Cheap holiday destinations from south africa
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Cheap holiday destinations from south africa
Traveling doesn’t have to cost a fortune, especially when you begin your journey from South Africa. With a wide array of nearby countries offering affordable travel experiences, you can explore breathtaking landscapes, immerse yourself in vibrant local cultures, and encounter rich and diverse wildlife. Let’s dive into some of the best cheap holiday destinations you can easily reach from South Africa, from the scenic beauty of Namibia to the cultural vibrancy of Mozambique and beyond.
Why Consider Cheap Holiday Destinations?
Benefits of Budget Travel
Traveling on a budget presents numerous benefits. It encourages a more authentic experience of destinations through interactions with locals and the utilization of cost-effective options. Furthermore, it extends the duration of travel, allowing for more extensive exploration, and is economically advantageous, preserving funds for future excursions.
Top Cheap Holiday Destinations from South Africa
Overview
There’s no shortage of affordable destinations near South Africa. From the breathtaking Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, known as one of the Seven Natural Wonders, to the pristine, white sandy beaches of Mozambique, each location offers a plethora of unique and memorable experiences that are light on the pocket but heavy on memories. Enjoy wildlife safaris, cultural tours, and more without breaking the bank.
Zimbabwe
Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls, also referred to as "The Smoke That Thunders," is among the most iconic natural wonders and a must-see destination. It is accessible to budget-conscious travelers, with reasonable entry fees and numerous economical accommodation options available in the nearby towns of Victoria Falls and Livingstone.
| Age Group | Price |
|---|---|
| 13+ years | $17 - $30 USD |
| 6-12 years | $7 - $15 USD |
| 0-5 years | 0$ - $5 USD |
Matobo National Park
Explore history and nature at Matobo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. See ancient rock paintings, stunning landscapes, and rhinos and leopards. Low entry fees, camping available.
| Category | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| International Flight | USD 666 - USD 1,333 |
| Local Transportation | |
| - Domestic Flight | USD 100 - USD 200 |
| - Taxi/Car Rental | USD 33 - USD 67 |
| Accommodation (4 nights) | USD 53 - USD 533 |
| Entrance & Activities | |
| - Entrance Fee (5 days) | USD 67 |
| - Additional Activities (3x) | USD 60 - USD 200 |
| Food & Drinks (5 days) | USD 33 - USD 167 |
| Miscellaneous | USD 67 - USD 200 |
| Total (Excluding international flight) | USD 413 - USD 1,434 |
| Total (Including international flight) | USD 1,079 - USD 2,767 |
Mozambique
Maputo
Maputo, the bustling capital of Mozambique, provides a culturally rich experience. It features Portuguese colonial architecture, lively markets, and an energetic music scene. The street food is both delicious and affordable, perfect for budget-conscious travelers.
| Category | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| International Flight | USD 800 - USD 1,500 |
| Local Transportation | |
| - Taxi/Car Rental | USD 10 - USD 30 per trip |
| Accommodation (4 nights) | USD 200 - USD 800 |
| Entrance & Activities | |
| - Entrance Fees | USD 20 - USD 50 |
| - Tours and Activities | USD 50 - USD 150 |
| Food & Drinks (5 days) | USD 150 - USD 300 |
| Miscellaneous | USD 50 - USD 200 |
| Total (Excluding international flight) | USD 480 - USD 1,530 |
| Total (Including international flight) | USD 1,280 - USD 3,030 |
Tofo Beach
Tofo Beach offers an exceptional sanctuary for beach lovers and diving enthusiasts alike. Tofo is celebrated for its rich marine life, such as whale sharks and manta rays, and provides affordable guesthouses along with local dining experiences. It is an ideal location for both relaxation and underwater exploration at an affordable cost.
| Accommodation Type | Price Range Per Night |
|---|---|
| Beach Resorts | $100 - $500+ |
| Guesthouses / B&Bs | $50 - $150 |
| Holiday Villas / Apartments | $100 - $500+ |
| Camping / Hostels | $10 - $50 |
| Eco-Lodges | $50 - $200+ |
| Total | $310 - $1400+ |
Namibia
Windhoek
Explore Windhoek, the captivating capital of Namibia, where African and European cultures merge seamlessly! This safe and tidy city offers a range of affordable accommodation options and a plethora of budget-friendly dining spots. But the adventure doesn't stop here – use Windhoek as your springboard to discover the wonders of the Namib Desert and beyond, with its mesmerizing landscapes and rich cultural heritage waiting to be explored.
