A vehicle on the edge of a cliff with passengers enjoying a bush and beach experience. Picture: Pexels
Though summer is all about beach vacations and relaxing poolside, the beauty of Mzansi is that travellers are spoilt for choice and can experience both bush and beach getaways without leaving the country.
With summer and the festive season a couple of sleeps away, the reality of not having a holiday planned can start to set in.
Suddenly, the idea of a staycation is looking more real than you’d like as the summer holidays inch closer.
But fear not! There's still time to make unforgettable plans. With a variety of places to choose from around the country, a bush escape might just be the perfect choice for a unique and exciting summer escape.
Michael Breytenbach, Revenue Manager at Kruger Gate Hotel, shares some practical tips for booking a holiday, before it’s too late.
Consider a different kind of summer escape
While a beach holiday is a popular summer choice, South Africa’s summer season is also the perfect time to experience a safari.
Kruger National Park, Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park and Addo Elephant Park offer a dramatically different experience in the summer than in the dry winter season.
“During summer, the bushveld is lush and alive with colour, and you’re treated to incredible afternoon thunderstorms.
“A safari escape combines relaxation with adventure, and you can enjoy cooling dips in the pool as well as daily wildlife sightings,” said Breytenbach.
He also added that a summer safari offers an enchanting blend of serenity and thrill that few other getaways can match.
“Imagine waking to breathtaking sunrises over sprawling savannas. The golden landscapes, painted in warm summer hues teeming with majestic creatures, from elephants and lions to the graceful springbok, creating unforgettable encounters in their natural habitat,” he said.
Take action and book now
Breytenbach noted that there’s a misconception that by November, all good accommodations are already booked for the December holidays but that’s not the case.
He said that many sought-after destinations still have excellent options available and reaching out directly to the hotel can reveal hidden availability or special offers.
“With a little research and the right timing, there are plenty of opportunities to secure a memorable holiday experience. It’s definitely worth checking directly with properties you’re interested in.
“Booking directly often gives you access to the best rates, especially for extended stays, and you may find unexpected availability even during peak holiday times,” said Breytenbach.
Be flexible and open to new options
The expert highlighted that holidays are precious, and no one wants to settle for a compromise but if you’re booking last-minute, being a bit flexible with your plans can open doors to incredible experiences.
He added that being open to a little spontaneity can be the key to an unforgettable last-minute getaway.
“When plans shift, it often leads to discovering incredible places you might have overlooked, adding a layer of adventure and novelty to your holiday.
“If the exact dates or hotel you wanted are booked, try widening your travel parameters,” suggested Breytenbach.
He said that flexibility with dates, location, or accommodation types allows hospitality teams to better accommodate you, often with some hidden gems and unique packages.
Look for deals on social media
Breytenbach said that in the age of social media, deals and promotions are often just a post away.
“Many travel companies, airlines, and hotels announce last-minute specials on their social channels, so following the accounts of specific airlines, hotels, and travel agencies you’re interested in can keep you in the loop for the best offers.
“Don’t forget to check out travel hashtags and posts from travel influencers who often share or collaborate on special promo codes,” he added.
The expert also said that reading reviews from other guests can also provide useful insights into a property’s amenities and service, ensuring that you’re making a choice that aligns with your expectations.
Embrace the adventure of last-minute travel
Breytenbach highlighted that ultimately, a memorable holiday is about the people, the experiences, and the moments of joy that come from shared experiences.
“While the destination and accommodations play a role, being open to the surprises of last-minute travel can make your trip even more special.
“Allow yourself to go with the flow, and you might just find that the journey turns out even better than you imagined,” he said.