Introduction
Are you planning a holiday in South Africa but want to stick to a budget?
Look no further!
You might want to forget the Maldives or Dubai and turn your gaze towards the rainbow nation: South Africa.
South Africa is a beautiful and diverse country that offers a range of affordable holiday destinations.
It is a popular tourist destination known for its breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and diverse wildlife.
What does South Africa have to offer?
South Africa offers the following:
- Sunny climate,
- Scenic landscapes,
- Vibrant cities,
- Budget-Friendly Options
- Diverse Wildlife
- Family Fun
- Historical Gems
- Wine and Wilderness Paradise
- Artistic Expressions
- And so much more!
These are the reasons why South Africa attracts millions of visitors every single year!
However, with so many options available, it can be challenging to find affordable holiday destinations that don’t compromise on QUALITY or EXPERIENCE.
So, at Daily Migrant Travels, we’ve compiled a list of the 9 best affordable holiday destinations in South Africa that offer a balance of budget-friendliness and an unforgettable travel experience.
Our team at Daily Migrant Travels has gone to these places, and we’re going to give you not just historical facts about these places in South Africa but also our firsthand experience!
So, whether you’re a backpacker, a wildlife photographer, a family on a budget, or simply someone who appreciates a good deal, read on to discover the best affordable holiday destinations in South Africa.
Addo Elephant National Park
Addo Elephant National Park is one of the best affordable holiday destinations in South Africa and a must-visit destination for people who love nature and wildlife.
According to WIKIPEDIA, Addo Elephant National Park is a diverse wildlife conservation park situated close to Gqeberha in South Africa and is one of the country’s 20 national parks.
It currently ranks third in size after Kruger National Park and the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park.
It is the third-largest national park in South Africa and is home to over 600 elephants, as well as other animals such as lions, buffalos, and black rhinos.
The park also boasts a diverse landscape, including dense thickets, open plains, and the majestic Sundays River.
When our team at Daily Migrant Travels went to Addo Elephant National Park, we discovered that there are many affordable lodging houses within or near the park that you can easily find.
The park offers self-catering chalets and camping sites that provide a budget-friendly way to stay in the heart of the park, with beautiful views of the wildlife.
These are some exciting and budget-friendly ways we enjoyed at Addo Elephant National Park;
- Self-drive game drives, where you can explore the park at your own pace and spot animals in their natural habitat.
- Guided game drives and bush walks are also available at an additional cost.
- We visited the Addo Elephant Museum, which offers an insightful look into the history of the park and its elephants.
- We also joined a guided bird-watching tour
- Then, the African Sunset drives where you watch elephants grazing against the golden sky, hear lions roar in the twilight, and experience the unique atmosphere of an evening safari.
- Guided walks with park rangers offer opportunities to track animals, learn about plant life, and experience the raw beauty of Addo Elephant National Park.
For local dining options that are easy on the wallet, the park has a restaurant that serves light meals and refreshments at reasonable prices.
Alternatively, you can pack a picnic basket and enjoy a delicious lunch in the park, surrounded by the beauty of nature.
One of the nearby attractions to Addo Elephant National Park we visited that didn’t break the bank includes the city of Port Elizabeth, which is about an hour’s drive from the park.
Here, we explored the city’s beaches, museums, and historical landmarks.
We also visited Tsitsikamma National Park, which offers breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean and the chance to hike through ancient forests.
Kruger National Park is one of the best affordable holiday destinations in South Africa.
The next best affordable holiday destinations in South Africa we visited was the Kruger National Park!
When we arrived at the gate and entered Kruger National Park, we immediately knew that this was just the beginning of our safari adventure!
We were amazed at what was before us!
The anticipation builds as you approach the large wooden entryway, knowing you’re about to enter the heart of wild Africa.
The sense of adventure is palpable, whether you’re a seasoned safari-goer or a first-timer.
So, as we passed through the gate, the landscape dramatically changed.
Lush fields and paved roads give way to vast savannas, acacia trees, and the endless horizon.
Our first glimpse of wildlife was a zebra grazing in an open field.
Then, we saw an antelope leaping across the plains with speed!
It was indeed an experience!
The Kruger National Park is a world-renowned wildlife safari destination.
It is one of the best affordable holiday destinations in South Africa and a must-visit for anyone traveling to South Africa.
The park is home to the famous “Big Five” – lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards, and rhinos—as well as a diverse range of other animals and plants.
With its expansive landscapes and abundant wildlife, Kruger National Park offers a truly unforgettable safari experience.
The park offers a range of affordable accommodation options, including self-catering rest camps and bush camps.
These camps provide a budget-friendly way to stay in the heart of the park, with access to all the park’s attractions and activities.
One of the most popular activities in the park is the game drive, which offers visitors the opportunity to see the park’s wildlife up close.
