South Africans are fortunate that our country is an all-year-round holiday destination with many attractions and experiences for families to enjoy.
These holiday destinations are among the most affordable for family breaks.
Whether you want to camp or go for self-catering options, these towns will give you the options and entertainment.
Hermanus
A 90-minute drive from Cape Town, the seaside town of Hermanus is known for its annual whale migration between July to November.
The town also offers visitors quaint little shops and a great variety of restaurants. There are many seaside walks, a lagoon for safe swimming and numerous hiking trails in the area. The Walker Bay area also has a few great wine farms that are family-friendly.
Parys
Located about an hour from Johannesburg, Pary is a small holiday town along the Vaal River.
It sits within the 300-kilometre-wide Vredefort Dome, the world's largest known meteorite impact site, which has earned UNESCO World Heritage status.
The town offers a variety of activities, including water sports, and is known for its antique shops, art galleries, breweries, distilleries, and dining options.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the 60-kilometre Vredefort Meteorite trail provides an opportunity to explore unique landscapes and encounter local wildlife and plant species.
Dullstroom
Dullstroom is an ideal getaway for both families and couples, with plenty to do and stunning natural surroundings.
Known for its trout fishing, it’s a top spot for angling enthusiasts. The town also offers great options for dining, where visitors can enjoy local dishes at places like Plat de Jour or Mrs Simpsons.
Robertson
Robertson, located along the famous Route 62 offers various activities such as horse riding, hiking, and cycling, with hiking and mountain bike trails with stunning views of the surrounding vineyards, fruit farms and mountains.
Wine tasting is a must, with many excellent wine estates, often family-owned, which welcome visitors for tastings and cellar tours. Several wine estates also offer budget-friendly accommodation for those looking to stay overnight.
Paternoster
Paternoster is a quaint fishing village along the west coast. It’s home to over 200 bird species and is great for dolphin spotting. Visitors can enjoy sea kayaking and mountain biking.
The area has a wide range of accommodation options, from camping to upscale B&Bs.
Waterberg
Waterberg offers an authentic South African getaway without a hefty price tag. The wild landscape has earned recognition as a UNESCO biosphere reserve, making it one of Africa’s most untouched natural areas.
Much of the region, including Bela-Bela, is malaria-free, with natural hot springs known for their healing qualities. Nearby game reserves, such as Mabula, Mabalinwe, and Welgevonden, have the Big Five for game watching.
IOL Travel