A family trip to Johannesburg, one of the largest cities in Africa, can be a wonderful experience. It is, however, important to find activities that are appropriate for all family members, including children. Fortunately, many activities are designed specifically for children.
Kids who are fascinated by animals will be most excited by the Johannesburg Zoo or by an animal park such as the Lanseria Lion Park near the city. Older kids might find activities such as laser games or horseback riding more exciting and appropriate. If your kids are into thrills, take them to the Gold Reef City Theme Park. Museums are great for parents, but you will want to find kid-friendly exhibits and activities if you are bringing children along. Try the Sci-Bono Discovery Centre for a good, kid-friendly science museum.
Museums such as the Apartheid Museum and Museum Africa offer attractions for children and adults. Likewise, many of the animal viewing and nature experiences are as much of an attraction for parents as they are for children.
Parents can bring their children to most of Johannesburg's attractions, but you should always remember that certain activities will not be as interesting for children. It can also help to intersperse more grown-up activities with kid activities. Keep in mind that a few activities, such as balloon safaris, do not allow small children to take part.
If you're in Johannesburg for a while, tours can be an excellent way to see the city. Bus tours of the city itself are available, and tours outside of the city are also available. Mining and animal-viewing tours are especially popular for families visiting the area.
Johannesburg has a reputation as a dangerous city, and travelers with children need to be especially wary of the dangers when visiting. Robbery is the most common crime that strikes Johannesburg tourists. You can increase your safety and your peace of mind by checking out security issues before you travel. Websites devoted to Johannesburg tourism and the U.S. State Department travel advisory website can all give you this information. Make sure older children are aware of the security risks before you go out. Arrange for meeting points at all attractions in case a child gets lost.
