The adventures I recommend below are ideal for families with kids in that age range. Note that they are totally suitable for older kids too. But probably not for much younger ones – if you want to make the most of it.
South africa: safari, beaches & culture
Cape Town and its surroundings offer a wealth of family-friendly experiences, with stunning landscapes and rich cultural encounters.
Top 3 activities:
- Explore the cape winelands: Visit family-friendly wineries where you can enjoy picnics in beautiful gardens and let the kids explore outdoor play areas while parents enjoy local wines and fresh produce.
- Boulders Beach: Spend a day at this charming beach known for its resident African penguins. Kids will love watching the penguins up close while enjoying the sandy beach and clear waters.
- Addo elephant national park: Take a self-drive safari through this incredible park, where you can spot elephants and other wildlife. It’s an exciting way for families to connect with nature and learn about conservation.
Extra tip:
Don’t miss the chance to join an oyster tour in Knysna. A boat trip to the oyster farms will give your family a hands-on experience, where you can learn about oyster farming and enjoy fresh samples right from the ocean.
california: roadtrip, desert and national parks
California offers an ideal setting for a family road trip, with diverse landscapes that include beaches, deserts, and awe-inspiring national parks. There’s something for every family, from outdoor adventures to scenic drives.
Top 3 activities:
- Yosemite National Park: Explore Yosemite’s iconic landscapes with your family. Enjoy kid-friendly hikes to waterfalls, picnic near giant sequoias, and keep an eye out for wildlife. The sheer beauty of this national park is an unforgettable experience.
- Joshua Tree National Park: A visit to Joshua Tree is perfect for families who love the desert. Kids will enjoy climbing the park’s unique rock formations, learning about desert ecology, and stargazing under clear night skies.
- Pacific coast highway road trip: Take a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway, stopping at charming beach towns, rugged cliffs, and picturesque viewpoints. Kids will love exploring tide pools and spotting marine life along the coast.
Extra tip:
Consider spending time at Death Valley National Park. The otherworldly landscapes and sand dunes provide a fun place for kids to explore, and the early morning or late evening views of the desert are truly breathtaking.
vietnam: nature, street food and caves
Vietnam is a vibrant and diverse destination, offering a rich mix of culture, adventure, and stunning landscapes to explore together.
Top 3 activities:
- Cultural immersion in Sapa: Engage with local tribes in the Sapa region, where families can participate in rice farming and take in the breathtaking views of terraced rice fields. This is a fantastic way to learn about local traditions.
- Phong Nha caves: Venture into the captivating caves of Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park. Explore the unique cave systems and take nature walks through the stunning landscapes, discovering diverse flora and fauna.
- Relax at the beach in Hoi An: Spend a day at a quieter stretch of beach where kids can play freely. Enjoy a relaxing atmosphere and delicious seafood from nearby beachside eateries.
Extra tip:
Participate in a cooking class in Hoi An that focuses on traditional recipes. This interactive experience allows families to bond while learning about Vietnamese cuisine and enjoying the delicious results of their efforts.
canada: hiking, nature and lakes
Canada’s vast wilderness and pristine natural beauty make it a perfect destination for families who love the outdoors. From mountain adventures to tranquil lakes, Canada offers plenty of great activities.
Top 3 activities:
- Banff National Park (Alberta): Take easy hikes around Lake Louise, go canoeing, or explore the wildlife-rich forests. Kids will be captivated by the clear blue lakes and towering mountains.
- Exploring the lakes of Ontario: Spend time at some of Ontario’s many beautiful lakes. Enjoy swimming, canoeing, or simply relaxing by the water’s edge. It’s an idyllic way to spend time outdoors with plenty of activities to keep kids entertained.
- Whale watching in British Columbia: Head to Canada’s west coast for an unforgettable whale-watching tour. Spot orcas, humpbacks, and other marine life, while learning about the ocean’s incredible ecosystem.
Extra tip:
For something magical, visit Algonquin Provincial Park in Ontario. The park offers a mix of family-friendly hiking trails, wildlife viewing opportunities, and serene lakes for canoeing and camping. It’s a great introduction to the Canadian wilderness for kids.
costa rica: jungle, beaches and volcanoes
Costa Rica is a family paradise, bursting with adventure and natural wonders that you will love to explore.
Top 3 activities:
- Puerto Viejo de Talamanca: Enjoy the laid-back vibe of Puerto Viejo, where families can relax on beautiful beaches, explore tide pools, and enjoy delicious local cuisine at beachside restaurants.
