With the Rand in a not-so-great state at the moment, South Africans could be forgiven for thinking a holiday overseas is out of reach this year. But with some careful research and a good eye for exchange rates, foreign shores are well within your grasp. To help you out, we’ve compiled this comprehensive list of international cheap holiday destinations for South African travellers.
We’ve covered: Africa, Europe, The Americas and Asia.
Keep it handy and let us know if you have any other suggestions.
Already know where you want to go? Head over to Cheapflights.co.za to search for and compare flights from hundreds of airlines and travel agents.
Africa
1. Egypt
There’s nowhere in the world quite like Egypt. It’s famous for its iconic ancient sites, like the Pyramids of Giza and the Valley of the Kings. Elsewhere, there’s plenty to keep you busy, from the serene coral-filled waters of the Red Sea to the lively nightlife of Sharm el Sheikh.
• Exchange rate:
1.00 ZAR = 0.62 Egyptian Pound*
• Average Hotel Room:
R700 per day*
• How affordable is eating out?
Eating out in Egypt 29% cheaper than in SA*
• Top Attractions:
Blue Lagoon, the Great Pyramids of Giza – a must-see Ancient Egyptian landmark and a river cruise along the life-giving Nile.
• Visa Info:
Visa required.
2. Kenya
Kenya lies on the equator, covering an expanse stretching from Lake Victoria to Lake Turkana. Get away from the bright lights of Nairobi, the capital city, and you can hunt down the big 5 on a photo safari, visit the mosques in Mombasa, and explore coffee plantations and tasting rooms. That’s before you get started on natural wonders like Mount Kilimanjaro and the numerous beaches along the Indian Ocean coastline.
• Exchange rate:
1.00 ZAR = 7.09 Kenyan Shilling*
• Average Hotel Room:
R1000 per day*
• How affordable is eating out?
Eating out in Kenya is 44% cheaper than in SA*
• Top Attractions:
Lamu Old Town – a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Nairobi National Museum (with its Snake Park, Botanical Gardens and Nature Trail), and the rock art on Mfangano Island.
• Visa Info:
No Visa required for tourism or business purposes for a stay of up to 30 days.
3. Madagascar
Madagascar has been described as the eighth continent, and it’s easy to see why. A biodiversity hotspot, the island boasts flora and fauna that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. Here, you can get up close to more than a hundred types of lemur, and stand under the shadow of majestic baobab trees. And along the coast, world-class beaches and fantastic dive sites lie ready and waiting.
Flights to Madagascar from R6626
• Exchange rate:
1.00 ZAR = 221.23 Malagasy Ariary*
• Average Hotel Room:
R800 per day*
• How affordable is eating out?
Eating out in Madagascar is 51% cheaper than in SA*
• Top Attractions:
The Ranomafana National Park, The Royal Hill of Ambohimanga – one of the most sacred spots on the island, and Ifaty – a pair of idyllic fishing villages.
• Visa Info:
Visa required.
4. Morocco
Morocco’s landscape is characterised by rugged mountains and large portions of desert. This wind-swept, untamed terrain adds to the intrigue that the country holds. No trip here would be complete without a wander around the bustling souks and maze-like alleys of Marrakech.
• Exchange rate:
1.00 ZAR = 0.68 Moroccan Dirham*
• Average Hotel Room:
R800 per day*
• How affordable is eating out?
Eating out in Morocco is 8% cheaper than in SA*
• Top Attractions:
Marrakesh Medina, Rabat’s Oudaias Kasbah neighbourhood and Volubilis – Morocco’s number one Roman ruin.
• Visa Info:
Visa required.
5. Tanzania
Tanzania is perhaps best-known for Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain, but there’s plenty more to the country. Visitors who enjoy local music will be enthralled by the traditional sounds of Tanzania, with string-based taarab and a hip-hop style known as bongo flava. And beach fans will be in their element, thanks to the sandy stretches that line the Indian Ocean coast.
Flights to Tanzania from R3244
Exchange rate:
1.00 ZAR = 153.96 Tanzanian Shilling*
• Average Hotel Room:
R1000 per day*
• How affordable is eating out?
