Don’t spend the April break tripping over Xbox cables and wishing you could send the kids to Hogwarts. Use these ideas for outings the whole family will enjoy.
Acrobranch, Johannesburg
There is something for everyone at this picturesque park. Combining sport and adventure, kids can go from tree to tree doing exercises that test balance, strength and focus. Obstacles include walking on planks and zooming between trees on ziplines. Adults can join in the fun on the tougher Lion’s Course. There is another Acrobranch facility in George (see website). Costs R80 to R160 a person. Cell 078-438-7463, email [email protected], www.acrobranch.co.za.
Honeydew Mazes, Johannesburg
This urban escape offers an array of puzzles for kids of all ages and grown-ups. Have fun getting lost on 3,5 kilometres of pathways through a maize field. Going through this giant maze, groups must complete a quiz by answering questions dotted along the pathways. This year’s quiz theme is The World Under Our Feet, with questions that change weekly. Costs from R65 a person. Cell 073-795-2174, email [email protected], www.honeydewmazes.co.za.
uShaka Marine World, Durban
This one-stop, all-day entertainment hub on Durban’s Golden Mile offers a myriad activities for young and old. With Africa’s biggest jungle gym, a treasure cave and a giant sandpit, uShaka Kids World is a haven for two to 12 year olds. For fun the whole family can enjoy together, head to Wet ’n Wild for a host of water-based activities or visit the aquarium. Costs from R85 a person. Tel 031-328-8000, email [email protected], www.ushakamarineworld.co.za.
Bayworld, Port Elizabeth
With an aquarium, museums as well as a snake and dinosaur park, Bayworld is a keep-thembusy- until-they-drop outing. The oceanarium recently re-opened, although the dolphins are no longer in residence, and all manner of reptiles can be found in the Snake Park. A highlight of the museum is Africa’s Lost World, which features dinosaurs from Africa. End the day with a trip to the nearby beach. Costs from R15 a person. Tel 041-584-0650, email [email protected], www.bayworld.co.za.
Imhoff Farm, Cape Town
Eat at one of three restaurants and take part in various activities at this Kommetjie farmstead, which dates back to 1743. At Higgledy Piggledy Animal Farm children can interact with free-ranging farm animals. Those older than 12 can enjoy horse riding on Noordhoek Beach and for the younger ones there’s face painting and camel rides. You can also visit the snake park and browse shops that include a kids’ boutique and a cheese deli. Tel 021-783-4545, email [email protected], www.imhofffarm.co.za.
Butterfly World, Paarl
Butterfly World imports up to 800 butterfly pupae a week from around the world to its 1 000-square-metre greenhouse. Marvel at the beauty of these free-flying insects in the tropical garden and witness their life cycle. The centre is also home to marmosets, birds, khoi fish, various reptiles and meerkats. The kiosk serves refreshments and offers activities such as beading and colouring-in for little ones. Costs from R28 a person. Tel 021-875-5628, email [email protected], www.butterflyworld.co.za.
