Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban, Port Elizabeth, and George have been the top five domestic destinations for South Africans for two years running, according to data from Flight Centre Travel Group – but there’s so much more to our beautiful country than these familiar favourites… and, most importantly, plenty more beach, berg, and bush to go around!
The question is, which escape is the best fit for your family (and pocket)? When it comes to planning the perfect getaway, there’s no denying that the rising cost of flights can be a hurdle. Thankfully, package holiday deals are a game-changer, helping South Africans create dream holidays without breaking the bank.
Lynette Machiri, Customer Experience Leader at Flight Centre South Africa, explains, “Package deals offer incredible value by bundling accommodation with added perks like meals, transfers, and activities, but they can also include discounted flights tailored to your itinerary. This means you’re saving money, saving time, and enjoying peace of mind knowing your entire trip is sorted.”
So, beach, berg, or bush? Flight Centre South Africa’s Travel Experts compare all three – including package deals – below.
Beach holidays
- Perfect for couples: Fine dining, romantic beachfront walks, couple’s spa treatments.
- Ideal for families with young children: Swimming, beach activities, kids’ clubs, and kid-friendly pool surrounds.
- Varied interests: Many resorts offer water sports (from jet skiing to wakeboarding), and numerous family-friendly amenities.
Absolute spoil: The Oyster Box Hotel, Umhlanga
Rooms are individually decorated and exude luxury, comfort, and style. Set amid tropical gardens, The Oyster Box’s acclaimed spa guarantees a rejuvenating, pampering experience for every taste, and the signature Curry Buffet located on the Ocean Terrace is legendary for its creative, delicious selection of dishes – from seafood to light salads, and, of course, the most delicious curries. The hotel’s amazing sea views, location (just a 20-minute drive from King Shaka International Airport), and iconic breakfast make it unbeatable.
Ultimate highlight: Enjoy a private candlelit dinner (with loads of fresh oysters!) on your veranda, facing the glittering Indian Ocean.
Cost: You could enjoy a three-night stay at The Oyster Box from R10,848* per person (including Wi-Fi and breakfast) if you book before 15 January 2025. Valid for selected travel dates from 13 January 2025 – 31 May 2025.*
Berg holidays
- Superb for families with older children and teens: Hiking, biking, horse riding, rock climbing, and other ‘get-your-sweat-on’ activities abound.
- Perfect for adults seeking an active break: The Drakensberg is ripe for walking, driving scenic routes, exploring local culture, and revelling in the region’s natural beauty.
- Relaxing and quiet: If you’re overstimulated, this is the place! The Berg promises peaceful lodges in the middle of nowhere – just what the doctor ordered.
Family escape: Little Switzerland Hotel, Drakensberg
Huddled at the foot of the Northern Drakensberg, the charming Little Switzerland Hotel is a refreshing retreat in every way. Enjoy a holiday at this historic site and you’ll get both history and luxury in spades. It’s a family-friendly hideaway with jaw-dropping views, windings trails, and a cosy atmosphere inside and outside of its authentic Alpine chalet-style buildings.
Ultimate highlight: Hike to the 6,000 San rock paintings hidden in the nearby mountains or spend a magical night stargazing.
Cost: Stay here midweek for three nights from just R2,888 per person for two, including half-board. Or bring the kids along for just R2,009 per person (four travellers), also including half-board. Book before 15 January 2025 for selected travel dates from 06 January 2025 – 31 March 2025.*
Bush holidays
- Ideal for couples: Luxurious, quiet escapes in a natural setting, with exclusive game drives, private dining, and relaxing spa sessions amidst magnificent savannahs.
- Great for families with older children or teens: Daily game drives, bush walks, and bird watching.
Safari dream: Madikwe River Lodge, Madikwe Game Reserve
Situated in the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve, this lodge provides an incredible escape. Game is abundant and includes the celebrated Madikwe Super Seven, which includes the cheetah and African wild dogs alongside the Big Five. The lodge operates twice-daily game drives and guided walks to get you up close to the reserve’s inhabitants. Additionally, family-friendly rooms with fireside boma dinners and bush breakfasts make Madikwe River Lodge a truly one-of-a-kind holiday experience.
Ultimate highlight: A private morning game drive, where cheetahs or African wild dogs come bounding through the savannah within striking distance.
Cost: Spend two midweek nights for two in bush bliss from just R6,638 per person, including full-board. Book before 15 January 2025 to travel between 23 February 2025 – 12 March 2025.*
Whether you’re headed to the beach, berg, or bush, there’s a deal waiting for you.
“The best part is that all the deals featured in this article can be customised to include flights at exclusive, discounted prices. So, whether you’re dining on oysters with the ocean breeze at The Oyster Box, hiking through the Drakensberg with family, or spotting cheetahs on a sunrise game drive in Madikwe, you can focus on making memories while Flight Centre handles the nitty-gritty,” Machiri concludes.
Ready to turn your dream holiday into a reality? Speak to a Flight Centre Travel Expert today and let us show you how easy it is to explore South Africa’s spectacular beach, berg, and bush escapes with unbeatable value and convenience.
*Prices accurate at the time of writing but may be subject to change.