South Africa is a dream destination for many travellers, offering a diverse range of experiences, from breathtaking landscapes and wildlife safaris to vibrant cities and rich cultural heritage. But how much does it really cost to travel in South Africa? Whether you’re a budget backpacker, a mid-range traveller, or someone looking for a luxury getaway, the country has options for every kind of traveller. Understanding the true cost of travel in South Africa can help you plan your trip efficiently while ensuring you make the most of your budget.
For budget travellers, South Africa can be incredibly affordable. Hostels and backpacker lodges are plentiful in major cities and tourist hotspots, with dormitory beds typically costing between R200 and R400 per night. Private rooms in budget accommodations can range from R500 to R800, depending on the location. If you’re willing to camp, many national parks and coastal areas offer campsites for as little as R150 per night. Transport can also be cheap if you use minibus taxis or long-distance buses such as Intercape or Greyhound, with a trip between Cape Town and Johannesburg costing around R600 to R800. Public transport in cities like Cape Town and Durban is limited, but MyCiTi buses offer affordable and safe travel within Cape Town at an average cost of R10 to R30 per ride.
Food is another area where budget travellers can save. A meal from a street vendor or a casual eatery like Wimpy or Nando’s can cost between R50 and R120. South African supermarkets such as Pick n Pay and Checkers offer a variety of affordable meal options, and self-catering is a great way to keep costs down. Local markets are excellent places to grab cheap and delicious food, with boerewors rolls, bunny chows, or a portion of fish and chips available for under R100. For activities, many of South Africa’s natural attractions are free or cost very little. Hiking trails in the Drakensberg or Table Mountain National Park are mostly free, while entry to national parks such as Kruger costs around R120 per day for South African citizens and R480 for international visitors.
For mid-range travellers, South Africa offers a great balance of comfort and affordability. A stay in a decent guesthouse or mid-range hotel will cost between R1,000 and R2,500 per night, with options like Protea Hotels or boutique lodges providing excellent value. Car hire is a popular choice for mid-range travellers, with daily rental rates starting from R400, making it easier to explore destinations like the Garden Route or the Winelands at your own pace. Domestic flights between cities such as Johannesburg and Cape Town can range from R1,200 to R2,500 one way, depending on the season and airline.
When it comes to dining, South Africa’s mid-range restaurants provide excellent quality at reasonable prices. Expect to pay between R200 and R400 per person for a meal at restaurants like The Hussar Grill, The Test Kitchen’s casual dining spot The Shortmarket Club, or trendy spots in Maboneng and Cape Town’s Bree Street. Seafood lovers will find fantastic options at coastal restaurants like The Oyster Box in Umhlanga or Baia in Cape Town, where fresh seafood platters can be enjoyed at prices that are much more affordable than in other major cities worldwide.
Mid-range activities in South Africa include guided safaris, wine tours, and cultural experiences. A half-day wine tour in Stellenbosch or Franschhoek costs around R600 to R1,200, depending on the number of tastings included. A game drive in a private reserve such as Sabi Sands or Pilanesberg can range from R1,500 to R3,500 per person, with luxury lodges including guided safaris in their packages. Cultural tours, such as a visit to Soweto or Robben Island, cost around R500 to R1,000 per person, providing enriching experiences without breaking the bank.
For those looking for a luxury travel experience, South Africa offers world-class accommodations, fine dining, and exclusive activities. Luxury lodges in game reserves such as Londolozi, Singita, or Royal Malewane offer all-inclusive packages that range from R10,000 to R40,000 per night, including gourmet meals, private game drives, and personalised service. Five-star hotels like The Silo in Cape Town or Saxon Hotel in Johannesburg offer opulent stays with rates starting at R7,000 per night.
Fine dining in South Africa is world-renowned, with restaurants such as La Colombe, FYN, and Wolfgat offering tasting menus that range from R1,200 to R2,500 per person. Paired with South African wines, these meals provide an unforgettable culinary experience. Private helicopter tours over Cape Town, luxury train journeys on the Rovos Rail, and exclusive shark cage diving experiences in Gansbaai can cost anywhere from R5,000 to R20,000 per person, catering to travellers seeking unique and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
No matter your budget, South Africa offers an incredible range of travel experiences that cater to different spending levels. With a little planning, it’s possible to enjoy everything from city life and wildlife safaris to coastal retreats and culinary adventures, all tailored to your financial comfort. Whether you’re backpacking through hostels, enjoying a comfortable guesthouse, or indulging in luxury lodges, South Africa delivers exceptional value and unforgettable memories.