Best Summer Destinations For Travelling With Your Toddler

On-trend travel destinations for the whole family

We’re sure you’ve all heard that travelling with toddlers is no easy feat. From flight times to appropriate activities, we completely empathise with mamas and papas trying to organise it all. But have no fear, with Jacada Travel, you can place that worry onto the shoulders of professionals who will work to ensure that any destination with your little one(s) is nothing short of absolute bliss. For families with young children, check out some of Jacada’s top kid-friendly places to visit!

If your kids are at all interested in adorable animals, Borneo is the place to go! Here, you will explore the forests in comfort and safety as private guides accompany you and your family on adventures through the Kinabatangan Rainforest and Damnum Valley – both great places to see an amazing range of both plant life and wildlife.

For relaxing downtime with the family, Borneo has a collection of tropical islands off the coast of Kota Kinabalu. Who doesn’t love some sandcastle-building, snorkelling and swimming sites while soaking up that warm vitamin sea. There are also many kid-friendly resorts in the region that host a range of activities for all ages to enjoy, ensuring that your children are in good hands while you enjoy some time for yourself.

Take it from Jacada’s expert Travel Designer, Kit Wong: “Borneo is a truly magical and friendly place. Recently, I followed up with a beaming mother of two boys, aged five and seven, and she recalled some of her most memorable moments from the trip – watching her boys’ faces as they spotted cheeky orangutans and taking a river boat safari in search of pygmy elephants and proboscis monkeys.”

WHEN TO GO:
March to October is the best time visit to avoid the rainy season.
April to August is ideal for peak wildlife viewings.

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I’m sure you’ve all heard of Cambodia’s majestic temple complex, Angkor Wat, but this cultural country is high on the radar for parents looking for kid-friendly activities. Perfect for a short weekend getaway, pick up and escape to this magical country that is jam-packed with great food, people and activities.

There’s nothing quite like an ox cart ride for children and adults alike to get a glimpse into Cambodia’s countryside. Just 25 minutes outside of Siem Reap, venture out to Kompheim Village and hop aboard one of these ox carts (you can even learn to drive it) and take in a spread of rice paddy fields, palm trees, villages and of course, the friendly smiling locals, waving to you as you rock on by.

An absolute must-try for the entire family is Phare Circus, an amazing blend of music, theatre, dance, acrobatics and juggling. Wildly entertaining yet educational, the Circus reenacts tales of Cambodia’s history through beautiful performances and humourous skits. Mainly working with disadvantaged young people, Phare Circus portrays the message that anything is possible, elevating this already-amazing experience into something truly inspirational.

WHEN TO GO:
November to May is the dry season with cooler temperatures towards the beginning of the year.
June to October is the wet season with rainfall mainly in the afternoon.
Cambodia is warm all-year-round.

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Looking for a bit of everything? Well, Sri Lanka is a wonderful year-round destination that always has something to offer. Not only is it close by to neighbouring Asian countries, it also hosts a great combination of culture, history and charming little towns for all to enjoy. Not to mention, the local people are as warm as can be, making it a perfect place for parents and children alike.

For first-time safari goers, Kit recommends Sri Lanka to test the waters. “As amazing as African safaris are, Sri Lanka is a wildlife lover’s paradise that is perfect for families with young children. First of all, it’s only a six-hour flight away and is home to many famed wildlife parks. Yala National Park in Sri Lanka is vast and highly protected for all ages. Embark on a scavenger hunt where you will spot an abundance of leopards, elephants, sloths, bears and many more!” says Kit.

Did you know that Sri Lanka is also home to six out of the seven sea turtle species in the world? What better way to end your trip than with some beachside relaxation where you and your family can interact with these calm, gentle-souled creatures.

WHEN TO GO:
March and September are peak seasons for the east coast.
November and March are peak seasons for the south coast.
Overall, Sri Lanka’s tropical climate offers warmth and sunshine throughout the entire year!

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If you are searching for an excellent introductory African safari for you and your kids, the Kalahari is one of Jacada’s top recommendations. With reserves that are malaria-free and extremely kid-friendly, the Kalahari could not be a better choice. Miles away from the usual “tourism route”, this picturesque arid desert offers an unparalleled experience of nature, wildlife and tranquility.

As the cherry on top of your South African experience, pair your trip with the Winelands just an hour outside of Cape Town. In the past, Kit has received amazing feedback on Spier Wine Farm.

“At Spier Wine Farm, Segway tours are the coolest way to glide through the property. While you’re taking a breezy lap around the farm, Spier’s kid’s clubhouse hosts a variety of activities for children aged from two to 12. Icing biscuits, pizza-making, arts and crafts and farm walks to name a few,” says Kit.

WHEN TO GO:
November to March are drier seasons and perfect for safaris.
April to October is wetter but great for full waterholes, lush bushveld and lots of newborn animals! Cape Town is great to visit all-year-around.

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With great weather, great people, and an abundance of fun-filled activities, it is no surprise that Australia is an incredibly popular kid-family destination. Differing from the typical touristic cities, venture off-the-beaten track and explore the remote expanses of unspoiled wilderness that make up Tasmania.

Enjoy a day of sweeping fields with stunning scenery and indulge in quality local produce such as freshly shucked oysters, delicious berries and handmade cheese. With satisfied full bellies, take a family stroll through the South Bruny National Park, home to the famous Fluted Cape and endearing white wallabies, roaming and rolling around the place.

A Jacada all-time favourite is the bush dinner and quoll spotting combo. The day begins with a visit to Trowunna Wildlife Park in the beautiful Mersey Valley. Trowunna is home to many native animals and dedicates its time and resources to injured and orphaned wildlife. Here, kids will understand what it means to not only marvel at animals, but to care for them. Breeding and rehabilitation programs are explained by informative guides who will also bring you close encounters with wombats, kangaroos and the famous Tasmanian devil.

WHEN TO GO:
December to March is the best time to visit for warm weather and outdoor activities.

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