South Africa is packed with vacation destinations that are as easy on your wallet as they are on the eyes. Whether you’re craving wildlife, beaches, or mountain escapes, there’s something for everyone, and yes, that includes family-friendly spots where your kids can stay free. Let’s dive into the top 20 Budget-Friendly Holiday Resorts in South Africa for 2024 and 2025. Careful now, these hidden gems might make you addicted to vacation deals and you’ll find yourself booking affordable getaways more often but who’s complaining?
Budget-Friendly Holiday Resort Packages
1. Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge — Limpopo
- Why Go: Think wild luxury. Spot elephants over breakfast and lions by lunch. Perfect for self-drive adventurers.
- Tip: Self-drive saves big bucks on safari tours. Plan flights ahead with Travelstart’s book now, pay later option.
Go ahead—Spend 2 nights in the Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge
2. aha Alpine Heath Resort — KwaZulu-Natal
- Why Go: A Drakensberg gem with breathtaking views, hiking trails, and adventure activities .
- Family Friendly: Variety of “funtastic” kids activities plus there’s a miniature golf course—cute!
- Tip: Do the hike and horse riding first before trying the spa, your joints and muscles will thank you for it.
Spend 2 nights in the aha Alpine Heath Resort.
3. Ivory Tree Game Lodge — North West Province
- Why Go: Situated in the Pilanesberg Game Reserve, this lodge offers game drives without Kruger-level crowds.
- Tip: You can get R500 OFF your domestic flights to the North West with Travelstart+.
Give the Ivory Tree Game Lodge a try with a 2 night stay.
4. Makalali Main Lodge — Limpopo
- Why go: Imagine watching the Big 5 coming to the watering hole after a long day. There aren’t words to describe the serenity which comes from that.
- Location: It is set an hour away from Kruger National Park, so you can see the same bucks without spending big “bucks”.
- Tip: It should go without saying but wear comfortable clothes when going on the game drive.
Connect with nature, spend 2 nights at the Makalali Main Lodge.
5. aha Gateway Hotel — KwaZulu-Natal
- Why go: If a bush getaway is not for you then you’ll love this city escape in the heart of sunny Durban.
- The view: This city comes alive at night time and imagine seeing the lights and action from this rooftop pool.
Get your groove on in Durban at the aha Gateway Hotel
6. Arniston Spa Hotel — Western Cape
- Why go: Imagine being surrounded by a turquoise-blue sea and endless white, sandy beaches,
- Surf n Turf: Set between two nature reserves, the Arniston is a leisurely 2-hour drive from Cape Town, through the colourful rolling hills of the Overberg
- Perks: Complimentary breakfast and Wi-Fi
The Arniston Spa hotel is calling your name, book it now.
Budget-Friendly Holiday Resorts For Families
7. Pebble Beach Manor – Western Cape
- Why go: It is right by the Atlantic Ocean, this private nature reserve is home to unspoiled beaches and breathtaking fauna and flora.
- Accomodation: four en-suite bedrooms with a queen-size bed in each, all with sea views. Ground-floor level rooms have access to private terraces and the garden. KIDS STAY FREE
Give the family a holiday: Book the Pebble Beach Manor
8. Valley of Peace – Western Cape
- Cozy stays, epic location: Spacious self-catering unit or en-suite rooms, perfect for couples or families exploring Stellenbosch wine routes.
- Perks: Garden views, breakfast included and serene vibes in a safe and tranquil setting.
Need a peaceful stay in Stellenbosch, book the Valley of Peace
9. Kleinzee Guest house – Western Cape
- Why go: Near Gansbaai’s shark diving, De Kelders’ caves, and Walker Bay hikes. Plus, kids stay free!
- Scenery: Luxurious oceanfront suites with private whale-viewing decks and seaside hiking trails.
Budget-Friendly Holiday Resorts for Romantic Getaways
10. San Lameer Resort – KwaZulu-Natal
- Why go: Golf with zebra, lagoon views, and Blue Flag beaches—San Lameer has it all.
- Location: South Coast gem, just a quick flight to Durban.
- Activities: Golf, kayak, or relax beachside—it’s your call.
