Top staycation and road trip destinations in SA: Where and why

Top staycation and road trip destinations in South Africa, according to Business Tech.

Looking for the perfect getaway without crossing borders? Ballito in KwaZulu-Natal and the Garden Route in the Eastern and Western Cape have emerged as South Africa’s top small-town staycation and road trip destinations. These hotspots lead Budget Insurance’s latest travel index, showcasing over 100 local destinations ideal for your next adventure.

Staycation and road trip trends on the rise

Searches for “staycation ideas” have surged by 33%, while “road trip” searches rose by 9%, peaking in mid-November. This growing interest highlights how South Africans are prioritizing local getaways over international travel.

Budget Insurance’s travel index evaluates destinations across South Africa based on Instagram and TikTok hashtag volumes, Google search trends, and average accommodation costs. Each destination receives a score from 0 to 100, factoring in popularity and affordability.

The goal? To inspire South Africans to explore more of their backyard during the holiday season and beyond.

Spotlight on the top 5 staycation destinations

1. Ballito (Score: 87.9)

Ballito, the crown jewel of KwaZulu-Natal, combines stunning coastal views with a vibrant surfing culture. With over 300,000 Instagram hashtags, it rivals iconic destinations like Byron Bay and Maui Beach. Families and adventure seekers flock to Ballito for its charm and picture-perfect beaches.

2. Oudtshoorn (Score: 75.9)

Known as the “Ostrich Capital of the World,” Oudtshoorn is nestled in the Karoo and famous for attractions like the Cango Caves. Drawing over 40,000 monthly Google searches, its rugged landscapes and heritage evoke comparisons to Alice Springs and Sedona.

3. Paternoster (Score: 74.1)

This serene fishing village on the West Coast captivates visitors with its tranquil beauty. Attracting 135,000 monthly Google searches, Paternoster’s seaside charm resembles destinations like Oia in Greece and Reine in Norway.

4. Bronkhorstspruit (Score: 73.6)

Bronkhorstspruit stands out for its cultural and spiritual significance. Home to Africa’s largest Buddhist temple, the town sees 60,000 monthly searches. Its serene atmosphere mirrors that of Lumbini in Nepal and Japan’s Kamakura.

5. Hartbeespoort (Score: 71.4)

Nestled between the Magaliesberg Mountains and Hartbeespoort Dam, this destination is a haven for watersports and outdoor enthusiasts. With over 8,000 TikTok posts, Hartbeespoort is reminiscent of Lake Como and Annecy, appealing to those who love lakeside retreats.

Plan your SA adventure today

Whether you’re chasing adventure, relaxation, or history, South Africa’s small towns and scenic routes promise something for everyone. These destinations aren’t just seasonal highlights; they’re perfect for year-round exploration.

Why wait? Start planning your road trip or staycation and discover the beauty waiting right around the corner.

Stay tuned with The South African as we look at top staycation’s and road trips.

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