Eating out in Tanzania is 9% cheaper than in SA*
• Top Attractions:
Ruaha National Park, Pemba Island and Lake Manyara – home to almost 300 different species of birds and flamingos in the wet season.
• Visa Info:
No Visa required.
6. Uganda
Landlocked Uganda packs a lot in to a small space. It’s situated in the African Great Lakes region, and is also home to part of the Nile basin. Safaris are big business here – you can tick off the big 5 in one of the many national parks, and hang out with mountain gorillas in their natural habitats. On the whole, Uganda is still pretty much off the beaten track, so get here before everyone else does.
• Exchange rate:
1.00 ZAR = 233.45 Ugandan Shilling*
• Average Hotel Room:
R850 per day*
• How affordable is eating out?
Eating out in Uganda is 29% cheaper than in SA*
• Top Attractions:
Ssese Islands, Kampala and the Ndere Centre that aims to “rekindle, rehabilitate, galvanize, promote and sustain the positive sense of pride, confidence, self-radiance and efficacy of the Ugandan person as… a contributing member of the global human family.”
• Visa Info:
Visa required.
Europe
7. Bosnia-Herzegovina
Bosnia and Herzegovina, also known as the “heart shaped land,” prides itself on an unmatched level of hospitality and a unique blend of eastern and western culture. Recent years have seen more and more tourists visiting and, as such, it’s becoming easier and easier to get around and explore.
Flights to Bosnia & Herzegovina from R9160
• Exchange rate:
1.00 ZAR = 0.12 Bosnia-Herzegovina Convertible Mark*
• Average Hotel Room:
R850 per day*
• How affordable is eating out?
Eating out in Bosnia & Herzegovina is 25% cheaper than in SA*
• Top Attractions:
Sutjeska National Park – 17,500 hectares of untouched wilderness, the 16th-century monastery situated alongside the Buna river and The Humac Museum which hosts a collection of ancient relics.
• Visa Info:
Visa required.
8. Bulgaria
Bulgaria, located in southeast Europe in the most northeast part of the Balkan Peninsula, is a melting pot of ancient cultures and modern lifestyle. Visit the Danube River and the Black Sea coast, where you’ll stumble upon intriguing festivals, local traditions and a profound spiritual heritage that has been passed from generation to generation.
Flights to Bulgaria from R6048
• Exchange rate:
1.00 ZAR = 0.12 Bulgarian Lev*
• Average Hotel Room:
R600 per day*
• How affordable is eating out?
Eating out in Bulgaria is 44% cheaper than in SA*
• Top Attractions:
The Rusenski Lom Nature Park and the Ivanovo Rock Churches/Monasteries, Balchik – the home of Bulgaria’s most popular botanical gardens and the National Folk Art Festival in Koprivshtitsa.
• Visa Info:
Visa required.
9. Estonia
It is possible to fly, sail, ride or drive to Estonia from anywhere in Europe, which makes it a popular travel destination for international and European travellers. Its capital, Tallinn, is the best preserved medieval city in Northern Europe. It’s easy to while away the hours just wandering around, taking in the atmosphere.
• Exchange rate:
1.00 ZAR = 1.70 Estonian Kroon*
• Average Hotel Room:
R850 per day*
• How affordable is eating out?
Eating out in Estonia is 15% cheaper than in SA*
• Top Attractions:
The Karksi Village Museum, Luke Manor Park – one of the few manor parks in South Estonia where the original plan has been preserved in pristine condition and the Mihkli Gild where professional artists collaborate to work and share their skills with the public.
• Visa Info:
Visa required.
10. Hungary
Fondly referred to as the “land of waters,” Hungary plays host to Europe’s largest lake – Lake Balaton – and is intersected by a variety of mighty rivers situated throughout this region. Its interesting history tells tales of great battles, secret alliances, intrigue and royalty.
• Exchange rate:
1.00 ZAR = 19.22Hungarian Forint*
• Average Hotel Room:
R800 per day*
• How affordable is eating out?
Eating out in Hungary is 15% cheaper than in SA*
• Top Attractions:
The caves of Aggtelek Karst and Slovak Karst in the Aggtelek National Park in north-eastern Hungary, its thermal springs and the Hungarian National Museum.
