Discover more off-peak season magic in South Africa
When children go back to school and parents back to work, South Africa becomes a serene escape for travellers who follow their own schedules.
Discover more local adventures outside peak season with Vitality Travel by Discovery Bank. When the crowds go home, the solo adventurers, digital nomads and singletons come out to play.
Why travel off-peak?
South Africa's off-peak season generally falls between April and September and offers several advantages:
- Fewer crowds: Enjoy iconic attractions without the usual hustle and bustle.
- Lower prices: Flights, accommodation and activities are often more affordable.
- Pleasant weather: Many regions experience more comfortable temperatures, perfect for outdoor adventures like hiking, swimming and exploring.
- Serene wildlife encounters: Experience wildlife safaris with fewer visitors. Plus, the dryer season makes it easier to spot wildlife in national parks like the Kruger.
By planning your trip during the off-peak season, you can experience the beauty of South Africa without the crowds and at a more affordable price.
Where to go when the crowd goes home
- Cape Town: Hike Table Mountain, explore the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, visit the Cape Winelands, or take a scenic drive along Chapman's Peak Drive.
- Overberg: Explore quaint towns like Swellendam and Stanford, known for their beautiful landscapes and local produce.
- Garden Route: Embark on a road trip along this stunning coastal route, stopping at towns like Knysna, Plettenberg Bay and Mossel Bay.
- Addo Elephant National Park: Encounter elephants, lions and other wildlife in this beautiful park without bumping into the holiday crowds.
- Gqeberha: Relax on the beaches, explore the Nelson Mandela Bay Museum, or visit the St Francis Bay coastal village nearby.
- Hogsback: Experience a fairytale holiday in this magical forest village with stunning waterfalls and hiking trails.
- Augrabies Falls National Park: Witness the raw power of the Augrabies Falls, a cascading wonder that freefalls 65 metres into a spectacular 18 km gorge.
- Kalahari Gemsbok National Park: Experience the vastness of the Kalahari Desert and spot wildlife like gemsbok, springbok and meerkats.
- Namaqua National Park: Bask in the breathtaking floral display during the spring bloom (August to September) and view the stars like never before.
- Johannesburg: Visit Nelson Mandela's house in Soweto, spend a day at the Johannesburg Zoo, go stargazing at the Wits Planetarium, or enjoy a walk or hike at Emmarentia Dam, Klipspringer Nature Reserve, Melville Koppies Nature Reserve or The Wild Nature Reserve.
- Pretoria: Discover the historical city, visit the Union Buildings, or explore the Wonderboom Nature Reserve, National Zoological Gardens and an array of beautiful botanical gardens.
- Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden: Discover a tranquil oasis with beautiful gardens, walking trails and a variety of birdlife.
- Cradle of Humankind: Explore the home of the largest known concentration of human ancestral remains in the world, cycle around the Cradle with Team Vitality, or visit the Rhino and Lion Park nearby.
- Durban: Relax on the beaches, visit the uShaka Marine World, or discover exotic bird species in a lush setting at the Umgeni River Bird Park.
- Drakensberg Mountains: Hike or mountain bike in the stunning Drakensberg Mountains or attend a performance by the world-renowned Drakensberg Boys Choir.
- iSimangaliso Wetland Park: Explore this World Heritage Site, home to diverse ecosystems, including wetlands, forests and marine areas.
- Kruger National Park: Embark on a safari adventure and spot the Big Five and other wildlife.
- Mapungubwe National Park: Learn about the ancient Mapungubwe Kingdom and its rich history.
- Magoebaskloof: Home to the late Tito Mboweni and the tallest planted tree in the world, Magoebaskloof is a haven for travellers who love adventure, nature and good food.
- Blyde River Canyon: Hike or drive along the scenic Blyde River Canyon, one of the world's largest green canyons.
- Panorama Route: Drive along this scenic route and admire stunning landscapes like God's Window, Bourke's Luck Potholes and the Three Rondavels.
- Sudwala Caves: Explore one of the oldest known cave systems in the world, open 365 days a year.
- Pilanesberg National Park: Experience a malaria-free safari and spot wildlife like lions, leopards, and elephants less than 200 km from Johannesburg.
- Sun City: Enjoy world-class entertainment, gaming and water sports at this luxurious resort.
- Madikwe Game Reserve: Discover the hidden gem set on the border of Botswana, close to the Kalahari Desert, and enjoy uncrowded game-viewing opportunities.
- Golden Gate Highlands National Park: Hike or drive along the scenic Blyde River Canyon, one of the world's largest green canyons.
- Basotho Cultural Village: Experience the rich culture and history of the Basotho people from as early as the 16th century and discover medicinal herbs and rock art along the wilderness trail.
- Clarens: Explore this charming artists' village, enjoy the beautiful mountain views, and discover the "jewel of the Eastern Free State" at your own pace.
Top money-saving tips
- Book in advance: Secure the best deals on flights and accommodation.
- Consider off-peak destinations: Explore lesser-known regions for unique experiences.
- Travel mid-week: Mid-week flights and accommodation are often cheaper.
- Pack light: Avoid excess baggage fees.
- Use your travel rewards: Get up to 75% off flights and 25% off local holiday accommodation and car hire on the Vitality Travel booking platform. Plus, save even more when you book and pay with your Ðiscovery Miles.
Because Discovery Bank clients get all the discounts and insights they need to travel anytime, anywhere for much less. In 2024, Vitality Travellers with a Discovery Bank account saved over R630 million on discounted flights, accommodation and car hire.
Plus, they know that the cheapest time to fly from Johannesburg to Cape Town is on Sunday mornings at 05:00 while the most expensive time is on Friday at 16:00. Discover more money-saving tips in the SpendTrend24 report by Discovery Bank and Visa.
So, what are you waiting for? Join Discovery Bank today and discover more magical off-peak adventures with Vitality Travel.
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