10 Affordable Christmas Vacations in South Africa

Hey there! Are you feeling the strain on your wallet after spending all your money on Christmas presents? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! If you’re dreaming of a holiday getaway but think it’s out of reach, think again. I’ve got some awesome budget-friendly options for you right here in South Africa. Let’s check them out!

1. Let’s escape to a magical place called Penwarn Country Lodge!

Where is it, you ask? It’s just a short drive outside Underberg, about an hour and a half from Pietermaritzburg.

Now, why is this place so special? Well, picture this: a breathtaking valley filled with peaceful cows and majestic horses. It’s the perfect spot to take a breath and unwind.

At Penwarn Country Lodge, there’s something for everyone. You can go horse riding, hiking, or even try your hand at fly-fishing for trout and bass. If you’re a bird lover, don’t worry, they’ve got guided bird-watching tours too. And for the adventurers out there, there’s abseiling and tubing to get your heart racing. You can even join in on cattle roundups on horseback!

The best part? Rates start at just R200 per person per night, so it won’t break the bank. And don’t worry about bringing the little ones along, because all ages are welcome.

If you want more information or to book your stay, give them a call at 033-701-1368 or send an email to Penwarn. And of course, you can always visit their website at Penwarn for all the details.

2. Get away to: Yengele Paradise Boutique Lodge
Where: Situated in the peaceful town of Trafalgar, just a two-hour drive from Durban.
Why: If you’re dreaming of a laid-back day spent on the beach, followed by a leisurely lunch and some quality relaxation time, then this is the ideal destination for you. You can also indulge in bird-watching or try your hand at kiteboarding in the nearby river mouth.
Cost: Enjoy the freedom of self-catering accommodation, starting at just R230 per person per night. If you prefer a relaxing breakfast, choose the bed and breakfast option, starting at R290 per person.
Children: ?Kids aged 14 and above are more than welcome to join in on the vacation fun.
More info: For reservations, please call Tel: 039-313-0641 or Cell: 073-022-3329. You can also send an email to Yengele Paradise or visit their website for more information.

3. Get away to: Arniston Beach House
Where: Located in the beautiful town of Arniston, just a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Cape Town.
Why: This summer, treat yourself to your very own beachside holiday house! With stunning ocean views, this beach house is the perfect getaway spot. It can comfortably accommodate groups of up to 12 people, making it great for friends or family gatherings. You’ll have access to a spacious lawn where you can enjoy games and activities, as well as the famous coastal cave and a fantastic swimming and surfing beach just a two-minute drive away. There’s something for everyone, regardless of age!
Cost: Renting this 12-sleeper house starts at R3,500 per night, depending on the season and number of guests.
Children: ?Guests of all ages are welcome, and there’s a collection of board games available for entertainment. However, please keep an eye on toddlers as the back of the house opens up to the road and seafront.
More info: To make a reservation, please call Tel: 083-679-8576 or send an email to Arniston Beach House. You can also visit their website for more details.

4. Take a break at: Chapman’s Peak Manor
Where: Noordhoek, just half an hour away from Cape Town.
Why: You won’t believe how close this fully equipped, self-catering hideaway is to the beach. And the best part? The stunning mountain and sea views that come with it. When you’re not soaking up the sun or taking a dip, there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained, like horse riding along the beach, watching whales, or even going shark diving. But if that sounds like too much, you can always relax by the pool or just unwind on the beach.
Cost: You’ll be happy to know that rates start at only R350 per person per night.
Children: If you have little ones, there are discounts available for them, and kids under five stay for free.
More info: If you want to find out more or make a booking, you can call 021-789-2553, send an email to Chapman’s Peak Manor, or visit their website.