The park offers guided game drives as well as the option to self-drive through the park, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace.
Bush walks are also available, offering a more intimate experience with nature and the opportunity to learn about the park’s flora and fauna from experienced guides.
Overall, Kruger National Park is an affordable and unforgettable holiday destination that offers something for everyone, from those who love wildlife to nature lovers and adventure seekers.
We enjoyed every bit of our stay at Kruger National Park, and we can say that it’s one of the best affordable holiday destinations in South Africa!
Cape Town is one of the best affordable holiday destinations in South Africa.
Even if you have not travelled to South Africa before, you have most probably have heard about Cape Town in South Africa.
Cape Town is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South Africa and it is a city that caters to all types of travelers, including those on a budget.
Cape Town offers a variety of affordable accommodation options, including hostels, guesthouses, and budget-friendly hotels.
Some popular options include:
- The Green Elephant Backpackers.
- The Ashanti Gardens Guest House.
- Cape Town Lodge
- Taj Cape Town
- 91 on Bree Street
These options provide comfortable and clean rooms at an affordable price.
The Backpacker’s Corner Hostel is a good option if you want a cozy yet affordable place to stay.
This hostel is located close to eateries, cafes, and the waterfront and offers both private rooms and dorm beds.
Other budget-friendly options include camping in nearby parks and forests, or renting a private room in a shared apartment.
Additionally, Cape Town is home to a variety of free or low-cost attractions, including
- Table Mountain National Park,
- The Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden,
- The V&A Waterfront.
- Bo-Kaap
- Company’s Garden
- Camps Bay and Bloubergstrand
- Signal Hill
- Long Street and Bree Street
- District Six Museum
- Free City Walking Tours
These attractions offer stunning views, diverse wildlife, and a chance to experience the city’s vibrant culture.
Not only are most of its sightseeing destinations free, but it’s also very affordable (usually starting at $20), making it one of the most budget-friendly places in South Africa.
Again, Cape Town is known for its diverse and delicious cuisine, and there are many affordable options to choose from.
Some popular local dishes include:
- Braai (barbecue),
- Bunny chow (a hollowed-out bread loaf filled with curry), and
- potjiekos (a stew cooked in a cast-iron pot).
- Gatsby
- Bobotie
- Cape Malay Curry
- Koeksister
- Biltong & Droëwors
- Fish and Chips
- Bredies
These dishes can be found at local markets, food trucks, and budget-friendly restaurants throughout the city.
Drakensberg Mountains is one of the best affordable holiday destinations in South Africa.
The Drakensberg Mountains are an amazing mountain range in South Africa that not only offers a range of affordable holiday options for travelers but is also an amazing site for tourist attractions.
The Drakensberg Mountains offer a unique blend of
- Natural beauty,
- Outdoor adventure,
- Cultural experiences,
- Wild life exploration,
- Relaxation center, and
- Historical Artifacts
This makes it a popular destination for hikers, nature lovers, tourists, and cultural enthusiasts.
According to Wikipedia, the Drakensberg Mountains are part of the eastern portion of the Great Escarpment, which encloses the central Southern African plateau, reaching elevations of up to 3,482 metres (11,424 feet) in the border region of South Africa and Lesotho.
Stretching for more than 1,000 kilometres (600 miles), the Drakensberg escarpment forms the borders between several provinces in South Africa, including the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and Mpumalanga.
It is also home to several popular attractions, such as the Blyde River Canyon, Three Rondavels, and God’s Window in Mpumalanga.
The northernmost section of the Drakensberg is known as the ‘Klein Drakensberg’ and is located in southeastern Limpopo.
Visitors to the Drakensberg Mountains can also enjoy a range of affordable activities, such as:
- Hiking,
- Rock climbing,
- Horseback riding
- White-water rafting
- Mountain biking
- Cave Explorations
- Pick nicks
- Fly-fishing, and
- Exploring the famous Sani Pass.
The mountains are home to a unique biodiversity, with a range of plants and animals found nowhere else in the world.
There are also opportunities to explore the local culture by visiting traditional villages and learning about the history of the area.
One of the most affordable ways to experience the Drakensberg Mountains is by staying in self-catering chalets or campsites.
These options offer comfortable accommodation with amazing mountain views, and they provide a great base for exploring the area.
Some popular options include:
- Amphitheatre Backpackers Lodge,
- Drakenzicht Mountain Cottage, and
- Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge.
- Cathedral Peak Resort
- Champagne Valley Huts
- Thendele Camp
- Sani Pass Backpackers
- Berghaven Luxury Camping
The Golden Gate Highlands National Park and the Royal Natal National Park are two nearby attractions that are very reasonably priced.
Beautiful landscapes, a wide variety of species, and outdoor activities may be found in both parks.
