Best Places to Travel with Kids in the World in 2027: Why South Africa Should Top Your List
Planning a family holiday is about finding somewhere that offers more than just beautiful scenery. The best destinations give children opportunities to explore, discover new experiences and create memories that will stay with them long after the holiday ends.
From wildlife adventures in Africa to the theme parks of the United States, the historic cities of Europe and the tropical beaches of Asia, the world is filled with exciting places to travel with kids.
But which destinations offer the best combination of adventure, family-friendly attractions, accommodation, value for money and experiences for different ages?
For families looking for variety, South Africa deserves a place at the very top of the list. Few countries offer such a remarkable combination of wildlife safaris, warm coastal destinations, mountains, outdoor adventures and vibrant cities within one holiday.
In this guide, we explore ten of the best places to travel with kids in the world in 2027, what makes each destination special and why South Africa is our top overall recommendation for an unforgettable family adventure.
1. South Africa – Best Overall Family Holiday Destination
South Africa offers families something truly special: the opportunity to experience several completely different holidays in one country.
Imagine starting your trip with a wildlife safari, spending a few days exploring the mountains and then heading to the coast for a relaxing beach holiday. Children can see elephants in the wild, discover fascinating marine life, explore forests and enjoy sunny days beside the Indian Ocean.
It’s this incredible variety that makes South Africa our top choice for families travelling with children.
Wildlife Safaris and Animal Encounters
For many international visitors, seeing Africa’s wildlife is the highlight of a South African holiday.
Kruger National Park is one of the country’s most famous safari destinations, offering opportunities to see elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras and many other animals in their natural environment.
Families can explore designated roads in their own vehicles or book guided safari experiences with suitable operators.
Addo Elephant National Park in the Eastern Cape is another excellent option, particularly for families exploring the Garden Route and surrounding coastal destinations.
A wildlife safari offers children something very different from a traditional zoo experience. It encourages curiosity about nature, animal behaviour and conservation while giving families the excitement of discovering wildlife together.
Parents should consider the ages of their children when selecting safari activities, as some guided experiences have minimum-age requirements. Malaria precautions are also important in certain wildlife regions, including parts of the Kruger area.
Beach Holidays on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast
South Africa’s coastline is one of its greatest family travel attractions, and the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast is particularly appealing for visitors looking for a relaxed coastal holiday.
Stretching from Scottburgh to Port Edward, the region offers beautiful beaches, tidal pools, coastal towns, nature reserves and a wide selection of family-friendly accommodation.
Popular destinations include Uvongo, Ramsgate, Margate, Southbroom and Marina Beach.
Uvongo Beach is known for its picturesque waterfall and lagoon, while Ramsgate offers a charming coastal atmosphere with restaurants and nearby attractions. Marina Beach is another favourite for families who enjoy spacious sandy beaches and scenic surroundings.
The South Coast is also an excellent base for exploring local markets, nature reserves and family attractions.
For international visitors, the region provides an opportunity to experience a different side of South Africa, away from the country’s busiest tourist centres.
Swimming conditions vary by beach and season, so families should always check local safety notices and use lifeguard-patrolled swimming areas.
Explore more: South Coast Beaches and Coastal Destinations
Cape Town and the Western Cape
Cape Town offers a completely different family holiday experience, combining natural beauty, educational attractions and city adventures.
Children can visit the Two Oceans Aquarium, explore Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden or see African penguins at Boulders Beach.
Table Mountain is another major attraction, offering spectacular views across the city and surrounding coastline when weather conditions permit.
Families can also explore the Cape Peninsula, visit local markets and enjoy scenic coastal drives.
The Garden Route
For families who love road trips, the Garden Route is one of South Africa’s most enjoyable travel regions.
Stretching along the southern coastline, it offers forests, beaches, lagoons, wildlife attractions and charming holiday towns.
Popular stops include Wilderness, Knysna, Plettenberg Bay and Tsitsikamma.
Families can enjoy nature walks, beach outings, boat trips and outdoor activities while travelling between destinations.
Rather than rushing through the entire route, staying several nights in selected towns allows children to enjoy the journey without spending too much time in the car.
Why South Africa Is Our Top Choice
South Africa stands out because families can combine wildlife, beaches, mountains, culture and adventure in one trip.
Accommodation options range from budget-friendly self-catering properties to luxury safari lodges and coastal resorts, giving visitors flexibility when planning their holiday.
For some international travellers, exchange rates can also make South Africa attractive compared with more expensive long-haul destinations, although flights, safari experiences and peak-season accommodation can add significantly to the total cost.
The country’s strongest advantage is its diversity. Whether travelling with toddlers, school-age children or teenagers, families can create a holiday suited to their interests.
2. Japan – Best for Culture, Technology and Family Entertainment
Japan has become one of the world’s most appealing family travel destinations, offering a fascinating combination of modern entertainment, historic traditions and memorable cultural experiences.