• Visa Info:
Visa required.
11. Latvia
Latvia is a country in the Baltic region of Northern Europe, bordered by Estonia, Lithuania, Russia and Belarus. Folk music and celebrations are an important part of traditional Latvian culture. Legend has it that its capital Riga will never be complete and will always be changing and developing.
• Exchange rate:
1.00 ZAR = 0.04 Latvian Lats*
• Average Hotel Room:
R600 per day*
• How affordable is eating out?
Eating out in Latvia is 20% cheaper than in SA*
• Top Attractions:
Rundale Palace and Museum in the south, The Gauja National Park – the largest and oldest national park in the country and Aglona Basilica, the major Roman Catholic shrine of Latvia.
• Visa Info:
Visa required.
12. Lithuania
Head to Lithuania for breath-taking views, hectares of greenery and medieval, gothic, Renaissance and baroque architecture. Its capital, Vilnius, is particularly attractive to artists who enjoy becoming immersed in its cobbled streets and courtyards, its traditional churches and the last remnants of Soviet times. Its local cuisine resembles Scandinavian cuisine, and there are plenty of options when it comes to tucking in.
Flights to Lithuania from R9354
• Exchange rate:
1.00 ZAR = 0.21 Lithuanian Litas*
• Average Hotel Room:
R700 per day*
• How affordable is eating out?
Eating out in Lithuania is 23% cheaper than in SA*
• Top Attractions:
The St Anne and Bernardine Churches, The Devils Museum – a one-of-a-kind exhibition, and the open air museum of Lithuanian ethnic culture in Rumšiškės.
• Visa Info:
Visa required.
13. Moldova
Little Moldova packs quite a punch. Its picturesque, agricultural expanses allow tourists to soak up the rural lifestyle. As a wine country, there are 142 wineries of which 23 are open to visitors for tours and tastings. A number of cultural attractions include the cave monasteries, archaeological complexes and the remains of medieval fortresses.
• Exchange rate:
1.00 ZAR = 1.38 Moldovan Leu*
• Average Hotel Room:
R750 per day*
• How affordable is eating out?
Eating out in Moldova is 33% cheaper than in SA*
• Top Attractions:
The Prut Toltres natural monument, The “Alexei Mateevici” House & Museum and the Cricova Winery.
• Visa Info:
Visa required.
14. Romania
Mountains, hills and plains provide plenty of opportunities for outdoor entertainment and relaxation in Romania. The country is home to the last real wilderness of Europe where packs of wolves and bears can still be spotted. Another draw is the region of Transylvania known for its medieval castles and a former resident also known as Count Dracula.
Flights to Romania from R10313
• Exchange rate:
1.00 ZAR = 0.28 Romanian Leu*
• Average Hotel Room:
R750 per day*
• How affordable is eating out?
Eating out in Romania is 35% cheaper than in SA*
• Top Attractions:
Black Sea Resorts, traditional villages in the Apuseni Mountains and the Bran Castle, built in the mid-1300s and legendary home to Bram Stoker’s Count Dracula.
• Visa Info:
Visa required.
15. Serbia
Serbia is not a mass tourism destination, which makes it an ideal spot for travellers who want to avoid sites that draw large crowds or in-season visitors. Its attractions include its mountains and spas, many of which are frequented by domestic travellers. Belgrade however, is the preferred choice of foreign visitors.
• Exchange rate:
1.00 ZAR = 7.57 Serbian Dinar*
• Average Hotel Room:
R800 per day*
• How affordable is eating out?
Eating out in Serbia is 27% cheaper than in SA*
• Top Attractions:
Djavolja Varos (or Devil’s Town), the Nikola Tesla Museum and the Nis Fortress – an 18th century fort that was built on a medieval foundation.
• Visa Info:
Visa required.
16. Slovakia
This mountainous country is relatively small but has much to offer in the way of tourist attractions. It has a number of sites which are recognised by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites, as well as winter and summer sporting attractions, which are particularly appealing to international visitors. Slovakia is home to numerous medieval castles and well preserved medieval towns and villages.
Flights to Slovakia from R11850
• Exchange rate:
1.00 ZAR = 0.06 Euro*
• Average Hotel Room:
R900 per day*
• How affordable is eating out?
