Aurelia Mbokazi-Kashe

With Freedom Day falling on a Sunday this year, and Monday 28 April declared a public holiday, many South African families are enjoying a much-needed break. Throw in May Day on Thursday, 1 May, and the result is a sweet spot in the calendar that offers a rare opportunity to rest, reset, and reconnect as a family. With schools are closed, you don’t have to worry about keeping your children entertained – we got you covered!

If you’ve chosen to stay in Gauteng, no need to worry about cabin fever or screen overload next week— the province is packed with fun, educational, and exciting experiences that are perfect for families. We’ve rounded up some great options that combine history, wildlife, adventure and memory-making moments.

There’s something in this guide to keep everyone entertained and inspired. Best of all, they cater to a range of ages and interests, so there’s something for everyone.

Apartheid Museum, Ormonde, Johannesburg

Visiting the Apartheid Museum around Freedom Day brings powerful perspective and a chance for your family to reflect on how far we’ve come as a nation. Expect an emotional, thought-provoking journey through South Africa’s past. It’s a powerful walk through history and while it is open to children from the age of ten upwards, is it best suited to older children and teens due to the emotional trauma they might experience. Expect film screenings, interactive displays and exhibitions.

Hector Pieterson Museum, Orlando West, Soweto

This is the perfect way to introduce kids to South Africa’s history of youth activism, right in the heart of Soweto. It shares a story of youth and courage through a moving tribute to the young people of 1976.

Xplore guided tours, exhibitions, and historic sites in Soweto. After that, hop over to Vilakazi street to visit Madiba’s old home or to the restaurants that line up that famous street for a hearty meal. This activity suits children from the age of 10 upwards and can be emotional.

Jozi X Adventure Park, Bryanston, Johannesburg
If you are an adventurous family and are looking for games and adrenaline-pumping activities, this is the perfect place for you. Outdoor obstacle courses are highly energetic and help kids from the age of 5 upwards to burn energy and boosts confidence while still having lots of fun.

They can look forward to parkour, zorbing, obstacle course, trapeze and mountain boarding, and parents can join in too!

Lion & Safari Park, Broederstroom
Here you get a chance to see lions, giraffes, zebras and more up close, making it an unforgettable day. It is an exciting wildlife experience just outside Joburg.

There are self-drives, guided game drives, cheetah feedings, lion cub encounters and there’s a great restaurant and kids’ play area on-site too. The park is open to children of all ages and adults, it’s a perfect wild day out.

Sci-Bono Discovery Centre, Newtown, Johannesburg.
This is a wonderland offering learning disguised as fun, and is perfect for curious minds and school-holiday stimulation. There are interactive science and technology interactions.

Expect to immerse your children in hands-on exhibits, experiments, puzzles and STEM activities. This place will appeal to children from age 4 to 16.

Gold Reef City, Ormonde, Johannesburg.
Kids just never tire of Jozi’s famous theme park no matter how often they go. There’s something for every age and bravery level.

Thrill rides, mine tour, 4D theatre, kiddie rides, live entertainment, its our version of Disney World, albeit much smaller. There’s something to and experience for all ages, even the young at heart.

Pretoria National Botanical Garden, Brummeria, Pretoria
If you are looking for a peaceful escape from city noise and some quality time to
recharge as a family, then you’ve come to the right place.

Xplore tranquil gardens and open green spaces, and take nature walks, enjoy bird watching or picnics, or practice photography. This is perfect for all ages.

Constitution Hill, Braamfontein, Johannesburg
The stories of struggle and justice come to life, an ideal stop around Freedom Day for older kids and teens to see democracy in Action. There is a museum and heritage site housed in a former prison, they can learn about our dark history.

This is also the seat of the country’s apex court, the Constitutional Court and if you are lucky, they might just be sitting and you can experience it in action.