The best rand-friendly countries to visit when you’re on a budget

Last updated on 5th January, 2024 at 11:56 am

If your feet are itching to travel but your wallet says no, check out these five rand-friendly destinations.

Reading time: 3 minutes

In this article, you’ll learn:

• About five affordable holiday destinations you need to visit.
• How to plan an international trip on a budget.

If it seems like everyone on social media is frolicking in Greece while all you have to look forward to is your greasy slap chips, don’t despair – there are international destinations where you can stretch your rands, along with your horizons.

1. The Asian adventure: Thailand

With excellent weather, laid-back vibes and delicious food, Thailand is still a top choice for South Africans looking to escape the 9-to-5. Flights to Bangkok or Phuket are affordable and plentiful, and the exchange rate is also in our favour – food, accommodation, transport and activity prices are lower than or comparable to South Africa.

Another bonus? South African passport holders receive a free six-week tourist visa on arrival.

Don’t forget to include travel insurance in your plans, which will cover you for any emergency medical treatment, whether from illness or injury.

2. The safari trip: Kenya

Kenya is safe, beautiful and a just a short, affordable flight away with white beaches and Lion King vistas around every corner. If you search on booking sites, you’ll find cost-effective self-catering accommodation options, while domestic flights and trains are also affordable.

For that quintessential safari experience, visit one of the national parks at a fraction of the price of private lodges. South Africans staying shorter than 30 days can enter the country on an eVisa.

3. The culture and history tour: Turkey

Turkey is rich with ancient history – and a lot of it is free, such as the Blue Mosque and Grand Bazaar in Istanbul. There are regular, affordable flights from South Africa, street food is cheap and cheerful, plus South Africans only need a free eVisa.

Looking for other visa-free destinations? Check out our top selection, here.

4. The European city break: Portugal

Europe isn’t completely out of reach for a South African wallet, especially if you choose rand-friendly Portugal. Lisbon and surrounds offer plenty to do and see – and if you shop smart, accommodation, food and drinks don’t have to break the bank. The only downside is you’ll need a Schengen visa, which is quite costly.

5. The island holiday: Mauritius

Although Mauritius is not the cheapest destination for South Africans, you can make your budget stretch further with its many all-inclusive offerings, says travel advisor Linda Koekemoer of Travel Break.

“Mauritius is a four-hour flight away and South Africans don’t need a visa,” she says. “It’s an easy, stress-free holiday that caters to a wide range of travellers, from three- to five-star luxury. I strongly recommend booking an all-inclusive package, so all your meals and drinks are paid for in advance, guaranteeing no nasty surprises when you check out.”

3 Travel hacks to make your rands go even further

• “If possible, book your flights and accommodation at least eight to 10 months in advance,” says Koekemoer. “The cheapest seats and rooms always sell out first, so the earlier you book, the more choice you’ll have. You can also book train tickets in Europe two to three months in advance.”
• Avoid travelling during school holidays or public holidays when prices are highest.
• “If you’re travelling with children, book self-catering accommodation so you can save on food costs,” she says. “Or, if you’re going to Mauritius, book a hotel with a free kids’ club so you can relax while they have the time of their lives.”