South Africa is widely known for its friendly demeanour and amazing year-round weather. It also offers some of the best activities and attractions for people of all ages. Whether it’s over the weekend or during the school holidays, there’s a lot of fun things to do.
Top 10 fun places to go: water parks, wildlife tours, and amusement parks in South Africa
Welcome to the ultimate summer adventure in South Africa, where you'll discover some of the country's most thrilling and diverse parks. Whether you're exploring the city or heading to the coast, you're sure to enjoy an unforgettable day out with your loved ones.
1. Gold Reef City
Gold Reef City is a go-to entertainment hub in the south of Johannesburg, styled like an old mining town from back in the day. It’s super close to the city centre and only 20 minutes from OR Tambo Airport. There’s something for everyone here – a top-notch casino, two 4-star hotels, fun conferencing and team building spots, an exciting theme park, a theatre with live shows, and tons of restaurants and fast food to choose from.
2. uShaka Marine World
uShaka Marine World is a massive 16-hectare theme park in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. It’s packed with eight awesome attractions, including uShaka Sea World, Wet 'n Wild, Sea Animal Encounters Island, uShaka Beach, Village Walk, Kids World, Dangerous Creatures, and Chimp & Zee. It offers unique sightings and activities for everyone to enjoy, even Gogo.
Fun fact: uShaka Sea World is the 5th largest aquarium in the world, and Wet 'n Wild has the tallest slide in Africa!
3. Valley of Waves
Just a short drive from Johannesburg, the Valley of Waves at Sun City offers the perfect escape from the daily grind in under two hours. City slickers and urban families alike can soak up the sun and enjoy the legendary Roaring Lagoon, the main attraction of Sun City's famed water park. Soak under the sun, enjoy thrilling rides and slides, and visit the beach bar for island cocktails and post-swim snacks.
4. Wild Waves Water Park
Located between the border of the Eastern Cape and Kwazulu-Natal at the Wild Coast Sun sits the Wild Waves Water Park. It’s also right around the corner from Port Edward Beach! The Water Park has thrilling water rides for all ages, while Aloha Village offers Ten Pin bowling and arcade games right inside the resort.
5. Warmbaths Forever Resorts
Just a 2 hour drive from the Joburg city, there’s a family-friendly Forever Resort nestled in the Limpopo province where overnight guests and day visitors can relax and take a splash in the outdoor water park. The resort and outdoor water park offer river rides, cable water skiing, kiddies' swimming and splash pools, mini golf, and much more! If you and your family get hungry, you can grab a bite at the Tacoma Spur located right on-site.
6. Cool Runnings
The ideal place to take the kids and family for the day or to plan a party, Cool Runnings is just a 25 km drive from Cape Town City Centre. Known to the locals for its family-friendly activities, including the popular toboggan track, it’s a hit for all ages. Adults can head to the kiosk and bar facilities to grab a boerie roll or burger to satisfy their hunger, while kids can enjoy the park even more by inviting their friends for a fun birthday party.
7. Adventure Land
Adventure Land is the perfect spot for an unforgettable day out. You can chill on the spacious lawns or kick back on one of the wooden decks. Bring a picnic or fire up a braai while watching your family and friends enjoy the water slides and playground. Feeling hungry? There's a take-away kiosk for a quick bite. Conveniently located between Plettenberg Bay and Knysna, with easy access right off the N2.
8. Splash Water world
This popular hotspot in Amanzimtoti attracts visitors from all walks of life year-round. Splash Water World is the perfect way to kick off the summer and offers something for everyone to enjoy, regardless of age. This park features ten super slides, braai facilities, a recreational pool, kids' parties, rides for toddlers and infants, and The Thirsty Whale restaurant — a great option when you’re looking for something to eat and drink after a day of fun.
9. Dungeons & Dinos
Take a drive to Henley on Klip and discover Dungeons and Dinos family-friendly entertainment park, it’s only a 50-minute commute from Joburg CBD! You can enjoy the Jurassic Walk, featuring 12 dinosaur statues and interactive tasks along the trail, or challenge yourself in the Medieval-themed Maze of Riddles. The park also provides a fun, safe environment, with a sheltered seating area for adults to relax while watching the kids explore the playground, fossil pits, motorbikes, and jungle gym.
10. George Wildlife & Animal Park
Just outside of George, right on the N2 is a fun and adventurous Wildlife and Animal Park. This park hosts a number of tours for schools, families, and church groups – all the more reason to feel right at home, everyone is welcome! You’ll learn all about the well-cared-for animals in the predator and animal park, including Bengal tigers, cheetahs, and lions. There’s also a farm featuring ducks, bunnies, and meerkats!
Plan a holiday the Mzansi way
South Africa truly embodies the spirit of summer, offering endless opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and connection. With its warm hospitality, beautiful weather, and diverse range of activities, South Africa has it all—making it the perfect destination for the whole family, no matter the season.
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