Fun things to do this holiday with your kids in Johannesburg

Johannesburg is the ideal place if you are looking for a city that is bustling with culture, shopping malls, outdoor activities, historical sites and wildlife. Although the City of Gold is known for the fast life, there are many family-friendly activities you and your children can do when visiting Johannesburg.

Whether you are a tourist or a South African wanting to fly to Johannesburg, you are guaranteed a wonderful time, especially when you know of all the hip places. There are many fun things for kids in Johannesburg. So, read down below to find out what you and your family can do when travelling to Johannesburg. 

Cradle of humankind

If you’re looking for a full-day trip for your children while they’re on school holiday, then the Cradle of Humankind, also known as Maropeng Visitors Centre, is perfect for you and the little ones. The Cradle of Humankind is an award-winning, world-class exhibition that focuses on human development. The best thing about this centre is its kid-friendly design with many activities for children. For instance, the centre has an underground boat ride and a fossil display for kids, to help them understand South African heritage. With different activities, you’re guaranteed to go home with exhausted, but happy kids. 

Apartheid museum

For children who are already learning about Apartheid in history class, this is perfect for them. The saying that learning never stops is true, but this time it can be made fun. The museum, which was opened in 2001, tells the story of Apartheid. The museum showcases short films, images, text panels and artefacts that illustrate the events that took place during that time. This is also a great way to teach your children where South Africans have come from. 

James Hall Museum of Transport 

For all the kids who love cars, trucks, fire engines, trains and buses, the James Hall Museum of Transport, which is the largest transport museum in South Africa, is a fun treat. At the museum, children can see how humankind travelled around in Johannesburg over 400 years ago. 

Kloofendal Nature Reserve

If your little adventure-seekers enjoy being in the outdoors and hiking, then Kloofendal Nature Reserve should be on your list of places to go. The nature reserve is a cultural heritage site where there are different activities, like hiking, concerts and speeches. 

Honeydew mazes

Enjoy some quality time getting lost in the Honeydew Mazes with your children. At Honeydew Mazes, you and your kids can play in the maze, and solve puzzles, quizzes and tasks to find your way out. This is a perfect family outing, and as you know, a little competition never hurt anyone, so you can set up teams and play against each other. 

Gold Reef City 

Gold Reef City is one of Johannesburg’s top attractions. The theme park is located on an old gold mine, which was closed in 1971. The theme park has 18 rides, 13 of which are child-friendly, a trampoline park, and an underground mine tour. Not only will it be fun for your kids, but for you as the parent too, as they have fun activities for people of all ages. Gold Reef City also has a couple of retail stores and restaurants for you and your family to have a quick bite afterwards.

Harties Cableway   

Although you won’t see Table Mountain, Harties Cableway still has a breathtaking view. When you reach the top, not only will you be welcomed by the beautiful view, but you can also grab something to eat, and the kids can go play at the Kids Zone. This is a perfect place to go out and have lunch with your children. But don’t forget to bring your camera, because the view is spectacular. 

The Johannesburg Zoo

You haven’t done everything in Johannesburg unless you go to the Johannesburg Zoo. The zoo has different activities with guided tours for you to get insightful knowledge about the zoo. At the Johannesburg Zoo, you can decide whether you want to go to the day tours, night or snooze tours. The snooze tours are perfect for when you want to stay the night. The zoo also has holiday programmes where little ones can join the zoo club. They can spend time over school and public holidays. 

Conclusion

There are several things to do in Johannesburg, even with children around. And they’re enough to keep them busy the whole holiday. Children love learning and being in the outdoors, so the holidays are a perfect time for them to have fun. But during the activities, always make sure the children wear comfy clothes as many of these activities require walking and running around all day. The activities are already going to leave the children exhausted, so don’t make their clothes make the experience uncomfortable.