All things considered, the Drakensberg Mountains provide an excellent choice for travelers seeking an inexpensive vacation that combines scenic splendor, recreational activities, and cultural immersion.
Durban is one of the best affordable holiday destinations in South Africa.
Are you planning to visit Durban in South Africa?
Then, we can tell you confidently that Durban is one of the best affordable holiday destinations in South Africa!
Durban is located on the east coast of South Africa, and it is known for its golden beaches, natural coastline, and relaxed atmosphere.
The city is home to a range of attractions, including the uShaka Marine World, the Moses Mabhida Stadium [which is a soccer stadium in Durban in the KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa, named after Moses Mabhida, a former General Secretary of the South African Communist Party], and the Durban Botanic Gardens.
If you’re planning to go to Durban on a budget, we’re happy to tell you that:
There are many affordable accommodation options in Durban, ranging from budget-friendly hotels to Airbnb rentals!
Some popular options include:
- The Pavilion Hotel,
- The Southern Sun, Elangeni and Maharani
- The Hilton Durban,
- Happy Hippo Hotel, and
- The Oyster Box Hotel
Prices start at as low as $27 per night, making it an affordable option for travelers on a budget.
Durban’s beaches offer a range of affordable activities, including swimming, surfing, and sunbathing.
Also, visitors can explore the many markets and street vendors selling local crafts, food, and souvenirs.
Durban is known for its delicious and affordable local cuisine, including Bunny Chow, Durban-style curry, and seafood.
Again, some popular budget-friendly eateries include the Chicken Licken, and the Ocean Basket.
Overall, Durban is an affordable and exciting holiday destination that offers a unique blend of coastal beauty, cultural diversity, and delicious food.
With comfortable accommodation starting at just $27 per night and a range of budget-friendly activities and attractions, we can say that Durban is one of the best affordable holiday destinations in South Africa!
Port Elizabeth is one of the best affordable holiday destinations in South Africa.
According to Wikipedia, Port Elizabeth, colloquially referred to as P.E., is a major seaport and the most populous city in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa.
It is the seat of the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality, South Africa’s second-smallest metropolitan municipality by area.
Also, it is the sixth-most populous city in South Africa and is the cultural, economic and financial hub of the Eastern Cape
There are many affordable accommodation options in Port Elizabeth, ranging from budget-friendly hotels to hostels and guesthouses.
Some of the popular options include:
- Jikeleza Lodge,
- Luxury Backpackers,
- Island Vibe Port Elizabeth,
- Blue Waters Inn,
- Archway Backpackers, and
- North Beach Camping
Their prices start at as low as $11 per night, making it an affordable option for travelers on a budget.
Also, Port Elizabeth’s coastal location offers a range of affordable water-based activities, including swimming, surfing, and boat tours.
Visitors can explore the city’s many beaches, including King’s Beach and Hobie Beach.
Port Elizabeth is known for its delicious and affordable local cuisine, including seafood, traditional South African dishes, and fusion cuisine.
Some popular budget-friendly eateries include:
- The Sardine Factory,
- Shark’s Cove,
- The Ocean Basket,
- Nobuntu Restaurant,
- The Fat Fish,
- Mamma Mia’s Pizza & Pasta,
- Moyo’s at Baywest,
- Jack’s Bagels,
- Hungry Peter and
- Something Good Roadhouse.
So, with comfortable accommodation starting from just $11 per night and a range of budget-friendly activities, we can say that Port Elizabeth is one of the best affordable holiday destinations in South Africa and a perfect destination for budget-conscious travelers.
Mpumalanga Panorama Route is one of the best affordable holiday destinations in South Africa!
The next best affordable holiday destinations in South Africa we visited was the Mpumalanga Panorama Route.
The Mpumalanga Panorama Route wasn’t just another destination on our South African adventure; it was also a jaw-dropping journey through mountains, waterfalls, and canyons that unfolded like an interesting movie scene.
South Africa’s Panorama Route is a beautiful and breathtaking route that links a number of historical and ecological sites.
The route, which is rich in South African history, is located in the province of Mpumalanga and revolves around the third-largest canyon in the world, the Blyde River Canyon.
It has many waterfalls, one of South Africa’s biggest forested areas, and a number of notable natural sites.
Beginning near Lydenburg at the base of Long Tom Pass, the route follows the Great Escarpment’s natural fall into the Lowveld, finishing close to the Echo Caves at the boundary of the provinces of Mpumalanga and Limpopo.
Our team at Daily Migrant Travels first stopped at God’s Window, aptly named for the panoramic vista that stretched endlessly over the Blyde River Canyon.
The sheer scale was breathtaking, leaving us speechless for a good ten minutes before reaching for our cameras (phones, actually!).
Entrance fees were super affordable (less than $5 per person), and the view?
Priceless!
Next, we chased rainbows at Lisbon Falls, the highest waterfall in Mpumalanga.
