The Top 20 budget-friendly hotels in South Africa
- Patience Phatlane
- Aug 18
- 15 min read
Updated: Oct 2
Welcome, fellow travelers, to your ultimate guide to exploring South Africa without breaking the bank! We all dream of experiencing the breathtaking beauty and vibrant culture of this incredible country. But what if you could do it all on a budget? Today, we're counting down the top 20 budget-friendly hotels across South Africa that prove affordability doesn't mean sacrificing comfort, style, or a great experience.
We've scoured the nation to find the best value for your money, from bustling city centers to serene coastal towns and everything in between. So, grab your notebook, get ready to plan your next adventure, and let's dive into our list, starting with number 20.
Hotel #20: The Wantage Suites, Johannesburg
Kicking off our list at number 20 is The Wantage Suites in Johannesburg. This guesthouse offers amazing value for money with modern, clean, and comfortable rooms. Guests rave about the accommodating staff and the safe, great location. It's the perfect home base for exploring the city's highlights like Sandton City Mall and the Gautrain station.
About Wantage Suites:
1. The Wantage Suites in Rosebank, Johannesburg offer luxurious self-catering suites with modern amenities and fully equipped kitchens.
2. The suites overlook stunning gardens and are located in the heart of the Rosebank leisure and business district, making it a great choice for travelers interested in sightseeing, restaurants, and shopping.
3. Guests have praised the safety of the location, the modern decor of the rooms, and the exceptional luxury and value provided by The Wantage Suites.
Hotel #19: The Road Lodge, Various Locations (e.g., Sandton, Durban)
At number 19, we have a hotel chain that's practically synonymous with budget travel in South Africa: Road Lodge. With locations all over the country, including major hubs like Cape Town and Johannesburg, Road Lodge is all about providing a comfortable, no-frills stay at an unbeatable price. It's the go-to for travelers needing a convenient and reliable place to rest their heads.
The Road Lodge hotel chain, a part of the larger City Lodge Hotel Group in South Africa, is defined by a business model that focuses on providing a specific, no-frills, and value-for-money experience. Its unique attributes are a direct result of this focused strategy.
Here are the unique attributes of the Road Lodge hotel chain:
Focus on the "Basic" and "Essential": Road Lodge's core philosophy is to offer comfortable and clean accommodation without the extra amenities that many travelers don't need or want to pay for. This includes things like:
Fully air-conditioned rooms.
En-suite bathrooms with a shower.
Secure parking.
24-hour reception.
A simple, light breakfast (often for an extra charge).
Free Wi-Fi.
This "no frills, no fluff, no fuss" approach is its primary differentiator in the market.
Pioneering the "Limited Service" Hotel Concept: The City Lodge Hotel Group, and specifically its Road Lodge brand, pioneered the "limited service" or "select service" hotel model in South Africa. This concept was a direct response to a market that was previously dominated by either expensive, full-service luxury hotels or informal guesthouses. Road Lodge filled the gap for a reliable, professional, and affordable option.
Strategic Location: Road Lodges are often strategically located for easy access, particularly for road travelers and those on a budget. You'll find them near major highways, business hubs, and, notably, at or near airports. This makes them a go-to choice for an overnight stop or a convenient base for a short business trip.
Part of a Multi-brand Strategy: Road Lodge's uniqueness is also tied to its role within the City Lodge Hotel Group's larger brand portfolio. The group operates under a "market segmentation" strategy, with each brand targeting a different segment of the market:
Courtyard Hotels: Upscale, extended-stay.
City Lodge Hotels: Comfortable, full-service mid-range.
Town Lodges: Upper midscale, with more amenities than Road Lodge.
Road Lodges: Budget-friendly, basic accommodation.
This allows the group to capture a wide range of customers under a single, trusted corporate umbrella.
Consistent Quality and Brand Trust: Despite being the most affordable brand in the City Lodge family, Road Lodge maintains a reputation for a high standard of cleanliness, safety, and reliability. This consistency is a key part of its appeal, particularly for business travelers and families who value a dependable experience over luxury. Guests know exactly what to expect, which is a significant advantage over less formal, independent budget accommodations.
Hotel #18: SUN1, Various Locations (e.g., Pretoria, Cape Town)
Coming in at 18, we have another fantastic chain, SUN1. Part of the Southern Sun group, SUN1 offers modern, comfortable, and practical accommodation at the cheapest rates. Their hotels are conveniently located near airports, malls, and city centers, making them a "smarter choice" for budget-conscious travelers.