Book your stay at San Lameer Resort
11. Rocky Bay Resorts | South Coast
- Why go: Stunning weather, gold-sand beaches, and endless activities make Rocky Bay the ultimate summer escape.
- Location: Near Scottburgh, with secluded beaches and lush countryside all around.
- Activities: Snorkel, fish, hike, or let the kids enjoy pools and jungle gyms while you relax.
Book your stay at Rocky Bay Resorts
Also read:
12. Zimbali | North Coast
- Why go: Private beaches, luxury facilities, and five-star dining—Zimbali is pure indulgence.
- Location: Just 16 km from King Shaka Airport and minutes from Ballito and Durban.
- Activities: Golf, spa days, or Kids Club fun—there’s something for everyone.
Book your stay at Zimbali
Also read:
13. Sani Pass Hotel | Drakensberg
- Why go: Stunning mountain views, family fun, and hearty meals make for unforgettable getaways.
- Location: Southern Drakensberg, 2.5 hours from Durban and 6.5 hours from Joburg.
- Activities: Swim, golf, hike, or relax in rustic cottages with candlelit dinners.
Book your stay at Sani Pass Hotel
14. Cathedral Peak | Drakensberg
- Why go: Stunning peaks, lush trails, and endless outdoor adventure make Cathedral Peak unforgettable.
- Location: In the heart of the Drakensberg, surrounded by streams, pools, and waterfalls.
- Activities: Hike, bike, golf, or relax in top-notch thatched accommodation.
Book your stay at Cathedral Peak Hotel
15. Gooderson Drakensberg Gardens Golf & Spa Resort | Southern Drakensberg
- Why go: World Heritage beauty, endless activities, and family-friendly fun in the mountains.
- Location: 860 hectares of stunning scenery, perfect for outdoor adventures and relaxation.
- Activities: Hike, fish, ride, or unwind at the spa while the kids enjoy dedicated amenities.
Book your stay at Gooderson’s Drakensberg Resort
More Budget-Friendly Holiday Resorts
16. Champagne Sports Resort | Central Drakensberg
- Why go: Stunning chalets, top-notch facilities, and endless outdoor fun make this mountain resort a favorite.
- Location: Scenic and convenient—perfect for quick getaways from Joburg or Durban.
- Activities: Game viewing, fishing, golfing, or relaxing at the wellness center.
Book your stay at Champagne Sports Resort
17. Umngazi River Bungalows | Wild Coast
- Why go: Escape the crowds and unwind in a Wild Coast paradise with endless activities and serene beaches.
- Location: Umngazi River Bungalows, where nature shines—mangroves, rivers, and secluded shores.
- Activities: Canoe, bird-watch, fish, or relax in your cozy thatched bungalow after spa bliss.
Book your stay at Umngazi River Bungalows & Spa
Also read:
18. Montagu Springs | Montagu, Route 62 – Garden Route
- Why go: Scenic Montagu offers wine, hot springs, and adventure—a true Western Cape gem.
- Location: On Route 62, near Robertson and Breede River valleys, with Little Karoo nearby.
- Activities: Sip wine, bike mountains, soak in mineral springs, or enjoy birdwatching bliss.
Book your stay at Montagu Springs
19. Club Mykonos | Langebaan
- Why go: West Coast charm meets Greek island vibes at Club Mykonos—a paradise with stunning views.
- Location: Langebaan Lagoon, where luxury white-washed chalets and endless activities await.
- Activities: Fish, mini-golf, beach days, massages, or donkey rides for the kids—your choice!
Book your stay at Club Mykonos
Also read:
20. Eagle Waters Wildlife Resort | Hartbeespoort – Gauteng
- Why go: Escape the city to nature’s playground, where wildlife and watersports meet.
- Location: Hartbeespoort Dam, just a short drive from Joburg, with scenic views and outdoor fun.
- Activities: Spot zebra, sail the dam, camp, or picnic—relax your way.
Book your stay at Eagle Waters
Also read:
What do you think are the best holiday resorts in South Africa? Let us know in the comments below and remember to share your holiday pics on our Facebook page.