If you’re more of a sun bunny than a skier, flying south to Africa for February half term is a good bet. Tropical East Africa and the shores of South Africa’s Eastern Cape are usually bathed in glorious sunshine, and provide a welcome dose of warmth if you’re coming from cooler climes.
Families visiting Africa with older teenagers might like to combine a visit to the beach with Zanzibar’s Stone Town. Giving teenagers a budget of 20 dollars and a challenge to come back with the best possible trophy from the stalls on Gizenga street is a great way for beginner bargainers to hone their skills.
For older waterbabies, there’s really only one option- Mafia Island.The February half term holiday coincides nicely with the whale shark migration- snorkelling with these gentle giants is an experience not to be forgotten.
Meanwhile, on safari in Kenya the numerous family friendly lodges often have special offers running over February half term. Why? Because the wildebeest migration’s usually next door in Tanzania, leaving the parks relatively empty of other guests, but thousands of animals still milling around for you to enjoy.
Finally for the perfect-all round option, the South African Cape has balmy sunshine, barely any time difference (so no grumpy teenagers with jet-lag) beaches to race about on, wine-tasting for mum and dad, and chocolate tasting for juniors. Best of all is taking a safari in the excellent malaria-free game reserves of the Eastern Cape.
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EXTRAORDINARY AFRICA 