The North West province of South Africa is predominantly a farming community, which provides the rest of the country with corn and sunflower seeds. Though it may not sound as enticing as Durban or Cape Town, the North West has its fair share of diverse scenery, beautiful sights and activities suitable for the whole family to enjoy.

A Zebra eating grass. By flowcomm (Flickr)

  • The North West is quite literally ringed by game reserves. For families wanting a traditional safari experience, choose on-site accommodation with a planned itinerary, or stay in close proximity and set your day-to-day activities at your own pace. Wildlife you’re likely to spot at the nearby reserves includes eland, oryx, zebra, lions, and leopards. Before you book, please take your child’s age into account, as younger children won’t benefit from the experience as much as older children would.

Rock climbing is a great all-over body workout. By gliuoo (Flickr)

  • Rock climbing can be done at the Magaliesberg Mountains, with a variety of challenging areas to explore – from scramble-easy spots to more traditional and natural areas.  This activity is best done as a couple or with a group of friends, unless you have children in their late teens, though many accommodations can arrange babysitters upon request.
  • Water-lovers who are after an animal encounter should try Croc Cage Diving in the town of Brits. This is a fun, though nerve wracking, experience and is best done if you don’t have small children. Once it’s over you can enjoy the heated towels in the changing facility.
  • Fishing is a wonderful pastime for those seeking some tranquillity, and it’s a great chance to bond with your children. A picnic on the river banks while you wait for that first bite, is never a bad idea.

Fantastic views await when you paraglide. By Keith Laverack (Flickr)

  • Paragliding and hang gliding are aerial activities visitors can enjoy at Hartbeespoort Dam in Magaliesberg. The large varieties of water sports on offer are also great for warmer days.
  • If you like incredible speeds and great views, then the world’s longest zip line should already be on your list of attractions to visit! Within Sun City is the longest, fastest, highest and steepest zip line in the world. They accept a weight of up to 200kg (so two people can go together), and as a safety precaution, they won’t operate in bad weather.
  • If a zip line sounds a bit too adventurous, a hot air balloon ride may be your alternative. You’ll get a bird’s eye view of the landscape, and can enjoy a lunch amid the clouds, with your family.

The North West has gorgeous, natural scenery. By flowcomm (Flickr)

  • Hiking is another great activity, and the North West is blessed with an abundance of great trails. Two of the best places to do a day trip hike: the Vredefort Dome, which has several waterfalls and Die Grot hiking trail in Vryburg. Both of these are fairly easy to navigate, regardless of fitness level.
  • Scuba diving is thought of predominantly as an ocean experience, but inland scuba diving at Miracle Waters Freshwater Lake is something to be tried. The waters are warm and the five learning platforms have qualified instructors teaching visitors before they can start exploring. There are pools for children and adults, a picnic area, as well as a medical station.

Horse riding at any age is amazing. By cheetah 100 (Flickr)

  • Romance in movies and books inevitably has a couple riding horses along the beach front, but a ride in the veld or forest can be just as rewarding. The Shepherds Bush Riding Centre near Pilansberg is recommended, and trips from there depart hourly.

Let us know what fantastic adventures you’ve had while travelling the North West.

Main image courtesy of Flowcomm (Flickr)