Tokyo is a particularly exciting destination for children, with colourful shopping districts, interactive attractions, museums and famous theme parks.
Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea are major highlights for families who enjoy theme park holidays.
Beyond Tokyo, Kyoto offers opportunities to explore traditional temples, gardens and historic neighbourhoods.
Japan’s extensive rail network also makes it possible to travel between major destinations without hiring a car.
For children, the experience of travelling on high-speed trains, discovering Japanese food and exploring a different culture can be just as memorable as visiting major attractions.
Best for: Families with school-age children and teenagers who enjoy cities, technology, theme parks and cultural experiences.
Things to consider: Long-distance flights, busy tourist areas and the cost of accommodation in popular cities.
3. Australia – Best for Beaches, Wildlife and Outdoor Adventures
Australia is another excellent destination for families who enjoy spending time outdoors.
Its combination of beaches, wildlife attractions, national parks and modern cities makes it suitable for a wide range of family holidays.
Sydney offers famous landmarks, family-friendly beaches and attractions such as Taronga Zoo.
Queensland is particularly popular for tropical holidays, with destinations including the Gold Coast and Cairns.
Families can explore beaches, visit wildlife attractions and discover the natural beauty of the surrounding regions.
The Great Barrier Reef is another extraordinary destination, although activities should be selected according to children’s ages, swimming abilities and operator requirements.
Australia also offers opportunities to see kangaroos, koalas and other native wildlife through responsible wildlife experiences.
Best for: Families who enjoy beaches, wildlife, outdoor activities and self-drive holidays.
Things to consider: Australia is a large country, and travelling between major destinations can involve long distances and additional flights.
4. Italy – Best for History, Food and Cultural Discovery
Italy is one of Europe’s most rewarding family holiday destinations.
From the historic streets of Rome to the canals of Venice and the beautiful landscapes of Tuscany, the country offers opportunities to combine sightseeing with relaxed family experiences.
Rome is particularly fascinating for children interested in ancient history.
The Colosseum, Roman Forum and other historic landmarks bring stories of the Roman Empire to life.
Venice offers a completely different experience, with canals, bridges and boat transport creating a memorable setting for younger travellers.
Families can also enjoy Italy’s coastal regions, countryside villages and lakes.
Italian food is another advantage for many families, with familiar options such as pizza and pasta available throughout the country.
Best for: Families who enjoy history, food, sightseeing and cultural experiences.
Things to consider: Popular destinations can become extremely crowded during the European summer, and extensive walking may be tiring for younger children.
5. Thailand – Best for Tropical Family Holidays
Thailand is a popular destination for families looking for tropical beaches, warm weather and a mix of relaxation and adventure.
Phuket and Krabi offer beautiful coastal scenery, family resorts and opportunities for boat excursions.
Families can enjoy swimming, exploring local markets, discovering Thai cuisine and visiting cultural attractions.
Bangkok provides a different experience, with temples, river excursions, shopping centres and city attractions.
Chiang Mai in northern Thailand offers mountain scenery, cultural experiences and opportunities to learn about local traditions.
When choosing wildlife activities, families should prioritise responsible operators that do not offer elephant riding or exploitative animal encounters.
Best for: Families who enjoy tropical beaches, resorts, cultural activities and varied dining experiences.
Things to consider: Tropical heat, seasonal rainfall and travel-health precautions should be considered when planning a trip.
6. Costa Rica – Best for Rainforests and Wildlife Discovery
Costa Rica is one of the most exciting destinations for families who love nature.
Located in Central America, the country is known for its rainforests, wildlife, volcanoes and beautiful coastlines.
Children may have opportunities to see monkeys, sloths, colourful birds and other wildlife while exploring protected natural areas.
The Arenal region is popular for its volcanic landscapes, walking trails and outdoor attractions.
Monteverde is famous for its cloud forests, while coastal destinations offer beaches and marine activities.
Costa Rica is particularly appealing for families who want their children to learn about biodiversity and environmental conservation.
Best for: Nature-loving families with school-age children and teenagers.
Things to consider: Travel between destinations can be slow, and some adventure activities have minimum-age, height or fitness requirements.
7. United States – Best for Theme Parks and Big Adventures
The United States offers an enormous variety of family holiday experiences.
Orlando in Florida is one of the world’s best-known family entertainment destinations, with Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando attracting visitors from around the globe.
For families who enjoy theme parks, the range of rides, entertainment and themed experiences is difficult to match.
But the United States offers much more than theme parks.
National parks such as Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon provide opportunities to explore dramatic landscapes and learn about the natural world.
California offers beaches, major cities and family attractions, while New York provides museums, parks and iconic sightseeing experiences.
Best for: Families looking for theme parks, entertainment, national parks and major city attractions.
