How to explore South Africa on a budget in 2025 — without missing out on the best experiences.

Exploring South Africa doesn’t have to break the bank. From the peaks of the Drakensberg to the shores of the West Coast, there’s no shortage of adventure — and you don’t need a luxury budget to enjoy it. With the cost of living rising and international trips becoming less affordable, local travel is booming in 2025.

Whether you're planning a long weekend, a solo road trip, or a family getaway, there are smart ways to save on transport, accommodation, food, and experiences — without sacrificing the fun.

At Lula Lona, we believe that financial freedom includes the ability to enjoy your life — and that includes travel. This guide shows you exactly how to see more of South Africa for less.

Why Local Travel Makes Sense in 2025

• Flight costs are still high, especially internationally
• Rand volatility makes overseas travel unpredictable
• National parks, coastal towns, and rural areas offer affordable, stunning getaways
• Supporting local businesses helps communities grow

Plus, local travel means no visa fees, no currency exchange, and more flexibility if you need to change plans.

Best Budget-Friendly Travel Destinations in South Africa

Looking for affordable places to stay and play? Here are some top picks that offer natural beauty, culture, and activities without the high price tag:

1. Cederberg (Western Cape)

• Hiking, rock art, and stargazing
• Affordable camping and self-catering cottages
• R100–R300/night for campsites

2. Drakensberg (KZN/Free State)

• Dramatic mountains, waterfalls, and trails
• Stay in budget lodges or backpackers from R250/night
• Free hiking routes and picnic areas

3. Eastern Cape Coast

• Places like Coffee Bay and Chintsa offer beaches, surf, and Xhosa culture
• Dorms from R150/night; double rooms from R300
• Local food markets = budget meals

4. Karoo Towns (Graaff-Reinet, Prince Albert)

• Affordable farm stays, historic towns, stargazing
• Great for road trips
• Guesthouses from R400/night for 2 people

5. National Parks (Not Just Kruger)

• Addo, Golden Gate, Bontebok, and Camdeboo are cheaper but beautiful
• SANParks Wild Card gives unlimited access for one year

How to Save on Accommodation

✓ Use Comparison Sites:

• LekkeSlaap and TravelStart Stays for local deals
• Airbnb filters: entire place vs. private room
• Couchsurfing or Facebook travel groups for budget-friendly host stays

✓ Travel Off-Peak:

• Avoid school holidays and long weekends
• Mid-week bookings are often 15–30% cheaper

✓ Go Self-Catering:

• Book places with kitchen access
• Save hundreds by preparing simple meals

Transport Tips for Budget Travellers

✓ Rent Smart:

• Use price comparison sites like Rentalcars.com
• Pick fuel-efficient cars
• Share the cost by travelling in groups

✓ Bus Travel:

• Intercape, City to City, and Citiliner offer long-distance routes from R150–R400
• Use the Moovit app for affordable local transit

✓ Consider Carpooling:

• Platforms like BlaBlaCar or university Facebook groups offer shared trips
• Safe, cheap, and more social

Food: How to Eat Well Without Overspending

• Pack snacks from home (nuts, fruit, sandwiches)
• Visit local markets or township eateries for authentic, affordable meals
• Stick to self-catering when staying longer than 2 nights
• Look for "meal of the day" specials at cafes and small restaurants

Daily food budget target: R100–R150/person is totally doable

Travel Platforms That Offer Cashback or Discounts

✓ SnapnSave – Cashback on groceries and snacks for your trip

✓ Lula Lona Partners – Access to curated travel deals for local stays

✓ Booking.com – "Genius" loyalty discounts for repeat users

✓ Sanlam Reality and Discovery Vitality – If you’re a member, you get up to 50% off selected hotels and flights

✓ Takealot Travel Vouchers – Buy discounted gift cards and use them to book transport or gear

Smart Financial Planning for Your Trip

✓ Set a Daily Budget

Decide upfront how much you’ll spend per day. Track:

• Accommodation
• Food
• Fuel/Transport
• Activities
• Emergencies

Use a simple app like Trail Wallet or a free spreadsheet.

✓ Start Saving Early

Even R50–R100/week adds up in a few months. Set up a dedicated travel savings pocket with your bank or mobile wallet.

✓ Use Cash + Card

Carry some cash for rural areas or vendors who don’t take cards, but keep large sums secure. Avoid ATM withdrawal fees by using your bank’s machines.

✓ Avoid Debt-Funded Travel

If you need to borrow, make sure your loan is low-interest and won’t put pressure on your post-trip finances.

Travel Doesn’t Have to Be Expensive

You don’t need five-star resorts or business class tickets to experience the joy of travel. With a little planning, local knowledge, and budget-savvy thinking, you can discover breathtaking places, meet incredible people, and come home richer in memories – not poorer in rands.

At Lula Lona, we’re here to help you save smart, spend smart, and live fully – on any budget.