Feeling adventurous, we hiked the short trail for closer views and got misted by the spray—pure refreshment on a warm day!
Budget tip: You can pack a picnic lunch and enjoy your adventure without splurging on overpriced restaurant meals.
So, speaking of food, Mpumalanga’s culinary scene is a treat for budget travelers.
We feasted on fresh, seasonal fruits like litchis and mangoes from roadside stalls; their vibrant colors and juicy sweetness were a steal for just a few dollars.
For heartier meals, we opted for local favorites like “pap and vleis” (maize porridge and meat) at traditional eateries, savoring the authentic flavors and generous portions without breaking the bank.
Some activities you can engage in at the Mpumalanga Panorama Route include;
- Hiking,
- Exploring Blyde River Canyon,
- Visiting God’s Window and
- Kloofing
Additionally, there are many reasonably priced lodging alternatives along the Mpumalanga Panorama Route, from guesthouses with a low price tag to lodges close to towns and attractive areas.
Some popular options include:
- Perry’s Bridge Hollow,
- The Roundhouse,
- Mpumalanga Backpackers Lodge,
- Sabie River Sun Resort,
- Woodpecker Cottage & Self-Catering,
- Three Rondavels Guesthouse,
- Die Heuwel Guest House and
- Panorama Mountain Inn
Their prices start from as low as $20 per night, making it an affordable option for travelers on a budget.
So, our adventure to the Mpumalanga Panorama Route wasn’t just a budget-friendly holiday; it was also an unforgettable adventure that rekindled our love for nature and its raw beauty.
Therefore, we at Daily Migrant Travels can say that the Mpumalanga Panorama Route is one of the best affordable holiday destinations in South Africa!
Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park
Alright!
The eighth of the best affordable holiday destinations in South Africa on our list is the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park.
Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park is a renowned wildlife destination in South Africa, known for its rich biodiversity and conservation efforts.
Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park is located in the heart of KwaZulu-Natal and covers an area of 960 square kilometers.
The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including the Big Five (lion, elephant, rhino, leopard, and buffalo), as well as cheetahs, hyenas, and a variety of antelope species.
The park is also known for its efforts to conserve and protect rhino populations.
There are several affordable accommodation options within the park, including self-catering cottages, camping sites, and safari tents.
Their prices start from as low as $20 per person per night, making it an affordable option for budget-conscious travelers.
The park offers a range of budget-friendly safari experiences and guided tours, including game drives, bush walks, and birdwatching tours.
Prices start from as low as $30 per person, making it an affordable way to explore the park’s wildlife and scenery.
To save on wildlife viewing in the park, consider booking a self-drive safari, where you can explore the park at your own pace and save on guided tour fees.
Additionally, you can consider visiting during the off-peak season, when accommodation and tour prices are typically lower.
Johannesburg
The last but not least of one of the best affordable holiday destinations in South Africa on our list is Johannesburg.
Johannesburg, also known as the City of Gold, is the largest city in South Africa and offers a range of affordable holiday options for travelers.
Johannesburg is known for its bustling energy, rich history, and cultural diversity.
The city is home to a range of museums, galleries, and historical landmarks, as well as very delicious foods and lively music.
There are many affordable accommodation options in Johannesburg, ranging from budget-friendly hotels to guesthouses and hostels.
Some popular options include:
- The Mercure Johannesburg Randburg,
- The Bannister Hotel,
- Curiocity Backpackers,
- The Backpack Joburg,
- Hilbrow Inn,
- The Residency Guest House,
- Ascot Hotel,
- The Reef Hotel,
- The Linksfield Hotel,
- The Winston Hotel, and
- Soweto Backpackers
Prices start from as low as $20 per night, making it an affordable option for travelers on a budget.
Johannesburg offers a range of budget-friendly attractions and activities, including the Apartheid Museum, the Constitutional Hill, and the Johannesburg Zoo.
The city also has many parks and outdoor spaces, such as the Johannesburg Botanical Garden and the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden, which offer free entry to visitors.
Conclusion
Finally!
We’ve come to the end of this article on the 9 best affordable holiday destinations in South Africa!
As you can see, South Africa offers a diverse range of affordable holiday destinations that cater to a variety of interests and budgets.
From the amazing beaches of Cape Town and Durban to the rich cultural experiences of Soweto and the Mpumalanga Panorama Route, there is something for everyone in this beautiful country!
Whether you’re interested in exploring the great outdoors, learning about the country’s history, simply relaxing on the beach, or even taking photographs, South Africa has it all.
With comfortable accommodation options starting from just $20 per night and a range of budget-friendly activities, it’s the perfect destination for budget-conscious travelers.
We hope this article on the 9 best affordable holiday destinations in South Africa has inspired you to explore the diverse and budget-friendly travel options that South Africa has to offer.
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