Why stop at booking cheap flights, when you can continue the saving spree on budget accommodation! While backpackers may have a reputation for being loud and not always that clean, there are a host of boutique backpacker establishments around South Africa, which will offer comfort and even a bit of personality at less than a cheap hotel.
You also don’t have to torture yourself by staying in a dorm room! Opt for a private room if you like – some even come with en-suite bathrooms, if you want to splash out a little.
Here are some awesome bakcpacker accommodation options to get you inspired.
1. Western Cape – B.I.G.
Cape Town is bound to be on your list of places to see in the Western Cape. You will find that The Backpackers in Greenpoint (B.I.G.) gives you easy access to all that the city has to offer.
Accommodation options include double, triple and 4-bed dormitories. Meals are taken in a communal dining room and there are 2 kitchens on-site for self-catering. Here you can also help yourself to a breakfast of cereals, toast and preserves before heading out for the day.
Contemporary décor and sparkling bathrooms throughout earn this establishment an ‘excellent’ rating among 92% of guests.
2. Knysna – Jembjos Knysna Lodge
While you will need to find cheap car rental to make the most of the Garden Route, Jembjos Knysna Lodge puts you at the heart of the action of this bustling seaside village.
Accommodation is provided in clean, cosy dorm rooms and there is a kitchen for self-catering and a DIY complimentary breakfast. The Baz Bus stops directly outside the lodge for added convenience.
3. Eastern Cape – Island Vibe
This laid back hostel in Summerstrand is popular with travellers because of its direct access to the beach, large swimming pool and hot tub. Easy access to Port Elizabeth’s historical attractions is provided from the nearby Baz Bus stop.
There is a communal lounge and kitchen and complimentary muffins and coffee to start your day.
4. Northern Cape – Greatbatch Guest House in Kimberley
Greatbatch Guest House is part of a private home located centrally in the historic city of Kimberley. The Halfway There pub is right next door and other attractions of the city, such as The Big Hole, are easily reached by taxi or hire car.
Greatbatch offers dormitory style accommodation as well as double rooms and access to a communal kitchen, dining room and swimming pool area. There is Wi-Fi available on the property.
This welcoming establishment is best known for its friendly owners and sparkling clean amenities.
5. KwaZulu-Natal Coastal – Ballito Backpackers
When you land at King Shaka International Airport, it’s just a short drive to this immaculate backpackers, right on the beachfront in Ballito.
Here you will find it easy to merge into the seaside vibe of this holiday town where you can enjoy some of the best weather around, dine on seafood and explore the nearby towns of Umhlanga, Umdloti and the city of Durban.
Ballito Backpackers offers exceptional outdoor entertainment areas, a communal kitchen and dining area and twin, double or dorm rooms to choose from. The DSTV and free Wi-Fi are a nice touch.
6. Drakensberg – Inkosana Lodge
Inkosana lodge is located in the Central Drakensberg at Champagne Valley, perfect for walking, hiking, riding and exploring rock art locations in the area. The hostel features dormitory style rooms as well as double rondavel-style accommodation, and has a restaurant on-site.
There is free Baz Bus pick up from this resort and the mountain views are simply spectacular.
7. Free State – Clarens Inn
Head for Clarens, located at the foot of the Maloti Mountains for an artistic retreat par excellence. This quaint village offers galleries, arts and crafts and fine dining as well as easy access to Golden Gate National Park and incredible hikes in the area.
This economical yet first-class backpackers has a shop on site and self-catering facilities for the budget-conscious traveller. Accommodation is provided in double rooms and male and female dormitories.
8. North West Province – Travellers Inn
A family-run establishment, this hospitable backpackers is located in the city of Rustenburg, close to Sun City and Pilanesberg National Park. Day tours to these iconic places are easily arranged from the city, which is only a few minutes away by public transport.
Self-catering and luxury rooms are up for grabs here as well as a backpackers dormitory, parking, a cosy bar, swimming pool and restaurant.
9. Mpumalanga – Gecko Backpackers
Located in Hazyview, this established backpackers if perfectly located to explore all the sights of Mpumalanga. Visit the Kruger Park for the day, head for the sights of the Blyde River Canyon or do some craft shopping nearby.
Accommodation is provided in dormitories with a communal lounge, dining room, braai area and kitchen.
10. Gauteng – Curiocity, Johannesburg
If you are arriving at OR Tambo International Airport, you may want to spend a few days near the bustling city of Johannesburg. Check in to Curiocity Backpackers for easy access to all the historic sights, buzzing nightlife and amazing cultural tours of the city.
The dormitory-style rooms are modern, clean and offer opportunities for socialising in shared areas like the bar and diningroom. There is a communal kitchen too.
11. Limpopo – Mariepskop View, Hoedspruit
You will find this homely backpackers near Hoedspruit close to all the private game farms of Limpopo Province, as well as the northern reaches of the Kruger National Park.
The freestanding rondavels sleep 2 people each, and there are braai areas, a swimming pool and a dam on site.
Wherever You Roam
Save on cheap flights as well as on backpacker accommodation when exploring all that South African has to offer. Compare prices now and start planning your adventure right now.