Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Rhodes Memorial
Adventure
🕑 2-4 hours👶 Best for ages 3-12. Toddlers and preschoolers love the open spaces for running and picnicking, while older kids enjoy the hiking trails and climbing on the memorial steps. The terrain is manageable for most ages, though paths can be uneven for strollers.
About
Rhodes Memorial offers families a perfect blend of history, nature, and adventure on the slopes of Table Mountain. Kids can run freely on vast grassy slopes, spot wildlife like zebra and antelope grazing nearby, and explore easy hiking trails while parents soak in stunning views across Cape Town. The monument's grand stone lions and steps make for exciting exploration and memorable family photos.
Highlights
- ✓Massive stone lions and impressive memorial steps perfect for climbing and exploring
- ✓Free-roaming zebra, antelope, and guinea fowl often visible grazing on the slopes
- ✓Panoramic views of Cape Town, Table Bay, and the Cape Flats from the memorial terrace
- ✓Easy, short hiking trails leading up towards Devil's Peak suitable for energetic kids
- ✓Large grassy areas ideal for running, games, and family picnics
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early morning (8-9am) to spot wildlife grazing near the memorial and beat the crowds and midday heat.
- 2.Bring a picnic blanket and snacks as there are excellent shaded picnic spots with tables, though the on-site restaurant is also family-friendly.
- 3.Pack layers of clothing as temperatures can change quickly on the mountain, and wind can pick up unexpectedly even on warm days.
- 4.The tea room (Rhodes Memorial Restaurant) has clean restrooms, which are essential as facilities are limited on the trails.
- 5.Park in the lower car park if visiting with small children, as it's closer to the main memorial and picnic areas with less walking required.
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday mornings (especially Tuesday-Thursday) between 8am-11am for fewer crowds, cooler temperatures, and better wildlife spotting. Avoid weekends and South African public holidays when it gets very busy. Winter months (June-August) offer clearer skies for photography but bring warm clothes.
What to Know
Entry to the memorial grounds is free, with secure parking available (small fee, cash recommended). The on-site Rhodes Memorial Restaurant offers family-friendly meals and refreshments. Trails are not pram-friendly due to uneven terrain, so baby carriers work best for little ones.
Seasonal Notes
The site is open year-round. Summer (December-February) brings warm weather perfect for picnics but can be very busy with tourists and locals. Winter (June-August) offers clearer skies and fewer crowds but requires warm clothing. Note that strong southeaster winds (common October-March) can make visits uncomfortable with young children.
Nearby Eats
The on-site Rhodes Memorial Restaurant offers breakfast, lunch, and tea with kids' options and high chairs available. Alternatively, the nearby suburb of Rondebosch (5 minutes' drive) has numerous family-friendly cafes and restaurants along Main Road.
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