South Africans love getting the biggest possible bang for their buck. So, it’s not surprising that we aren’t choosing between adventure, relaxation, and family time when it comes to holidays – we’re banking on including all three!
Inbound Tourism Association SATSA’s Domestic Market Trends research shows Saffas’ primary travel motivators are almost neck‑and‑neck: relaxation (21.2%), family time (21.1%), and adventure (20.3%).
Flight Centre’s Global PR survey results back these findings up: 90% plan to visit or travel with family or friends in 2025, 86% are prioritising slow and restful trips, and 81% want outdoor and adventure. Cue “hybrid weekends”: morning adrenaline, afternoon exhale, early‑evening family fun (or mix it up as you see fit), all in one neat plan.
SATSA’s research also shows that around 30% of travellers budget R500 or less per person, per day for adventure activities.
“Value matters as much as variety right now,” says Sue Garrett, GM Supply, Pricing & Marketing at Flight Centre South Africa. “Travellers want a quick hit of adventure, space to unwind, and quality time together – without blowing the budget. The secret is to take advantage of simple, close‑to‑home weekends that tick those boxes, with clear pricing and easy add‑ons so you know exactly what you’re spending.”
Here are a handful of homegrown hybrid getaways* to inspire you, courtesy of Flight Centre’s Travel Experts.
Cape Town & Winelands
Morning adventure: Table Mountain Aerial Cableway
Price: Adults R450 return or R295 one‑way. Kids (4–17) R225 return or R160 one‑way.
Tip: Unless you’re a senior or a student (special pricing is only available at the ticket office), it’s best to buy online in advance to save (and skip the peak‑hour queue).
Afternoon relaxation: Stellenbosch wine tasting
Price: Most basic tastings come in under R100 per person.
“Tastings are more creative than ever. For a little bit extra, guests can choose from a range of interesting pairing tastings. Think wine and sorbet, wine and cheesecake, or wine and pizza to name a few. Kids are also catered for with playful, non-alcoholic pairings, so everyone can enjoy the experience,” says Annemie Liebenberg, CEO of Visit Stellenbosch.
Tip: Pre‑book popular estates, especially on weekends.
Family evening: Winelands dinner
Price: For a family of four in Stellenbosch, expect a bill of roughly R600–R1,600, depending on venue and drinks.
Tip: Look out for seasonal offers or private picnic pods; farm venues with play areas keep children happy while you linger.
Garden Route
Morning adventure: Robberg Peninsula hike
Price: Adults day access: R75, overnight R40. Children (4–17 years old) day access: R55, overnight R20.
Tip: Start early, carry at least 1,5 litres of water per person, and check tide times if you plan to cross The Gap.
Afternoon relaxation: Knysna lagoon boat cruise
Price: Budget at least R500 per adult and R299 per child for a 60–75 minute cruise, depending on operator and boat type.
Tip: Ask about mid‑week or family specials and choose earlier departures for calmer water and better Heads views.
Family evening: Beach braai
Price: Outside of food costs, plan around R150–R250 for wood, firelighters, and ice for four, plus any day‑visitor fees at designated braai areas.
Tip: Use approved spots only.
Drakensberg
Morning adventure: Helicopter scenic flight
Price: From about R1,700 per person (route and duration dependent).
Tip: Book the first flight of the day for smoother air and clearer views; fill all seats to lower the per‑person cost.
Afternoon relaxation: Slow hike to a lookout in Maloti‑Drakensberg Park
Price: Daily conservation fee ± R60 per adult and R30 per child.
Tip: Choose a marked trail that matches your fitness level.
Family evening: Stargazing at your accommodation
Price: Free; some lodges offer hosted sessions at an affordable cost.
Tip: Use a free sky‑map app to find various constellations.
Sun City & North West
Morning adventure: Pilanesberg safari drive
Price: 3‑hour guided game drive with collection and drop‑off at Pilanesberg, Bakubung Gate, about R850 per person.
Tip: Book the sunrise slot for cooler temps and better big‑cat odds. Carry a light fleece even in summer.
Afternoon relaxation: Poolside lounging at Sun City
Price: Often included for in‑resort guests, check your hotel benefits for Valley of Waves access; day‑visitor access is capacity‑controlled with separate fees.
Tip: Choose a hotel package that includes Valley of Waves, and arrive early to claim shade.
Family evening: Palace of the Lost City exploration
Price: Free to wander public areas – some zones are reserved for hotel guests only.
Tip: Go just before sunset for golden‑light photos and finish with an ice‑cream stroll on the promenade.
KwaZulu‑Natal Coast
Morning adventure: uShaka Marine World (Wet ’n Wild)
Price: Adults R245; Kids/Seniors R198; Toddlers (under 3) free.
Tip: Buy tickets online and be there at opening for short queues and prime shade.
Afternoon relaxation: Durban beachfront walk
Price: Free.
Tip: Stroll the Golden Mile between uShaka and Moses Mabhida; if little legs tire, hire bikes along the promenade (roughly R80–R120 per hour) and swap café stops for a budget‑friendly soft‑serve.
Family late afternoon/evening: PheZulu Cultural Experience (open until 16:30)
Price: Zulu dancing + Reptile Park combo: Adults R250; Kids R180.
Tip: Aim for the last dance show, then wander the reptile park; factor 35–45 minutes’ drive from Durban and pre‑book if you’re adding a short game drive.
How to build a ‘hybrid weekend’ without breaking the bank
Where to stay, based on what matters most:
- Self‑catering and B&Bs stretch the budget and match SATSA’s value‑first trend, with Wi‑Fi and on‑site activities high on the checklist.
- Resorts work well for families who want pools, kids’ clubs, and easy dining.
- Hotels suit short city breaks when location trims transport costs.
Deal triggers that actually work:
- Midweek stays often price better than weekends, especially at family resorts.
- Shoulder months cut rates and crowds, with great weather in many regions.
- Ask your Travel Expert about activity add‑on vouchers and kids‑stay‑free offers.
Practical touches that save money:
- Pre‑book popular attractions online where pricing is lower and capacity is capped.
- Lock in accommodation with flexible terms, then add cancellable activity slots.
- Add travel insurance, even for local trips, so weather or illness doesn’t wipe out your weekend.
Remember, balance beats busy; the best weekends prove it!
*Prices were correct at the time of writing and are subject to change. Always confirm current rates and availability when you book.
