Looking for fun things to do in Cape Town with kids? From animal encounters and outdoor adventures to creative play spaces and hidden gems just outside the city, there’s something here for every kind of family. We’ve rounded up 10 awesome activities in and around Cape Town, including a few worth the short drive, to help you plan memorable days out with the kids.
The list below is in no particular order. Each entry is equally celebrated for their achievements, and the sequence of names is arbitrary, not indicating any ranking or preference.
Cheetah Outreach 🐆
Cheetah Outreach in Somerset West is a fantastic place for kids to get up close and personal with some of South Africa’s most endangered animals. Beyond just cheetahs, little explorers can spot caracals, foxes, and meerkats roaming around, making it a truly hands-on and educational experience.
The team there is passionate about wildlife conservation, and every visit helps support their important work. Friendly guides are ready to share interesting facts and stories about South Africa’s wildlife, making it easy for kids to learn. For families exploring Cape Town with kids, this is a meaningful stop filled with fun! It’s perfect for those who want to add a bit of wildlife education to their day out.
Entry: R5 to R10
Cheetah Outreach, Opening Hours: Daily, 10 am to 5 pm
Address: Paardevlei, De Beers Ave, Somerset West, Helderberg
Website: https://cheetah.co.za/
Contact: 082 623 9960
Cape Town Science Centre 🔭
The Cape Town Science Centre is a hands-on playground for curious kids. Everything here is made to touch, build, and explore. From Lego challenges and robotics to physics experiments, there’s plenty to keep little minds busy. It’s a perfect stop for families, offering fun and learning for all ages.
Kids can dive into interactive displays about planets, stars, and space missions. Another favorite is the human gyroscope. Kids get to feel what it’s like to defy gravity! Since it’s all indoors, it’s a great option when the weather isn’t cooperating. The Centre also runs workshops and holiday programs, so be sure to check their schedule before you visit.
Entry: R95
Cheetah Outreach, Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 9 am to 4.30 pm.
Address: 370B Main Rd, Observatory, Cape Town
Website: https://www.ctsc.org.za/
Contact: 021 300 3200
Cango Wildlife Ranch 🐊
Cango Wildlife Ranch offers an exciting chance for kids to see crocodiles and big cats up close. One of the highlights is a walk-through lemur encounter, where children can get closer to these curious animals. For families planning a longer road trip beyond Cape Town, this stop is a perfect addition.
The ranch offers plenty of interactive activities that keep everyone engaged. Cango Wildlife Ranch offers plenty of interactive activities that keep everyone engaged. If you’re exploring the region with children, it’s a wild and worthwhile extension to your trip.
Cango Wildlife Ranch, Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 8.30 am am to 5 pm
Address: 191 Baron van Reede Street, Oudtshoorn
Website:https://www.cango.co.za/
Contact: 044 272 5593
Iziko South African Museum 🖼️
The Iziko South African Museum in the Company’s Garden is a great spot for families looking for a relaxed day out. Kids are fascinated by the huge dinosaur skeletons, ancient fossils, and stuffed animals on display. The dinosaur exhibit is a favourite and can keep little ones busy for ages.
Don’t miss the planetarium while you’re there. The space shows are made just for kids because they’re short, fun, and easy to follow. Morning sessions are especially popular, offering a lively experience. Together, the museum and planetarium make for a great family activity in Cape Town.
Entry: R40 to R60
Iziko South African Museum, Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm & Saturday and Sunday, 8.30 am to 4 pm (Planetarium is closed on Mondays).
Address: 25 Queen Victoria St, Gardens, Cape Town
Website: https://www.iziko.org.za/museums/south-african-museum/
Contact: 021 418 3823
South African Air Force Museum 🚁
Step into the fascinating world of flight at the South African Air Force Museum in Ysterplaat. This museum offers an up-close look at the history and evolution of the South African Air Force. From sleek fighter jets to vintage planes, the aircraft displays are truly impressive. Each plane has its own story, and the friendly staff are always happy to share it.
What makes this museum special is that visitors can climb inside some of the aircraft. For adults, the collection of aviation memorabilia, uniforms, and equipment highlights the Air Force’s important role in South African history. The museum also hosts special events and open days, including exciting airshows where you can see the planes in action.
