South Africans are travelers – and now they are growing your lands more than ever before. We are more likely to adjust our affordable holiday plans than any other country, according to the latest PR survey from Flight Center, which surveyed travelers in South Africa, Canada, the US, the UK, Australia and New Zealand. In short, getting real value is unnegotiable whether it means swapping bucket list destinations for clever alternatives or sought out shoulder season specials.
No one can splurge on a R50K vacation per person. Frankly, there's no need. Some of today's best mini-breaks are lower than the price of a smartphone per person, so there are still plenty of ways to see the world (or rediscover your own backyard) without breaking the bank.
One insider trick? Book your trip as a package that bundles your accommodation and flight together. Sue Garrett, GM: Supply, pricing and marketing at flight centres in South Africa.
“South Africans know how to make their money work hard, especially when it comes to travel. Booking vacations as packages isn't convenient. Booking flights and hotels separately will unlock savings.”
So how much money can you take you now? There are breaks for each budget. Look for yourself…
Starting from R2 000 per person: Drakensberg Mini Break (3 nights)
transaction:
Three nights in Drakensberg at a comfortable 4-star resort (flight not included) covered with daily breakfast and dinner.
Top tip:
Visit mid-week for quiet trails, easier restaurant reservations and better prices. The included halfboard makes this package ideal for family time without editing such as a package without worrying about meal planning or additional costs. Pack Layer – In the evenings, it can be chilly all year round. If you need to escape from 9-5, you often can upgrade a little more per couple to your weekend stay. Self-driving is easy on good roads. Refuel with Harism before heading for the hill.
What R50K really means here: enough for over 20 people to enjoy a 3 night vacation. World-class scenery proves that there is no need to attach an overseas price tag.
Starting from R17 000 per person: stay in Dubai City (5 nights)
transaction:
5 nights in Dubai at a modern hotel near Major Mall. In addition to daily breakfast, both methods are included at private airports. Every day is stress-free and start-up.
Top tip:
Remember: When visiting mosques or souks, a modest dress code applies. Pack accordingly. Write your museum or Burj Khalifa tickets online in advance. They often sell out on weekends. Dubai is cashless and friendly. Use cards or electronic wallets everywhere. For a different perspective on cities beyond skyscrapers, consider exploring the old Dubai souks by Abra (Water Taxi).
What the R50K really means here: Besides being enough to cover two people (including flights) for an iconic Middle Eastern adventure, the shopping remains.
Starting from R27 000 per person: A relaxing Zanzibar Escape (7 nights)
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Seven nights at the beachfront Zanzibar Resort feature comprehensive food, drinks and private airport transfers.
Top tip:
The spice tour is worth a cent. Book a hotel concierge rather than advertise at Stonetown Port. Bring your leaf-safe sunscreen. Most water activities involve time outdoors, but coral protection is important. The comprehensive drinks cover most drinks, but double check if you would like to pay for premium spirit/wine before ordering at dinner.
What R50K really means here: two adults can eat, drink and relax for seven days.
From R31 000 per person: London + Stonehenge & Bus Tour (5 nights)
transaction:
Daily breakfast, 5 night accommodation in central London and spectacular guided day tours all came at one package price. Private airport transfers make arrival/departure seamless even after long flights.
Top tip:
Booktube Oyster Card online before arrival. They are cheaper than buying a single fare per trip. For families: Ask about discounts/priority queuing for kids when booking tours locally and online platforms overseas – saving you both money and time! The weather in London changes quickly. Hold a compact umbrella wherever you go. If you want bonus sightseeing without blowing your budget, museums like the British Museum remain free.
What the R50K really means here is enough for solo travelers to see all the UK icons (with flights) in less than a week, without rushing or stumbling in the scope of logistics.
Starting from R35 500 per person: All-inclusive adults only Mauritius retreat (7 nights)
transaction:
Stay 7 nights at an adult-only 4-star resort on Mauritius' best beaches. All meals/drinks include daily return airport transfers.
Top tip:
Book an early massage/spa session. They'll be filled quickly during peak season! Schedule water sports lessons mid-week when demand drops. You will get more instructor attention. There is moisture/could rain from December to March. There will be mild temperatures between April and June, but there will be fewer crowds.
What the R50K really means here: Solo travelers have plenty left as they get all the R&R they deserve and spend money.
Starting from R43 000 per person: New York TV & Movie Tour Getaway (5 nights)
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The five-night city next to Times Square will rest for five-night cities, including tours through dozens of famous filming locations, and return flights covered if bundled together.
In some cases, resort fees may apply (usually around $35 per day).
Top tip:
If included in the resort fee, please use city bike rentals. You will see a neighborhood faster than walking alone! Broadway tickets? For great savings when performance times are slow, buy matinee sheets directly from the box office rather than third party sellers. If possible, place the subway on a taxi. Downtown rush hour is fast.
What 50K gets you: Solo American adventure with a little extra for spending.
From R49 000 per person: Seychelles Island Indulgence (7 nights)
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For a week on Mahe Island, stairs stay from the pristine beach, covering daily breakfasts and airport travel directly to the hotel door.
Top tip:
Snorkel gear rentals usually cost an additional fee, but you should bring your own mask/flipper. Visit Victoria Market early in the morning while the food stalls are busiest/fresh and relax by the pool by noon. December to February brings higher humidity/showers, but the May-October promises a dry sky/clear ocean perfect for kayak/paddle board offshore. Seychelles accepts credit cards widely, but keeps small sects convenient as small vendors may still ask for rupees/cash tips.
What 50K gets you: As a solo traveler, you will enjoy a week surrounded by luxuries and the charming Indian Ocean.
With a smart approach (and by keeping an eye on bundled deals), the R50K can really take your place.
As Sue Garrett says:
“Traveling isn't just about how much you spend. It's about the memories you bring home. South Africans have always looked to value, and now there's no reason to stop them from making those big moments happening.”
The next time you splurge on your escape, make sure all the lands get closer to something you won't forget.
Flight Centre Travel Group South Africa
Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG) SA is part of Flight Centre Travel Group, an Australia-based international travel agency listed on the Australian Stock Exchange, and as of July 4, 2025, it has a market capitalization of $2.87 billion and a current stock price of $13.16. FCTG SA is entirely owned and has been recognized as one of Deloitte's best companies to work in South Africa for over a decade.