Eating out in Slovakia is 31% cheaper than in SA*
• Top Attractions:
Spiš Castle – the largest castle complex in Europe, the St. Apostle Altar in Church of St. Jacob – The largest wooden altar in the world and the Ochtinská Aragonite Cave.
• Visa Info:
Visa required.
17. Russia
Since late Soviet times, Russia has seen an influx of international tourists who come to experience the rich cultural heritage and visit the country’s 23 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Russia has much to offer in the way of outdoor and natural activities ranging from emerald green forests of Siberia to subtropical desert plains.
• Exchange rate:
1.00 ZAR = 4.51 Russian Ruble*
• Average Hotel Room:
R800 per day*
• How affordable is eating out?
Eating out in Russia is 34% cheaper than in SA*
• Top Attractions:
St Petersburg, a Volga cruise with on-board music and Kazan – the “third capital of Russia.”
• Visa Info:
Visa required.
The Americas
18. Brazil
Brazil is the most visited country in South America today. Apart from being home to the Amazon Rainforest, Brazil is also home to magnificent mountains, oceanic archipelagos, scrublands and rolling plains, as well as a variety of flora and fauna. People are also drawn to Brazil because of its cultural attractions – fascinating architecture, vibrant music and tasty cuisine.
• Exchange rate:
1.00 ZAR = 0.24 Brazilian Real*
• Average Hotel Room:
R800 per day*
• How affordable is eating out?
Eating out in Brazil is 22% cheaper than in SA*
• Top Attractions:
The Teatro Amazonas (Amazon Theatre) opera house, the Fernando de Noronha archipelago off the northeastern coast and the Rio Carnival which attracts two million people per day.
• Visa Info:
No Visa required for tourism or business purposes for a maximum period of 90 days.
19. Colombia
Colombia has been lauded as one of the world’s 17 megadiverse countries. Colombia varies in landscapes ranging from the white sandy beaches of Caribbean coast to lush Amazonian rainforests known for its unique ecosystem. Its cities are full of rich culture and architectural marvels ready to be explored.
Flights to Colombia from R10539
• Exchange rate:
• 1.00 ZAR = 201.70 Colombian Peso *
Average Hotel Room:
R700 per day*
• How affordable is eating out?
Eating out in Colombia is 36% cheaper than in SA*
• Top Attractions:
The “natural aquarium” in the archipelago of San Andreés and Providence, Popayan – the City of Gastronomy and the chapel of Bethlehem.
• Visa Info:
No Visa required for tourism purposes for a maximum period of 90 days.
20. Uruguay
Almost half of Uruguay’s inhabitants live in the capital city, Montevideo, which creates a bustling urban scene for tourists to explore. Uruguayan culture is strongly European and beef remains a staple in local dishes, as well as chivito (steak sandwiches), pasta, barbecued kidneys, and sausages.
Flights to Uruguay from R13783
• Exchange rate:
1.00 ZAR = 2.23 Uruguayan Peso*
• Average Hotel Room:
R1000 per day*
• How affordable is eating out?
Eating out in Uruguay is 11% cheaper than in SA*
• Top Attractions:
• Colonia Del Sacramento, Punta Del Diablo and the picturesque city of Salto on the eastern coast of Uruguay.
• Visa Info:
No Visa required.
Asia
21. Cambodia
Many travellers flock to Cambodia from neighbouring Thailand for a day trip or just a short visit. However this country deserves more of your time. Cambodia is known for its somewhat laid-back atmosphere and sleepy vibe. Cambodia is a tourist-friendly destination known for its cheap prices of food and accommodation and with sites such as the majestic Angkor Wat and white sandy beaches it is no wonder why it’s becoming more and more popular.
Flights to Cambodia from R8169
• Exchange rate:
• 1.00 ZAR = 279.14 Cambodian Riel*
• Average Hotel Room:
R600 per day*
• How affordable is eating out?
Eating out in Cambodia is 30% cheaper than in SA*
• Top Attractions:
Sihanoukville – Cambodia’s premier beach town/port community/fledgling resort destination, the Kampong Thom province and performing arts theatre by the Sovanna Phum association.
