Why should you have to buy a flight or break the bank to go somewhere amazing? Right here in South Africa, every province has its own kind of magic waiting to be explored.
Oudtshoorn/Jana Warrington/Unsplash
Whether you’re looking for a quick weekend break or a proper reset, these staycations are packed with charm, character and great value. Maybe you’ll be staying within your own province or travelling to another, get ready to fall in love with adventure right in your backyard.
Western Cape
Oudtshoorn
Oudtshoorn offers an authentic taste of the Karoo with dramatic scenery, heritage charm and a surprisingly affordable price tag. Whether you’re exploring the Cango Caves or winding through the Swartberg Pass, this small town delivers big on experience.
Accommodation: Comfortable three-star bed and breakfasts from around R857 per night provide a welcoming base with Karoo hospitality. Many are close to key attractions like ostrich farms and local wineries.
Value tip: Visit during midweek or school terms for lower rates and more personal experiences with locals.
KwaZulu-Natal
Ballito/Panashe Tarusenga/Unsplash
Ballito
Ballito is a family-friendly coastal town with clean beaches, excellent surf and tidal pools that attract dolphins. It’s less crowded and more affordable than Durban, it’s a great blend of beach and value.
Accommodation: Guesthouses and self-catering units typically start around R1600 per night for two. A lot of accommodation options offer sea views and walking access to the promenade and cafés.
Value tip: For quieter beach walks and easier bookings, try visiting outside of peak holiday seasons.
Gauteng
Fo Guang Shan Nan Hua Temple/Benita Pema/Unsplash
Bronkhorstspruit
Bronkhorstspruit is just over an hour from Johannesburg and Pretoria, ideal for a peaceful weekend escape. It is best known for the serene Nan Hua Buddhist Temple, the largest in Africa, which brings a meditative calm to the region.
Accommodation: Kungwini Guest House offers neat rooms from around R650 per night for two. Monacco Guest House is another well-rated option with garden views and thoughtful amenities, starting at roughly R660 per person.
Value tip: You can make your time more enjoyable by taking time to walk the temple grounds, attend a tea ceremony or simply soak in the spiritual atmosphere.
North West
Hartebeespoort/Spiki Mango/Unsplash
Hartbeespoort
Hartbeespoort, affectionately known as Harties, sits cradled between the Magaliesberg mountains and a serene dam, offering everything from outdoor adventure to art markets. It is a favourite among Joburgers.
Accommodation: Expect charming guest lodges and B&Bs in the R1300 range. Many offer lovely views, sunny balconies and proximity to attractions like the Harties Cableway, snake park and finally, local galleries.
Eastern Cape
Jeffreys Bay/Wolfgang Hasselmann/Unsplash
Jeffreys Bay
J-Bay is not just for surfers. The town’s famed waves attracts pros from around the globe, its relaxed vibe, affordable stays, and laid-back beaches but is ideal for anyone with a love for coastal energy.
Accommodation: Greystone Guesthouse offers comfortable rooms from around R600 per night. A1 Kynaston B&B is a slightly more upscale yet affordable option, starting at around R700 per night. Backpacker lodges are available from as little as R190 per person for the more adventurous.
Free State
Clarens/Antoinette Plessis/Unsplash
Clarens
Clarens is an artsy mountain village nestled against the sandstone cliffs of the Maluti Mountains. It is perfect for art lovers, foodies, and nature seekers with a variety of activities and foods to try.
Accommodation: Lodges and guesthouses under R1300 per night offer wood-burning fireplaces, mountain views and hearty Free State breakfasts.
Value tip: Autumn is the best time to visit Clarens, with the beautiful changing of the leaves.
Northern Cape
Namaqualand/Amy Harrison/Unsplash
Namaqualand (Springbok)
Each spring, Namaqualand transforms into a technicolour dreamscape with wildflowers carpeting the arid plains. The area around Springbok is the most accessible for viewing and also budget-friendly.
Accommodation: Basic self-catering cottages and guesthouses range from R800 to R1200 per night during flower season. Outside peak bloom times, rates often drop.
Value tip: Book early in August or September if you want to catch the flower season in full glory.
Mpumalanga
Graskop/IPICS_SA Chikane/Unsplash
Graskop and the Panorama Route
Waterfalls, lush forests, deep canyons, and dramatic viewpoints define this stunning region. Graskop makes the perfect base for exploring God’s Window, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, and the Blyde River Canyon.
Accommodation: Zur Alten Mine offers peaceful forest cottages from R650 per night for basic cabins, up to R1100 for larger honeymoon or lakeview chalets. All come with kitchenettes, fireplaces and peaceful surroundings.
Value tip from the locals: Stop by Harrie’s Pancakes in town and drive the Panorama Route for a breathtaking view.
Limpopo
Kruger National Park/Andrew Liu/Unsplash
Letaba Region, Kruger National Park
Letaba Camp in Kruger offers affordable access to one of the world’s greatest wildlife reserves. With options to camp, stay in safari tents, or book basic bungalows, you can build a budget safari experience that suits your style.
Accommodation: SANParks rates vary by season, but you can expect to pay about R458 per night for a campsite, R893 for a safari tent, and from R1652 per night for a bungalow with private facilities.
Value tip: The camp’s location is perfect for birding, elephant viewing and access to river drives. The on-site Elephant Hall museum adds a unique touch to your bush experience.
You don’t have to travel far or spend a fortune to discover South Africa’s beauty. All it takes is a tank of fuel and an appreciation for the diversity right at home. Tourists love it for a reason. Why shouldn’t we love it even more?
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