Winter in South Africa has its own kind of magic—crisp mornings, fireside chats, stargazing skies, and quiet landscapes waiting to be explored. But chasing that winter magic shouldn’t cost the earth.
Picture of hotel room decor used for illustrative purposes/Vije Vijendranath/Unsplash
We’ve rounded up incredible stays across all nine provinces that come in at under R1000 per person per night, with options for solo travellers, couples, and families alike. From misty mountain cabins to beachside boltholes and rustic farm retreats, these spots prove you don’t need deep pockets to go deep into nature.
Gauteng, Limpopo & North West
Lindani Lodges, Waterberg (Limpopo)
Tucked into a private game reserve, Lindani offers stone lodges and safari tents from around R500 to R700 pps/n*. Wildlife sightings, mountain biking, and family-friendly fun come standard.
Book here: www.lindani.co.za
* The prices reflect weekdays and off-season
Cheerio Trout Fishing & Holiday Resort, Magoebaskloof (Limpopo)
Set among azaleas and forests, this trout-fishing haven ranges from R660 to R900 p/p for the under R1000 budget. Expect cool, misty mornings, forest trails, and fly-fishing dams.
Book here: www.cheerioresort.co.za
RiverStill Guest Farm, Groot Marico (North West)
Perfect for a writer’s retreat or quiet weekend, Riverstill offers rustic riverbank cottages from R410 to R980 p/n for two adults. Ideal for reading, walking, and switching off.
Book here: riverstill.co.za
Mamagalie Mountain Lodge, Mooinooi (North West)
Just off the Magaliesberg slopes, these five secluded lodges start from R375 to R425 pps. Think fireplaces, outdoor baths, and serious bush vibes.
Book here: www.mamagalie.co.za
Mpumalanga
Riverman Cabin Country Lodge, Dullstroom
Classic Dullstroom charm meets affordability at this cabin near fishing dams. From R1050 to R3200, if you want to go over budget and splurge, expect fireplaces, misty walks, and farm breakfasts.
Book here: www.rivermancabin.co.za
Highland Rose Country House & Spa, Dullstroom
With rose-filled gardens and crackling fireplaces, this country house is a great pick for couples. At just R1000 per night for two, it includes breakfast and access to the spa garden.
Book here: www.highlandrose.co.za
Fountain Baths Guest Cottages, Barberton
Set at the foot of the Makhonjwa Mountains, these historical garden cottages start from R676 per night for two. Enjoy birdwatching, mountain views, and a peaceful garden setting.
Book here: www.fountainbaths.co.za or Lekkeslaap
ALSO READ: Hermanus is an unexpected winter escape
Free State & Eastern Cape
Pagel House B&B, Aberdeen (Eastern Cape)
A traditional Karoo guesthouse offering hearty breakfasts and friendly hosts. Prices hover around R800 ppn, making it a steal for families or older travellers.
Book here: Lekkeslaap
Toll Inn Guest Farm, Aliwal North (Eastern Cape)
A classic Eastern Cape farm stay with wide views and simple comforts. Self-catering rates average R700 to R800 for the rooms that sleep two.
Book here: Lekkerslaap
De Stallen Guesthouse, Quaggafontein (Free State)
Just outside Bloemfontein, this farm-style guesthouse offers stylish, peaceful units from R900 per night for two people. It’s ideal for travellers looking for space, safety, and convenience.
Book here: Lekkeslaap
Western Cape: Coastal Hideaways & Countryside Retreats
Baboon’s View Cave, Montagu
Built into the mountain with panoramic valley views, this off-grid cave stay is one of the Western Cape’s most unique escapes. At R935 per person per night, it includes a fireplace, hot tub, and complete seclusion.
Midweek Special: 15% off for 2+ night stays, not including Friday or Saturday. Valid until 31 July 2025.
Book here: Lekkeslaap
Old Mill Lodge & Restaurant, Schoemanshoek (Oudtshoorn)
Set on a working ostrich farm at the foot of the Swartberg Mountains, this spot offers self-catering units, luxury riverside tents, and dam-side cabins—from R810 per person per night.
Book here: Lekkeslaap
Villa Tarentaal, Tulbagh
Set on an olive farm in the Tulbagh Valley, this peaceful spot offers garden cottages with mountain views from R910 per night (sleeps 2). Walking distance to wine farms and town.
Book here: Lekkeslaap
KwaZulu-Natal & Northern Cape
Otters Den Cottages, Midlands Meander (KZN)
Jacuzzi, fireplace, and views over the Lion’s River—this cosy couples’ retreat is from R1200 per night (single occupation) or R1570 per night (double occupation) if you are able to splurge over the budget.
Book here: Otters Den
The Beaches, Umtentweni (KZN South Coast)
Garden units with pool access just steps from the sand. Ideal for families looking to soak up winter sun. Rates range from R600 to R1000 per night.
Book here: The Beaches
Sperrgebiet Lodge, Namaqualand (Northern Cape)
For a wildflower fix, this semi-desert farm lodge offers birding and spring colour from R800 to R1300 per night for two adults.
Book here: Sperrgebiet Lodge
Whether you’re after crackling fires, misty mountainviews,s or affordable beach bliss, South Africa has plenty of winter weekend gems for under R1000 per person. From solo escapes to family getaways, there’s no excuse not to wander—even on a budget.
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ALSO READ: 7 hard-to-reach places in SA that shine in winter
