6 Thrilling Cape Town Safari Tours for Families (And Why You’ll Love Them)
Last Updated on: 14th October 2023, 12:05 pm
Trying to decide between all the different Cape Town safari tours? Wondering which is suitable for your entire family?
No worries – I’ve got you!
As a South African, I’ve been going on safaris since before I can remember. Back then, the whole family would pile into our 4×4 car at the break of dawn with a selection of “padkos” (road trip food) and spend hours at a time driving the dusty dirt roads in search of the elusive Big 5.
As an adult and a travel writer, I traded in the self-drive option from my childhood in exchange for exciting guided game drives in proper open vehicles.
And these exciting experiences are what I’ll be sharing with you in this guide to the best Cape Town safari tours!
These types of guided game drives are also a great family-friendly activity. However, some are only suitable for older children and I’ll make sure to share the age ranges for each of the Cape Town safari tours I share in this blog post. My son has been going on safari with us since he was 2.5 months old so some tour options are definitely more inclusive than others depending on their facilities.
Although the Kruger National Park is usually the go-to destination for safaris, there are still plenty of options to spot wildlife in the region around Cape Town.
Whether you’re seeking a luxury getaway or an affordable yet equally thrilling tour, Cape Town offers something for everyone. In this article, I’ll be exploring six of the best Cape Town safari tours for families that promise to dazzle and delight.
Don’t have time to read the whole article?
Book this Big-Five Safari Full Day Guided Return Transfer from Cape Town which has a perfect 5 ⭐️ rating!
Key Takeaways:
- Cape Town boasts an array of safari experiences to suit all budgets and preferences.
- The tours covered in this article offer unforgettable wildlife encounters and breathtaking scenery.
- From game drives and Big Five sightings to luxurious lodges and multi-day tours, Cape Town safari tours have it all.
- These Cape Town safari tours are a wonderful experience for families but there are age restrictions for some tours.
Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase from one of them I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you, which allows me to keep this blog up and running!
Our Top 3 Picks: Cape Town Safari Tours
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Big-Five Safari Full Day Guided Return Transfer from Cape Town
✔️ Bottled water
✔️ Professional guide
✔️ Hotel pick-up and drop-off
5-Day Garden Route and Addo Safari – Best of South Africa Small Group Tour
✔️ Route 62 Wine Tasting
✔️ Accommodation
✔️ Breakfast
Wildlife Safari, Olive, Beer and Wine Tasting Day Tour from Cape Town
✔️ Toffee tasting
✔️ Game ranged guide
✔️ Live commentary
Top 6 Cape Town Safari Tours
Let’s get into the tours, shall we…
1. Big-Five Safari Full-Day Guided Return Transfer from Cape Town
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 10 hours | Check out Rates & Availability
Experience the thrill of a lifetime with the Big-Five Safari Full-Day Guided Return Transfer from Cape Town.
This express tour caters to those with limited time yet eager to witness the iconic Big Five—lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo. Travel in comfort via an upmarket air-conditioned vehicle, reveling in scenic vistas of the Breede River, Hex River Wine Valley, and the majestic Table Mountain.
It was great and Mike was a outstanding cicerone…. Just perfect!! A dream coming true!!!
~ Patricia (see more reviews)
Perfect for families, this tour offers child rates when sharing with 2 paying adults, while infant seats are available on request (additional cost excluded). This family-friendly tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it a hassle-free adventure for all. Infant meals are not included, but most travelers can easily participate, ensuring a memorable wildlife experience for everyone.
Key Highlights:
- Express tour from Cape Town: Ideal for those with limited time.
- Guided game drive: Maximize your chances of spotting the Big Five.
- Delectable buffet lunch: Delight in culinary excellence, including a glass of champagne.
- Upmarket air-conditioned vehicle: Enjoy a comfortable and scenic journey.
Cape Town Safari Tours
2. 5-Day Garden Route and Addo Safari – Best of South Africa Small Group Tour
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 5 days | Check out Rates & Availability
Embark on an unforgettable 5-day journey, experiencing the best of South Africa’s scenic wonders with the 5-Day Garden Route and Addo Safari – Best of South Africa Small Group Tour.
This expertly curated adventure takes you through the mesmerizing landscapes of the Garden Route, including visits to the Addo Elephant National Park, Wilderness, Jeffreys Bay, and Oudtshoorn.
Such a great trip to experience Garden Route wildlife up close! Gerhardus was an amazing guide.
~ Nicki (See more reviews)
A fantastic choice for families, the tour welcomes children aged 8 and above to join in the adventure. For those aged between 8 and 17, an adult’s company is required, with private room bookings available. Please note that dorm room packages are not open to children under 18, ensuring a comfortable and tailored experience for families.
Key Highlights:
- A 5-day exploration of South Africa’s Garden Route from Cape Town.
- Thrilling hikes in Tsitsikamma National Park and serene canoe rides in Wilderness.
