Johannesburg, or Joburg as it is popularly called by the locals, is one of South Africa’s biggest cities. It has a rich culture, history, and striking public architecture. While many see it as a bustling commercial hub, it holds a treasure for those willing to explore the city. Contrary to the myth that a memorable weekend here requires a big budget, you can enjoy your stay without breaking the bank. This guide will explain how to enjoy Joburg even with a tight budget.

Affordable Accommodation Options

There are many budget-friendly places to stay in the city. Young travelers can get budget backpacker hotels in Maboneng, Melville, and Braamfontein. You’ll also find affordable guest houses and lodges that go for under R500, which are clean and secure. Airbnb users can book early to get discounts. To save more, book a place to stay close to train stations and bus terminals.

Street Food and Local Cuisines

The streets in this city are filled with plenty of great local food joints. You could grab a kota (a local sandwich) in Soweto or visit the Neighbourgoods market in Braamfontein to get some affordable gourmet foods. Check out the Shisanyama spots around Alexandra for some tasty meals with low prices. You could also get magwinya and vetkoek at affordable prices in the city.

Read Also : Why You Should Visit the Drakensberg

Free and Cheap Tourist Attractions

You don’t need to break the bank to enjoy the city’s top tourist attractions. You could walk through The Wilds and enjoy the artistic pieces around the park. There is also the amazing Constitution Hill, where you can learn more about South Africa’s freedom struggles. The Johannesburg Art Gallery is a perfect place to learn about art history, and if you love murals, walk through Maboneng. With less than R100, you can have a great time around the city.

Low-cost Transportation Services 

Although the public transport system in the city can’t be compared with Durham and Pretoria, you can get around on a budget. If you are moving around the inner city, the Real Vaya Bus is reliable and affordable. You will also find the minibus taxis everywhere in the city, and they are cheap. If you prioritize safety and comfort, you could use Uber or Bolt services.

Entertainment without a Big Price Tag

If you love live music and all forms of entertainment, you can visit the bars and cafes in Braamfontein and Melville. Maboneng precinct boasts a vibrant market scene on weekends and spots where you can enjoy music and dance nights. There are many pop-up shows and local galleries you can visit without paying a dime. Several Joburg neighborhoods also organize fashion events and music performances regularly.

Bottom Line 

Despite Johannesburg’s luxury lifestyle and magnificent edifices, it is a place where you can enjoy yourself without overspending. From the transportation system, food scene, entertainment spots, and tourist centers, all facilities are in good condition. For a budget-conscious traveller, you can have a memorable weekend in this city when you follow this guide.

There are some places that don’t just impress you—they stay with you. The Drakensberg is one of those places. You don’t have to be a hiker or nature enthusiast to feel its pull. One glance at the mist weaving through the peaks, or the soft light stretching across the valleys at dawn, and you’ll understand why it holds such a special place in so many hearts.

Stretching across KwaZulu-Natal and into Lesotho, the Drakensberg is the kind of destination that allows you to slow down without feeling like you’re missing out. Some people come for the hikes, others for the views. Many return simply for the stillness—a rare kind of quiet that feels refreshing, not empty. Whether you’re exploring trails or sitting on a stoep with a warm drink, the space it gives you—physically and mentally—is something many of us don’t realise we’ve been craving.

One of the best things about the Drakensberg is how flexible it is. Adventurous types can tackle the tougher routes, like the trail up to Tugela Falls, while others might prefer a relaxed stroll through Champagne Valley. The area works for everyone—families, solo travellers, couples—because it’s not trying to impress. It just is. Whether you fill your days with activities or take things slowly, the time feels well spent.

History is layered into the landscape here, and it’s most clearly seen in the ancient San rock art tucked into caves and overhangs. These paintings are more than historical—they’re deeply human. Standing in front of them, surrounded by silence, gives you a sense of how long people have lived with and respected this land.

Daily life in the Drakensberg has its own gentle rhythm. Fires crackle in the evenings. Rain taps softly on tin roofs. Guesthouses serve hearty, homemade meals—think oxtail stew, roosterkoek, and baked pudding. It’s not about fancy touches, but the kind of comfort that makes you feel grounded and welcome.

If you’re after a getaway filled with shopping centres or non-stop nightlife, this probably isn’t your spot. But if you’re looking for wide open skies, clean air, and the kind of quiet that brings clarity, the Drakensberg may be exactly what you’ve been missing. It offers a slower pace—not out of nostalgia, but because sometimes, slower is just better.