Cape Town · South Africa · Things to do
5 things to do in Cape Town with kids
The five best family things to do in Cape Town are riding the cable car up Table Mountain, a day safari at a game reserve, visiting the African penguins at Boulders Beach, driving to the Cape of Good Hope, and walking the painted streets of Bo-Kaap. Everything is within about two hours of the city, so you can base yourself in one place.
What to do, in order
- 1
Ride up Table Mountain
The cable car climbs the flat-topped mountain that stands over the city and takes a few minutes, with a floor that rotates so every seat gets the view. At the top there are short, easy paths along the plateau, and rock hyraxes that children spot quickly. Go first thing in the morning, or check the weather before you buy tickets. When the cloud settles over the top (the so-called tablecloth) or the wind is strong, the cable car stops running. Book a timed ticket online to skip the longest queue.
- 2
Go on a safari day
A few private game reserves sit a couple of hours from the city, so you can see lions, elephants, rhino and buffalo on a single day trip without flying anywhere. They are malaria-free, which matters for families. Most day trips include a morning drive in an open vehicle, a meal at the lodge and a second drive. The days are long, with an early pickup. Ask the operator about minimum ages on drives, because some reserves set one, and book well ahead in school holidays.
- 3
Meet the Boulders penguins
Boulders Beach, near Simon's Town on the Cape Peninsula, has a protected colony of African penguins living among granite boulders. A boardwalk lets you watch them nesting and waddling just beside you, and there is a small sheltered beach where families can swim with the birds nearby. Keep your distance and never touch them, as they bite. Go early in the day to avoid coach groups. Pair it with lunch in Simon's Town and the drive along False Bay, which is a scenic route in itself.
- 4
Reach the Cape of Good Hope
The Cape of Good Hope is part of Table Mountain National Park, at the far end of the peninsula. A scenic road runs through it, with beaches, ostriches, baboons and clifftop viewpoints, and a funicular up to the old lighthouse at Cape Point. Baboons are used to people, so keep food hidden in the car and do not feed them. The wind can be fierce, so bring layers. The popular sign at the Cape of Good Hope is best photographed early, before groups arrive. Allow most of a day.
- 5
Wander Bo-Kaap
Bo-Kaap is a hillside neighbourhood of brightly painted houses and cobbled streets, historically home to the Cape Malay community. It is compact and easy with children, who tend to enjoy the colours and the steep lanes. Walk it in the morning when light is good, and respect that people live there, so keep voices down and do not enter private doorways. A walking tour or a stop at a local museum adds context. Try a koeksister, a sweet fried pastry, or a Cape Malay curry for lunch nearby.
Plan it
- Best time
- November to March is warm and dry, with long days and the best beach weather, but the busiest time. April to May and September to October are milder and quieter. June to August is cool and wetter.
- How long
- Five to seven days covers all five without rushing. Add a few days if you want the Winelands or the Garden Route.
- Getting around
- Hiring a car is the easiest way to reach Boulders and Cape Point, and the roads are good. Ride-hailing apps work well in the city and are the safer choice at night. Take usual city precautions with valuables and parking.
Good to know
- Check the Table Mountain cable car status on the morning of your visit. Wind closes it with no notice.
- Wear layers, even in summer. The Cape peninsula is windy and temperatures shift fast.
- Tap water in Cape Town is safe to drink, so carry reusable bottles.
Frequently asked
Is Cape Town safe for families? +
Millions of visitors enjoy it each year, but it has real crime in some areas. Stay in well-travelled neighbourhoods, use ride-hailing at night, keep valuables out of sight in cars, and follow local advice. Tourist sites like the cable car and Boulders are well managed.
How many days do you need in Cape Town with kids? +
Five to seven days is comfortable. That gives you time for Table Mountain, the penguins and Cape Point, a safari day trip, Bo-Kaap, and beach or park days in between.
Can you do a safari from Cape Town in one day? +
Yes. Several reserves within about two to three hours' drive offer day trips with game drives and lunch. Expect an early start and a long day, and check age limits for open vehicles.
When is the best time to see penguins at Boulders Beach? +
They live there all year, so there is no wrong month. Early morning is calmer and less crowded, and the light is better for photos. Walk the boardwalks slowly, give the birds space, and never try to touch them.