Gauteng, the province situated at the center of South Africa, serves as not only a business hub but also a place that has plenty of resorts to stay at very affordable rates. From bustling city life where the vibrant and sizzling, yet affordable, activities are offered to the breathtaking natural sceneries, Gauteng has something for everyone.
In this article, we will have a look at 5 Cheap Holiday Destinations in Gauteng, giving the holiday seeker with budget constraints the option to have a good time and explore.
Table of Contents
1. Johannesburg
- Stay: $20-135/night
- Eat: $2-25/meal
- Get around: $1-5/trip
Johannesburg, the biggest city in South Africa, is a condensed metropolitan area harboring a range of cultural activities, historical sites, and urban entertainment. Despite its multi-cultural character, there are still cheap places to visit and things to do. Apartheid Museum offers a heart-wrenching and educational experience in the sense that it enlightens the South Africans’ apartheid history.
The pulsating Maboneng Precinct, with murals, hip coffee outlets, and an atmosphere to keep you going, is a spot not to be missed. Another contribution of the city is, that it has several public parks and gardens including the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden where one can do picnics and walk around in nature.
2. Pretoria
- Stay: $25-120/night
- Eat: $2-25/meal
- Get around: $1-5/trip
Pretoria, the administrative capital of South Africa, is located in a region that is both rich in history and natural beauty. The affordable apartments that are located inside the Union Buildings, which is the seat of the South African government, are one of the top attractions. The gardens creating the Union Buildings are open for all to the public and bring great views to the city.
Voortrekker Monument, a historically significant landmark in South Africa, is another destination must-see. It is to honor the Afrikaners who moved inland in the 109th century. Johannesburg is just 50 kilometers away, and so is Pretoria, which also boasts several museums at affordable prices, such as the National Museum of Natural History and the Pretoria Art Museum.
3. Magaliesberg Mountains
- Stay: Mid-range lodge/hotel ($50-150/night).
- Eat: Restaurants at your stay
- Get around: Still recommend renting a car.
Nature lovers and outdoor sports lovers are presented with a great opportunity to get away from the urban areas and embrace the serenity in the Magaliesberg Mountains. Sited on the outskirts of the city of Johannesburg, here is where you will find the earth’s oldest mountain ranges that are still around, thus giving some spectacular scenery, hiking trails, and outdoor adventure opportunities.
Visitors can take the Magaliesberg Biosphere Reserve for an exploration. The reserve is home to diverse plant and animal life. Besides this, the area provides activities like rock climbing, abseiling, and hot-air balloon riding. For those who prefer camping and self-catering, those options are provided. Thus, the visitors can have an overnight in nature and still not spend too much money.
4. Hartbeespoort Dam
- Stay: $20-50/night (hostel/guesthouse)
- Eat: $5-10/meal (budget restaurants)
- Get around: Metered taxis/ridesharing
The Hartbeespoort Dam which is located at the foot of the Magaliesberg Mountains is one of the favorite relaxation areas for residents in Gauteng. The dam provides people with different options for cheap recreation including boat rides, fishing, and others. In the Hartbeespoort Dam Snake and Animal Park, visitors can study reptiles and other creatures living there including snakes and so on.
The neighborhood near the dam features shops, art exhibits, and cafes where visitors can sit, have a meal, and do some shopping at affordable prices. A visit to the picturesque Hartbeespoort Dam, which boasts free or inexpensive activities, can be a great opportunity for a cheap day trip or weekend getaway.
5. Soweto
- Stay: Budget guesthouses/homestays: $15-40/night (possible to find options on the lower end)
- Eat: Local eateries/street food stalls: $2-5/meal (abundant and delicious options)
- Get around: Public minibusses (called taxis) are very affordable (less than $2 per trip)
Soweto, an iconic township situated just southwest of the city of Johannesburg, is a hub of culture, without stressing your pocket. Visitors be led to the tour along the historical sites like the Nelson Mandela House Museum and the Hector Pieterson Memorial.
Vilakazi Street is the only street on earth that has been home to two Nobel laureates (Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu) and that’s why it is a vibrant hub of local culture with exciting restaurants, shebeens (informal bars), and street vendors. Soweto also hosts diverse festivals and events that echo the community’s liveliness across the year.
The Departure– Cheap Holiday Destinations in Gauteng
Gauteng, the province that is an economic nerve center of the country, gives travelers lots of opportunities to enjoy the holiday at very low rates. Whether you prefer a vibrant city such as Johannesburg, or a more historical town like Pretoria, the natural beauty of the Magaliesberg mountains or the activities of Hartbeespoort Dam, the cultural richness of Soweto or other things, Gauteng will have something for every traveler.
Whether it is a budget-friendly attraction park or a varied range of cuisines that the province offers, you can glide through the best of South Africa without having to worry about the cost. Therefore, grab your suitcases, pick your camera, and let’s go for a thrilling trip around the Gauteng province that is very affordable!
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FAQs
What are the options for affordable accommodation around Gauteng?
Gauteng provides the widest range of accommodation choices to satisfy the requirements of a range of budgets. In large centers, such as Johannesburg and Pretoria, you can find accommodations like budget hotels, guesthouses, and hostels that give you comfortable and pocket-friendly places to stay. Moreover, there are other bookings for self-catering and camping spots in natural areas like the Magaliesberg Mountains and Hartbeespoort Dam which are affordable for nature enthusiasts. It’s recommended to do price research, read reviews, and book in advance to get the best deals and ensure your convenience.
Attractions that are free or at low prices are available in Gauteng, are any?
Indeed, numerous free or cheap tourist destinations in Gauteng can bring amusement without flatlining your bank account. In Johannesburg, you can visit locations such as Nelson Mandela Square, the Museum Africa, and the Johannesburg City Library which do not charge a fee for entry. Affordable price entry is provided at both the Union Buildings and the Voortrekker Monument in Pretoria. Furthermore, the Magaliesberg Mountains can be accessed and enjoyed by walking, spending time in the public parks, or going to the markets or street vendors in the towns around. All that will be cost-friendly.
What are some cheaper transportation alternatives in Gauteng?
The public transport in Gauteng is diverse and you can reach everywhere with the available budget. Buses and trains that are run by the public are not very expensive compared to other means of travel that are usually used, like an airplane and a car. The Gautrain, a rapid rail system, joins Johannesburg, Pretoria, and the O.R. Tambo International Airport together, helping commuters to benefit from the rapid, reliable, and inexpensive means of transport. Taxis and ridesharing services can be economical options if shared between other travelers, particularly if you can find a cab. If budget is the concern people can enjoy the streets by walking or riding bicycles as an adventurous and cheap way of transportation.