Waterparks offer an entertaining alternative to a dip in the ocean or splashing about in your pool at home. Here is a list of waterparks around the country where you can cool off and have oodles of fun at the same time.
1. Cape Town: Muizenberg Super Tubes
A day at this waterpark is perfect for kiddies birthday parties, families and surfers alike. It is located on Muizenberg beach, with a put-put course just outside. There are a trio of slides to choose from: the ‘main’ slide, the ‘speed’ slide and the ‘junior’ slide. Lifeguards are on duty, ensuring the safety of everyone on the slides and in the pools at the bottom. A small shop sells snacks and drinks or you can bring a picnic basket of goodies if you prefer. The Super Tubes are open 7 days a week from 1:30pm to 5pm.
Cost: R80 for 1 hour; R140 for the whole day
2. Plettenberg Bay: Adventure Land
Adventure Land is located on a 24-hectare estate, surrounded by woodland flora and gorgeous lawns to lounge on. Visitors can unwind in the sunshine and enjoy the 7 slides that the waterpark has to offer. Five of the slides cater to the more daring visitors and two are designed for youngsters. There is a take-away kiosk to alleviate the inevitable hunger pangs but visitors are welcome to braai or picnic too. Adventure Land is open 7 days a week from 10am to 5pm, from September until the end of April.
Cost: R195 per person; R90 for child under 3; R155 for pensioner;
Contact: adventurelandplett.co.za
3. Durban: Wet ‘n Wild at uShaka Marine World
At Wet n’ Wild, everyone is catered for. From the thrill-seekers, to those looking to chill out. There are 10 slides, including a kiddie slide and pool for adults. There are also two “river” experiences, one of which takes you past the penguins, seals and specially built tunnels. Visitors can choose from ample activities and the day is sure to pass in the blink of an eye as it does when you’re having fun. There is a range of restaurants from fast-food to delicatessen style eateries. Wet ‘n Wild is open on Wednesday to Friday from 10am to 5pm and Saturdays and Sundays from 9am to 5pm.
Cost: R227 for adults (13 and over); R189 for children and pensioners; Free for children under 3
Contact: ushakamarineworld.co.za
4. Port Edward: Wild Waves Waterpark
Wild Waves Waterpark is the ultimate summer adventure. With rides like the ‘Aqua Loop’, that drop you from a height of 17m at a near-vertical angle, to the sharp plummets of the ‘Boomerango’, adrenaline junkies are spoilt for choice. For those looking to chill out and soak up some sun, there is the ‘Lazy River’ and the madness of the “Kids Zone” is perfectly safe and equally as fun for families with children. Visitors have a wide range of food vendors to choose from, catering to all dietary requirements. The park is open everyday during peak season from 9am to 5pm.
Contact: www.suninternational.com
5. Johannesburg: Happy Island Waterworld
Africa’s largest waterpark opened its doors over the December holidays and is packed with exciting features and amenities. Including a first for Africa: the Typhoon. This gigantic structure is funnel-shaped, spiraling visitors down extremely quickly into the water below. There are food vendors that can be paid using cashless wristbands, which can be purchased upon arrival. Safety is taken very seriously at this water park, with onsite medics, registered paramedics and three companies with ambulances on standby. The waterpark is open from Tuesday to Sunday between 9am and 6pm.
Cost: R 250 for general admission (11-64 yr); R200 for children below 1.3 meters; 200 per person (65+ yr)
Contact: mzansithemepark.co.za/
ALSO READ: 5 destinations to go paragliding in South Africa