Things to consider: Theme park tickets, accommodation, transport and dining can make family holidays expensive, especially during peak travel periods.
8. New Zealand – Best for Scenic Family Road Trips
New Zealand is a wonderful destination for families who enjoy nature, scenic drives and outdoor activities.
The country offers mountains, lakes, forests, beaches and charming towns.
Queenstown is famous for its adventure activities, while Rotorua offers geothermal attractions and opportunities to learn about Māori culture through appropriate cultural experiences.
Families can also explore national parks, enjoy easy walking trails and discover beautiful landscapes.
New Zealand is particularly suitable for self-drive holidays, although parents should plan manageable daily distances and allow time for rest stops.
Best for: Families who enjoy road trips, hiking, nature and outdoor adventures.
Things to consider: Long-haul travel, accommodation costs and rapidly changing mountain weather.
9. Portugal – Best for Relaxed European Family Holidays
Portugal offers an appealing combination of beaches, historic towns, family attractions and relatively manageable travel distances.
The Algarve is particularly popular with families, thanks to its coastal scenery, sandy beaches and resort accommodation.
Lisbon offers trams, museums, historic neighbourhoods and the well-known Oceanário de Lisboa aquarium.
Families can also explore smaller coastal towns and countryside destinations.
Portugal is a good option for visitors who want a European holiday with opportunities to balance sightseeing and relaxation.
Best for: Families with younger children who enjoy beaches, cultural attractions and relaxed sightseeing.
Things to consider: Popular coastal destinations can become crowded during July and August, and some historic areas have steep streets and uneven walking surfaces.
10. United Arab Emirates – Best for Modern Attractions and Family Resorts
The United Arab Emirates has developed a strong reputation for family entertainment, luxury resorts and modern attractions.
Dubai offers water parks, aquariums, shopping centres, desert excursions and family-friendly entertainment.
Abu Dhabi is another appealing destination, with major attractions on Yas Island and cultural experiences elsewhere in the city.
One advantage of visiting the UAE is the wide selection of indoor attractions, particularly useful during periods of extreme heat.
Families can combine resort relaxation with entertainment and sightseeing.
Best for: Families who enjoy water parks, modern attractions, shopping and resort holidays.
Things to consider: Summer temperatures can be extremely high, making outdoor activities uncomfortable or unsuitable during the hottest parts of the day.
Comparing the Best Family Holiday Destinations in the World
Every destination offers something different, and the best choice depends on your family’s interests, budget and preferred style of travel.
| Destination | Best family experience | Main consideration |
|---|---|---|
| South Africa | Wildlife, beaches and adventure | Distances, safety and regional health planning |
| Japan | Theme parks and culture | Busy cities and accommodation costs |
| Australia | Beaches and native wildlife | Long distances and expenses |
| Italy | History, food and sightseeing | Crowds in peak summer |
| Thailand | Tropical beaches and resorts | Heat and rainy seasons |
| Costa Rica | Rainforests and wildlife | Travel times between regions |
| United States | Theme parks and national parks | Potentially high holiday costs |
| New Zealand | Nature and road trips | Long-haul travel and costs |
| Portugal | Beaches and European culture | Summer crowds |
| UAE | Water parks and modern entertainment | Extreme summer heat |
Why South Africa Offers Something Different for Families
What makes South Africa particularly appealing is the opportunity to combine experiences that would require visiting several different destinations elsewhere in the world.
A family could enjoy a safari in Kruger National Park, explore the Drakensberg mountains and spend the final part of their holiday relaxing beside the Indian Ocean.
Alternatively, visitors could combine Cape Town with a Garden Route road trip and wildlife experiences in the Eastern Cape.
This flexibility allows families to create itineraries that balance adventure, relaxation and discovery.
Wildlife Experiences Children Will Remember
Seeing elephants, giraffes and other wild animals in their natural habitat is an experience that can stay with children for a lifetime.
South Africa’s national parks and private reserves provide opportunities for families to learn about wildlife conservation and the importance of protecting natural environments.
Beautiful Beaches and Coastal Towns
South Africa’s coastline offers everything from the dramatic Atlantic scenery of the Western Cape to the warmer Indian Ocean waters of KwaZulu-Natal.
For families seeking a traditional summer beach holiday, the KZN South Coast offers a particularly attractive combination of coastal scenery, accommodation and activities.
Adventure for Different Ages
Older children and teenagers can enjoy suitable guided outdoor adventures, while younger children may prefer beaches, wildlife viewing, parks and gentle nature walks.
The ability to choose between relaxed and active experiences is one of South Africa’s greatest strengths as a family destination.
Accommodation for Different Budgets
Families can choose from self-catering holiday apartments, guesthouses, resorts, countryside cottages and safari lodges.
Self-catering accommodation is particularly useful for longer holidays, allowing parents greater flexibility with meals and daily routines.
