From Beaches to Mountains: Dad's Ultimate Travel Bucket List

Looking for the ultimate Father's Day surprise that will make your dad do a happy dance? When it comes to planning a Father's Day getaway, Flight Centre decided to get the inside scoop straight from the source. We conducted a survey to find out what really gets dads excited. The results are in, and we have some fantastic insights into Dads’ favourite holiday activities and destinations.

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Published 11 June 2023


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Looking for the ultimate Father's Day surprise that will make your dad do a happy dance? When it comes to planning a Father's Day getaway, Flight Centre decided to get the inside scoop straight from the source. We conducted a survey to find out what really gets dads excited. The results are in, and we have some fantastic insights into Dads’ favourite holiday activities and destinations.


According to the Flight Centre Father’s Day Travel survey, Dads’ absolute favourites are camping (50%, hello wilderness!), hiking (19%, time to conquer those trails), golfing (19%, swing like a pro), and fishing (13%, reel them in!). We also learnt that for 81% of fathers polled, quality time with the family is an essential element of a holiday, while 19% enjoy adding friends to the mix.

Based on the survey, it's clear that everyone has their own unique hobbies and preferences. Interestingly, a whopping 63% of the men surveyed can't resist the allure of a summer beach getaway. Sun, sand, and good times—what's not to love? But we can't forget about the other 38% who are dreaming of a wintery countryside escape. Destinations? The following were the top five places on wishlists: Namibia, the Philippines, Botswana, New Zealand, Cape Town and Scotland.

So, why not plan the ultimate Father's Day treat that combines adventure, relaxation, his favourite hobbies and those once-in-a-lifetime moments with your dad? Flight Centre has got you covered with ideas for amazing trips your dad will love.


Who needs a superhero when you have a dad...
Unknown, Unknown

Namibia: A Self-Drive Journey Along the Coast

With its iconic landscapes and world-famous game reserves, Namibia emerged as a top choice for adventurous dads in the survey. A self-drive expedition along the coast is the perfect way to explore the remarkable Skeleton Coast, with a visit to the eerie ghost town of Kolmanskop to top it off. One of the highlights of a Namibian trip is the Sossusvlei dunes - reaching dizzying heights of 5,853 feet. These ancient dunes are off-limits to sand surfers, but this adventure activity is offered in Swakopmund – as are desert camel tours, quad biking and paragliding.

Add a dose of adventure: For a unique travel treat, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) will sailing to Walvis Bay in early 2024, offering an opportunity to explore the South African and Namibian coasts in unparalleled style.

Mpumalanga: Fishing Getaways in Dullstroom

If you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway for Father’s Day, Dullstroom is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts. Rainbow and brown trout are abundant, thanks to natural breeding in the rivers. Whether Dad is a beginner or a pro, he'll have a fantastic time. But Dullstroom

offers more than fishing. It's an outdoor playground for the whole family. Enjoy horse riding, mountain biking, and wildlife encounters. You'll find a variety of self-catering houses that provide convenient access to the dams or rivers on a farm.

Add a dose of whisky tasting: Auldstone House is conveniently located on the main road of Dullstroom. Their whisky tastings offer a relaxed experience, catering to individuals, couples, and groups.

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Cape Town: The Ultimate All-Round Experience

Cape Town has it all: thrilling hikes, top-notch golf courses, delectable food and wine, and awe-inspiring natural beauty. It's all right on your doorstep! A winner is the Lion's Head hike, a fantastic city adventure with well-marked trails and incredible panoramic views. This hike is a hit on full moon nights (bring your headlamp!) and at sunrise. Regarding dining, Fyn is a must-visit, named one of the world's best restaurants in 2022. But if he’s a foodie, Dad will also adore the treats at the Oranjezicht Market. Plus, just under an hour away, he’ll find the amazing Erinvale Golf Course, a golfer's paradise.

Add a dose of safari: Aquila Private Game Reserve, just two hours outside the city, is an excellent choice for a big five safari experience. Take your pick from the thrill of a traditional game drive, or get your adventure on by exploring the reserve on horseback, quad bikes, or high up in the air.

Drakensberg: Adventure with the Kids

If you're looking for a fantastic outdoor adventure the whole family can enjoy, you should head to the stunning Drakensberg region. The breathtaking landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for all kinds of exciting activities like hiking and horseback riding. And if you want to kick off your Father's Day weekend with a great hike, the Rainbow Gorge Trail is the way to go. Starting from the Cathedral Peak Hotel, it's a six-kilometre round trip that's easy enough for everyone to handle.

Add a dose of camping: When it comes to campsites in the Drakensberg, you'll be overwhelmed with options. The main section of the Drakensberg boasts a total of 24 campsites, stretching from Bushman's Nek in the south to the Amphitheatre in the north.

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Family-Friendly Beach Holidays: Mauritius and Zanzibar

Beach holidays emerged as a popular choice in the Flight Centre poll, and two family-friendly destinations in the Indian Ocean that stand out are Mauritius and Zanzibar. These idyllic tropical paradises offer pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a range of water activities perfect for family bonding. Various water sports and tours are available, ensuring Dad's downtime doesn't mean a lack of excitement.

Add a dose of Asian travel: The Philippines emerged as a leading destination choice in the survey, and it's easy to understand why. It boasts more than 7,000 islands and pristine white sand beaches.

Great Golfing Adventures: Scotland and New Zealand

New Zealand and Scotland are exceptional destinations for golf-loving dads. In New Zealand (which ranked number four on top destinations for dads), the lush landscapes and diverse terrain create a stunning backdrop for golf enthusiasts, with renowned courses like Cape Kidnappers and Kauri Cliffs. Scotland, the birthplace of golf, offers legendary courses like St. Andrews and Muirfield, set against dramatic coastal landscapes.

Add a dose of fishing: Scotland (number six on the travel wishlist) ticks another box if your father loves fishing. A wee spot of salmon fishing in Scottish rivers will be a “lifer” experience.

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What else do we know Dad loves? Sports. You could also make this Father's Day a grand slam by surprising the special dad in your life with the ultimate sports travel adventure. What better way to make it unforgettable than by combining his love for sports with a fantastic family holiday?

Whether it's catching the action of Formula 1 live or cheering on his favourite rugby team in France later this year, a Flight Centre gift card will help to get him there and leave him grinning from ear to ear.



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