Budget lodges offer simple, functional accommodation focused on affordability and practicality. These properties provide a cost-effective base for exploring a destination without unnecessary extras, prioritising experience over comfort or exclusivity.
Standards vary by location, and what qualifies as "budget" in one country may differ significantly in another, depending on local costs, infrastructure, and how remote the destination is.
In some regions, particularly in Southern Africa, budget options can still offer excellent wildlife experiences. In higher-cost destinations, however, even modest accommodation may fall into a mid-range price bracket, so these categories should always be viewed in the context of where you're travelling.
Not sure how budget lodges compare across different destinations? See our Safari Accommodation Price Guide.
The Cape Milner Hotel is a convenient and affordable hotel in Cape Town's City Bowl at the foot of Table Mountain, only three minutes from the V&A Waterfront. The hotel offers 57 air-conditioned, en-suite bedrooms, some with a view of Table Mountain.
The Commodore Hotel offers affordable four-star accommodation in a prime location right next to one of the most popular tourism developments in the world - the V&A Waterfront. The hotel is well-known for its exceptional service and offers excellent facilities.
The Elephant Hills Resort offers four star accommodation that overlooks the distant Zambezi River, as well as the majestic Victoria Falls. On the Zimbabwean side, just 4 km from the famous Falls, it offers a wide variety of activities to enjoy including an 18-hole golf course, guests can experience Africa in comfort and style.
The PortsWood Hotel is one of the most affordable Victoria & Alfred Waterfront hotels, offering superb 4-star accommodation in one of Cape Town's most popular areas. This hotel is conveniently situated for easy access to all of the city's well-known attractions.
The Victoria and Alfred Hotel is a luxury 4-star hotel, occupying a prime spot in the heart of Cape Town's vibrant V&A Waterfront, with safe access to excellent retail facilities, restaurants and entertainment. The hotel offers breathtaking views of Table Mountain and Cape Town's historic working harbour.
An addition to the well-known Victoria Falls Safari Lodge family, the private and exclusive Victoria Falls Safari Club has 16 club rooms and 4 club suites. Providing endless views over the African bushveld of the unspoilt Zambezi National Park and riverfront, the Safari Club offers the latest in comfort and contemporary African design for an exclusive, personal safari experience.
Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, adjacent to the Zambezi National Park, forms a large open-plan treehouse among the indigenous trees. From here, guests can enjoy luxury accommodation, as well as a spectacular view of the African bushveld and wildlife. In addition to this wonderful African experience, the lodge is only 4 km away from the Victoria Falls rainforest.
With eight spacious suites and a private villa, WaterLovers Beach Resort on Diani Beach along Kenya's tropical south coast offers a perfect setting for a relaxing beach holiday. Lazy and leisurely or adventure-packed with activities, WaterLovers has something for everyone.
Located in Klaserie Private Nature Reserve within the Greater Kruger, Xanatseni Private Camp has five thatched luxury en-suite rooms with open views of a waterhole and the surrounding bushveld. For families and small groups, there is the option of booking the Tseni Suite, a two-bedroom family suite that comes with a private safari guide and exclusive use of a game viewing vehicle.
Why not chat to one of our safari experts who can answer all your questions and help you design your dream trip to Africa.
