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Theme Parks to Suit your Thrill
Whether it’s a ride on an anaconda, or a pat on the trunk of a great African elephant, thrill seekers and wildlife buffs alike can find theme parks in South Africa suited to their tastes. There are a host of activities that families can enjoy during the summer and winter months. Here are a few of the tantalising spots:
uShaka Marine World
Who would have thought entering a shipwreck along Durban’s coastline would lead you to the Indian Ocean’s many splendours? uShaka puts visitors face-to-face with the warrior of all marine species, the Great White shark. The marine park incorporates Sea World, which is famous for its dolphin acrobats and colourful coral gardens. You can also snorkel over the lagoon that will take you closer to the marine life with only a glass separating you and the sea creatures. The Wet ‘n Wild section has rides such as the kamikaze speed slides and a tunnel ride, which will send you freefalling in the dark. This is not for the faint-hearted.
Sun City
Just about 166km northwest from Johannesburg lies Sun City. It still enthrals visitors with its exotic African theme till today. For families who want a break from the rigid city life there are activities ranging from adventure sports to safari. You will probably catch dad swinging his golf club at the Gary Player Country Club, or mom bathing in the sun by the Valley of Waves, while the kids are meandering along one of the many adrenaline-pumping slides. And when the parents are at the casino, Kamp Kwena will keep the little lively minds occupied - an activity park where children can learn, play and make new friends at the same time. Mini-cars, trampolines, African adventure golf and many more activities will ensure kids do not miss their parents too much.
Gold Reef City
The Gold Reef City amusement park in Johannesburg transports visitors to a time where prospectors rushed for gold and Victorian styled houses were common.
It’s also the home of Joburg’s popular predator - The Anaconda. It may not be venomous, but this roller coaster will set your heart pulsating once you ride along its tangled loops and speedy curves. And if wetting yourself is amusing, there are a number of rides that can get you soaked. The River Ride, Raging River Rapids and Miner’s Revenge also drenches riders. Daredevils are urged to try out the Tower of Terror - a ninety-degree vertical plunge that even makes the bravest of hearts quiver. Rides for the younger ones include the Giant Wheel and the Run-away Train. The new 4D theatre immerses viewers into a world where characters come to life in 3D with the added realism effects of hydraulic chairs and scents.
Wavehouse Skatepark
With top South African skateboarder Andrew Morck having a hand in the design, the Wavehouse Skatepark in Durban is sure to satisfy avid skateboarders. However, it is also open to those who cannot balance on a board at all. The beginners’ street area caters for amateur skaters. The park has a number of hips, ledges, rails, quarters and flatbanks as part of the street section. There is also an eight-metre wide, five-foot mini-ramp. It even has indoor surfing for those who like their extreme sports wet. And being an indoor park, it certainly keeps you safe from nature’s nastiness. The Core Store in the vicinity caters for all skating needs.
Addo Elephant National Park
The elephant, a sacred animal in Africa, has been given a sanctuary in the form of the Addo Elephant National Park, situated 73km from Port Elizabeth. The park plays an essential role in re-establishing the grandeur of the African Elephant. It is home to over 420 elephants. The park is also a haven for other animals such as the Cape buffalo, black rhino, antelope, meerkat and the flightless dung beetle.
Tiffindell Ski Resort
South Africa has always been known as a country where you can safari under the sun. But the country is full of wonderful surprises and the Tiffindell Ski Resort in the Eastern Cape is one of them. Tiffindell is the only place on the continent where you can snow ski under the splendid African sky. It is located on the slopes of the highest summit (3001m) in the Southern Drakensberg. You can race down a daring decline or snowboard on some of the finest powder. And if you have never taken to snow sports, there are instructors who will teach you to ski or snowboard safely.
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