Where to Find Affordable Accommodation South Africa (City by City)
Now, South Africa is huge. Different regions, different vibes, different price tags. So instead of lumping everything together, it makes more sense to break it down. Here’s where you’ll find cheap hotels in South Africa, city by city:
Cheap Hotels in Cape Town
Cape Town is stunning, no doubt, but it’s also one of the priciest places to stay. If you don’t mind being a little further from the tourist hotspots, you’ll find solid budget picks. Think guesthouses in the suburbs, backpacker hostels near the city bowl, or even small hotels a quick Uber ride from the beach. Some might surprise you with extras like a rooftop view or free breakfast.
Cheap Hotels Johannesburg (Including Near OR Tambo Airport)
Joburg is a mix of business and leisure, and the hotel scene reflects that. There are cheap hotels near OR Tambo Airport, which are handy if you’re flying in or out. Then there’s Sandton, usually thought of as pricey, but dig around and you’ll find budget-friendly stays hidden among the skyscrapers.
Cheap Hotels in Pretoria
Pretoria feels calmer than Joburg, and so do its hotel prices. It’s a good spot if you want something affordable but central, close to museums, universities, and restaurants. Don’t expect luxury, but you’ll get reliable, straightforward stays.
Cheap Hotels in Umhlanga & Durban
Beach lovers, this is your stop. Durban and Umhlanga are known for sunshine and surf, and you can easily find affordable beachfront hotels if you book a little early. Backpacker spots are common, too, and they can be surprisingly fun, even if you’re not “backpacking” in the traditional sense.
Cheap Hotels in Sandton
Yes, Sandton gets its own mention. It’s South Africa’s financial heart, which usually means sky-high prices. But here’s the twist: there are a handful of affordable hotels if you know where to look. They’re practical, clean, and perfect if you’re traveling for work but don’t want the bill to shock you.
Cheap Hotels East London
A smaller coastal city, often overlooked. And that’s part of the charm. East London has a slower pace, and the hotels match it, modest, budget-friendly, and often family-run. You might not find infinity pools, but you’ll get value and warmth.
Cheapest Hotels South Africa: City Breakdowns
Not all “cheap” is the same. In fact, you’ll probably see a few different styles while searching:
- Budget chains – predictable, practical, usually near airports or malls.
- Guesthouses/B&Bs – often the best mix of price and personality.
- Backpackers – not just for students; many have private rooms now.
- Self-catering – great if you’re staying longer and don’t mind cooking.
Each has trade-offs. A guesthouse might feel more personal, but a chain hotel might give you consistent Wi-Fi. Personally, I lean toward self-catering—it’s nice to make a quick breakfast and not have to eat out three times a day.
Different Kinds of Affordable Accommodation in South Africa
Booking budget stays isn’t just about price, it’s about what works for you. Some people love the predictability of a chain, others want the charm of a B&B. In South Africa, both can be affordable if you know where to look.
House-Smart Tips for Booking the Cheapest Hotels South Africa Has to Offer
- Book early. Prices climb closer to holiday seasons, especially in Cape Town.
- Be flexible on location. A 10-minute drive outside the city center can cut your costs in half.
- Travel off-peak. South African school holidays = busy hotels. If you can avoid them, do.
- Check what’s included. Free breakfast, parking, or Wi-Fi can save you more than you think.
- Don’t assume cheaper means worse. Sometimes the “affordable” places are run by locals who care more than the big chains.
Finding Cheap Hotels in South Africa That Fit Your Trip
Travel in South Africa can be as expensive or as affordable as you make it. The hotels you choose are just one part of the story, but if you keep an open mind and maybe skip the idea that only 5-stars equal comfort you’ll find plenty of cheap hotels in South Africa that do the job. Some might even surprise you.