12 September 2017

Families always win with City Sightseeing and the red bus. Besides being the best way to explore Cape Town’s top attractions, it’s also a great activity for families on a budget. With our 3-for-1 Kids’ Special, two kids (under 18) hop on for free with every adult on our one-day, open-top bus or Harbour Cruise tours.

Time for a fun day out in Cape Town with the whole clan? Hop on the red bus!

Top stops for families:

V&A Waterfront (stop 1)

The V&A Waterfront is the gateway to a number of fantastic activities and attractions, from boat cruises and markets to the Two Oceans Aquarium, shopping and a whole lot more. For those who love the outdoors, there is a giant outdoor play park, and the iconic Cape Wheel is an all-round crowd pleaser.

Two Oceans Aquarium (stop 1)

Marvel at the fish and meet a penguin at this magical underwater nature reserve. The aquarium is open 365 days a year from 9.30am to 6pm. Children under four get free access, and to save a little more you can buy tickets online and earn a 10% discount. It’s the perfect opportunity to learn more about marine life, and if you time your visit to coincide with feeding times, even better. You can also get up close and personal with penguins in an “interactive” penguin encounter.

Table Mountain Cableway (stop 7)

Table Mountain is one of the most popular stops on the red bus route, and for good reason, as it has been named one of the New7Wonders of Nature in a major global poll. With the City Tour to Table Mountain, you will be able to jump the long queues at the Lower Cable Station and scoot right up the cableway to enjoy one of the most majestic views in the world.

World of Birds, Hout Bay (stop 22)

There are more than 3 000 bird species to see at the World of Birds sanctuary. And while its name refers only to birds, this sanctuary offers a whole lot more – it’s home to a number of mammals, from monkeys, meerkats and porcupines to baboons and reptiles. World of Birds also has bird-feeding times during which children can interact with penguins. There is a restaurant offering light meals and snacks, but you’re also welcome to bring a picnic basket.

Iziko Planetarium and Digital Dome (stop 14)

Museums provide a fun and educational experience for big and small. With the new Iziko Planetarium and Digital Dome being the most advanced digital planetarium on the African continent, learning has never been more exhilarating. The Digital Dome provides daily shows in the 360-degree cinema, where visitors can virtually explore the universe.

Castle of Good Hope (stop 18)

The idea of a castle fascinates most children, and the fact that the Castle of Good Hope is the oldest surviving colonial building in South Africa makes it even more interesting. Horse-and-carriage rides are conducted from the castle daily at 10.30am, 12.45pm and 2.45pm, and there’s a lot to learn about South African history through guided tours. If you get there before 10am on Mondays to Fridays, you will be right on time for the key ceremony, during which guards deliver the key to open the front door to the fort. Following the ceremony, a bell is rung and a small signal cannon fired.

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden (stop 20)

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is a great place to learn more about the wonders of the Cape’s natural environment. Every year, thousands of schoolchildren enjoy fun interactive workshops, guided walks and reading sessions at what is hailed as one of the great botanic gardens of the world. The entrance fee is R65 for adults, R35 for South African students (with cards) and R15 per child (aged six to 17), while under-sixes go in for free. Pack a picnic basket, hop off at the garden and hop on again later.

Green Point Urban Park (stop 12)

Green Point Urban Park is a fun stop with lots of outdoor activities for children to enjoy. Access to the park is free and there are footprints guiding you around the biodiversity gardens. While watching over the kids, slot in a workout at the outdoor gym or enjoy the lovely view of the Atlantic Ocean.

How does the 3-for-1 Kids’ special work?

The 3-for-1 Kids’ Special tickets can be bought from our tour offices in Cape Town (stops 1 and 5) and Joburg (stop 1). They can also be bought online here. Remember that the offer is only valid on weekends, as well as public and school holidays.

To hop on, simply print out your ticket and present it to the bus driver or ticket office where you’ll also receive your kids’ tickets. Don’t have a printer handy? You’ll receive the adult ticket online and the children’s tickets on the day.

All family members will receive their own sets of earphones to listen to the commentary on board, which is available in 15 languages and includes a special channel for children.

Don’t forget our 3-for-1 Kids’ Special is also valid for the Johannesburg City and Green Tours. Hop on this weekend!