You’ve probably heard tourists from abroad raving about how cheap South Africa is. A night out at a fancy restaurant is a rare treat if you’re paying in rands – but in US dollars, an American tourist can enjoy a fine-dining meal in South Africa for the price of a burger combo in the United States.

Compared to prices in dollars, pounds or euros, South Africa offers a great deal for tourists. That’s also why South Africans often find international travel so expensive – we must usually pay for the trip and take along spending money in currencies that are much stronger than the rand.

But that doesn’t mean you can’t afford to travel the world. There are a few countries where the rand is stronger than the local currency, making international travel more affordable. You just need to know where to go.

Here are 5 exciting, cheaper options:

1. Thailand

Thailand is a popular travel spot for South Africans – the country is rich in history and diverse cultures while still offering vibrant nightlife (try Khaosan Road, Bangkok and Bangla Road, Phuket). Its main attractions are soft, sandy beaches (another Phuket speciality), sunny weather, and island hopping.

Exchange rate*

1 South African Rand = 1.83 Thai Bhat

2. Turkey

From the majestic Hagia Sophia mosque to the ancient ruins of Ephesus, Turkey is a melting pot of diversity. It’s a feast for the eyes and the tummy, with culinary influences that blend Mediterranean, Middle Eastern and Central Asian flavours. 

Exchange rate*

1 South African Rand = 2.058 Turkish Lira

3. Mauritius

Mauritius is a great option for a remote island vacation that will leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. As a South African citizen, you will need a travel visa to enter the country, but this is free, which is another plus when looking for a cheaper holiday. You’ll find plenty of all-inclusive holiday packages that include flights, accommodation, and meals, to stretch your rand even further.

Exchange rate*

1 South African Rand = 2.425 Mauritian Rupee

4. India

If you’re keen to discover one of the world’s oldest civilisations, now a vibrant modern powerhouse, you’ll be glad to know that a visit to India won’t break the bank. India is renowned for its spices in a variety of dishes, from fiery biryanis and creamy kormas to sweet mango lassies. Street food is incredibly affordable. Whether your heart longs for the tranquillity of the Himalayas or the party beaches of Goa, India has something for everyone.

Exchange rate*

1 South African Rand = 4.5685 Indian Rupee

5. Tanzania

Relax on the white sands of tropical beaches, sample multiple cultures and rich foods packed with exotic spices, or get a close-up view of jaw-dropping herds of wildlife on their great annual migration across the Serengeti. Make sure you also get to see Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak. Actually climbing Kili is probably more of a bucket-list item – it will involve a great deal more expense and planning with a reputable, experienced tour operator – so it’s not something you can slot into a quick, cheap getaway.

Exchange rate*

1 South African Rand = 143.911 Tanzanian Shilling

*Average rates in February 2025. Exchange rates fluctuate constantly, so check the current rates before planning your trip.

Travel tips

It’s tempting to book a flight to any country where the rand seems stronger, but always do your research – especially on the average prices at your destination. If a country’s currency is half the value of the rand, but you end up spending 3 times as much on meals, coffee, or a night out, you’re not really saving. You need to compare the cost of living as well as the currency of the country you’re visiting.

Here are a few tips to help plan your next getaway at a lower cost::

Be smart about solo travel

Travelling alone? Consider joining tour groups and always be mindful of your surroundings. Research common scams beforehand so you know what to look out for.

Use your credit card for travel benefits

Before you fly, have a look at the travel benefits of your credit card. With a Nedbank credit card, you get everything from lounge access to discounted flights and travel insurance. If you link your card to Greenbacks, you’ll earn Greenbacks every time you pay for travel costs with your card.

Explore foreign currency accounts and travel cards

If you want to avoid high currency conversion fees and rates, look into a Foreign Currency Account (FCA) and travel cards. They’re going to make managing your money abroad much easier.

Find destinations that don’t need a visa

Don’t want the hassle and costs of visa applications? There are a number of visa-free destinations that you can visit.

Stay connected with eSIMs

Staying connected while travelling helps you share your memories and moments with those close to you. eSIMs can save you money and keep you in touch without expensive roaming charges.

Take advantage of loyalty programmes and points

Use loyalty programmes to make your holiday more affordable. You can earn Greenbacks on qualifying transactions, and they accumulate over time. You can redeem Greenbacks as cash to help pay for exclusive Avo Travel deals, discounted flights, and other travel essentials. You also get free access to airport lounges for a luxurious, affordable getaway.

The world is full of places where your rand can still stretch a bit further. Contact us today to see how we can help.