It’s easy while planning a group or family holiday to get swept up in choosing accommodation and crafting your itinerary, but it’s often the small, practical details that, when done properly, make a holiday truly relaxing and seamless. If you’re heading to South Africa during the southern hemisphere summer – which extends all the way to April – it pays to plan ahead.

In addition to choosing the perfect place to stay ahead of time, there are some logistical details to consider in advance of your travel dates (especially during high season in the Western Cape where the majority of our villas are located), so that you can kick back upon arrival.

Remember, Steadfast is on hand to plan a multi, or single destination itinerary to take this (less fun) aspect of travel off your plate. But if you’re booking your space with us, and flying solo on the rest, consider practical details like transport, childcare and eating out when planning your trip.

Thinking ahead…

There is a finite supply of hire cars even in major city centres and in peak periods, demand ramps up. We suggest booking a car as soon as you have your flight and dates confirmed, to ensure you have transportation secured on arrival. If you have specific vehicle requirements (in terms of the size or capability of the vehicle), this is additional reason to plan adequately in advance.

Proper care for your children is of paramount importance when somewhere unfamiliar or new, and even on a family holiday, childcare may be needed on the odd evening or occasion. Some guesthouses and hotels offer this service, but consult your travel expert for guidance on securing a trustworthy carer during your stay.

Dining out is one of the best ways to experience the essence a city. And naturally, the top restaurants in every location are in high demand during the busy season. We’d advise you to book ahead for any venues you particularly want to try. We can always assist when you’re booking and travelling with us to secure in-demand seats.

Last-minute lifesavers  

If you have let it go down to the wire – you have your accommodation secured but have left your other bookings last minute – there are plenty of family-friendly, and more adult-oriented activities in Cape Town and the Western Cape that don’t require a booking in advance, or booking at all. And while busier during peak season, are usually accessible.

With myriad trails across the peninsula, hiking is a free and not-to-be-missed activity to tick off your list. Routes will vary in difficulty, so do some research into the right level of hike for your group or companion. Also outdoors, but less strenuous, the Cable Car and Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens are excellent sightseeing and scenic excursions. The former offers spectacular views of the city and harbour beyond, while the latter is a superb natural setting to enjoy the mountain up close (bring-your-own picnics are permitted here too).

Wine tasting at most estates typically don’t require booking, so whether you’re exploring the Constantia Wine Route, Franschhoek’s farms or the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, you’ll be spoilt for choice and should have no trouble getting a table. In Franschhoek, the Franschhoek Wine Tram is a good way to see the farms in this valley – you can choose between routes (each going to a different selection of estates and farms) and remove the need to find transport between stops.

Our seasonal hot list

The wider Western Cape and the Winelands region is renowned as a food and lifestyle hub. With award-winning restaurants and estates and no end of scenic bars and specialist eateries, this is a culinary oriented part of the world. Given their renown, they’re also very busy, especially over high season, and a little research and planning to book ahead goes a long way.

The best restaurants and bars are concentrated in certain hubs – in the city, Bree Street and Kloof Street, the V&A Waterfront, Seapoint and Camps Bay are good places while slightly further out, Constantia and Franschhoek are veritable culinary havens – for both fine dining and casual eateries.

When booking with us, we can help guide you on the best picks for your particular tastes and travel mates.