10 Places to Stay - Finds Worth Knowing About This Month: Get Away for Less
Fancy a change of scenery? Whether it's a night in a hotel, a glamping escape, a few days in the bush or a caravan trip somewhere new, there are plenty of places to stay and ways to explore South Africa without paying full price.
You don't always need an elaborate holiday or a long-distance flight to enjoy a break. Sometimes, a night away, a change of scenery or a few days exploring somewhere different is just what you need.
We've been exploring the PensionersPayLess directory and picked ten accommodation and travel finds to inspire your next getaway. From comfortable hotel stays and nature escapes to camping beneath the trees, there's something here for different tastes and travel styles.
Some of these offers are better suited to midweek travellers, while others may appeal to those who enjoy longer stays or prefer travelling with their own caravan. The important thing is to explore your options, check the conditions and see what might work for you.
So, where could your next adventure take you?
1. SANParks — explore South Africa's national parks
There's something special about waking up surrounded by nature, whether you're watching wildlife, enjoying the bushveld or simply sitting outside with a cup of coffee.
SANParks manages an extensive network of national parks, with a variety of accommodation options. Its pensioner-discount listing includes reduced rates on selected accommodation at participating parks during qualifying periods. Some parks may also offer discounts on guided game drives.
If a bush break has been on your wish list, this is a good place to start planning.
Find out more: SANParks pensioner discounts
2. Southern Sun — hotel stays for less
Prefer a traditional hotel stay? Southern Sun has hotels in a variety of destinations, giving you options for a city visit, a coastal break or a night away while travelling.
The PensionersPayLess directory lists a special rate for eligible guests at participating hotels. Availability and conditions apply, so it's worth checking the details before making your booking.
A hotel break can also be a useful way to explore a city or visit friends and family without having to travel home the same day.
Find out more: Southern Sun hotel discounts
3. AfriCamps — glamping in beautiful surroundings
Love the idea of being close to nature but prefer a proper bed and a little more comfort than a traditional campsite provides? Glamping could be just the thing.
AfriCamps offers boutique glamping accommodation in scenic locations around South Africa. It's an option for travellers who enjoy the outdoors but would rather leave the tent-pitching and sleeping bags at home.
The PensionersPayLess directory features a midweek pensioner special, making this one worth exploring if your travel dates are flexible.
Find out more: AfriCamps Boutique Glamping.
4. Forever Resorts — plenty of holiday possibilities
Sometimes you want a comfortable chalet, and sometimes a camping trip is more your style. Forever Resorts offers a variety of holiday settings, with accommodation options that differ from resort to resort.
Its PensionersPayLess listing highlights special rates at participating resorts. Depending on where you want to go and how you prefer to travel, it could be worth comparing the available options before settling on your next destination.
Take a look at the different resorts and see which one catches your eye.
Find out more: Forever Resorts pensioner discounts
5.CapeNature — escape to the Western Cape's natural beauty
From mountain retreats to coastal nature reserves, CapeNature offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Its accommodation options include self-catering cottages and camping facilities in some of the Western Cape's beautiful natural settings.
South African residents aged 60 and over with valid identification qualify for a 30% senior citizen discount on eligible accommodation and camping.
The discount excludes Easter weekend and the December and January school holidays, and bookings must follow CapeNature's senior discount process.
Find out more: CapeNature pensioner discounts
6. ATKV Resorts — make more of a South African holiday
If you enjoy a holiday with plenty to do, ATKV Resorts offers a range of destinations with accommodation and leisure facilities. It can be a good option for a relaxed break, whether you're travelling as a couple or meeting up with family.
ATKV's promotions include senior citizen accommodation discounts, with published offers of 15% off midweek and 10% off weekends. Conditions vary by resort and promotion, so check the applicable dates and accommodation options before making a booking.
Find out more: ATKV Resorts
7. Riebeek Valley Hotel — a break in the Western Cape
The Riebeek Valley is a lovely part of the Western Cape to explore if you're looking for a change of pace, scenic surroundings and somewhere to stop for a meal.
Riebeek Valley Hotel in Riebeek West appears in the PensionersPayLess directory with a midweek pensioner discount. It could be worth considering if you're planning a local getaway or want to explore an area a little closer to home.
Why not combine an overnight stay with a leisurely drive and a look around the valley?
Find out more: Riebeek Valley Hotel.
8. Van Stadens Resort — affordable camping near Gqeberha
For a relaxed coastal getaway near Gqeberha, Van Stadens Resort offers camping and chalet accommodation that may suit travellers looking for a longer stay without a large accommodation bill.
The PensionersPayLess listing describes dedicated out-of-season pensioner rates for camping, 15-night and 30-night packages, and a one-bedroom pensioners' chalet for two adults. Proof of age is required, and the discounts apply to qualifying out-of-season bookings.
Find out more: Van Stadens Resort
9. Buffelskop Caravan Park — take your time near Knysna
If you'd rather settle into one place for a while than move on every day, Buffelskop Caravan Park in Buffels Bay offers an appealing base for exploring the Knysna area.
Qualifying pensioners aged 60 and over who are on pension can access special camping rates.
The published offer includes a monthly rate, subject to a maximum stay of 60 days per year, and a 25% discount for seven-day bookings during low season, subject to availability.
Find out more: Buffelskop Caravan Park
10. Dibiki Holiday Resort — a caravan getaway near the coast
For those who enjoy caravanning, Dibiki Holiday Resort in the Hartenbos area offers another possibility to investigate.
The resort appears in the PensionersPayLess directory with special out-of-season rates on caravan stands and longer-stay options. This may be worth exploring if you enjoy travelling at a quieter time of year or prefer to settle in for more than just a night or two.
A longer stay can give you time to unpack, explore the area and enjoy a proper break without rushing from one destination to the next.
Find out more: Dibiki Holiday Resort.
A little planning can go a long way
One thing worth remembering is that pensioner accommodation discounts often come with conditions. Some apply only during the week, others exclude peak holiday periods, and some require a minimum stay or advance booking.
Before you book, contact the establishment directly to confirm the current offer, availability, eligibility requirements and any exclusions. A little checking beforehand can save disappointment later.
And don't stop with these ten finds! There are many more accommodation, camping, caravan and travel listings to explore on PensionersPayLess.
We've also put together a useful article featuring more than 100 camping and caravan sites around South Africa that offer pensioner discounts. If you enjoy travelling at your own pace, it's well worth a look.
Whether your ideal break involves a comfortable hotel, a glamping tent, a caravan beneath the trees or a scenic road trip, there's always somewhere new to discover.
Visit PensionersPayLess, explore the directory and see where your next adventure might take you.
Keep DISCOVERING!!!!
Charley
Charley Webster was born Charlotte Webster, but she’s been called Charley since childhood after her older brother decided “Charlotte” was far too long to say. The nickname stuck, and even after a lifetime in Johannesburg, almost nobody calls her Charlotte anymore.
Recently retired, Charley is now spending more time doing the things she loves most — walking in nature, gardening, exploring hidden spots around South Africa, and learning from the old-fashioned wisdom that gets passed from one generation to the next.
She writes for PensionersPayLess with a simple goal: to share practical ideas, affordable discoveries, and the kind of stories you’d chat about over a cup of rooibos with friends.
