful private reserve...

Having said that, it may be a little bit too far from Cape Town...

http://www.shamwari.com/propertydefault.asp?MicroSiteID=2

[hazelnunhead]

I am not sure about Western Cape as I have mainly visited national parks just outside of Johannesburg - if you want the true bush experience, and the chance to see the "Big 5" then you could think about that? Kruger National Park has accomodation through the parks board, which is basic but very reasonable (if you go luxury and private you will pay thousands). Although the rand/pound rate has slipped very much in your favour! I have done the Kruger PArk on many occasions and absolutely love it. My daughter has been - aged 4 for the first time - (Of course you will need to look at malaria/time of year etc). The thing with a game park (for children) is that you need to sit in the car for periods of time whilst you go game viewing - although as you drive quite slowly they can at least roam a bit on the back seat!

Heres a link that might help you with the Cape Town side of things, I could ask my friends in cape town if they have any recommendations.

http://www.capetownmagazine.com/things-to-do/sanparks/190

http://www.capetownmagazine.com/wildlife-safari/best-cape-town-safari-adventures-and-game-drives/45_52_55288 - this gives a list of the parks outside of Cape Town

[Mfichardt]

I'm South-African and go to CT about once a year -

I haven't been to safaris in that area but have heard of the below two +/- 2 hour drive from CT.

More National Park

http://www.fairyglen.co.za/accommodation/

More Luxury

http://www.aquilasafari.com

A few other places great for kids (non safari)

http://www.kleinrivercheese.co.za/contact-us.php - near Hermanus

http://www.vergelegen.co.za/gallery.html - near Somerset West

Playground for kids near restaurant area, and beautiful gardens, wine tasting etc.

http://babylonstoren.com - Franshoek area outside Stellenbosch. Nothing specific for kids but beautiful farm - good for lunch at the Green House - and kids can play under the trees, with little stream, chickens roaming around etc.

Exchange rate in your favour - enjoy ! Very jealous !

[EDmummy]

I'm sorry to say this it but I think your children might be a bit young for a proper safari. Not done safari in SA but in Tanzania. We're v keen on going back but feel only now (just) our kids at 8 & 13 will cope with it. If you're going to SA anyway and just want the kids to see some local animals I would take them to a safari park (similar to Longleat) - 2-3 hours max cooped up in a car/truck.

[hazelnunhead]

Another vote for babylonstoren! Just beautiful.

[pommie]

we went to south Africa in October to visit family with our 18 month old (at the time) and 6 year old. We went to kruger national park and they both enjoyed seeing the animals.

[radhabee]

Thanks everyone for the tips, very much appreciated! EDMummy I hear you.. That's why we're keen to find some more flexible, ie private hire, short drive options. It may not work out but we thought we'd give it a go.

Exited about the non-safari recommendations too. Esp Babylonstoren x

[Grotty]

And if you can't find a safari, there are penguins to mix with at Boulders Beach in Simonstown, baboons roaming free on Cape Point, and bird reserves around Cape Town where we saw a huge lake swarming with flamingoes!