Family-Friendly Cape Town: Top Activities with Kids
June 2026
Travelling with kids in a major city can often be difficult. In Cape Town, however, you’re in safe hands with City Sightseeing and its iconic open-top red bus.
Exploring the Mother City is as easy as hopping on and off at top family-friendly attractions. Here’s our guide to activities to experience with the kids ...
1. Hop on the City Sightseeing Red Bus to see the Best Cape Town has to Offer
The City Sightseeing red bus is undoubtedly the best way to see Cape Town. Think of the experience as an induction to the city, during which you will be taken to all the must-see places that would otherwise have proven difficult to get to if you don’t have a car or map handy. By hopping off and on at over 27 different stops, you will see amazing sights such as Table Mountain, the V&A Waterfront, museums and even some of the best beaches the city has to offer.
How to get there: You can hop on the red bus from any stop en route your journey or at designated ticket offices at the V&A Waterfront, 81 Long Street or Camps Bay. Be sure to buy tickets online for a R20 discount! Don't forget to plan your trip with our comprehensive schedule here.
2. Visit Table Mountain
The Table Mountain Cableway is definitely not to be missed for anyone visiting Cape Town. Rising 1,086 metres above sea level, this iconic flat-topped mountain has become one of the most recognisable natural landmarks in the world. Millions of years old, Table Mountain forms part of the Cape Floral Kingdom, one of the world's richest biodiversity hotspots and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
A ride on the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway is an adventure in itself. The rotating cable car gives visitors panoramic views during the ascent, while the summit offers spectacular vistas stretching across the city, coastline and surrounding mountains.
Things kids will love:
- Spotting dassies (rock hyraxes) around the summit
- Exploring the network of family-friendly pathways
- Learning about local plants and wildlife
- Taking unforgettable family photographs at the top
How to get there: Table Mountain Cableway is stop 7 on our City Tour. Don’t worry about traffic or parking at the world-famous attraction – the red bus will drop you right near the Lower Cableway Station.
3. Go Underwater at the Two Oceans Aquarium
The Two Oceans Aquarium at the V&A Waterfront is one of the most unique aquariums worldwide because of its location at the foot of Africa where two oceans meet. Expect to see an incredible showcase of over 3 000 marine animals found in the Atlantic and Indian oceans, including sharks, turtles, a myriad of fish species and penguins. While you’re here, dare to go a bit closer to the water and you’ll even find our V&A Waterfront Harbour Cruise just outside the Two Oceans Aquarium waiting to take you on a 25-minute journey through the harbour.
How to get there: The V&A Waterfront is stop 1 on our City and Mini Peninsula tours. It is also conveniently located next to our ticket office and the Two Oceans Aquarium .
4. Stop for lunch at the Hard Rock Cafe in Camps Bay
With its palm-lined promenade, white sandy beach and stunning mountain backdrop, Camps Bay offers the perfect family beach day. Children can spend hours building sandcastles, collecting shells and playing along the shoreline while parents relax and enjoy the scenery.
The nearby restaurants and cafés make it easy to stop for refreshments between beach adventures.
Things kids will enjoy:
- Sandcastle building competitions
- Exploring tidal pools
- Watching spectacular sunsets
- Beach games and family picnics
How to get there: Camps Bay is stop 5 on our Mini Peninsula Tour and is also home to one of our ticket offices.
5. Open your Senses at the World of Birds
World of Birds Sanctuary and Monkey Park is the largest of its kind in Africa, boasting more than 3 000 birds and small animals representing over 400 unique species. Since opening in 1973, the sanctuary has played an important role in conservation, rehabilitation and education.
Families can wander through walk-through aviaries and encounter everything from parrots and flamingos to monkeys, meerkats and penguins.
Interactive experiences for children:
- Penguin feeding sessions
- Close-up wildlife encounters
- Educational displays about conservation
- Walk-through aviaries where birds fly freely overhead
- Opportunities to learn about endangered species
How to get there: World of Birds is stop 22 on our Mini Peninsula Tour. While you’re in the Hout Bay area, hop off at Imizamo Yethu, stop 23, to enjoy our Township Walking Tour.
Essential Tips for Visiting Cape Town with Kids
To make the most of your family adventure:
- Start your sightseeing early to avoid peak crowds at major attractions.
- Carry sunscreen, hats and reusable water bottles throughout the year.
- Pack an extra layer, as Cape Town's weather can change quickly.
- Keep snacks on hand for younger children during longer sightseeing days.
- Use the City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off bus to minimise walking between attractions and eliminate parking concerns.
- Consider visiting popular attractions on weekdays when they are generally quieter than weekends and public holidays.
With so many family-friendly attractions connected by the City Sightseeing red bus, exploring Cape Town becomes easy, convenient and enjoyable for visitors of all ages.
Hop-On Hop-Off
Hop on the open top red bus and enjoy the sights of Cape Town – from Table Mountain to the V&A Waterfront, from Camps Bay to Kirstenbosch. The Classic package gives you one full day on the bus covering all hop-on, hop-off tours.
FAQs
What are the best outdoor activities for kids in Cape Town?
Start with a hike up Table Mountain for breathtaking views and the chance to learn about the unique fynbos ecosystem. Another must-see is the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, where children can explore the Boomslang walkway. Visit the World of Birds in Hout Bay, home to over 3,000 birds and small animals. Finally, the beaches of Cape Town, such as Clifton and Camps Bay, provide perfect settings for building sandcastles, playing beach games, and enjoying the ocean.
Are there any indoor activities for kids in Cape Town?
Absolutely! The Iziko South African Museum is a fantastic place for children to learn about natural history and see dinosaur skeletons up close. The Scratch Patch at the V&A Waterfront allows kids to sift through millions of polished gemstones. The Two Oceans Aquarium is another great option, showcasing marine life from both the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. Lastly, the PlayDate SuperPark at the V&A Waterfront offers an indoor play area with obstacle courses, climbing walls, and electronic games.
How do I get around Cape Town with kids?
The City Sightseeing red bus is an excellent choice for families, offering convenient hop-on-hop-off services to major attractions and landmarks. For those preferring to drive, car rental services are widely available, but it's important to consider traffic and parking, especially in busy tourist areas. Public transport, such as the MyCiTi bus service, provides an affordable and efficient way to travel across the city and is stroller-friendly. Additionally, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available and can be booked via mobile apps, offering flexibility and convenience for families on the go.
What are some affordable activities for families in Cape Town?
A visit to the Company's Garden in the heart of the city provides a peaceful retreat with free entry. The Green Point Urban Park is another budget-friendly option. For a small fee, families can also visit the Planetarium at the Iziko South African Museum. Lastly, taking a stroll along the Sea Point Promenade is free and offers beautiful ocean views, playgrounds, and the chance to spot seals or dolphins.
What safety tips should I consider when visiting Cape Town with kids?
Always keep an eye on children in crowded areas and hold their hands when crossing streets. When visiting beaches, be aware of strong currents and only swim in areas supervised by lifeguards. It's also advisable to apply sunscreen frequently and keep hydrated, especially during the hotter months. For hiking activities, choose trails that are suitable for children and ensure everyone wears appropriate footwear. Lastly, keep emergency contact numbers handy and stay informed about local safety advisories, especially if planning to explore remote areas.
