As Easter approaches, a growing number of South African travellers are swapping international getaways for local adventures, inspired by a surge in online searches for ‘staycation ideas’ and ‘road trips’. To fuel this trend, Budget Insurance has crafted a unique travel index, evaluating 100 lesser-known destinations to help holidaymakers plan their next domestic escape.

Ballito in KZN

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The index, designed to highlight underrated spots, combines four key factors: Instagram and TikTok hashtag volumes, monthly Google search data (both local and global), and average accommodation costs. The result? A curated list of destinations offering everything from coastal charm to cultural depth—perfect for those eager to explore South Africa’s diverse landscapes without a passport.

Small-Town Gems Worth the Detour

Whether craving adrenaline, relaxation or a dash of history, these towns promise memorable experiences beyond the Easter break.

Ostriches in Oudtshoorn

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  1. Ballito, KwaZulu-Natal – Coastal Vibes (87.9/100)
    With more than 300 000 Instagram hashtags, Ballito rivals global surf hotspots. Its golden beaches and thriving surfski culture make it a magnet for families and thrill-seekers. Think breezy seaside cafes and waves that beckon both beginners and pros.
  2. Oudtshoorn, Western Cape – Desert Wonders (75.9/100)
    Drawing 40 000 monthly Google searches, this Karoo town surprises with ostrich farms and the awe-inspiring Cango Caves. Its rust-hued cliffs and rugged trails offer a slice of desert magic closer to home.
  3. Paternoster, West Coast – Seaside Serenity (74.1/100)
    This quaint fishing village, racking up 135 000 monthly searches, charms visitors with whitewashed cottages and tranquil shores. Its unhurried pace and fresh seafood evoke Mediterranean escapes—minus the long-haul flight.
  4. Bronkhorstspruit, Gauteng – Zen Retreat (73.6/100)
    Home to Africa’s largest Buddhist temple, this spiritual haven attracts 60 000 monthly searches. Ideal for mindfulness seekers, its serene gardens and cultural workshops provide a peaceful counterpoint to city life.
  5. Hartbeespoort, North West – Lakeside Adventures (71.4/100)
    Nestled between a dam and the Magaliesberg, this town’s 8 000 TikTok posts showcase its appeal for kayaking, hiking, and sunset cruises—a blend of activity and relaxation.

Scenic Routes for Road Trip Enthusiasts

View along the Garden Route

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For those craving wind-in-the-hair freedom, these drives deliver vistas from mountain peaks to flower-fringed coasts.

  1. Garden Route, Western Cape (84/100)
    A classic journey from Mossel Bay to Storms River, featuring forests, beaches, and wildlife encounters. With 9 900 local searches monthly, it’s a firm favourite for kayaking, elephant spotting, and coastal hikes.
  2. Sani Pass, KwaZulu-Natal (66/100)
    This rugged Drakensberg pass, tagged in 153 300 TikTok videos, offers thrilling switchbacks and panoramic view s— proof that big adventures come in compact packages.
  3. West Coast, Western Cape (51/100)
    Famous for spring wildflowers and whale sightings, this route’s 201 000 global searches monthly highlight its appeal. Don’t miss Paternoster’s lobster rolls and Langebaan’s turquoise waters.
  4. Midlands Meander, KwaZulu-Natal (46/100)
    A lush corridor of craft studios, farm stalls, and waterfalls, this route’s 626 000 Instagram hashtags cement its status as a haven for foodies and art lovers.
  5. Wild Coast, Eastern Cape (27/100)
    With 6 000 monthly local searches, this untamed stretch lures 4x4 enthusiasts with empty beaches and cliffside trails—a paradise for off-grid explorers.

Road Trip Wisdom from the Experts

Hartebeestpoort Dam spillway

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Brina Biggs, Head of Marketing at Budget Insurance, shares tips for stress-free travels:

  • Plot Loose Plans: “Embrace spontaneity—allow time for detours. Keep GPS updated and note fuel stops on longer routes.”
  • Know the Rules: “Hazard lights are for stationary vehicles only. Use roadside marker numbers to pinpoint your location if needed.”
  • Safety First: “Stay buckled up, avoid phone use, and adapt speed to conditions. Regular vehicle checks are a must.”
  • Savour the Journey: “Pause at viewpoints. South Africa’s beauty lies in its details—rolling vineyards, misty mountains, coastal sunsets.”
  • Expect Surprises: “Watch for wildlife and weather shifts. A well-maintained car handles surprises best.”

“From mountain passes to coastal hamlets, South Africa’s hidden corners invite rediscovery,” adds Biggs. “This Easter, adventure is closer than you think.”

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