| Hotel | Name | Address | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 stars and under | Naankuse Travellers Inn | 2 Chapman Street, Windhoek, Namibia | 6.4 | $63 |
| Ramblers Self Catering Accommodation | 17 Beethoven Street, Windhoek, Namibia | 9.1 | $24 | |
| Chameleon Backpackers & Guesthouse | 5-7 Voigt St, North Windhoek Central, Windhoek, Namibia | 8.5 | $27 | |
| 3 stars | Town Lodge Windhoek | 1320 Frankie Fredericks Street, Windhoek, Namibia | 8.0 | $49 |
| House on Olof Palme | 146 Olof Palme Street, Windhoek, Namibia | 9.3 | $91 | |
| Special Inn Bed and Breakfast | 3648 Barug Street, Windhoek, Namibia | 7.6 | $19 | |
| 4 stars | Hilton Windhoek | Rev. Michael Scott Street, Windhoek, Namibia | 7.7 | $123 |
| 5 stars | The Weinberg Windhoek | 13 Jan Jonker Road, Windhoek, Namibia | 8.9 | $148 |
| Coco Palm Bed & Breakfast | 493 Coco Palm Street, Dorado Valley, Windhoek, Namibia | 8.0 | $19 |
Etosha National Park
Etosha National Park is a dream for wildlife enthusiasts. Home to elephants, lions, and rhinos, with affordable camping and self-drive safari options. Entry fees are very reasonable, perfect for budget travelers.
| Hotel Name | Price | Rating | Amenities | Distance to Etosha National Park |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Etosha Safari Lodge | $293 | 4.4 | Free breakfast, Free Wi-Fi, Free parking, Outdoor pool, Air conditioning, Bar, Restaurant, Full-service laundry | 46.8 miles |
| Mokuti Etosha | $401 | 4.6 | Free breakfast, Free Wi-Fi, Free parking, Pool, Hot tub, Air conditioning, Fitness centre, Spa | 47.2 miles |
Lesotho
Sani Pass
Sani Pass is a spectacular mountain pass that serves as a gateway between South Africa and Lesotho. This pass is an adventure seeker’s paradise, featuring challenging hiking trails, thrilling 4x4 routes, and breathtaking panoramic views. The nearby villages offer affordable accommodations, ensuring that even budget travelers can enjoy this priceless adventure. From the rugged terrain to the stunning vistas, Sani Pass promises an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
| Hotel Name | Price (USD) | Rating | Reviews | Amenities | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Premier Resort Sani Pass | $85.58 | 4.4 | (1,214) | Breakfast, Free Wi-Fi, Free parking, Outdoor pool, Air conditioning, Spa, Bar, Restaurant | 3-star |
| Sani Valley Nature Lodges | $93.29 | 4.6 | (96) | Breakfast, Free Wi-Fi, Free parking, Hot tub, Air conditioning, Restaurant, Kitchen in rooms, Airport shuttle | 4-star |
| Mkomazana Mountain Cottages | $60.33 | 4.8 | (56) | Breakfast, Free parking, Kitchen in some rooms, Child-friendly, Smoke-free property | 3-star |
Katse Dam
Katse Dam, one of Africa's largest dams, is an engineering marvel. The area offers great hiking, boating, and village exploration, with budget-friendly guesthouses and lodges for a cost-effective holiday.
