Backpacking in South Africa is no new concept. Popular a few decades ago, there seems to be a resurgence not only due to its appeal for budget-conscious wanderers (especially in the very expensive era we find ourselves in today) but also thanks to new innovations to the backpacking scene.
Young travelers have traditionally fit the mould of a typical backpacker, and Millenials are no different in leading today’s charge in embracing the backpacking culture. Whereas international visitors used to be the ones backpacking their way around our beloved lands, we find that South Africans are now swelling the ranks of explorers shouldering backpacks and striking out for adventure.
So in case you’re thinking of ditching the desk and picking up your backpack to trek across our majestic lands, here are five ever-inviting budget-friendly backpackers in and around Cape Town:
Curiocity
This eclectic spot is situated in Greenpoint and has a vibey feel – there’s always something happening! The property boasts on its website that through “exclusive collaborations with some of South Africa’s leading local designers, we have created a sophisticated design-led hybrid hotel built for the modern traveler.”
This means it offers white linens with 4-5 star graded bedding, as opposed to hostel quality accommodation – a far cry from the old hostel-dwelling kind of backpacking prevalent years ago.
Well, there you have it. They’ve got all the details covered so you can focus on connecting with fellow backpack-wanderers and discovering the Mother City. And if you need some help satisfying your ‘curiocity’ about the Cape, you can check their website for some of their curated authentically-Capetonian experiences.
- Location: 153 Main Road, Green Point
- Rates: From around R250
91 Loop Boutique Hostel
Can you guess where this hostel is located? Spot on! This backpacker has followed suit on a unique trend known as sleeping pods, as a way to ensure privacy even in a shared dormitory.
These minimalistic self-contained pods have screen walls and curtains for complete privacy. Each pod comes with its own reading light, shelf for all your accessories, power socket, and lockable storage space. If that’s not your vibe, there are standard bunk beds too.
Located in the city center of Cape Town, 91 Loop is nestled between hipster Bree Street and everyone’s favourite part destination, Long Street. It’s also just a stroll away from the bustling Green Market Square. The MyCiti bus stops directly on our doorstep, giving you cheap access to all the best beaches, mountains, and activities Cape Town has to offer.
- Location: 91 Loop Street, Cape Town City Centre
- Rates: From around R250
The Suntouched Inn Travelers Lodge
Less than two hours’ drive from Cape Town and located in the quaint village of Napier in the Western Cape, this 2020 Afristay Travellers’ Choice Award winner is the ideal base from which to explore the breathtaking Overberg region, enjoy a getaway from city life or simply to stay overnight en route to your next destination.
It’s only 30 minutes to the popular beaches of Arniston, Struisbaai, and Cape Agulhas – the southernmost tip of Africa. Local activities include horse riding, wine route, hiking, mountain biking, fishing or just sitting on the verandah and watching the country life roll by.
Delicious breakfasts, a vibey pizza and pasta restaurant, a licensed bar, a swimming pool, and pet-friendly by arrangement. What more does one need?
- Location: 58 Sarel Cilliers Street, Napier
- Rates: From around R220
Otters Bend Lodge
This 2020 TripAdvisor Choice award winner is a boutique travelers’ farm stay, situated on the banks of the Franschhoek River in the heart of the world-renowned Cape Winelands. Adorned with the sounds of frogs, birds, and the trickling of the river going by, the lodge is known for its cozy rustic atmosphere embraced by the magnificent mountains and vineyards surrounding it.
Offering unique log-cabin-style rooms, situated on the river bank amongst the trees, it provides the ideal base from which to explore the Franschhoek Wine Valley– the gourmet capital of South Africa.
- Location: Dassenberg Road, Franschhoek
- Rates: From around R275
Jacobs Bay Backpackers
Affectionately known as The Plot, it includes the Jacobs Bay Backpackers, as well as the unique Pixie & Fairy Village, the Succulent Nursery, and West Coast Labyrinth. Just over an hour and a half drive from Cape Town and only 400 metres from the beach, it’s the ideal accommodation for any backpacker yearning for the sound of the ocean and a touch of enchantment.
- Location: Plot 307, Jacobs Bay, Saldanha Bay Municipality
- Rates: From around R300
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Picture: Unsplash