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Trust Mahlatini to help you plan an unforgettable family holiday in Cape Town. Planning activities that your children will enjoy can be a challenge, so we’ve put together a list of the Mahlatini team's favourite family activities in Cape Town. With expert guides who bring a wealth of local knowledge, you can expect a once-in-a-lifetime holiday that will be cherished by every family member for years to come.
Go Kayaking from the Waterfront
Kayaking along Cape Town’s beautiful coastline is a lovely way to spend a morning. Trips are typically between 1.5 and 2 hours. If you’re lucky, you may spot dolphins, sunfish (mola mola), Cape fur seals, and possibly whales from June to November. The calm waters near the harbour make it easy for young children and beginners to take part. It’s a wonderful way for children to connect with nature.
Expert Tip: Pair this with lunch at a nearby local restaurant to turn it into a great family day trip in Cape Town. Voted as a top 10 Travel+Leisure® World’s Best Tour Operator in 2025 by discerning travellers, Mahlatini's travel experts can recommend hidden gems away from the tourist hotspots, so you can experience the city like a local.
Hike, Cable Car or Scootour up Table Mountain
For outdoorsy families seeking adventure, a hike up and down Table Mountain is a must. Routes such as Platteklip Gorge, Skeleton Gorge, and Kasteelspoort all offer varied terrain and unique insight into the mountains amazing flora and fauna. Another idea is to hike up the mountain, and descent on a non-motorised scooter, although this is not for the faint of heart!
Younger children will enjoy taking the arial cableway to the top. Once they’ve summited, they can stroll the pathways atop the mountain and enjoy the beautiful views. Operating hours vary with the seasons, you should expect shorter days in winter and longer ones in summer. The cableway may also close in high winds or poor weather, so it’s worth a quick check on the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway website before you set out.
Expert tip: Purchase a fast track ticket to skip the long queues and get immediate access to the cableway.
Cycle along Sea Point Promenade
Hire bicycles or e-bikes for a lovely ride along the paved promenade stretching from Mouille Point to Bantry Bay. Apart from the amazing sea views, you can enjoy the public art along the route, playgrounds and takeaway spots for snacks along the way. Pause for a break along the way to explore other attractions such as the Green Point Urban Park or the Mouille Point Lighthouse.
Expert tip: You’re free to pick up a bicycle from any designated station and drop it off at another, no need to pedal all the way back to where you began. Hire is charged by the hour, and a complimentary helmet and bike lock is included, ensuring both comfort and peace of mind as you explore at your leisure.
Walk Around Bo-Kaap and the Company’s Gardens
Take a guided walk through Bo-Kaap's beautiful cobbled streets and vibrantly painted homes for a glimpse into Cape Town's heritage. A cooking class offers the chance to learn Cape Malay culinary traditions, engaging both children and adults. Follow this with a visit to the tranquil Company’s Garden, which offers shaded walkways, ornate fountains, and seasonal blooms. It is also home to the Iziko South African Museum, the Iziko South African National Gallery, and the Iziko Planetarium and Digital Dome.
Scenic Helicopter Flight
See Cape Town from new heights with a scenic flight! Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the city’s most recognisable landmarks, from the curve of Camps Bay beach and the Twelve Apostles mountain range to the sheer cliffs of Table Mountain. Flights are typically around 15 to 45 minutes, depending on where you'd like to go. Explore the Atlantic Seaboard, or venture further to Cape Point or False Bay. It's a wonderful family friendly activity that is often a highlight for children.
Why Book Your Family Holiday in Cape Town with Mahlatini
Whether you’re looking for family-friendly restaurants, child-friendly accommodation, or immersive things to do in Cape Town with kids, Mahlatini's dedicated team is ready to assist you in creating your dream family holiday in Cape Town. With insider knowledge, we will whisk you away from the crowds and towards memorable experiences across Cape Town. Connect with one of our travel experts to begin charting your journey.