• Visa Info:
Visa required.
22. China
China has a recorded history of over 5,000 years, making it one of the four ancient civilisations. China has a vast tourist offering includes cultural experiences, historical tours of antique sites and relics, a number of natural wonders and diverse folk customs.
• Exchange rate:
• 1.00 ZAR = 0.45 Chinese Yuan*
• Average Hotel Room:
R700 per day*
• How affordable is eating out?
Eating out in China is 11% cheaper than in SA*
• Top Attractions:
The Terracotta Army of warriors and horses – a significant and ongoing archaeological excavation, The Forbidden City and the Yangtze River.
• Visa Info:
Visa required.
23. India
To travel to India is to indulge in a sensory experience – vibrant colours, beautiful fragrances, rich history and lively culture. It is the home of a variety of yoga and meditation retreats frequented by local and international visitors alike. Its tourism offering includes natural wonders such as the Himalayas and spectacular Ganges, architectural icons just think of Taj Mahal or ancient city of Varanasi and, of course, epic cuisine.
• Exchange rate:
1.00 ZAR = 4.65 Indian Rupee*
• Average Hotel Room:
R800 per day*
• How affordable is eating out?
Eating out in India is 40 % cheaper than in SA*
• Top Attractions:
Kashmir – fondly referred to as “The Paradise on Earth,” the sparkling lakes in Udaipur and the Jain Temple in Ranakpur.
• Visa Info:
Visa required.
24. Indonesia
Indonesia is one of the rising stars of the South-east Asian travel circuit, and it’s easy to see why. The islands here are real tropical paradises – you can spend lazy days soaking up the sun on the beach or exploring the rice terraces, and spend lively nights enjoying drinks in al fresco beach bars.
Flights to Indonesia from R6852
• Exchange rate:
1.00 ZAR = 923.55 Indonesian Rupiah*
• Average Hotel Room:
R450 per day*
• How affordable is eating out?
Eating out in Indonesia is 48% cheaper than in SA*
• Top Attractions:
Wayang Kulit – the enchanting shadow puppet theatre, delicious drinks at Kintamani and the Museum of Borobudur which is filled with information and artefacts from the ancient and world-renowned Borobudur temple.
• Visa Info:
Visa required.
25. Malaysia
Malaysia is a melting pot of cultures, traditions, races and religions where Malays, Indians, Chinese and other ethnic groups live together. As a result of this infusion of cultures, this region has become a gastronomical paradise – a major drawcard for foodies. Another key attraction is how effortlessly its modern developments and its natural beauty found in its rugged mountains, blend together to create a geographical tapestry.
Flights to Malaysia from R6595
• Exchange rate:
1.00 ZAR = 0.27 Malaysian Ringgit*
• Average Hotel Room:
R600 per day*
• How affordable is eating out?
Eating out in Malaysia is 26% cheaper than in SA*
• Top Attractions:
• The Genting Highlands in Pahang, afternoon tea and scones in the Cameron Highlands and the gastronomic hub that is Jalan Alor, Kuala Lumpur.
• Visa Info:
No Visa required for a stay of up to 3 months. Transit Visa (not exceeding 72 hours) may be obtained upon arrival.
26. Nepal
Nepal has long been a traveller’s dream – located in an enviable position wedged between the Himalayas and Indian plains Nepal is extremely varied in landscapes ranging from tropical rainforests to snow-capped mountains. Nepal is also known for its abundant wildlife, ancient cities, remote monasteries, sapphire blue lakes and friendly locals.
• Exchange rate:
1.00 ZAR = 7.46 Nepalese Rupee*
• Average Hotel Room:
R550 per day*
• How affordable is eating out?
Eating out in Nepal is 39% cheaper than in SA*
• Top Attractions:
Patan, the Kathmandu Valley and the Swayambhunath “Monkey” Temple (or Bauddhanath).
• Visa Info:
Visa required.
27. Philippines
Philippines are often overlooked by travellers but are fast becoming a tourist hotspot. Its natural attractions include sandy white beaches, mountains, rainforests, islands and world famous diving spots. With conscientious planning, it is possible to book cheap flights to the Philippines and save quite a bit on travel expenses due to the high affordability of this destination.
