Kid friendly travel for spring 2022

It’s the most joyful season of the year and the perfect opportunity to stretch your legs and get out and about and into nature. If a springtime getaway is on the cards this Heritage Month, here are a few ideas to inspire you to plan a rejuvenating, outdoors-y family holiday that you won’t be quick to forget.

The Flight Centre team shared some of their favourite self-drive holidays that allow you and the whole family to discover the length and breadth of stunning South Africa.

Dreaming of really getting away from it all? A glamping holiday ticks all the boxes, allowing you to unwind and unplug but without any of the pesky 'inconveniences' of camping, such as pitching the tent or squeezing the kitchen sink in the car.

Nestled on the banks of the Sabie River (in the lowveld between Hazyview and Sabie) you'll find AfriCamps at Mackers. This tranquil, leafy camp offers luxury tents and a true glamping experience. The tents are ideally suited for families, accommodating up to 2 adults and 3 kids per tent. For the tweens and older, you can easily book a tent near by giving them the freedom of 'staying on their own!'
 

South African families looking to escape from the daily grind can find a simpler, more relaxed existence on the relaxed Wild Coast. With mild temperatures and the warm Indian Ocean water beckoning, September is a wonderful time to visit. Leave the high heels, power suits and school uniforms at home and settle into the Wild Coast’s laidback lifestyle. There’s always time for a lazy afternoon nap!

 The Wild Coast, and specifically the popular coastal hub of Port Edward, is accessible via flying into Durban's King Shaka International Airport and then it’s an easy two-hour scenic drive.

Where else in South Africa, let alone the world, can you swim alongside penguins or snap selfies with them on the sand? Head to Boulders Beach on the False Bay coastline to mingle with the colony of African penguins that call these waters and rockpools home.

The water may be on the chilly side if you're used to the Indian Ocean, but as far as the Atlantic Ocean goes, it's warmer than most. The shallow waters are family-friendly, and afterwards, you can grab an ice cream cone and fish and chips in Simonstown.

Check out the aha Simon's Town Quayside Hotel for a 5-night stay in a seafront family room including breakfast daily.
 

Can you even say that spring arrives in KZN? Boasting almost 365 days of sunshine, the eternally sunny beaches of Umhlanga draw locals and international visitors’ year-long, craving a good dose of vitamin sea. Spring is a stunning season to visit before the humidity and crowds of summer descend.

And what better way to celebrate Heritage Month than by firing up the braai in the most beautiful location on holiday in Umhlanga? The sought-after resort town is celebrated for its pristine beaches, warm waters, and trendy bars and restaurants.

The 4-star Protea Hotel Fire & Ice by Marriott Durban Umhlanga Ridge is perfect for families offering a 2 bedroom apartment with balcony.
 

View the miracle of life in the malaria-free Waterberg. Temperatures are slowly warming up and, with November signalling the start of the rainy season, the dry winter landscape slowly starts to become lush and green. From September, the first migrant birds start to return from their journey north and, by November, young animals are usually spotted.

Seeing lion cubs playing together, a giraffe calf taking its first teetering steps or, if you are incredibly lucky, a female leopard and her cubs, is an experience you will never forget!

Just two and a half hours from Johannesburg, Mabula Game Lodge makes for a hassle-free family road trip in the malaria-free Waterberg. The lodge welcomes families with open arms with family-friendly main and interleading rooms. From quad biking and bird walks to stargazing and guided bush walks, not a single member of the family will be bored!

A road trip or weekend getaway with friends and family is an ideal way to celebrate spring in South Africa. Wherever you head to this spring, make it a time to remember.