Our top 10 things to do at Sun City
Just a two-hour drive from the city of gold is where you will find the much-loved Sun City. Weekend visits to the city of sun is part of many South Africans’ identities and with good reason. We’re huge fans of this all-star playground and here’s why:
1. An unforgettable family vacay
There is simply no better location for a family getaway than Sun City. We recommend visiting Sun International’s Sun Vacation Club, situated inside this popular family resort. Not only is it self-catering and ideal for fun-filled days in the sun, but the Vacation Club ticks all the boxes. From daily activities for the whole brood and a Spur on site for the little ones, to a vida e caffé for the grownups.
The newly renovated family rooms are impressively spacious and come fully equipped, plus they are serviced daily. Here you have access to your own braai facilities, and you don’t even have to clean up afterwards. It’s a fantastic lock up and go kind of holiday. There are also many safe pathways for the kiddies, so be sure to pack their scooters and bikes. In addition, the gardens boast ample space to run around and there is even a Bounce on site.
2. Waterworld
A visit to Waterworld at The Cabanas Hotel offers you an array of wild water activities including skiing, parasailing and cruising on a speedboat. There is also a go-kart track, a fabulous play area with a jungle gym, and a runaway train.
Not so keen on all the excitement? You could also pack a picnic and sit in front of the dam whilst feeding the ducks.
3. Valley of The Waves
Sun City’s Valley of the Waves is the ultimate definition of fun. With a palm-fringed beach, a 90-second wave pool, countless dining options and a soft serve hangout, there is nothing you cannot conquer at this location.
The legendary Roaring Lagoon is the undisputed main attraction at this famous water park, but you can also ride and slide your way to more thrills. In fact, there is even a private section for toddlers where they have access to their very own beach, slides and mini jungle gym. Yup, here you can sip on an island cocktail while the kids play their hearts out. Isn’t it the ideal opportunity to do some people watching and to relish in that much-deserved tanning session?
4. The Maze of The Lost City
Not only is it the largest permanent maze in the Southern Hemisphere, but the Lost City’s maze – constructed from artificial stone and wood – creates the illusion of an ancient archaeological discovery. It poses as the ideal family adventure, but it’s also suitable for teambuilding or corporate functions.
The Maze is accessed via a 100m-long suspension bridge from the Entertainment Centre and offers some of the most spectacular views of the Sun City resort.
For those who want to impress, we recommend visiting The Maze when night falls. It is rather romantic as flaming torches light the pathways along the chambers. Post this epic adventure, grab a glass of vino or craft beer at The Maze Bar.
5. The Gary Player Country Club
Even dads deserve a break, and the Gary Player Country Club is a guarantee that he’ll return smiling. When the construction of the resort began in 1978, the main goal was to build a golf course that would rival the best in the world. The 18-hole par-72 walking course was designed by Gary Player himself and it even comes with a 5km running trail along the course.
6. The Shebeen
This has to be one of the coolest and most authentic cultural experiences in South Africa. Apart from the food, The Shebeen – an African shebeen-styled eatery – comes with all kinds of cultural experiences, including spaza shops, African huts and authentic African art throughout.
The Shebeen’s prices are also very affordable. You can devour a Chakalaka burger for R92, nibble on a traditional cheesy braai broodjie for R25 or enjoy a koeksister for R15. From wors and samoosas to signature kasi shebeen kotas, they sure deliver.
7. Go on a trail run
Throughout the colossal Sun City resort, you will find clearly marked areas specifially created for trail runners. We’re pretty sure that if you stayed for an entire week, you could explore a new trail every day.
8. The world's fastest zip line
If you’re a thrill seeker and an adventure junky, Sun City’s Zip 2000 experience is a must. Since it launched at Sun City in 2004, the zip slide held the title of the world’s longest, highest and fastest zip slide for over six years. Today there is a higher zip slide in Alaska, and a longer one in South America, but Sun City’s zip slide is still the fastest in the world, reaching speeds of up to 160km per hour. Fly like a bird for two kilometres of pure adrenaline.
9. A beautiful brunch for two
The Palace’s breakfast buffets are hands down some of the best you will ever have the pleasure of enjoying. Here, the variety is never-ending, and the bubbly is bottomless. Enjoy a five–star dining experience and get lost in the wonder of Sun City’s Palace.
10. A Grecian Garden
Maltos Beach Restaurant at The Cascades Hotel is an idyllic location to spend the day at. Whilst indulging in a Greek feast, you can also plop into the pool or take an exploration through the evergreen jungle. Lush and beautiful, you’ll love every minute of burning those falafel calories as you marvel at the natural surroundings and trickling waterfalls.
