10 family-friendly activities to enjoy in KZN all-year round
Fed up with your kids just sitting in
front of the television or with iPad in hand? Well, maybe it is time you got
them into the car and took them on an adventure?
KwaZulu-Natal is packed with fun activities for families to get stuck into, so there really is no excuse not to go and enjoy your surroundings with your loved ones.
READ: How to enjoy a solo holiday
Here is our choice of 10 things you can do as a family at any time of the year in KwaZulu-Natal:
uShaka Marine World
uShaka Marine World in Durban does not need too much of an explanation, but people tend to forget just how much family fun can be had there. Where else in the world can you go from watching a pirate show to seeing sharks being fed right in front of your eyes?! And we haven't even touched on the water park yet! Don't forget that you can also zipline above a reef and even play with venomous snakes - say what?! There is literally so much fun to be had at uShaka Marine World that you would be foolish to ignore its lure for your next family outing.
Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park
If you ask anyone who has ever been to a game reserve, they will tell you that it provides one of the most relaxing experiences around. KZN locals are lucky to have Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park in fairly close proximity, so why not pack your bags, pull the kids away from their screens and take them away for a few nights to experience the tranquillity of the bush? This will allow for some great bonding time over the fire while discussing the sightings of the day, and will give your kids a welcome break and time to relax from the stresses of school life. There are options to suit every budget, so now is the time to go on an adventure to find the Big 5 as a family.
Explore the Drakensberg
Time to get some fresh air set to the backdrop of magnificent scenery. The Drakensberg region offers so much more than just a pretty place to have a picnic, with a plethora of activities available to the whole family. Hikes, horse riding, scooter trails, ziplining, and quad biking are just some of the fun activities you can enjoy as a family. If you prefer something a bit more chilled, then pack a picnic and some board games and go and relax at the foot of some of the most stunning mountains the world has to offer. You won't regret your decision.
Galleria Ice Rink
Fancy a trip to the mall with the family but are not keen on sitting in the cinema? Well, the Galleria Ice Rink at the Galleria Shopping Centre in Amanzimtoti provides you with family fun which the kids will remember forever. Yes, it may take some time to get the hang of ice skating, but all the falls and spills will provide the family with an experience they will never forget - and a few LOL moments. Just don't forget to pack a warm top, as the ice rink does tend to get a bit chilly - even if it is 40 degrees outside.
Flag Animal Farm
Do your kids love animals? Well, Flag Animal Farm in Ballito will provide them with the chance to get up close and personal with some friendly animals, all while having a great day out. Home to over 1,000 animals, birds, reptiles, wolves, and alpacas, your family outing just got a whole lot more interesting. I mean, who wouldn't want to go and check out wolves?! Flag Animal Farm appeals to kids of all ages - yes, you too mom and dad, and will provide a fun and educational day out. You can even hold snakes... if you are brave enough!
The Beach
KwaZulu-Natal is blessed with some of the most gorgeous coastline in the world - that is a fact. Throw into the mix the fact that the tropical climate makes every day of the year a good time to visit the beach, and you have no excuses but to go an enjoy the splendour of the sand and waves. Pack a picnic and beach accessories and take your family down to the beach for some fun in the sun. Please don't forget to pack your sunscreen - there is nothing worse than a sunburn after a fun day out with the kids.
Giba Gorge Horse Trails
Have you always wanted to ride a horse but have been a bit worried about how you will fare? Well, the Giba Gorge Horse Trails welcomes everyone with a desire to give horse riding a go - and you won't look back afterwards. Take the kids on an adventure they will never forget by exploring the great outdoors on the back of a horse. Now that is our idea of a good time!
People's Park at Moses Mabhida Stadium
Need a space for the kids to let loose while knowing that they will be safe? The People's Park at Moses Mabhida Stadium allows families to let their hair down and just chill. If you prefer to be a bit more active, bring your bike along or let the kids explore the various activities on offer. Bring your own picnic or enjoy some tasty treats at the on-site cafe. If you are looking for a family day out that won't break the bank, this is it. The People's Park at Moses Mabhida Stadium has enough going on that you will not only leave with a smile on your face, but your kids will leave with memories that will last a lifetime.
Midlands adventure
This particular activity lends itself to exploring the beauty of the countryside as a family. There is something for everyone along the way, but the true bonding experience lies in the journey with your loved ones. Not every journey has to be planned to the hour, so pack the car and explore. The Midlands contains such natural beauty that just driving around is an event in itself. Stop for some delicious food, check out the art on offer, or just live in the moment with your family. It is well worth the effort.
Sugar Rush Park
'Spend more time with the family. Adventure more. This is your happy place.' That is the promise made by Sugar Rush Park - so why wouldn't you want to take the family there? Located on the Dolphin Coast, Sugar Rush Park caters for every family member, with its ethos being firmly rooted in the need for people to live a healthy lifestyle. The kids can go wild, the parents can join in, while granny and grandpa can tag along too. Putt putt, a petting zoo, Parkrun, laser rush, and a reptile park are just some of the many attractions on offer. Fun, fun, fun will be had by all.
To find out more information about Durban, visit http://visitdurban.travel/