6 affordable countries South Africans should visit in 2025

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Travel doesn’t have to break the bank – especially if you know where to go. With the rand under pressure, value matters more than ever. Thankfully, there are many affordable countries where your money stretches far, visa rules are easy, and the experiences are unforgettable. Whether you’re chasing culture, coastlines, or mountain air, here are six affordable countries for South Africans to consider in 2025…

1. Thailand – Where your South African rand stretches

Thailand remains a classic for a reason. It’s cheap, easy, and full of energy. Whether you’re sipping coconut shakes on Koh Tao or wandering the night markets of Chiang Mai, the cost of living is low – and the experiences are rich. Think beachfront bungalows for under R400 a night and spicy street food for less than R50 a meal.

Visa: 30 days visa-free
What to expect: Golden temples, island hopping, buzzing night markets, friendly locals

2. Vietnam – Affordable travel, big rewards

Vietnam is a dream for budget-conscious adventurers. Overnight buses, dirt-cheap hostels, and legendary cuisine make this country a winner for South African travellers. You can live large on very little – and the landscapes, from Ha Long Bay to the rice terraces of Sapa, are next-level.

Visa: E-visa available online
What to expect: Fresh pho for breakfast, scooters everywhere, ancient towns, epic coastlines

3. Georgia – Europe’s best-kept secret for South Africans

Tucked between Europe and Asia, Georgia is wild, warm, and wonderfully affordable. The capital, Tbilisi, is quirky and full of life, and once you hit the countryside, you’ll find snow-capped mountains, medieval fortresses, and homemade wine on every table – often poured by your host.

Visa: 360 days visa-free
What to expect: Alpine hikes, hearty khachapuri, Soviet-era charm, winemaking villages

4. Indonesia – Way beyond Bali

Yes, Bali is beautiful – but Indonesia is a whole archipelago of budget-friendly gems. Think volcano sunrises in Java, empty beaches in Lombok, and jungle adventures in Sumatra. Meals cost less than a South African-priced cappuccino, and scooters make getting around fun and cheap.

Visa: 30 days visa-on-arrival
What to expect: Surfers, spiritual retreats, temples, waterfalls, Gili Islands escape

5. Turkey – Culture and coast on a budget

Turkey offers a perfect mix of East and West, ancient and modern – and it’s surprisingly easy on the wallet. Istanbul is a must, but don’t skip the coast: places like Fethiye and Antalya offer Mediterranean bliss at a fraction of the price you’d pay in Europe.

Visa: E-visa required (easy and online)
What to expect: Grand bazaars, hot air balloons in Cappadocia, endless mezze, dramatic coastlines

6. Namibia – An adventure next door for South Africans

Sometimes the best destination is just over the border. Namibia is one of the most accessible and affordable countries for South Africans – and thanks to a shared currency value, you skip the conversion pain. Road tripping through its surreal deserts and national parks offers freedom, solitude, and unforgettable scenery.

Visa: Visa-free for South Africans
What to expect: Epic road trips, sand dunes that glow at sunrise, self-drive safaris, stargazing in the silence