A Guide to Visiting Turkey from South Africa with Children
Planning a successful trip with kids can sometimes be a little challenging. But the right knowledge makes all the difference. From visa requirements to what to pack, understanding the basics helps in having a successful experience.
With popular tourist spots, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality, Turkey became the fourth most visited country in the world in 2024. International tourists travel from all parts of the world to visit Turkey for all it offers. A trip to Turkey from South Africa can be relaxing; however, bringing your kids along might involve a few challenges.
Your kids will certainly enjoy a vibrant city like Istanbul or the colourful markets. However, planning a successful Turkish trip with the kids also involves understanding a few essential things, like documentation, safety requirements, and an itinerary of the places to visit in Turkey, among other things.
Referring to a guide helps with such a situation and ensures you are not missing out on anything. Thus, it gives you the chance to have a stress-free experience with your kids.
Visa Requirements for South African Citizens
Your trip to Turkey from South Africa starts with applying for a visa, a tourist visa to be specific. This is your travel permit and can be applied for both online and at the embassy. Through both methods, you get a visa that comes with a 180-day validity, multiple entries, and a maximum stay of 90 days.
However, in our opinion, it is best to apply for an eVisa or an online visa. The process to apply for a Turkey evisa for tourists is comparatively prompt and convenient. The process involves a few simple steps, like:
- Visit our portal for online visa application.
- Fill out the application form for the Turkey evisa for tourists with accurate details related to yourself and your trip.
- Add scanned copies of documents like your valid passport (one with at least two blank pages and 6 months' validity beyond your date of entry into Turkey), a recent passport-sized photograph, inward and outward flight tickets, bank statements, proof of accommodation, and other things that the authority might ask for.
- Pay the application fee for your Turkey visa for South Africans using a debit or credit card.
- Wait for 24 to 72 hours to get your Turkey eVisa application processed and approved.
- Get the approval letter for your Turkey eVisa on the email ID that you added during the application step.
- Print a few copies of this letter and bring them to the airport.
- Contact the Helpdesk in case you do not get the approval letter in time.
Note: Similar to a flight ticket, one visa or eVisa is only applicable for one person. So, you will have to apply for a separate visa for every person who is traveling with you, including your kids. You should also apply for the visa in advance to avoid last-minute delays.
Travel Documents and Tips for Children
Visiting Turkey with kids is easy, and it just involves you understanding a few basic requirements regarding the documents and the trip in general.
- Each child needs their own passport and visa.
- If one parent is not traveling, a consent letter will be necessary.
- Include birth certificates for immigration purposes.
- Keep copies of documents in print and digital form.
- Prepare for potential delays and pack a few things in your carry-on to keep your kids engaged.
- Always keep your children close and never let them out of sight.
- Try to stick to a routine even when you are on a flight.
Best Time to Visit Turkey with Kids
Turkey experiences a diversified climate; the summers are hot, while the winters are cold with some rainfall. Coastal regions experience milder weather. So, when traveling from South Africa, you should be mindful when choosing a time of the year.
The ideal seasons for exploring Turkey with kids after getting a Turkey visa for tourists are spring (April and May) and autumn (Sept–Oct). The spring temperature ranges between 16 to 9°C. While the autumn months experience 25 to 15°C.
On the other hand, the time during July and August involves extreme heat. So, it is best to avoid traveling to Turkey during this time, especially with kids. Other than that, the weather also differs a little depending on whether it is located near the coast or inland. So, pick a location only after considering these essential things.
Top Kid-Friendly Destinations in Turkey
Turkey, in general, is a kid and family-friendly country. However, here are a few places to visit in Turkey when traveling with kids.
Istanbul
Being visited by 18.6 million international tourists in 2024, Istanbul is one of the most popular places in Turkey. This city has a unique geographical position and has a vibrant culture, delicious food, and bustling bazaars. Besides, Istanbul is also famous for its rich history, as it was the capital of many empires.
Take your kids to Miniaturk, Istanbul Aquarium, and the Princes’ Islands when visiting the country with a Turkey visa for South Africans.
Cappadocia
Famous for underground cities, cave dwelling, and fairy chimneys, Cappadocia offers a great experience for families. This place in Turkey has a unique landscape, which makes most kids think they are in a place straight out of their storybooks.
Consider going on Hot air balloon rides with your kids in Cappadocia.
Antalya
If you or your kids have a fascination for ancient ruins, then visiting this place will be a great choice. Antalya has crystal clear water, a Mediterranean coastline, and shiny golden sand. Besides, this city is also one of the most visited places by tourists and has the country’s biggest international sea resort on the Turkish Riviera.
When traveling to a place, consider staying in a beach resort and visiting waterparks. Most importantly, visiting dolphin parks is a must, as it is a big hit among kids.
Tips for Food & Dining with Children
Choosing a suitable place for dining with kids can sometimes be a little tricky. So, remember the following things.
- Turkish cuisine is kid-friendly, including kebabs, rice, breads, and fresh fruit.
- Choose a restaurant that has high chairs and kid menus; there are many.
- Bring snacks if your child is picky.
- Be cautious with street food and opt for clean and busy stalls.
Accommodation Tips for Families
Here are a few tips that you should remember when booking accommodation with kids after getting your Turkey visa for South Africans.
- Look for family suites or apartment-style hotels that have a big space for your kids to explore freely.
- Look for amenities like child-safe rooms, pools, playing space, and kitchenettes.
- Book in advance during peak seasons to avoid cancellation.
- Pick a location that is close to all the attractions.
- Consider all-inclusive resorts or Airbnb with reviews
Health and Safety Tips
Planning any trip involves ensuring health and safety. However, it is more important when you are traveling internationally with kids.
- Carry child-safe medications for pain relief, allergy, and motion sickness.
- Tap water is not recommended, so opt for bottled water.
- Buy comprehensive travel insurance, including medical cover for everyone who is traveling with you.
- Know the emergency numbers; 112 is for general emergencies, and 155 is for the police.
Packing Tips for Traveling with Children
Here are a few tips regarding what you should pack when traveling with Children with a Turkey evisa for tourists.
- Bring the essentials like wet wipes, sun hats, travel games, and a stroller (optional, only for small kids).
- Carry lightweight clothes for layering, as the weather can vary by region.
- Keep documents, meds, and snacks in carry-on.
- Bring international travel adapters and baby/toddler gear if needed.
- Use AirTag for your luggage and insert it in your kids' shoes for security.
Ready for your family trip to Turkey?
With the right planning, visiting Turkey with your children from South Africa is pretty easy. Simply by planning things in advance, picking a suitable place to visit in Turkey, and planning the whole trip efficiently, you can guarantee a smooth and unforgettable experience.
So, make sure to sort visas, pack smart, and build an itinerary your kids will love, to eliminate all stress.
Check your eligibility for Turkey Visa and apply for Turkey e-Visa 72 hours in advance of your flight. South African Citizens, Chinese citizens, Vietnamese citizens and Cypriot citizens can apply online for Electronic Turkey Visa.