About SUN1
1. SUN1 PRETORIA offers a range of convenient facilities, including a shared lounge and TV area, complimentary Wi-Fi, laundry services, luggage storage, vending machines, and designated smoking areas.
2. The hotel provides comfortable and affordable room options such as the Standard Double Room (Non-smoking) and the Standard Triple Room (Non-smoking) or (Smoking), with booking available through Agoda for the best prices.
3. Located in Pretoria City Central, SUN1 PRETORIA is surrounded by historical landmarks, shopping centers, dining options, public transport stations, and attractions like Freedom Park and Prince's Park for guests to explore during their stay.
Hotel #17: Belaire Suites Hotel, Durban
Heading to the coast, our number 17 is the Belaire Suites Hotel in Durban. With an excellent location right on the beachfront, this hotel offers a fantastic stay without the hefty price tag. Guests love the friendly staff, decent-sized rooms, and the fact that you're just a stone's throw away from all the local sights.
About Belair Suites
Located on Durban’s North Beach, just 0.6 miles from Durban Station and close to major attractions like uShaka Marine World and Moses Mabhida Stadium.
Ocean Views
Some rooms offer stunning sea views and the Sky Lounge provides panoramic ocean vistas during breakfast.
Modern Comfort
Rooms include kitchenettes, marble bathrooms, air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and desks.
Dining Options
On-site Café Jiran serves award-winning coffee; room service and a top-floor breakfast buffet are also available.
Leisure Amenities
Outdoor swimming pool, beachfront access, bar/lounge, and a restaurant enhance the guest experience.
Enhanced Safety
Hotel implements guest safety measures, including disinfectant cleaning, hand sanitizer, and social distancing protocols.
Convenient Services
Self-parking and airport shuttle available (fees may apply); 24-hour front desk and laundry services offered.
Family Friendly
Outdoor pool and kid-friendly amenities make it suitable for families.
Free Connectivity
Complimentary public internet access provided for guests.
Flexible Pricing
Discounted rates and promo codes available based on travel dates and log-in perks.
Hotel #16: Garden Court East London
Next, at number 16, we're in East London with the Garden Court. This hotel is praised for its perfect location, especially for business trips, and its neat and well-appointed rooms. It’s a great example of a budget hotel that delivers on comfort and convenience.
The Garden Court Hotel in East London, part of the Southern Sun hotel group, is a popular choice for both business and leisure travelers due to its prime location and comprehensive facilities.
Here's a brief summary of the hotel's key features:
Location: The hotel is located on the Eastern Beach promenade, offering guests easy access to the beach and a tranquil environment. It's also conveniently close to the city's central business district, making it a great base for those on a business trip.
Accommodation: The hotel has 173 en-suite rooms, with options ranging from standard rooms to suites. Many rooms offer views of the ocean or the hotel's garden. All rooms are equipped with modern amenities like air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and a work desk.
Dining: Guests can enjoy meals at the on-site Ubuntu Restaurant, which serves a daily buffet breakfast and a carvery buffet in the evening. There is also a coffee shop for light meals and snacks, and in-room dining is available.
Facilities: Garden Court East London provides a range of amenities designed for both relaxation and productivity. These include an outdoor swimming pool, a 24-hour fitness center, a garden, and a business center. It also has four adaptable meeting venues, making it a popular choice for conferences and events.
Family-Friendly: The hotel is family-friendly, offering amenities such as free cribs and babysitting services upon request, which makes it a comfortable option for those traveling with children.
Hotel #15:
At number 15, we're off to the legendary Sun City Resort with The Cabanas Hotel. This is your ticket to a world of fun and adventure on a budget. Guests get unlimited access to the famous Valley of Waves and other resort activities, making it an incredible value for families and groups looking for an action-packed holiday.
The Cabanas Hotel is one of the four main hotels at the sprawling Sun City Resort, and what makes it great is its specific niche within the resort's ecosystem. It's not a grand, opulent hotel like The Palace, but rather a perfect blend of affordability, convenience, and family-friendly fun.