5. Get away to: Pine Tree Cottage
Where: Kleinmond, an hour and fifteen minute’s drive from Cape Town
Why: If you want a cozy and relaxing coastal escape surrounded by a stunning garden, then you should definitely consider staying at Pine Tree Cottage. This bed and breakfast is a hidden treasure and offers great value for your money. Plus, it’s conveniently located within walking distance of the coastal path, the beach, shops, and restaurants.
Cost: The price is only R250 per person per night when sharing a room. They also have special discounts for pensioners, with children under 16 paying half price and young kids under six staying for free.
Children: All ages are welcome at Pine Tree Cottage.
More info: You can contact them at 028-271-3770 or send an email to Cag’s. You can also visit Cag’s holiday website for more information.

6. Escape to: De Oude Herberg Guest HouseWhere: Tulbagh, just an hour and thirty minutes away from Cape Town.Why: I recommend this place because it’s a great, affordable four-star guesthouse that holds a special place in Tulbagh’s history. You’ll find it on the famous Church Street. Imagine dining under the cool shade of enormous trees and taking a leisurely stroll down the street, soaking in the ambiance and visiting some of the incredible wine estates in the valley. It truly is the ultimate getaway!Cost: You can stay here bed and breakfast style for only R350 to R400 per person sharing.Children: Bring the kids too! Children over the age of 12 are welcome.More Info: To find out more, give De Oude Herberg a call at 023-230-0260, send them an email at De Oude Herberg, or check out their website at De Oude Herberg House.

7. Escape to: Rietvlei Nature Reserve Location: Pretoria, just an hour’s drive from Johannesburg Why: Need a relaxing getaway? Look no further than Rietvlei Nature Reserve. Stay in fully-equipped chalets surrounded by nature, where you can recharge and unwind. Listen to the majestic fish eagles’ call from your very own balcony, and keep an eye out for incredible wildlife like white rhinos, zebras, buffaloes, and if luck is on your side, cheetahs. Don’t forget to bring your mountain bike – there are two scenic trails waiting for you. Cost: The chalets are priced at R700. If you prefer camping, it’s R25 per vehicle and R50 per person per night. Children: Please be cautious with young children as there are hippos and crocodiles in the dam. Need more information? Call 012-358-1819 or visit Rietvlei Nature’s website.

8. Get away to: Lama Lodge
Where: Lama Lodge is located in De Tweedespruit, just an hour and 15 minutes drive from Johannesburg.
Why: If you want to escape with your friends or family, this is the perfect place to go. Lama Lodge offers an amazing outdoor entertainment area with a barbecue and a huge 30-seat spa bath. You’ll also find a spacious garden, sun loungers, and even llamas! This is the best and most affordable self-catering accommodation available.
Cost: Rates are only R280 per person per night.
Children: All ages are welcome.
More info: For more information, you can contact Cullinan Info at 012-734-1111, or call 084-828-4858, or even send an email to Lama Lodge.

9. Get away to: De Hoek Country Lodge
Where: Near Heidelberg, just a 1-hour drive from Johannesburg.
Why: If you’re looking for a friendly and cozy farm experience, De Hoek Country Lodge is the place to be. Start your day with a delicious farm breakfast and enjoy the company of the animals while basking in the sun. The owners’ warm hospitality and the beautiful surroundings will make you feel right at home. And the best part? It’s budget-friendly, so you don’t have to break the bank.
Cost: The rate for bed and breakfast is only R300 per person per night in the rooms.
Children: All ages are welcome.
More info: You can reach them at 016-342-2103 or 082-928-6839, or you can send them an email. For more details, visit the De Hoek Country Lodge website.

10. Get away to: The Nest B&B
Where: Gonubie, just a 20-minute drive from East London.
Why: If you need a break from thinking and want to relax, The Nest B&B in Gonubie is the perfect destination. The three-star B&B offers affordable accommodation with the option of self-catering. You can enjoy the beautiful garden, indulge in hearty breakfasts, or simply lounge by the pool. For the more adventurous, there are hiking trails and a nearby golf course. And let’s not forget, it’s only a four-minute drive to the beach, making it a vacation you won’t forget.
Cost: Bed and breakfast rates start from R250 per person sharing. Self-catering rates start from R200 per person sharing.
Children: All ages are welcome.
More info: You can contact them at 043 740 1809 or 082 448 6882, or send them an email. To find out more, visit The Nest B&B website.