- Capture breathtaking views at Knysna Heads’ lookout points.
- Enjoy the sun-soaked allure of Jeffreys Bay’s famous beaches.
- Wildlife encounters at Addo Elephant National Park, including elephants and big cats.
- Discover a working ostrich farm and experience local authenticity.
- Optional extra activities include bungee jumping, 4×4 game drives, and ziplining.
Cape Town Safari Tours
3. Wildlife Safari, Olive, Beer and Wine Tasting Day Tour from Cape Town
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 9 hours | Check out Rates & Availability
Experience the best of both worlds with the Wildlife Safari, Olive, Beer, and Wine Tasting Day Tour from Cape Town.
This unique excursion combines a thrilling game drive, craft beer tasting, and wine tasting into a single, hassle-free adventure. Allow your driver to navigate the stunning West Coast landscapes as you journey to Buffelsfontein for a guided game drive, immersing yourself in the realm of local wildlife.
Great trip . We saw 97% of the animals during the game drive. Then beautiful stops in Darling for olive,wine and toffee tasting!
~ Georgia (See more reviews)
Tailored for families, the tour offers stroller accessibility and is suitable for most travelers, ensuring a delightful and inclusive safari experience. Participants should not have serious medical conditions or heart problems.
Key Highlights:
- Bottled water, coffee, and tea get provided for refreshment.
- Wine and beer tasting at local breweries and wineries.
- Olive and toffee tasting in Darling.
- Round-trip transportation from central Cape Town for stress-free travel.
- Guided game drive to spot local wildlife in Buffelsfontein.
Cape Town Safari Tours
4. 2-Day Safari Experience from Cape Town
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 2 days | Check out Rates & Availability
Embark on a captivating 2-day journey into the heart of Africa’s wilderness with the 2-Day Safari Experience from Cape Town.
Led by a skilled game ranger, this tour offers you the optimal chance to encounter elephants, giraffes, hippos, lions, rhinos, and more during two exhilarating safari drives. Spend the night in a comfortable game lodge and indulge in a buffet dinner under the stars.
Christopher was a great guide. I absolutely loved the safari and would recommend the experience! My only complaint is that I wish I would have done a longer safari tour!
~ Jessica (see more reviews)
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour welcomes families with infant seats available. It’s suitable for most travelers, provided they don’t have serious medical conditions or heart problems, ensuring an enriching safari adventure.
Key Highlights:
- Overnight accommodation in a cozy game lodge.
- Engaging evening and morning safari game drives.
- Guided commentary to enrich your knowledge of African wildlife.
- Expert game ranger to enhance your wildlife-spotting experience.
Cape Town Safari Tours
5. 3-Day Garden Route Highlights with 4×4 Safari – Small Group Tour from Cape Town
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 3 days | Check out Rates & Availability
Immerse yourself in the allure of South Africa’s famed Garden Route with the 3-Day Garden Route Highlights with 4×4 Safari.
Over three days, journey through this captivating region from Cape Town, uncovering its finest highlights. Delve into a world of adventure as you embark on an elephant bush walk, stroll forest footpaths, and glide along a river by canoe, encountering abundant birdlife.
This whole trip has been such an amazing experience! The safari and the bungee jumping were the highlights for me due to the how surreal those experiences felt to me.
~ Max (see more reviews)
Ideal for families with children aged 8 and above, the tour is an exciting adventure, although it’s important to note that the tour is not wheelchair accessible.
Key Highlights:
- 3-day Garden Route expedition from Cape Town with a focus on highlights.
- Enthralling 4×4 game drive to witness elephants, buffaloes, lions, and rhinos.
- Explore the raw beauty of Klein Karoo and Route 62’s captivating landscapes.
- Optional bungee jump from the iconic Bloukrans Bridge.
- Encounter Africa’s diverse wildlife during 4×4 safaris in private reserves.
Cape Town Safari Tours
6. Full Day Big 5 Aquila Safari Private Transfers Including Park Fee From Cape Town
⭐️ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 10 hours | Check out Rates & Availability
Escape the city’s buzz and venture into the untamed wilderness with the Full Day Big 5 Aquila Safari Tour with Private Transfers.
On this exclusive 10-hour journey, travel via private vehicle to a renowned game reserve in search of the iconic ‘Big 5’—rhinos, lions, leopards, elephants, and buffalo. The adventure doesn’t end here; a winery visit awaits on your return, treating you to a delightful tasting and cheese pairing.
Wonderful day – very well organized and comfortable. Saw plenty of animals and really enjoyed the wine tasting.
~ Garry (see more reviews)
Designed with families in mind, the tour offers infant seats for added comfort, although it’s not wheelchair accessible. The tour is best suited for travelers with a moderate level of physical fitness.
Key Highlights:
- Private 10-hour safari adventure from Cape Town.
- Encounter the ‘Big 5’—rhinos, lions, leopards, elephants, and buffalo.
