Best budget-friendly backpacking spots in SA

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Khotso Lodge & Horse Trails

Khotso Horse Trails and Accommodation is nestled deep in the Southern Drakensberg. It is both a working horse and sheep farm and a perfect base to either explore, adventure or relax. Khotso is famous in the area for its spectacular horse trails.

It also offers a cosy Backpackers Lodge, a new camp site with a kitchen and ablution block in the orchard next to the mountain stream, as well as three newly refurbished self-catering rondavels overlooking a private gorge behind.

With the full 1 000ha farm at your disposal, ride over the ridge tops on horseback, hike to one of the mineral water pools, swim or fish the Umzimkulu river or mountain bike the extensive single-track routes.

Orange River Rafting Lodge

Orange River Rafting Lodge is located on the banks of the Orange River, a haven for numerous bird species. The resort is situated in lovely surroundings, 10km from the border to Namibia, on a small farm in Vioolsdrift.

The lodge offers self-catering chalets, camp sites and river rafting at affordable rates in a peaceful atmosphere filled with beautiful river views, sunsets over the mountain ranges of the Richtersveld and silent, starry nights. Additional facilities include a pool table, fishing and a safe swimming area in the river.

Elephant Walk Guesthouse and Backpackers

Elephant Walk is a popular B&B and backpackers, and it’s only a stone’s throw away from the entrance gate to the Kruger National Park in Phalaborwa.

They have en-suite rooms with air-conditioning, bar fridges, TVs, microwaves and coffee and tea facilities. Other facilities include braai facilities and a pool.

On request, the lodge can arrange safaris into the Kruger Park on open vehicles or a river safari for close-up photographs of elephants, buffaloes, crocs and hippos and abundant bird life.

Karoo Soul – Travel Lodge & Cottages

Huddled in the heart of the Klein Karoo is this magical Tudor-style manor house. Aside from striking a balance between nature, life and sustainability, it remains one of the most sophisticated travel lodges in the area.

Situated on one of the uppermost hills in Oudtshoorn, the manor and surrounding grounds is adorned with art, offering breathtaking views and sunsets combined with a tantalising swimming pool and entertainment patio.

Affordable yet stylish and comfortable, it is surrounded with a sense of well-balanced vitality. The place offers unique self catering cottages, luxurious rooms, an un-crowded dormitory and camping depending on your needs.

Clarens Inn and Backpackers

Deep in the foothills of the South African Maluti Mountains lies Clarens, a utopian village guarded by the majestic Rooiberge sandstone cliffs.

The mountain ranges, which surround this leafy haven, boast incredible rainbowed strata of purples and blues; one of a kind formations that perfectly reflect the bright energy of this beautiful region.

Clarens Inn and Backpackers provides accommodation for adventurers with the first step in the countless journeys of discovery, relaxation and exhilaration, which the famed Jewel of the Eastern Free State has to offer.

Services at the Clarens Inn and Backpackers include bicycle hire, heated rooms in winter, catering facilities and tour arrangements. Activities nearby include whitewater rafting, abseiling, horse riding, golf, tennis, zip-line and paintball.

FunkyTown

An old stone house, renewed and recycled, now exists as FunkyTown, which is the most unique, breathtaking lifestyle accommodation in Jeffreys Bay. FunkyTown is an eclectic expression of design, colour and art.

The cool spot features a hot tub for winter nights and a plunge pool for cooling down in the summer! The place is situated within walking distance to the shops, beach and restaurants. The place offers a mini-fridge and complimentary tea and coffee facilities, free parking and free wi-fi.

Sunflower Stop Backpackers Hostel

Sunflower Stop Backpackers Hostel offers relaxing and comfortable accommodation for budget travellers in Cape Town.

Nestled between the mountains and sea, the hostel is in the perfect location to enjoy your downtime in the Mother City.

With self-catering options, bar and TV lounge, the luxury hostel offers affordable accommodation for every budget. Other features include a swimming pool, free wi-fi, bicycle rental and free breakfast.