| Lodge | Location | Rating | Reviews | Price (per night) | Distance from Katse Dam | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maliba Mountain Lodge | Butha-Buthe | 8.9 | 51 | $277.26 | 47.4 km | Scenic views, restaurant, free parking, free WiFi |
| Motebong Lodge | Bokong | 7.3 | 49 | $40.57 | 26 km | Garden, mountain views, on-site restaurant, free WiFi |
| Chocks Guest House | Lejone | 7.6 | 16 | $35.74 | 25.8 km | Garden, bar, in-house restaurant, free private parking |
| Maliba River Lodge | Butha-Buthe | 8.3 | 55 | $145.51 | 47.5 km | Self-catering chalets, spa, restaurant, bar |
| Aloes Lodge | Leribe | 7.6 | 34 | $39.41 | 46.6 km | Seating area, in-house restaurant, free WiFi, free parking |
Eswatini (Swaziland)
Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary
Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary provides a serene retreat with economically priced accommodation options, such as traditional beehive huts. It is ideal for wildlife viewing, hiking, and mountain biking, all at a significantly reduced cost compared to larger reserves.
| Hotel Name | Price ($) | Rating | Reviews | Amenities | Distance to Mlilwane Game Sanctuary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mantenga Lodge | $76.64 | 4.3 | (603) | Breakfast, Free Wi-Fi, Free parking, Pool, Air conditioning, Bar, Restaurant, Room service | 3.48 miles |
| Malandela's Guest House | $119.30 | 4.4 | (115) | Free Wi-Fi, Free parking, Pool, Restaurant | 2.05 miles |
| Benka LifeStyle Country Cottages | $84.05 | 4.2 | (33) | Breakfast, Free Wi-Fi, Free parking, Kitchen in some rooms, Child-friendly | 3.11 miles |
Lobamba
Lobamba, known as the cultural heart of Eswatini, is home to the King's residence and the national museum. It's an ideal destination for immersing yourself in Swazi culture and history, offering numerous inexpensive lodging and dining options.
| Hotel | Price (USD) | Rating | Reviews | Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mantenga Lodge | $65.72 | 4.3 | (603) | Breakfast, Free Wi-Fi, Free parking, Pool, Air conditioning, Bar, Restaurant, Room service |
| Lidwala Lodge | $55.72 | 4.2 | (97) | Breakfast, Free Wi-Fi, Free parking, Pool, Spa, Restaurant, Kitchen in some rooms, Airport shuttle |
| Benka LifeStyle Country Cottages | $73.96 | 4.2 | (33) | Breakfast, Free Wi-Fi, Free parking, Kitchen in some rooms, Child-friendly |
Botswana
Chobe National Park
Chobe National Park, celebrated for its vast elephant herds, offers some of Africa’s most affordable safari adventures. You can find budget-friendly campsites and lodges, making it accessible for all travelers. For those who love a bit of independence, self-drive safaris provide a fantastic and economical way to witness the park's diverse wildlife up close.
| Hotel Name | Price (USD) | Rating | Reviews | Star Rating | Amenities | Distance to Chobe National Park |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chobe Safari Lodge | 352.31 | 4.4 | 1,456 | 3-star | Free breakfast, Free Wi-Fi, Free parking, Outdoor pool, Air conditioning, Bar, Restaurant, Full-service laundry | 109.7 km |
| Chobe Game Lodge | N/A | 4.8 | 256 | 5-star | Free breakfast, Free Wi-Fi, Free parking, Outdoor pool, Air conditioning, Spa, Bar, Restaurant | 101.5 km |
| Chobe River Cottages | 145.56 | 4.4 | 112 | 3-star | Free Wi-Fi, Free parking, Outdoor pool, Air conditioning, Restaurant, Kitchen in some rooms, Full-service laundry, Child-friendly | 111.3 km |
Gaborone
Gaborone, the capital of Botswana, exudes a modern charm with its laid-back atmosphere. The city features affordable accommodations and restaurants, making it a perfect starting point for exploring the country.
| Hotel Name | Price (USD) | Rating | Number of Reviews | Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gaborone Hotel | $28.78 | 3.3 | 282 | Free Wi-Fi, Free parking, Air conditioning, Pet-friendly, Bar, Restaurant, Full-service laundry |
| Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino | $138.25 | 4.2 | 2,513 | 4-star hotel, Free breakfast, Free Wi-Fi, Free parking, Outdoor pool, Air conditioning, Fitness centre, Spa, Bar |
| Grand Aria Hotels and Conference Centre | $70.97 | 4.1 | 198 | Free breakfast, Free Wi-Fi, Free parking, Outdoor pool, Air conditioning, Restaurant, Airport shuttle, Full-service laundry |
Zambia
Lusaka
Lusaka, the capital of Zambia, is a bustling city featuring lively markets, fascinating museums, and a vibrant nightlife. It’s an excellent destination to experience urban Africa affordably, with many budget-friendly lodging and dining options.
