Looking for a fun way to explore your city or a local destination? Not just for international tourists, the big red bus is here to make winter sightseeing easier for South Africans. Ticket holders will get to experience the wonders of Cape Town’s iconic sights and Johannesburg’s famous landmarks.
Now you and your family can stand a chance to win your own family trip! (Two adult- and Two Children’s tickets) Read Renera’s review below, then enter the giveaway!
Red Bus With Kids?
We’ve all seen the red open-top City Sightseeing buses cruising around Cape Town. But are they suitable for the whole family? I took mine to find out …
There are two main routes to choose from: the Red Route, covering the city, and the Blue Route, covering the peninsula. We opted for the Blue Route, as we all had our sights set on visiting the obvious family-friendly destinations: World of Birds and the Mariner’s Wharf in Hout Bay.
Our trip started at the ticket office on Long Street. There were ten minutes to spare before our bus arrival, so we treated ourselves to cappuccinos at Kamili Coffee – a coffee shop sharing the space at the ticket office. The staff were super friendly and helpful as they guided us to the blue route bus.
We received a brochure detailing the timetable and routes; as well as a set of earphones each. The commentary throughout our entire trip was insightful and interesting and can be listened to in 16 different languages.
We were blessed with a sunny winter’s day in the Mother City. We enjoyed sitting on the open top. I do suggest packing the children’s warmest jackets, as it can get quite chilly on the roof. If you are not keen on slogging everyone’s jackets along for the rest of the day, you can opt to sit at the front where you’ll be partially covered, or simply down on the first floor.
We passed various noteworthy sights on our route, including the Mount Nelson Hotel, Kirstenbosch, Constantia Nek (where you can hop off and join the wine bus) and Imizamo Yethu where you can take a guided township tour.
We got off at World of Birds, which houses different species of birds and other animals from all over the world. We joined the scheduled monkey encounter which was arguably the highlight of my son’s life thus far. See the picture of him below with a monkey on his head.
After about two hours, it was time to get back on the bus. You simply scan the QR code on your programme or at the bus stop terminal to see precisely when the next bus will arrive.
The bus drivers were professional and took the time to guide the children safely onto the bus.
Our next stop was the Mariner’s Wharf at Hout Bay Harbour, where we enjoyed the most delicious fish and chips. While there, we were entertained by live music and a local sea lion hanging about.
On our way back, we drove on the spectacular coastal route through Camp’s Bay, Clifton, Bantry Bay and Sea Point. There are various stops to hop on and off for those who fancy dipping their toes in the cold Atlantic or taking a stroll on the promenade.
I would 100% recommend making a day out of City Sightseeing Cape Town with the whole family. We found the experience fun, interesting and educational for both adults and children.
Regards
Renera
About the author: Renera is a qualified teacher, wife and mom who currently works in the development of educational resources for primary school learners.
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