Iziko South African Museum, Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 9 am to 3 pm & Saturday, 9 am to 1 pm.
Address: Piet Grobler St, Ysterplaat Airforce Base, Cape Town
Website: https://www.fsaafm.com/
World of Birds Wildlife Sanctuary 🦚
World of Birds in Hout Bay Valley is Africa’s largest bird park, home to over 3,000 birds and small animals from more than 400 species. Spread across 4 hectares, the park lets you wander through aviaries where you can get up close to the action. Beyond birds, you’ll find fascinating creatures like monkeys and reptiles adding to the experience.
The highlight has to be the monkey jungle. Squirrel monkeys might even hop right onto you! The area is shady, compact, and feels more like a peaceful forest walk than a traditional zoo visit. The open-air aviaries are designed to look like natural habitats, making for a relaxed and enjoyable stroll.
World of Birds, Opening Hours: 9 am to 5 pm
Address: Valley Road, Hout Bay, Cape Town
Website: https://worldofbirds.co.za/
Contact: 021 790 2730
Green Point Urban Park 🛝
There’s also an educational garden area that’s cooler than it sounds. Kids can check out local plants and learn a little about the environment while they play. If you’re nearby, pair it with a stroll along the Sea Point Promenade or a visit to the lighthouse. This park is a popular spot for families with its dedicated section for children, complete with playgrounds and interactive installations!
Green Point Urban Park, located close to Cape Town Stadium, was one of the legacy projects of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. This park does everything right. It has multiple play areas, paved paths for scooters or bikes, and plenty of space for a picnic. It’s clean, open, and easy to get to. Plus, it’s free.
Harold Porter Botanical Gardens, Opening Hours: 6 am to 10 pm daily
Address: Fritz Sonnenberg Rd, Green Point, Cape Town, 8005
Contact Number: 021 444 4258
Acrobranch Constantia Nek 🌲
Acrobranching in Constantia Nek is a great outdoor activity with the kids in Cape Town. The course offers fun challenges for all ages. From little ones just getting started to older kids looking for a bit more adventure. Kids can swing across ropes, zipline through the forest, and test their balance on wobbly bridges. It’s a fantastic way to get fresh air, burn off some energy, and enjoy nature together.
The team there makes sure everyone stays safe with harnesses and helmets, and they’re always ready to help out if needed. While the kids are busy climbing and exploring, parents can chill nearby and soak up the beautiful surroundings. It’s perfect for a family day out or even a birthday party. If you’re after something active, outdoorsy, and just plain fun, Acrobranch is definitely worth a visit
Acrobranch Constantia, Opening Hours: Wednesdays to Sundays, 9 am to 6 pm
Address: 1 Hout Bay Main Rd, Constantia Nek, Cape Town
Website: https://acrobranch.co.za/outdoor-activity-parks/cape-town-constantia/
Contact: 021 201 1121
Mineral World 💎
The Scratch Patch at Mineral World is a fun spot where kids can dig through thousands of colourful gemstones. It feels like a little treasure hunt where everyone scratches around to find their favourite stones. You can even take part in a fun putt-putt experience with their Cave Golf sites. Plus, there’s a shop on site where you can pick up gems and keepsakes to take home.
The whole experience is super family-friendly and affordable. And there are two different locations, at the V&A Waterfront and Simon’s Town making it very convenient! Whether you’re a geology nerd or just looking for a unique, low-key adventure, Mineral World is definitely worth a visit. And if you want to know more, their website has all the details.
Address: Mineral World, Dock Road, V&A Waterfront / Mineral World, Dido Valley Road, Simon’s Town
Website: https://www.scratchpatch.co.za/mineral-world/
Contact: 021 786-2020 ext. 117
Cape Town and its surrounding areas offer a perfect mix of fun, learning, and adventure for families with kids. Whether you’re after up-close animal encounters, outdoor thrills, or creative play spaces; this list gives you a versatile line-up of activities to suit every age and interest. So pack the snacks, plan your routes, and get ready to explore one of South Africa’s most family-friendly destinations.