- Monteverde: Discover the magic of the Monteverde Cloud Forest. Enjoy guided nature walks that highlight the unique ecosystem, and learn about diverse wildlife and plant species.
- Osa Peninsula: Immerse yourself in nature on the Osa Peninsula, known for its breathtaking landscapes. Organise and eco-tour to spot wildlife, go hiking, and discover the incredible biodiversity of this region.
Extra Tip:
Join a night tour in the Osa Peninsula to explore the rainforest after dark. This unique experience allows families to see nocturnal creatures and learn about the fascinating ecosystem in a fun and engaging way.
japan: culture shock, ramen and nature
Japan is a fascinating destination for families, offering a seamless blend of ancient culture and modern excitement. From exploring vibrant cities to enjoying serene nature, Japan has a wide variety of exciting activities.
Top 3 activities:
- Cultural immersion in Kyoto: Explore the temples and traditional gardens of Kyoto. Enjoy peaceful strolls through bamboo forests, visit historic temples, and participate in traditional tea ceremonies that will captivate kids’ imaginations.
- Explore Nature in Hakone: Take a relaxing trip to Hakone, where you can enjoy hot springs, ride a cable car over volcanic landscapes, and take a boat ride on Lake Ashi with views of Mount Fuji. The area combines nature with culture in an easily accessible way.
- Tokyo adventure: Spend time exploring Tokyo’s exciting neighborhoods, such as Asakusa and Odaiba. Kids will love the interactive exhibits at the teamLab Borderless museum, themed cafés, and parks like Ueno Zoo or Yoyogi Park, where families can unwind after city exploration.
Extra Tip:
Plan a stay at a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) in the countryside. Kids will enjoy the experience of wearing yukata, sleeping on futons, and eating local Japanese meals together.
argentina: patagonia, culture and nature
Argentina offers everything from vibrant cities to breathtaking natural landscapes. Whether exploring the great outdoors or immersing in local culture, Argentina has a variety of activities to keep kids engaged.
Top 3 activities:
- Patagonia adventure: Head to the southern region of Patagonia, where you can enjoy easy hikes to stunning glaciers like Perito Moreno, boat rides through scenic lakes, and wildlife spotting, including guanacos and condors. The vast landscapes are awe-inspiring for both kids and parents.
- Explore Buenos Aires’ neighbourhoods: Wander through the colorful streets of La Boca or enjoy family-friendly parks like Bosques de Palermo. Kids will love watching the tango dancers in San Telmo or visiting local markets filled with unique crafts.
- Iguazu Falls: A visit to the majestic Iguazu Falls is a must. Take a boat tour to feel the mist of the falls, walk through nature trails, and spot butterflies, monkeys, and colorful birds along the way.
Extra Tip:
For a special experience, visit an Estancia (ranch) outside Buenos Aires. Learn about traditional Argentine cowboy (gaucho) culture, go horseback riding, and enjoy a barbecue feast in the beautiful countryside.
mozambique: beach, wildlife and culture
Mozambique is an incredible family destination, offering pristine beaches, rich cultural heritage, and fascinating wildlife.
Top 3 activities:
- Bazaruto Archipelago: Take a boat trip to the Bazaruto Islands, where you can snorkel or dive in crystal-clear waters to discover vibrant coral reefs and marine life, including sea turtles and dolphins. The tranquil beaches are perfect to play and explore.
- Gorongosa National Park: Embark on a family safari in Gorongosa National Park, where you can spot elephants, lions, and hippos. The park also offers kid-friendly guided tours, focusing on conservation and the local ecosystems.
- Cultural exploration in Maputo: Explore Mozambique’s vibrant capital, Maputo, where you can visit local markets, try traditional Mozambican dishes, and take a walking tour of the city’s fascinating architecture and history.
Extra Tip:
Take part in a local dhow boat tour along the coast. Sail on traditional wooden boats while enjoying the beautiful coastline, and even stopping at remote islands for a relaxing beach picnic or to explore the local wildlife.
As kids grow and their interest vary, we need to look into more ambitious and exciting trips to keep them excited and captivated. But also, to creat very special and unique memories together.
So, are you inspired to plan an ambitious adventure with your family for 2025? These destinations are just an overview of what can be done.
Book a discovery call on the contact page to brainstorm your next family adventure.