Here's what is great and unique about The Cabanas Hotel:
Family-Focused and Relaxed Atmosphere: The Cabanas is specifically known as the most family-oriented hotel at Sun City. Its layout, with rooms arranged in "cabana-style" blocks around a central lawn and pools, creates a laid-back, resort-like feel. This is ideal for families with children who need space to run around and be entertained. The hotel offers numerous facilities geared towards kids, including a dedicated children's pool and play areas.
Prime Lakeside Location: The hotel is situated on the edge of Waterworld Lake, providing a beautiful backdrop and direct access to a host of water activities. Guests can enjoy watersports like jet skiing, water skiing, and parasailing right on their doorstep. This lakeside setting gives the hotel a tropical vacation vibe.
Affordable Entry Point to Sun City: The Cabanas is the most budget-friendly of Sun City's four main hotels. Staying here gives guests full, complimentary access to all the resort's facilities, including the famous Valley of Waves, which is a significant value proposition. It allows visitors to experience the magic of Sun City without the price tag of The Palace or The Cascades.
Convenience and Accessibility: The hotel's central location on the resort means it's a short walk or a free shuttle ride away from all the major attractions. It's close to the main Entertainment Centre, which houses the casino, cinemas, and various restaurants. The free resort shuttle service makes getting around a breeze, even for those with young children.
Newly Refurbished Style: The Cabanas has undergone a significant refurbishment, which has given it a fresh, modern, and stylish look. While its design is simple, it's decorated with a vibrant, tropical theme that contributes to the holiday atmosphere.
In short, The Cabanas is great because it provides a perfect balance. It offers a clean, comfortable, and lively base for families and budget-conscious travelers, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the Sun City experience without having to pay for the resort's more luxurious, full-service hotel options.
Hotel #14: Holiday Inn Express Cape Town City Centre
Making our way to the Mother City, number 14 is the Holiday Inn Express Cape Town City Centre. This hotel is lauded for its superb location and the included breakfast, which helps keep travel costs down. It’s perfect for those who want to be in the heart of the action while enjoying a comfortable and reliable stay.
Hotel #13: Protea Hotel by Marriott Cape Town Sea Point
Moving down the coast, we find the Protea Hotel by Marriott Cape Town Sea Point at number 13. Often described as a "best budget bed in Cape Town," this hotel provides a great balance of quality, location, and price. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want to be close to the ocean and the vibrant Sea Point neighborhood.
Hotel #12: The Capital Mbombela, Nelspruit
For those heading to the Kruger National Park, our number 12 pick is The Capital Mbombela in Nelspruit. This aparthotel offers modern accommodation, a swimming pool, and a fitness center. It’s a superb and affordable base for exploring the incredible wildlife and landscapes of the region.
Hotel #11: Premier Hotel O.R. Tambo
At number 11, we're back in Johannesburg, just minutes from the airport. The Premier Hotel O.R. Tambo is a much more affordable alternative to the hotels right inside the airport, with a reliable shuttle service that makes catching your flight stress-free. It's a perfect choice for layovers or early morning departures.
We've reached the halfway point of our list. Before we get to the top 10, let's take a quick look at some of the things that make these hotels so special. They often feature:
Free Wi-Fi
On-site dining or easy access to restaurants
Prime locations, saving you money on transportation
Excellent guest reviews and service
And of course, great prices!
Now, let's continue the countdown with number 10.
Hotel #10: City Lodge Hotel at OR Tambo International Airport- earned 2024 Award
Just a stone's throw from the airport, the City Lodge Hotel at OR Tambo is a top contender for its comfort and convenience. It boasts tasteful décor, comfortable beds, and a fantastic breakfast buffet. This hotel consistently receives excellent reviews from travelers, a testament to its quality and value.
Hotel #9: The Rockefeller Hotel by Newmark, Cape Town- earned 2024 Award
Coming in at number 9, we have The Rockefeller Hotel by Newmark in Cape Town. This 4-star hotel proves that luxury and affordability can go hand-in-hand. Popular with guests for its fabulous location and stylish design, it’s a great way to experience a high-end feel without the high-end cost.
Hotel #8: Newkings Boutique Hotel, Cape Town
Another fantastic boutique option in Cape Town, the Newkings Boutique Hotel is our number 8. Guests praise its excellent and affordable Zest Restaurant, as well as its vibey atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot for travelers who appreciate a unique and stylish stay at a reasonable price.
