On Friday, November 8th Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi signed a directive that allows foreign children entering South Africa, to not have to carry any supporting documentation besides their passports.

This comes as a huge relief since traveling to South Africa with minor children required parents to also have an unabridged birth certificate present (in addition to the child’s passport). This requirement and the manner in which it was implemented, caused a massive upset in the international traveling community and is said to have helped contribute to the decrease in international arrivals over the past few years.

South Africa is a great option for family travel, offering a multitude of fun things to do with children of all ages. Making it easier for families traveling together to come and take advantage of what we have to offer is a massive step in marketing SA as a family friendly destination.

What does this mean for you?

This means that if you’ve booked to travel to South Africa with children under the age of 18, or if you’re considering South Africa as your next family holiday destination, then all you’ll need to supply at check-in is a passport.

Thornybush and family travel

At Thornybush we really enjoy hosting families traveling together. A safari experience is incredibly enriching, at any age, and offers quality time for bonding and reconnecting with each other – outside of normal, daily routines.

So, if you’re considering a family holiday, South Africa is a great option – and now, even easier to get to!