International visitors should compare the complete cost of their trip rather than relying on exchange rates alone.
Best Places to Travel with Kids by Age
Children’s interests and abilities change as they grow, and choosing age-appropriate activities can make a major difference to the success of a holiday.
Toddlers and Preschoolers
For younger children, destinations with comfortable accommodation, easy access to attractions and opportunities for relaxed outdoor play are often the best choice.
Beach holidays, family resorts and short countryside breaks can work well.
South Africa’s coastal towns, Portugal’s Algarve and selected resort destinations in Thailand are worth considering.
Children Aged 6–12
School-age children are often ready for more adventurous experiences.
Wildlife safaris, aquariums, theme parks, nature trails and cultural attractions can make holidays exciting and educational.
South Africa, Japan, Australia and Costa Rica offer particularly varied opportunities for this age group.
Teenagers
Teenagers often appreciate holidays that include adventure, independence and opportunities to try new activities.
Surfing lessons, hiking, wildlife photography, guided kayaking and outdoor excursions can add excitement to a family trip.
South Africa, New Zealand, Australia and the United States offer many possibilities for active family holidays.
When Is the Best Time to Travel with Kids?
The best time to travel depends on the destination and the experiences your family wants.
South Africa is a year-round destination, although conditions vary considerably between regions.
December and January are popular for beach holidays, particularly along the KwaZulu-Natal coast, while the drier winter months are often favourable for wildlife viewing in northeastern safari regions.
Japan is especially popular during spring and autumn, while Italy and Portugal attract many visitors during the European summer.
Thailand and Costa Rica have regional wet and dry seasons that can influence travel plans.
Australia and New Zealand experience summer during the Southern Hemisphere’s December-to-February period.
Families should consider school holidays, seasonal weather, accommodation availability and attraction operating schedules before booking.
Planning an International Family Holiday
Travelling internationally with children requires additional preparation, but a little planning can make the experience much easier.
Start by choosing a destination that suits your children’s ages and interests rather than trying to visit every famous attraction.
Consider the length of the flight, time-zone changes, transport between destinations and the availability of family-friendly accommodation.
It’s also important to check passport validity, visa requirements, travel insurance and any destination-specific health recommendations.
For South Africa, families should research local travel conditions, road safety and malaria-risk areas when planning safari itineraries.
A good family holiday should include enough flexibility for unexpected changes, rest days and spontaneous adventures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best country to visit with kids?
South Africa is our top overall recommendation because it offers an exceptional combination of wildlife, beaches, mountains, outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. However, the best destination depends on your family’s budget, interests and travel preferences.
Is South Africa a good destination for a family holiday?
Yes. South Africa offers family-friendly accommodation, national parks, beaches, nature attractions and outdoor activities. Families should plan transport carefully, choose suitable accommodation and follow local safety and health guidance.
What are the best international destinations for younger children?
South Africa, Portugal, Japan and selected family resort destinations in Thailand offer activities suitable for younger children. The best choice will depend on travel distance, accommodation and the types of experiences your family enjoys.
Where should families travel for wildlife experiences?
South Africa and Costa Rica are excellent choices for wildlife-focused holidays. Australia also offers opportunities to discover unique native animals, while several other countries have outstanding protected natural areas.
What are the best places to travel with teenagers?
South Africa, New Zealand, Australia and the United States offer a wide selection of outdoor activities and adventures that can appeal to teenagers.
Is South Africa an affordable family holiday destination?
South Africa can offer good value for some international visitors, particularly when choosing self-catering accommodation and combining free outdoor attractions with paid experiences. However, international flights, luxury safari lodges and peak-season accommodation can be expensive.
Where is the best place to travel with kids in December?
South Africa, Australia and New Zealand offer summer holiday experiences in December. The UAE can also be appealing for families seeking milder weather than its extremely hot summer months. Destination-specific weather and school holiday crowds should always be considered.
Final Thoughts: Why South Africa Tops Our Family Travel List
The world is filled with extraordinary places to explore with children.
Japan offers fascinating cultural experiences, the United States is famous for its theme parks, Costa Rica is a paradise for nature lovers and Australia provides beautiful beaches and wildlife adventures.
Each destination has something special to offer.
But when it comes to combining wildlife, beaches, mountains, culture and outdoor adventure in one holiday, South Africa is difficult to beat.
From spotting elephants on safari to discovering the scenic beauty of Cape Town, exploring the Garden Route and enjoying warm summer days on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast, the country offers opportunities for families to experience something new every day.
For parents looking to create a holiday filled with adventure, discovery and lasting memories, South Africa deserves to be at the top of the list.
Planning a family holiday in South Africa? Discover our guide to the Top 10 Holiday Destinations for Families in South Africa and explore the many beautiful destinations waiting to be discovered.
Last updated: 7 November 2026.