Hotel #7: The Bryanston Boutique, Johannesburg
At number 7, we have The Bryanston Boutique in Johannesburg. Guests describe their stay here as feeling "like heaven," thanks to the warm welcome, impeccable cleanliness, and stunning décor. The top-notch breakfast is a highlight, making this an excellent choice for a truly comfortable and affordable stay. Nearby attractions
include the Montecasino - 2.71 km from property.
Belaire Suites in Durban makes another appearance on our list, a testament to its consistent praise as a great value hotel. Its friendly staff, well-appointed rooms, and prime beachfront location make it a standout choice for travelers looking to enjoy the sun and sand on a budget.
Hotel #5: Sunrock Guesthouse, Johannesburg
Breaking into our top 5 is the Sunrock Guesthouse in Johannesburg. This place is all about convenience and value. They offer a free shuttle to and from the airport, making it a safe and welcoming option for travelers. It's a fantastic, affordable choice for a night's rest after a long flight.
Hotel #4: The Hotel Verde Cape Town Airport
Our number 4 spot goes to the Hotel Verde Cape Town Airport. This hotel is not only budget-friendly but also a leader in sustainability. Guests love the friendly and helpful staff and the easy airport transfer. It's an exceptional choice for the environmentally conscious traveler.
This property is in high demand!
Hotel Verde Cape Town Airport is a remarkable hotel, not just for its convenience as an airport hotel, but for its groundbreaking commitment to sustainability.1 It's often referred to as "Africa's Greenest Hotel" and for good reason.2
Here are some key facts about Hotel Verde Cape Town Airport:
1. Pioneering Sustainability and Certifications:
First in Africa to be 100% Carbon Neutral: The hotel was the first in Africa to offer 100% carbon-neutral accommodation and conferencing.3 It achieves this by implementing extensive sustainable practices and offsetting any remaining carbon emissions through the purchase of carbon credits.4
LEED Platinum Certified:5 It was the first hotel in Africa and the sixth in the world to achieve double platinum certification from the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) for its sustainable design, construction, and operations.
Net Zero Waste Certified: Hotel Verde is the first hotel in Africa to receive the prestigious Net Zero Waste certification from the Green Building Council of South Africa (GBCSA).6 It achieved an impressive 93% operational waste diversion rate, meaning almost all of its waste is diverted from landfills.7
2. Innovative Eco-Friendly Features:
Energy Generation: The hotel utilizes a range of renewable energy sources, including 220 photovoltaic panels and three vertical-axis wind turbines.8
Energy-Generating Gym Equipment: The gym equipment is designed to generate energy when used, which is then fed back into the hotel's power grid.9
Regenerative Lifts: The elevators have regenerative braking, which means they generate electricity when they slow down.10
Geothermal Heating and Cooling: The hotel uses geothermal ground loops and heat pumps for its central heating and cooling systems, which is highly energy-efficient.11
Greywater Recycling: A greywater recycling plant reclaims water from showers and baths to be used for flushing toilets, saving thousands of liters of drinking water every day.12
Eco-Pool: The outdoor swimming pool is a natural eco-pool that uses a living ecosystem of plants for filtration, eliminating the need for chemicals like chlorine.13
3. Encouraging Guest Participation:
"Verdinos" Currency: The hotel has its own in-house currency called "Verdinos."14 Guests can earn these by participating in sustainable activities, such as using the stairs, correctly sorting waste, or reusing towels.15 Verdinos can then be used to purchase items at the hotel.16
Eco-Tours: The hotel offers tours for guests to showcase its various green initiatives, educating them on how the hotel operates and what makes it so sustainable.17
4. Additional Amenities and Convenience:
Airport Proximity: The hotel is located just 400 meters from Cape Town International Airport and offers a free shuttle service, making it an extremely convenient option for travelers.18
A Green Oasis: Despite being an airport hotel, it's situated within a tranquil wetland oasis with a jogging trail and indigenous, water-wise plants, providing a relaxing and natural environment for guests.19
Other Facilities: The hotel offers a range of modern amenities, including a restaurant, bar, full-service spa, a 24-hour gym, and conference facilities.20
Hotel #3: La Grace, Kempton Park
Taking the bronze medal at number 3 is La Grace in Kempton Park. This highly-rated guesthouse offers a fantastic stay with air-conditioned rooms, free private parking, and excellent service. It's a testament to the fact that some of the best budget options are not large chains, but hidden gems.
About La Grace
Seamless Connectivity: Enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi throughout La Grace, including rooms and public areas—ideal for work, streaming, or social sharing.
