Hack Your Holidays: Tips & Tricks to Maximise Annual Leave in 2024

“Booking your flights at least six months in advance for domestic travel will give you first choice and the widest array of options, especially when travelling over peak periods,” advises Antoinette Turner, GM of Flight Centre South Africa. “For international trips, book as far as 12 to 18 months ahead, especially if your holiday comprises of a number of elements such as flights, cruises, accommodation in popular cities, etc.”

The best festive tip from the experts? Turner recommends locking down flights by the end of May for December getaways. “Prospective travellers won’t believe how quickly December and January flights and accommodation get booked up, especially locally.”

For safari-goers, booking by January/February will secure the best rates on peak winter travel from May to September.

According to Turner, the beginning of the year is also the ideal time to book autumn escapes, such as wine tasting in the Cape, when the crowds have thinned after the summer rush. 

For accommodation, Turner advises booking at least two to three months ahead when availability is widest but six to 12 months in advance to nab coveted holiday home rentals.

For families with young kids, you have a special advantage. Children in creche or pre-primary school are not bound by school terms. Take leave during the low season, outside of the school holidays, for better prices, more options and flexibility all around. Invite the grandparents, too, for a multigenerational holiday!

Being mindful of peak season dates is a savvy travel hack that can really help you stretch those bucks. If you have flexibility and can travel outside of peak season holidays, definitely opt for that for better pricing and more options all around.

Once you’ve aligned your leave with the holidays, it’s time to decide where to venture. Here are some popular and up-and-coming 2024 hotspots by month.

JANUARY - ESCAPE THE POST-HOLIDAY BLUES: MAURITIUS

Swap those few gloomy post-holiday weeks for a few sun-soaked days in Mauritius. Late January and early February brings summer weather and lower costs to this island paradise. Laze on dazzling beaches, hike through rainforests or explore local markets.

“From January through February, when schools are back in session, is a great time to visit Mauritius. Expect lower humidity, lower rates and an ideal climate for exploring,” advises Turner.

FEBRUARY - SAFARI SEASON IN THE CAPE: MADIKWE GAME RESERVE

February is prime time for safaris.

“A February escape to Madikwe Game Reserve almost guarantees spectacular wildlife sightings,” Turner comments. Watch elephants roam and lions nap under the shade of acacias.

MARCH - PARTY IN RIO: BRAZIL

March ushers in the sizzling Rio Carnival in Brazil, the world’s biggest and boldest festival. Samba your way through the streets and prepare to have your mind blown by the colourful costumes and infectious rhythms.

APRIL - HIKE THE DRAKENSBERG: LESOTHO

The Drakensberg reaches its scenic peak in April when the summer rains nurture the landscapes. Lace up your boots for epic hikes and breathtaking vistas in Lesotho and the Berg.

MAY - WHALES & WINE: HERMANUS

From May to September, treat yourself to an idyllic weekend getaway in Hermanus, enjoying the best land-based whale-watching in the world. When you aren’t scanning for whales, indulge in the region’s famed vineyards, restaurants, and galleries.

JUNE - ISLAND TIME: MOZAMBIQUE

“June is an ideal time to trade in the winter blues for an affordable tropical getaway – think coconut palms swaying in the breeze, snorkelling, sailing, and lounging on the beach,” says Turner.

JULY - WILDFLOWER SPOTTING: NAMAQUALAND

July to September is flower season in Namaqualand when the arid landscape transforms into a kaleidoscope of colour. Marvel at fields of orange, yellow, and purple daisies, best explored by car.

AUGUST - HIKING & STARGAZING: SUTHERLAND

Sure, it may be chilly, but for the best stargazing in the south, head to the Karoo town of Sutherland. It’s one of the world’s top astronomical sites – and also infamous for being South Africa’s coldest spot.

If you’ve had enough of the Mzansi winter weather, head to the Med. The summer season is one of the most popular times to enjoy a classic Med break – best experienced in hassle-free style on a cruise ship allowing you to visit numerous ports without any unpacking and packing!

SEPTEMBER – BASK IN THE JOYS OF SPRING: LANGEBAAN

“September is the perfect time for wildflowers and whale watching in Langebaan,” advises Turner. Lap up the West Coast sunshine and colourful flora and fauna, or kayak on the lagoon.

Music lovers and foodies would do well to bookmark the DSTV Delicious Food and Music Festival, hosted over the Heritage Day weekend.

OCTOBER - DESERT SOLITUDE: SOSSUSVLEI, NAMIBIA

Looking for wide open spaces? Sossusvlei in Namibia beckons in October, one of the best months to experience its otherworldly sand dunes and starry night skies. Try a hot air balloon ride for phenomenal desert views.