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Cape Town - School holidays are three weeks in, and keeping them entertained can be a daunting task. And, there's still a good couple of weeks to go until the first term begins.
They've watched movies galore, and come next week they'll probably be bored of all the Christmas goodies they've nagged for all year too.
Catching the cool SUV
The Chevrolet Trailblazer is the ideal vehicle to gather your children, including their friends and cousins and take them to some rather amazing places, especially down in the Western Cape. Strap them all in, or pull up the third row of seats in the rear and you're good to go. The high driving position and large windows gives for a great view for all passengers and will leave them in suspense as you drive to the different destinations - if you keep it a surprise that is.
READ: 10 things you should know about the refreshed Chevrolet Trailblazer
Or perhaps the children are older and need to be dropped off at the mall for movies, and or milkshakes and burgers. Either way, the SUV's cool looks won't harm their street credit when dad or mom drops them off anywhere with their pals.
I love that the third row of seats is completely flat when not in use so it doesn't compromise on boot space. And when you do need even more space, the second row of seats tumble forward for more room. The third row of seats are easy to put in place by just tugging a lever.
6 places to take the kids
1. Giraffe House
The Giraffe House Wildlife Awareness centre means you don't have to go on a safari to see some of Africa's wonderful wildlife and bird species. And, it's dirt cheap - R50 for adults, R35 seniors, R15 (2-15years).
How to get there: Coming from Cape Town or Paarl on the N1, take the Exit 39 off-ramp of the N1, turn right onto the R304 (Klipheuwel/Stellenbosch road) towards Stellenbosch, first left onto the R101 (Old Paarl Road towards Paarl) and then follow our signs.
2. Monkey Town
Monkey Town Primate Centre is a wildlife Centre for monkeys and apes with more than 230 animals and 28 different exotic species. There are also pools and picnic/braai spots so you can make it a complete outing for the family too. There's also a reptile garden. Visit the site here for various rates.
How to get there: On the N2 from Somerset West towards Sir Lowry's Pass, Monkey Town will be on your left side on Mondeor Road.
Image: Aayesha Fridie-Richards / 24.com
3. Cheetah Outreach
Cheetah Outreach is an education and community-based programme created to raise awareness of the plight of the cheetah and to campaign for its survival. 24.com's Aayesha Fridie-Richards recently visited the centre and said: "It's an amazing place. For only R5 you get a tour of the centre, and if you want to interact with the Cheetahs, it's a R150 per person."
How to get there: Cheetah Outreach is situated on Heartland’s Paardevlei property. Just a few minutes off of the N2 near the Somerset Mall, 25 minutes drive from Cape Town CBD. GPS: -34.09106,18.813352
Image: Aayesha Fridie-Richards / 24.com
4. Drakenstein Lion Park
The Drakenstein Lion Park is a sanctuary for captive born predators, and also a chimpanzee haven. For specified fees/donations (renewable annually), you can adopt and lion or a chimp at the park. Admission is R60 for adults and R35 for children per facility, or you can purchase a Combo Ticket and visit both facilities for R90 per adult and R50 per child.How to get there: Take the N1 from Cape Town towards Paarl. Take the R44, exit 47 off the N1 and drive to the R101. The Lion Park will be on your right.
Image: Drakenstein Lion Park
5. Butterfly World
Butterfly World Tropical Garden, one of the more unique attractions of the Western Cape Winelands, consists of a tropical garden in a 1000m2 green house. There's loads to see, other than just the most beautiful butterflies. There are snakes and other reptiles, monkeys, birds; a skeleton exhibition; a tea garden and loads more. A must see for your holiday list. After all, even superstar Mariah Carey visited the centre on her recent tour to South Africa. Best to book your tickets online beforehand: Adults from R80, but combo prices available.How to get there: Take the N1 from Cape Town towards Paarl. Take the R44, exit 47 off the N1 and turn right. Butterfly World will be on your left side.
Image: Butterfly World
6. Two Oceans Aquarium
Fishes, sharks, sea turtles, you name it - it's likely to be at the aquarium! There's a touch pool, a play centre for little ones and you can feed the penguins! There's also a spot to grab some food for yourself. Book online for discount rates!
How to get there: The Two Oceans Aquarium is located on Dock Road at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town.