Free Parking Convenience: La Grace offers a secure, complimentary car park for all guests, enhancing ease of travel across Johannesburg.
Room Comforts Galore: Each room includes satellite TV, coffee/tea maker, bottled water, refrigerator, plush linens, and essential toiletries.
Gateway Location: Situated in Greater OR Tambo, La Grace provides easy access to Johannesburg’s cultural landmarks and natural attractions.
Easy Airport Transfers: Only 10 km from OR Tambo Airport and 50 km from Lanseria Airport, with taxis, ride-shares, and shuttles readily available.
Nearby Culture & Nature: Visit Madiba Freedom Museum, unwind at Amara Day Spa, or relax in nearby parks like Glen Erasmia and Palm Park.
Public Transport Access: Close to Rhodesfield Station and several others, connecting guests to Gautrain, local trains, and city bus routes.
Diverse Dining Nearby: Savor Italian at IL Gusto, craft beer at Airport Craft Brewers, or Indian delights at The Raj—all within easy reach.
Shopping Hotspots: Shop at Festival Mall, Woolworths East Rand, Bonaero Park Centre, and more—all offering varied retail experiences.
Budget-Friendly Rates: With rooms from R 460 - R 890 per night, La Grace offers comfort and quality at a fraction of Johannesburg’s average hotel prices.
Top-Rated Hospitality: Guests consistently praise La Grace’s service and comfort, reflected in its excellent 9.5 overall rating.
For the third time on our list, the Belaire Suites Hotel in Durban earns a spot, this time at number 2. Its repeated appearance and high praise from multiple sources solidify its status as one of the best value-for-money hotels in all of South Africa. Its perfect blend of location, service, and price is simply unmatched.
And now, the moment you've all been waiting for... our number one pick for the most budget-friendly hotel in South Africa!
Hotel #1: The Mojo Hotel, Cape Town- received 2023 Award
Claiming the top spot is The Mojo Hotel in Cape Town. This hotel is not just a place to sleep; it’s an experience. Located directly above the famous Mojo Market—an awesome dining and social venue—it offers an incredibly vibrant stay at a very reasonable price. It's the perfect mix of affordability, prime location, and an energetic atmosphere, making it our number one choice for budget-conscious travelers in South Africa.
The Mojo Hotel in Cape Town is interesting for several reasons, primarily due to its unique combination of accommodation styles and its prime location connected to a bustling market.
Here are some of its key interesting aspects:
The Mojo Market: The hotel is located right next to, and integrated with, the popular Mojo Market.1 This is a huge draw for guests, offering a vibrant indoor food and lifestyle market with a wide variety of food stalls, live entertainment, and multiple bars.2 This means guests have immediate access to a lively and diverse dining and social scene without even leaving the building.
Unique Accommodation Options: The Mojo Hotel provides a mix of traditional hotel rooms and "crash pads," which are a take on the pod or capsule hotel concept.3 This offers budget-conscious travelers a compact, affordable, and well-designed room experience, while also catering to those who prefer a more spacious studio or family room.4
Artistic and Vibrant Vibe: The hotel has a unique and unconventional design. It draws inspiration from its Sea Point surroundings, incorporating elements like "Palm Beach" and African geometrics. A notable feature is the collaboration with local graffiti artists, including Mak1one, who have created murals throughout the hotel, giving it a cool, locally-infused artistic flair.5
Prime Location: Situated in Sea Point, the hotel is centrally located between Beach and Regent Roads.6 This means it's just a short walk to the Sea Point Promenade and the beach, and offers sea and mountain views from some rooms.7 It's also well-connected to public transport and close to many of Cape Town's major attractions like the V&A Waterfront and Table Mountain.8
Targeted Amenities: The hotel caters to the modern, budget-conscious traveler with amenities like free Wi-Fi, Smart TVs, and a travel desk to help book local tours and activities.9 This makes it a hub for travelers looking for a comfortable and convenient base to explore the city.
In summary, The Mojo Hotel stands out because it's not just a place to sleep, but a destination in itself, offering a lively market experience and a stylish, art-infused environment in a fantastic location.
There you have it—our top 20 list of budget-friendly hotels in South Africa. We hope this guide helps you plan an unforgettable trip that's as easy on your wallet as it is on your eyes. Remember, a great adventure doesn't have to come with a great expense.
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