Budget-friendly holiday ideas for SA travellers

IT’S been a tough year for many travellers’ pockets. While the world is slowly reopening since the pandemic, many travellers aren’t able to splurge thousands of rand on a holiday. Thankfully, South Africa has some affordable accommodation and activities. Look at these options:

Camping

Camping trips are perfect to get in touch with nature. Not only is it budget-friendly, but it allows travellers to fully immerse themselves in their surroundings, with no wi-fi or other luxury conveniences (there's glamping for that) to distract them.

Where to go:

The Berg River Resort

The Western Cape resort, 60km from Cape Town between Paarl, Franschhoek and Stellenbosch, offers activities for the entire family. Their camping sites boast a braai area, 15-amp plug point and communal ablution facilities. In addition, campers get access to a 3.5m deep Olympic size pool, a children’s pool and a waterslide. Canoeing at the river is also available at an additional cost. Camping rates start from R360 for two.

See www.bergriverresort.co.za/ Protea Hotel by Marriott

Just 20 minutes south of Durban, the KwaZulu-Natal hotel offers camping sites with electricity, ablution block, and use of the hotel facilities like mini-golf, two swimming pools and the gym. It’s also close to Illovo beach. Rates start from R60 for children and R115 for adults.

See www.marriott.com/hotels/ travel/durka-protea-hotel-karridene-beach/

Thorn Tree Bush Camp, Gauteng

Set in the Dinokeng Big Five Game Reserve, this is every nature lovers' paradise. From magical sunrises to excellent game viewing, guests here can truly experience an African bushveld.

There are six concealed stands with a toilet, shower, electricity and braai facilities. Stands are separated by bushes and trees for privacy.

Limited off-grid wilderness sites are available for “more experienced and

adventurous campers”. Camping rates start from R520 for up to four people. See www.thorntreebushcamp.co.za Airbnb

For travellers looking for their own space away from hotels or large properties, Airbnb rentals can be the answer.

Travellers can secure rentals for under R1 000 a night. Since we do not know the quality of some listings, we will suggest places to stay within the three major SA cities and the most budget-friendly cost.

In Durban, an Umhlanga rental that costs around R800 gets you modern accommodation with a king-size bed and ensuite bathroom, free wi-fi, smart TV, communal pool and kitchen.

In Cape Town, a spacious apartment for two with a kitchen, wi-fi, lounge and TV costs under R700.

In Gauteng, an apartment in Rosebank, which includes amenities like free wi-fi, smart TV, dining and living

area, and a queen-size bed, costs R950. What you need to know: Airbnb offers a range of budgetfriendly properties on the website, so shop around before settling for the cheapest price. You may find that property A offers more benefits than property B at the fraction of the cost.

Read the reviews. Affordable doesn’t mean it provides all the comforts of a great stay. Past guests, through online reviews, will share whether a property is worth visiting or not.

Self-catering

Self-catering accommodation offers all the mod cons of a hotel room but with kitchen and lounge facilities. Some units or villas at hotels or lodges do not offer food as part of the package, which results in cheaper rates. Where to go:

Glen Ormond, KwaZulu-Natal This gem, in the KZN Midlands, is an hour and a half away from Durban. Despite offering luxurious 4-star

accommodation, the property is well priced and ideal for those who seek tranquillity.

The five cottages all have a large lounge area, a TV with DSTV, plush linen, and some have a kitchen.

Activities include self-guided nature walks and birdwatching. You can venture out to Nottingham Road or Mooi River if you want to explore more.

Rates start from R650 a person sharing a night.

See www.glenormond.co.za

Moonflower Cottages, Gauteng

Relaxed, comfortable “home away from home” accommodation in Johannesburg.

This is conveniently located close to major attractions in the city, and guests can choose one, two or three-bedroom units with modern kitchens, spacious living areas, percale linen and free wi-fi.

Guests can enjoy the swimming pool and garden or take a walk in Delta Park. Rates start from R850 a person a night.

See www.moonflowercottages. co.za/

Horizon Cottages, Western Cape

Close to the foot of Table Mountain national park in the tranquil coastal village of Noordhoek, Horizon Cottages offer self-catering accommodation from R950 a night. The Cabanas come with a king-size bed, bathroom, sitting area and a wooden deck that overlooks the pool. Attractions close to the property include Silvermine Reserve, Long Beach and Imhoff’s farm.

See www.horizoncottages.co.za What you need to know: While self-catering accommodation (and use of the property’s amenities) is cheaper than most hotel rates, travellers have to factor in meals and activity costs.