| Hotel Name | Price (Rp) | Rating | Number of Reviews | Eco-certified | Amenities | Star Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Radisson Blu Hotel, Lusaka | 2,150,410 | 4.3 | 2,904 | Yes | Breakfast, Free Wi-Fi, Free parking, Outdoor pool, Hot tub, Air conditioning, Fitness centre, Spa | 5-star |
| Hilton Garden Inn Lusaka Society Business Park | 1,527,851 | 4.4 | 2,016 | Yes | Breakfast, Free Wi-Fi, Parking ($), Outdoor pool, Air conditioning, Fitness centre, Bar, Restaurant | 4-star |
| Protea Hotel Lusaka Cairo Road | 1,354,109 | 4.1 | 1,171 | No | Breakfast, Free Wi-Fi, Free parking, Air conditioning, Fitness centre, Bar, Restaurant, Airport shuttle | 3-star |
South Luangwa National Park
South Luangwa National Park offers walking safaris and incredible wildlife experiences at reasonable prices. Budget-friendly camps and lodges make it accessible for all travelers.
Malawi
Lake Malawi
South Luangwa National Park offers walking safaris and incredible wildlife experiences at reasonable prices. Budget-friendly camps and lodges make it accessible for all travelers.
| Lodge Name | Price (USD) | Rating | Reviews | Star Rating | Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thumbi View Lodge | $35 | 4.3 | 82 | 3-star hotel | Free breakfast, Free Wi-Fi, Free parking, Outdoor pool, Pet-friendly, Bar, Restaurant, Kitchen in some rooms, Airport shuttle |
| Mufasa Eco Lodge | $13 | 4.1 | 74 | 2-star hotel | Free breakfast, Free Wi-Fi, Parking, Pet-friendly, Bar, Restaurant, Room service, Airport shuttle |
| Kaya Mawa by Green Safaris | $55 | 4.8 | 34 | 3-star hotel | Free breakfast, Free Wi-Fi, Outdoor pool, Pet-friendly, Spa, Bar, Restaurant, Kitchen in some rooms |
Lilongwe
Lilongwe, the capital of Malawi, is a tranquil city featuring markets, gardens, and cost-effective hotels. It serves as a strategic starting point for those wishing to explore the broader regions of the country.
| Hotel | Price (USD) | Rating | Reviews | Stars | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spendwise Furnished Apartments | $40.88 | 4.5 | 16 | 3 | Free parking, Free Wi-Fi |
| Mpatsa Quest Hotels | $34.36 | 5.0 | 1 | 3 | Free breakfast, Fitness center |
| Golden Peacock Hotel | $115.51 | 3.8 | 388 | 4 | Stately lodging, Dining, Pool, Spa |
Madagascar
Antananarivo
Tana, the buzzing capital of Madagascar, is packed with culture and history. You’ll find cool markets, awesome palaces, and cheap guesthouses. It’s the perfect spot to start your island adventure!
| Hotel Name | Price ($) | Rating | Reviews | Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aparthotel Madeleine | $27.58 | 4.4 | (8) | Free Wi-Fi, Free parking |
| Ikopa Hôtel Madagascar | $36.13 | 3.9 | (59) | Pool, Free Wi-Fi |
| Radisson Blu Hotel, Antananarivo Waterfront | $159.09 | 4.7 | (174) | Pool, Spa |
Nosy Be
Nosy Be stands as a tropical island paradise renowned for its picturesque beaches and abundant marine fauna. Despite its appeal, it offers more affordability compared to several other island destinations, with a wide range of budget accommodations and dining establishments.
