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Cape Town’s Top Pocket-Friendly School Holiday Activities

school holidays in cape town

The school holidays are here, and if you’re looking for budget-friendly ways to keep the kids entertained, Cape Town has plenty of options.

Here are some activities the whole family can enjoy.

The Great Outdoors   

Pipe Track Hike 

Pack some snacks and take the kids on a scenic hike along the Pipe Track, located at the start of Tafelberg Road. This family-friendly trail offers stunning views of Cape Town and the Atlantic Ocean, with plenty of lookout points and shady spots to rest along the way. 

Remember to always hike in a group and stick to daylight hours for safety. 

Location: Lower Tafelberg Road
Price: Free 

 

Picnic In Nature  

If you’re after a more relaxed vibe, a picnic at Green Point Park or The Company’s Garden is a fantastic choice. Soak up the rich history and scenic views while enjoying the fresh air. Bring along some board games and other fun activities to keep the kids entertained. And if you don’t feel like packing a lunch, there are onsite restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat. 

Location: Green Point Park: 1 Fritz Sonnenberg Rd, Green Point
The Company’s Garden: 15 Queen Victoria St, Cape Town City Centre
Price: Free

 

Intaka Island Boat Trip 

Intaka Island is an award-winning 16-hectare wetlands in Century City home to 177 species of indigenous fynbos and 120 bird species. Hop on a canal boat for a ride the kids will love. It’s part adventure, part sightseeing, and packed with fun facts. As you cruise along, look out for the abundant bird life in the area.  

Location: 2 Park Ln, Century City, Cape Town
Price: R90 for kids under 12, R100 for adults
Contact: Visit www.intaka.co.za/ 

intaka island for kids century city
Century City Tramway
 

Century City Tramway is a treat for all ages. The charming 20-minute ride travels through the old Ratanga Junction Railway line, offering scenic views of Century City along the way. 

The tram operates on weekends, public holidays, and during school holidays from 10am to 5pm, making it an ideal outing for families and railway enthusiasts alike. Upcoming school holiday dates include 29 March – 6 April, 28 June – 20 July, and 4–12 October. 

Location: Energy Ln, Century City 
Price: R70 per ride. A family pack of 10 rides cost R600.
Contact: Visit centurycitytramway.co.za/   

Free Walking Tour  

For curious kids, a free walking tour is the best way to uncover the city’s hidden gems. Choose from a historic city tour, an Apartheid to Freedom tour, or a colourful Bo-Kaap adventure. The best part? Stunning views around every corner! Tours run three times a day, at 11am, 2pm, and 4:20pm. 

Location: Various 
Price: Free, but donations are welcome 
Contact: Visit freewalkingtourscapetown.co.za/ 

 

Battery Park, V&A Waterfront  

This 1.2-hectare park in the V&A Waterfront’s Canal District is a dream playground for kids these school holidays. They can zoom around the skate and scooter park, kick a ball on the multi-court, or explore the canal. With walking paths, benches, and plenty of space to run wild, it’s the perfect spot for outdoor fun. Since no equipment is provided, please bring your own skateboards, scooters, basketballs, skates, and other items. 

Location: 19 Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront,
Price: Free entry
Contact: Visit waterfront.co.za/battery-park 

battery park v&a

Foodie 

Kalky’s in Kalk Bay 

Take a scenic drive to Kalk Bay and treat the kids to fish and chips at the iconic Kalky’s, located by the bustling harbour. Once you’re done eating, wander around the harbour, pop into some quirky shops, and soak up the seaside charm. Round off the day with a sunset dip at the beach. 

Location: Harbour, Cape Town
Price: From R75
Contact: Call 021 788 1726 

 

Tadaa!  

The kids will absolutely love Tadaa!, the cool artisanal ice cream spot on Kloof Nek Road. With over 20 flavours, including halal-friendly and vegan options, there’s something to make everyone happy. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic cone to enjoy on the spot or want to take a tub home for later, Tadaa! has got your cravings covered.  

Location: 17 Kloof Nek Rd, Gardens
Price: From R30
Contact: Visit bit.ly/3QO5bmt  

 

Why so Cerious 

Craving something sweet and fun? Head to Why So Cerious, Cape Town’s first cereal bar, where you can try a range of local and imported cereals for the ultimate breakfast (or snack). Treat your tastebuds with an ice-cream burger featuring your favourite cereal or sample some of their baked treats. 

Location: 263 Long St, Cape Town City Centre
Price: From R45
Contact: Visit bit.ly/41KOA9l 

 

Gibson’s Gourmet Burgers and Ribs  

Gibson’s at the V&A Waterfront serves up gourmet burgers, finger-licking ribs, and a massive 207 handspun ‘wow’ shakes. With 65 extra toppings to choose from, you can customise your shake to your heart’s content. The kids will love it! Soak in the spectacular harbour views while devouring those burgers and milkshakes. You may never want to leave… 

Location: Shop 157, Shop 157 Lower Level, 19 Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
Price: From R80
Contact: Visit www.gibsonsburgers.co.za/ 

Gibson’s Gourmet Burgers and Ribs

Indoor Fun 

Museum of Dogs 

The Museum of Dogs is a first of its kind in South Africa, and it’s a must-visit for dog lovers. Open Tuesday to Sunday, from 10am to 5pm, kids can explore the many interactive displays and read about unique dogs from all over the globe. Your furry friends are invited to join the fun too! 

Location: 95 Keerom St, Gardens
Price: R100 for adults, R50 for children under 16, and free for children under 10.
Contact: Visit bit.ly/4gjcbmn 

museum for dogs in cape town

Playrock Adventure Park 

With an indoor playpark, trampoline zones, a mini-golf course, and an outdoor mini-soccer pitch, Playrock Adventure Park promises hours of excitement for everyone. When you’re not bouncing through circuits, unwind with drinks and meals at the Restaurant & Bar. Open from Tuesday to Sunday, the venue is also available for private events. 

Location: Freedom Village, R301 Wemmershoek Rd, Southern Paarl
Price: From R60
Contact: Visit www.playrock.co.za/ 

Clay Cafe  

Let your kids’ creativity run wild at Clay Cafe. With locations in City Centre, Hout Bay, and Paarl, this ceramic hand-painting spot makes for the perfect family outing. Enjoy some delicious food and drinks as you get creative together. 

Locations: Hout Bay: Main Rd, Hout Bay, In the City: 199 Bree St Cape Town City, and Paarl: Groot Parys, Jan Van Riebeeck Dr
Price: From R120
Contact: Visit claycafe.co.za/ 

clay cafe hour bay pottery

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