Skip the coast, keep the summer: 5 reasons why SA’s inland provinces are the new December hotspots

While escaping to the coast has always been the norm for the summer holidays, more people are flocking inland to take in the sights.

With trips to the coast becoming expensive, Stats SA and SA Tourism‘s latest Domestic Travel Survey show that inland tourism is gaining traction.

In the second quarter of 2025, coastal destinations represented 51.1% of domestic travel, while inland travel sat at 48.9%, suggesting South African travellers are increasingly open to alternatives.

SA Tourism’s Sho’t Left campaign encourages travellers to discover what is on their doorsteps.

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Here are five reasons why you should consider swapping the coast for the interior this December:

1. Affordability without compromise 

Inland destinations are typically more affordable, with a lower average spend per trip compared to coastal provinces.

For budget-friendly families and groups, it is the perfect way to have a meaningful trip, while making your holiday budget go further. 

2. Less travel time 

For most people from Gauteng, provinces such as Mpumalanga, the North West, Free State, and Limpopo are within a two to four-hour drive.

It reduces transport costs and makes travel less stressful.

This makes inland travel perfect for spontaneous, last-minute getaways. 

3. Peace-and-quiet 

The coast during December is chaotic with packed beaches, gridlock traffic and long queues. 

Inland provinces offer serene bush escapes, quaint dams and lakes and small towns where nothing is rushed. 

4. Unique experiences 

From the Kruger National Park, the Blyde River Canyon and Panorama Route in Mpumalanga to the Big Five game reserves and cultural heritage sites in Limpopo, it is all about unique experiences.

You get so much more variety beyond just the beach.

5. Supporting local economies that need it more

Smaller inland provinces feel the financial dip when tourism slows down.

By choosing to stay in the inland, you support family-owned B&Bs, community-run projects, keep local guides, markets, and restaurants thriving, and help diversify South Africa’s tourism economy.