| Hotel Name | Price (USD) | Rating | Reviews | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hôtel-Résidence Au Sable Blanc | $56.59 | 4.4 | (27) | 3-star hotel, Beach access, Free Wi-Fi |
| Villa Mia | $38.36 | 4.5 | (2) | Pool, Free Wi-Fi |
| Long Beach Resort Nosy Be | $87.93 | 5.0 | (6) | Pool, Free Wi-Fi, View 172 hotels |
Tanzania
Zanzibar
Make your dream of visiting Zanzibar a reality! With its idyllic white-sand beaches and historic Stone Town, it's a must-see destination. And the best part? You don't need deep pockets to enjoy it. Zanzibar offers plenty of budget accommodations, from lively hostels to cozy guesthouses, ensuring you can experience paradise without overspending.
| Hotel Name | Price (USD) | Rating | Reviews | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chuini Zanzibar Lodge, Tanzania | $139.74 | 4.3 | (228) | Upscale beachfront hotel with 3 pools |
| Zanzibar Beach Resort | $101.76 | 4.0 | (1.2K) | Relaxed beachfront resort with a pool |
| Royal Zanzibar Beach Resort | $363.32 | 4.5 | (1.6K) | Casual beach resort with dining & pools |
Serengeti National Park
Although safaris are typically associated with high costs, the Serengeti provides budget-friendly alternatives such as camping and self-drive tours. Witnessing the Great Migration is an unforgettable experience that remains accessible to budget-conscious travelers.
| Hotel Name | Price (USD) | Rating | Amenities | Distance to Serengeti National Park |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seronera Wildlife Lodge | $248 | 4.4 | Breakfast, Free Wi-Fi, Free parking, Bar, Restaurant | 13 km |
| Four Seasons Safari Lodge | 4.7 | Breakfast, Free Wi-Fi, Free parking, Pool, Hot tub, Air conditioning, Fitness centre, Spa | 14.5 km | |
| Africa Safari Serengeti | $115 | 5.0 | Free Wi-Fi, Free parking, Restaurant, Kitchen in some rooms | 70 km |
| Anantya Serengeti | $751 | 5.0 | Free breakfast, Free Wi-Fi, Free parking, Bar, Restaurant, Room service, Airport shuttle, Full-service laundry, Child-friendly | 21.8 km |
| One Nature Nyaruswiga | $3,758 | 5.0 | Free Wi-Fi, Free parking, Outdoor pool, Hot tub, Spa, Bar, Restaurant, Airport shuttle | 10.4 km |
Affordable Travel Tips
Budget Accommodation
Before your trip, make sure to explore various accommodation options such as hostels, guesthouses, and budget hotels through websites like Airbnb and Booking.com. Additionally, many countries provide affordable camping sites for travelers seeking outdoor experiences.
Local Transportation
When traveling, consider utilizing public transportation options such as buses, shared taxis, and trains, which are typically more economical than renting a car or using private taxis. Additionally, in many destinations, affordable bicycle or scooter rentals offer convenient and environmentally friendly transportation alternatives.
Conclusion
Traveling from South Africa to nearby countries can be affordable with proper planning and a spirit of adventure. You can discover some of the world's most stunning and diverse regions on a budget. From the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls to the tranquil beaches of Tofo, these destinations provide unforgettable experiences without breaking the bank.
FAQs
1. What is the cheapest country to visit from South Africa?
Zimbabwe and Mozambique are commonly perceived as highly affordable destinations due to their close proximity and comparatively low living costs.
2. How can I save money on accommodation while traveling?
Consider lodging options such as hostels, guesthouses, or Airbnb for cost-effective accommodations. Additionally, camping presents an economical alternative.
3. What are some tips for traveling on a tight budget?
To stretch your travel budget, plan ahead, travel during off-peak seasons, rely on local transportation, dine at local eateries, and consistently search for flight and accommodation deals.
4. Is it safe to travel to these destinations?
The majority of these destinations are deemed safe for travelers; however, maintaining awareness of local conditions and adhering to travel advisories is paramount.
5. What’s the best time of year to visit these cheap destinations?
The ideal time to visit differs for each destination. Typically, traveling during shoulder seasons, just before or after peak periods, provides pleasant weather and reduced expenses.
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