Time Out South Africa's new Joy Revolution study reveals a powerful truth: South Africans, especially those in Gauteng, are craving more meaningful connections in 2026, with focused family time emerging as one of the biggest sources of happiness. It's no surprise, then, that destinations offering intentional, multi-generational fun are suddenly in high demand.
And just two hours from Johannesburg, The Kingdom Resort feels perfectly built for this moment. With its spacious villas, endless kid-friendly activities, stellar water features, and the kind of easy outdoor freedom Joburgers can only dream of, it's the kind of place that transforms a simple weekend escape into the connection-filled joy so many of us are seeking.
Based purely on its location, I've always viewed The Kingdom Resort as a low-key alternative to its famous neighbour, Sun City. However, my recent visit revealed something entirely different: The Kingdom is a self-contained destination in its own right, and that's a very good thing.
The adventure hub: Stepping out of your comfort zone
The resort's reception delivers what I can only describe as high-end summer camp vibes, with the Leap Adventures activities immediately on show. This layout is a brilliant way to get guests thinking about their stay from the moment they check in. My colleague and I found ourselves signed up for rock wall climbing and archery.
This is the thing I love most about a great resort: they encourage you to step outside your comfort zone and try something you ordinarily wouldn't. While the rock climbing was a humbling reality check on my current fitness levels, I left the wall feeling genuinely inspired to make a change in 2026, a feeling largely owed to our incredible guides, David and Unda, who made the experience truly supportive and fun.
Beyond these two activities, Leap Adventures offers a range of additional adrenaline-pumping experiences. Guests can rev things up with quad biking or take on the bungee catapult for a proper thrill. For something more laid-back, you can hire a bicycle to explore the sprawling grounds at your own pace.
For those craving an authentic bush experience, the Kingdom teams up with Rare Game Experience to offer Big 5 game drives, which is a perfect reminder that you're right on the doorstep of the iconic Pilanesberg National Park. All these high-octane activities come at an extra cost, but they are well worth it for the memories they create.
Fun in the sun: In water and on land
The Kingdom Resort's lineup of activities is clearly designed to keep both kids and adults happily entertained. As a resort guest, you get free access to the Splash Kingdom Waterpark, complete with slides and splash zones.
For a more relaxed setting, the resort's magnificent rock-pool-style swimming pool, complete with its own slide and waterfall, is perfect for long, lazy, sunny afternoons. There are also two temperature-controlled pools for year-round dips (yes, please).
On dry land, families can compete in a friendly round of Adventure Golf or Putt-n-Play, while sporty types can head to the padel court, volleyball court, or try their hand at pickleball. The seasonal outdoor cinema is a treat, and a giant jumping pillow, along with the jungle gym, is guaranteed to burn off some of the kids' pre-bedtime energy.
The entire resort is walkable, encouraging you to ditch the car and get your steps in; however, ample parking is available at the various activity and accommodation nodes if the North West sun gets too intense.
From studios to suites: Catering for connection
The Kingdom Resort offers a wide range of accommodation to suit every type of traveller, from simple hotel rooms to fully equipped villas ideal for multi-family getaways.
- For couples and singles: The double (or twin) rooms are comfortable and feature an en-suite bathroom, a bar fridge, and a private patio.
- For small families: The studio villas offer a little more independence with semi-self-catering kitchenettes and a private patio featuring essential braai facilities.
- For bigger families: The semi-self-catering family suites offer a great fit, with a separate bedroom for adults and sleeper couches for children.
- For large groups or reunions: Choose from fully self-catering two-, three-, or four-bedroom chalets and villas, each featuring a full kitchen, generous living spaces, multiple bathrooms, and a built-in braai patio. Selected villas even come with their own private splash pool, a luxury you truly appreciate in the blazing heat.
During our stay, the main restaurant was undergoing renovations. We instead ate at the Jungle Bar, Lounge and Café, located near the pool area, which served breakfast, lunch, and dinner buffets, as well as pizzas, burgers, and other poolside fare. Given the popularity of the self-catering options, the on-site Traders' convenience store is a lifesaver, stocking essentials you may have forgotten.
Unexpected bliss: A body and mind reset
My favourite experience, and a must-do for any visitor, was a trip to the Body Bliss Day Spa. Offering full-service treatments, they receive a massive 10/10 in my book for including a Junior Bliss menu for kids. The setting is tranquil, and the spa therapists have a little magic in their hands. My massage left me feeling completely renewed, especially after the beating my body took on the rock wall climb!
From the diversity of guests (couples, families, and friend groups) to the wide range of activities available, The Kingdom Resort proves that there truly is something for everyone.
For me, the major attraction is the elements that encourage big group getaways: think game nights, shared braai meals, and lots of laughs under one roof, with the added benefit of world-class activities right outside your door.
In a world craving genuine connection, The Kingdom Resort's accommodation offering and rich activity roster provide a good backdrop for creating those cherished, joy-filled memories, proving that the best escape for Joburgers isn't just a change of scenery, but a reconnection with the people who matter most.
Also read: The 6 best big group getaways near Johannesburg
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