You won’t believe this budget destination
I know getting to South Africa isn’t the easiest thing to do but, honestly I was shocked at how cheap it was. In general this country is very affordable. I do think you need to consider where you’re staying and if its in a safe area because you may want to pay a little extra for a nicer neighborhood and even then you can find something for under $200 a night. But as for activities you’re barely going to spend that much money. I promise you once you’re there you will really be able to budget and still do really nice things. For example a wine tasting at a winery only cost $6 and the beaches are all free. There is even a free option to see the penguins if you really want. There are also amazing markets which are also free except for the food you buy. Basically what I’m saying is despite the hefty plane ticket that’s really the only thing you’re going to spend a ton of money on. That’s if you don’t do safari of course because that’s a whole separate thing and I actually have a post on that. Let me know if you think Cape Town is affordable. #lemon8partner #Lemon8 #Lemon8Diary #budgettravel #cheaptravel #travel #travelwithme2024
When I first thought about visiting South Africa, like many, my mind immediately jumped to the hefty price tag of those long-haul flights. But let me tell you, once you land in Cape Town, it’s a whole different story! I was genuinely shocked by how much you can do and see without breaking the bank, making it an incredible destination for anyone, especially if you're like me – young and a bit broke, yet craving adventure. This really felt like one of those 'Places to visit when you're Young & Broke part 1' moments! My biggest tip for budget travel in Cape Town starts with accommodation. While you might be tempted by central, pricier areas, I found that looking for guesthouses or well-reviewed hostels just a little outside the immediate city center can save you a ton. Always do your research on safety, of course, but you’d be surprised at the lovely, affordable spots you can find for well under $200 a night. For example, I stayed in a charming guesthouse a short Uber ride from the main attractions, and it was perfect. Now, let's talk activities – this is where Cape Town truly shines for budget travelers. Forget spending a fortune; many of the best experiences are free or incredibly cheap! I loved spending a day at Clifton's Beach, soaking up the sun and the stunning views without spending a dime. Another highlight was visiting the famous penguins at Boulder Beach. While there's a main viewing area that costs around $10, I found there are often ways to spot these adorable creatures from other vantage points nearby, or the $10 entry is definitely worth it for the up-close experience. For something a bit more structured, taking the cable car up Table Mountain for a breathtaking $16 roundtrip view of the city is an absolute must-do. Food and drink can also be super affordable. I explored the Oranjezichet Market on Sundays, which is free to enter, and indulged in delicious, fresh local produce and street food for just a few dollars. It's a fantastic way to experience local culture and save on dining out. And if you love wine, you absolutely have to go wine tasting! I was amazed to find tastings for as little as $6 at some wineries. If you're feeling a bit fancier, the wine tram experience, which typically includes tastings, might cost around $38, but it’s an incredible value for a full day out in the stunning Winelands. Getting around is also manageable; while public transport exists, ride-sharing apps like Uber or Bolt are quite affordable and convenient for getting to different spots. While the flight to South Africa might be a splurge, once you're on the ground, Cape Town really allows you to stretch your budget without compromising on incredible experiences. From free beaches to cheap markets and stunning natural wonders, my trip proved that budget travel to South Africa is not just possible, but genuinely rewarding. Don't let the initial flight cost deter you; this city offers so much for so little!
