28-06-2025
BLOGGING THE VIEW: 7 family-friendly activities to keep kids busy this holiday
WINTER in KZN is a fantastic time of year – sunny but not too hot, with lots of outdoor events and festivals taking place.
If you're looking for something fun to do with the family this holiday, here are some great winter break activities to consider.
1. Explore the KZN beaches
We're fortunate to have some of the best beaches and, with our subtropical climate, they're even welcoming in winter. The sardine run, which sees shoals of silver fish heading north past the KZN south coast, is also active at this time of year and well worth a visit. Take a beach ball and a picnic for a full day of fun – at no cost.
2. Picnic out in nature
This time of year is also great for getting out and exploring our many nature reserves and parks. Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, iSimangaliso Wetland Park, and Dlinza Forest are right on our doorstep, with several other great spots to explore a bit further afield. Try Yellowwood Park or Durban Botanic Gardens in Durban, or Shongweni Dam and Nature Reserve further inland for birdwatching.
3. Discover museums
Museums are a fun and educational outing, especially on colder days. The KwaZulu-Natal Museum in Pietermaritzburg has fascinating exhibits on natural history, culture and archaeology. Most municipal museums in the province charge limited fees, making them an accessible option for families. Closer to home, there's the Fort Nongqayi Museum Village in eShowe, the Port Natal Maritime Museum in Durban, and the Luthuli Museum in Groutville.
4. Animal farm or reptile park
Animal farms and small wildlife parks are great outings for younger children, offering hands-on interaction with animals in a relaxed setting. There's the Dayspring Equestrian Centre and Animal Farm just outside Empangeni, Zulu Croc Reptile Park in Hluhluwe, Flag Animal Farm in Ballito, PheZulu Safari Park in Hillcrest, and Crocworld Conservation Centre in Scottburgh.
5. Take a hike
Hiking trails are among the best cost-effective activities available, and our diverse terrain means you can pick from beach walks, forest trails, or mountain hikes. There are many local hikes in the Dlinza Forest in eShowe, and the uMlalazi Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Park in Mtunzini. You could also explore further afield, trying the Beachwood Mangroves Nature Reserve in Durban or the many hikes around the Drakensberg region.
6. Local events
The drier, more inviting outdoor weather at this time of year means there are various community farm stalls, markets and outdoor events hosted in June and July. Check out the Zululand Observer for the latest community markets and winter festivals.
7. Fun at home
If travel is a bit cost-prohibitive, you can have lots of fun at home with a bit of creativity. Consider hosting a movie night, garden scavenger hunts, cooking challenges, or arts-and-crafts days at home. The most important thing is to spend time with your little ones!
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