Flights to Philippines from R6314
• Exchange rate:
1.00 ZAR = 3.29 Philippine Peso*
• Average Hotel Room:
R700 per day*
• How affordable is eating out?
Eating out in Philippines is 45% cheaper than in SA*
• Top Attractions:
The Pasiyo sa Kabilin – a heritage tour of Cebu City, the Southern Cebu Trail with its collection of centuries-old religious sites and the Boracay beach.
• Visa Info:
No Visa required if the stay does not exceed 21 days provided that travellers hold valid return flight tickets and that passports are valid for a period of no less than 6 months beyond authorised stay.
28. Sri Lanka
With 24 wildlife reserves and history that spans 3,000 years, Sri Lanka has much to offer in the way of cultural experiences and outdoor activities ranging from lush tropical rainforests to beautifully decorated Buddhist temples. It displays a rich blend of cultures and religious beliefs influenced primarily by Buddhism and Hinduism.
Flights to Sri Lanka from R6458
• Exchange rate:
1.00 ZAR = 10.24 Sri Lankan Rupee*
• Average Hotel Room:
R800 per day*
• How affordable is eating out?
Eating out in Sri Lanka is 24% cheaper than in SA*
• Top Attractions:
Sigiriya – the Eighth Wonder of the World, Ceylon tea, and Kandy Perahera – “the grand pageant of Asia.”
• Visa Info:
No Visa required for tourism purposes of no longer than 30 days.
29. Taiwan
Many travellers flock to Taiwan to experience its ancient tea culture and partake in its tea ceremonies which abide by strict cultural and traditional prescriptions. Many of the classical arts can be seen in tea culture – calligraphy, botanical arts and incense arts all form part of tea consumption. Tea houses or shops are located throughout this region and form an important part of its tourism offering. Its capital city, Taipei, on the other hand, is a bustling and vibrant modern city with nightlife, food scene and shopping to match any other Asian megacities.
• Exchange rate:
1.00 ZAR = 2.26 Taiwan New Dollar*
• Average Hotel Room:
R750 per day*
• How affordable is eating out?
Eating out in Taiwan is 24% cheaper than in SA*
• Top Attractions:
Taroko National Park, the Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall and the Penghu Islands –an archipelago in the Taiwan Strait between Taiwan and the Chinese mainland.
• Visa Info:
Visa required.
30. Thailand
Thailand is fast becoming one of the most popular overseas travel destinations for South Africans. Many are lured by famous Bangkok nightlife, vibrant night markets, glistening temples, exotic islands, national parks, world-famous cuisine and this could go on. In fact, there’s so much to see in Thailand many visitors return year after year.
Flights to Thailand from R6168
• Exchange rate:
1.00 ZAR = 2.45 Thai Baht*
• Average Hotel Room:
R500 per day*
• How affordable is eating out?
Eating out in Thailand is 35% cheaper than in SA*
• Top Attractions:
Railay Beach, Koh Phi Phi – where in Monkey Beach, tourists can see and interact with monkeys, and the Grand Palace in Bangkok.
• Visa Info:
No Visa required for tourism purposes of no longer than 30 days provided that travellers produce confirmed return/onward flight tickets.
31. Vietnam
Vietnam is a magnet for backpackers and holiday makers, as access to the country is easier than ever with roads being upgraded and hotels springing up everywhere. Vietnam is one of the cheapest countries to visit and with its world-famous cuisine, lush jungles, tropical beaches and buzzing nightlife it is no wonder why more and more travellers visit this beautiful country.
• Exchange rate:
1.00 ZAR = 1561,90 Vietnam Dong*
• Average Hotel Room:
R500 per day*
• How affordable is eating out?
Eating out in Vietnam is 39% cheaper than in SA*
• Top Attractions:
Nha Trang, the Chu Chi Tunnels – a series of underground tunnels used for guerrilla warfare during the Vietnam war, and the Mekong Delta.
• Visa Info:
Visa required.
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* All figures accurate at the time of publishing.
The prices we listed are good as of May 2016 – to get the latest prices, launch a flight search now.
For more inspiration check our list of 10 Visa-free holiday destinations for South Africans and for a full list of visa-free destinations click here.
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