School holiday fun starts here

From ninja adventures to mind-bending illusions and family game nights, Durban is packed with exciting ways to keep children entertained this winter holiday, no screens required.

The June-July school holidays are the perfect time to swap devices for real-world adventure, creativity and connection. Whether your family prefers energetic outings, relaxed game nights or interactive experiences that spark curiosity, Durban has no shortage of options. Alongside beach days, picnics at the Durban Botanic Gardens and outdoor adventures, these three standout experiences are our top picks for keeping children busy, engaged and having fun this holiday season.

Total Ninja brings action-packed holiday fun

If your child loves to climb, jump and burn off energy, Total Ninja’s Holiday Club at Gateway or Westown is a guaranteed winner. Running from June 29 to July 17, the popular programme is designed for children aged four and older, combining obstacle courses, agility games, team challenges and supervised free play in a safe, structured environment.

Beyond the physical fun, the club encourages confidence, teamwork and problem-solving, all while giving children a much-needed break from screens. Sessions are carefully structured with activity blocks and breaks, making it an ideal holiday option for busy parents looking for engaging half-day entertainment.

Holiday Club costs R350 a day or R1 200 for four days, including meals, drinks, activities and supervision. Sibling discounts are available. Details: totalninja.co.za/holiday-club

Tabletop games make family time fun again

Board games and tabletop gaming are making a big comeback, offering families a fun way to reconnect while helping children build valuable skills such as communication, patience, strategic thinking and problem-solving.

For younger children, Spot it! is a fast-paced visual matching game perfect for quick rounds and family laughs. Tweens and early teens will love CATAN (6th Edition), where players trade resources, build settlements and negotiate their way to victory in a game that cleverly combines strategy and social interaction. For older teens and young adults, Finspan delivers a more immersive gaming experience with deeper strategy and thoughtful decision-making.

Unlike digital entertainment, tabletop games encourage real face-to-face interaction and create meaningful opportunities for family bonding during the slower holiday season. Details: Follow @solarpopsouthafrica.

Step into a world of illusions

One of Durban’s newest attractions, the Museum of Illusions at Gateway Theatre of Shopping, is already drawing crowds with its playful mix of science, art and immersive fun.

Part museum, part interactive playground, the experience invites visitors to question what they see, as optical illusions, shifting perspectives and hands-on exhibits challenge the senses at every turn. Highlights include the Tilted Room, where gravity appears to disappear, the Infinity Room with its dazzling reflections, and the Cloning Table, which creates multiple versions of the same visitor.

What makes the museum especially appealing for families is its clever balance of entertainment and education. Children learn about perception, light and spatial awareness, while adults find themselves just as fascinated, making it a genuinely enjoyable outing for all ages.

The Museum of Illusions is open Mondays to Saturdays from 9am to 8pm, and Sundays and public holidays from 9am to 7pm. Allow around 60 to 90 minutes to enjoy the full experience. Tickets are available online and at the door, although advance booking is recommended. Details: moidurban.co.za

WIN!

One lucky reader could win one of these fantastic family-friendly prizes:

• Two Total Ninja Holiday Club day passes, including Ninja skill drills and obstacle challenges, creative activities, team games and friendly competitions, hot meals, snacks, refreshing drinks, and full supervision in a safe, structured environment. T&Cs apply.
  • A tabletop gaming hamper featuring Spot it!, CATAN and Finspan
  • Four tickets to the Museum of Illusions Durban

For a chance to win, simply like and follow @getitdbn (Insta) and @GetItDurban (Facebook), tag three friends on our social posts, fill in the form below and you’ll be in the draw. Winners will be contacted directly.