african penguins
South Africa

South Africa is teeming with so many creatures it would be hard for kids not to experience a close encounter - from a swim with penguins at the Cape of Good Hope to the town of St. Lucia with hippos roaming the streets.

Cities

Cape Town
Durban
Johannesburg
Regions

Western Cape
Eastern Cape
KwaZulu-Natal
Gauteng
Kruger National Park
Tip: You can rent a car and drive around South Africa, the highways are good. However, a South African parent writes that it's best to use designated rest stops. Another option to self-driving is to hire a tour guide who will take you all over the country in a van.
Fun food
Hand pies are typical South African fast food that can be picked up at most any fuel stop or farm stall. They are a variation of hot, British meat pies, with gravy or curry, and come in a variety of meat options including local wild game, in addition to beef and lamb. Or for a great snack, try biltong. Incredibly popular in South Africa, it's like beef jerky, only better, and comes in varieties such as ostrich and kudu.