- Observe giraffes, hippos, cheetahs, and more in their natural habitat.
- Winery visit with tasting and cheese pairing on the return journey.
- Flexibility to select your game reserve and winery.
FAQs about Cape Town Safari Tours
Are these Cape Town safari tours suitable for all ages?
It depends on the tour. Some are suitable for all ages, including infants. For example, the first trip my son Kai took at about 2.5 months was to a Garden Route game reserve. He even went on a guided safari game drive during that trip. However, it’s important to check the minimum age allowed for each trip.
What is included in the Cape Town safari tour packages?
The Cape Town safari tour packages typically include transportation, accommodation, meals, game drives, and guided tours. Please refer to the specific tour details for a comprehensive list of inclusions.
Can I customize my safari tour itinerary?
In most cases, it is possible to customize your safari tour itinerary to some extent. Contact the tour operator to discuss any specific requests or preferences you may have.
Are there any additional costs or fees?
Some Cape Town safari tours may have optional activities or experiences that may incur additional costs. It is recommended to review the tour details or consult with the tour operator to clarify any additional fees before booking.
Is it necessary to have prior wildlife experience for these tours?
No, prior wildlife experience is not necessary. The Cape Town safari tours are designed to provide a memorable and educational experience for all participants, regardless of their previous wildlife knowledge.
What safety measures are in place during the tours?
All tours prioritize the safety and well-being of participants. Experienced guides and rangers accompany the tours and adhere to strict safety protocols. It is important to follow the instructions provided by the guides and respect the wildlife for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Which is the best safari in Cape Town?
For an exceptional safari experience in Cape Town, we highly recommend the “Big Five Safari Guided Day Tour“. This safari tour provides a remarkable opportunity to witness Africa’s iconic Big Five animals – lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros – all within a day’s journey.
Is it worth doing a safari in Cape Town?
Absolutely, doing a safari in Cape Town is definitely worth it! While Cape Town is known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant city life, its proximity to diverse wildlife and natural beauty make it a unique destination for safari enthusiasts. The experience of seeing majestic animals in their natural habitat is incomparable and can create memories that last a lifetime.
Can you go on safari from Cape Town, South Africa?
Yes, you can definitely go on a safari from Cape Town, South Africa. While Cape Town itself doesn’t have the typical sprawling savannas like other safari destinations, there are several game reserves and parks located within a reasonable distance from the city. These reserves offer guided safari tours where you can spot a variety of wildlife species.
What months are best for a safari in Cape Town?
The best months to go on a safari in Cape Town are generally during the South African winter months, which fall between May and September. This is the dry season when vegetation is less dense, making it easier to spot animals near water sources. Additionally, the cooler temperatures during this period are more comfortable for both animals and visitors.
How much is a safari trip in South Africa?
The cost of a safari trip in South Africa can vary widely depending on factors such as the location of the safari, the duration of the tour, the level of luxury, and the type of accommodation. On average, a one-day safari tour from Cape Town can range from around $100 to $300 per person. Multi-day safari packages can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, again depending on the level of luxury and included amenities.
Ready for a Cape Town Safari Tour?
I am convinced that these experiences are a must-try for anyone visiting Cape Town. This list provides a wide variety of options which means that there is something for everyone.
Whether you prefer luxury or budget-friendly options, you can witness the spectacular South African wildlife in their natural habitat. The guided Cape Town safari tours and game drives provide unique opportunities to see the Big Five and other animals.
If you’re looking for a more personalized experience, opt for the Private Tour to Aquila Game Reserve. It offers exclusive access to the safari and a chance to witness the majestic creatures in a more intimate setting.
Finally, plenty of multi-day tours offer a unique overnight stay in beautiful accommodations while enjoying game drives to witness the abundant wildlife in the Garden Route area.
Overall, these tours provide unforgettable wildlife experiences that will last a lifetime. Book your Cape Town safari tour today and discover the breathtaking beauty of South Africa’s wildlife.
South Africa Travel Planning Guide
Do I need travel insurance for South Africa?
YES — With basic coverage averaging just $5-10 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from SafetyWing, one of the biggest names in travel insurance.
Is it safe to rent a car in South Africa?
Yes — Renting a car in South Africa is one of the best ways to see the country and the safest way to get around! I always rent with Discover Cars, which checks both international companies and local South African companies, so you get the best rates.
Will my phone work in South Africa?
Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have a free South African service, buy an Airalo eSim for local coverage.
What’s the best way to book my South Africa accommodations?
For South African hotels, Booking.com is usually the best site but you can also check TripAdvisor for a larger variety of local options. If you’re considering a South African Airbnb, don’t forget to check VRBO, which is often cheaper than Airbnb.
What’s the best site to buy South African flights?
For finding cheap South Africa flights, I recommend using the WayAway App to search and find the best deals – plus you’ll get cashback on your purchases! (Read more)
