Off-Peak is the New Peak! How Travelling Out of Season Is a Key Travel Trend in 2026

Travel patterns continue to evolve in response to ongoing economic pressures alongside shifting work habits and lifestyle priorities.

This has driven a rise in off-peak holidays in South Africa, with out-of-season travel becoming a preferred choice for cost-conscious, experience-led travellers.

According to statistics shared by the Holiday Club, there has been a general increase in travel during low and medium seasons, with 2025 reflecting 24 642 and 32 290 travellers, respectively.

There was also an upward trend in member travel rates from 2023, with the rate increasing from 76% in 2023 to 81% in 2024.

While there was a slight decrease to 79% in 2025, the overall trend from 2023 shows growth.

“We’re seeing off-peak travel increase as travel-savvy guests consider more out-of-season holiday planning for financial and personal reasons,” says Wayne Beekman, Director at the Beekman Group, a leader in hospitality management and vacation ownership in Southern Africa.

“The spike in cost of living has made travellers more intentional, but this is supported by more flexible work-life arrangements and increased homeschooling options as well. There’s definitely been a clear shift towards quieter travel periods where guests can access premium experiences at greater value, with more space and flexibility.”

Why Off-Peak Travel Is Trending In 2026

Beekman says that everyone from cost-conscious families to digital nomads, remote workers and multi-generational travellers is leveraging the off-peak travel trend in 2026.

He outlines six benefits of this shifting travel pattern.

Greater Value

Off-peak holidays offer significant value for money as accommodation rates, flights, activities and even dining experiences are often notably lower outside peak periods.

“The quieter months often deliver exceptional value,” adds Beekman.

“What many consider the ‘out-of-season’ can actually be the best time to enjoy high-quality accommodation and experiences at a fraction of the cost. It’s just about knowing where to book.”

Fewer Crowds

Travelling outside school holidays and long weekends means fewer queues and less congestion at holiday sites and recreational spaces.

Whether it’s a nature reserve, beach destination or mountain retreat, guests can enjoy the holiday at their own pace.

This includes great add-ons such as resort spas and adventure activities.

Flexibility And Spontaneity

Off-peak travel allows for greater freedom.

With increased availability across accommodation, activities and dining, travellers can book with shorter lead times and adjust plans more easily.

Bleisure Travel

Bleisure travel has emerged, where visitors prefer to blend business and leisure into a single travel experience.

Off-peak periods are increasingly attractive to this segment, providing quieter environments and better availability, affording the working traveller connectivity and comfort.

More Authentic Experiences

Without the intensity of peak-season tourism, travellers engage more meaningfully with destinations and local communities, rather than interacting solely with other tourists and tourism operators.

Sustainable Travel

It’s not just the benefits for travellers, but for the destination as well.

By spreading travel demand throughout the year, visitors are reducing pressure on infrastructure, natural resources and local communities.

It also supports resort operators with more consistent, year-round income.

Vacation Ownership Options

Modern vacation ownership models – often referred to as timeshare – also support the shift towards off-peak travel.

These flexible ownership models allow travellers to book across multiple resorts and time periods, rather than being locked into peak-season travel windows.

“Vacation ownership today is about flexibility and accessibility for travellers,” says Beekman.

“It actually encourages families to travel more regularly and explore different destinations. Plus, there are extensive off-peak opportunities at timeshare resorts in South Africa that don’t compromise on quality.”

Best Off-Peak Holiday Destinations In Southern Africa

The Beekman Group provides year-round occupancy across its key resorts, encouraging travellers to explore South Africa’s top destinations outside peak periods.

The Kingdom Resort

(North West Province): Located near the Pilanesberg, just 5 minutes-drive from Sun City, this resort offers a blend of safari access and luxury leisure.

Off-peak stays provide a quieter wildlife experience and greater availability for families and groups.

(Follow The Kingdom Resort on Facebook).

Cayley Mountain Resort

(KwaZulu-Natal): Known as having the ‘only beach in the Berg’, Cayley is ideal for peaceful winter escapes, scenic hikes and cosy stays with uninterrupted views of the Drakensberg.

(Follow Cayley Mountain Resort on Facebook).

Dikhololo Resort

(North West Province): Perfect for large families and event groups, Dikhololo is located near Brits, offering space, wildlife and outdoor activities that are even more enjoyable without peak-season crowds.

(Follow Dikhololo Resort on Facebook).

Kiara Lodge

(Free State): Set at the foot of the Maluti Mountains, bordering the Golden Gate Highlands National Park near Clarens, Kiara Lodge combines hiking, creature comforts, and scenic views.

It’s ideal for off-peak travellers wanting activity and tranquillity.

(Follow Kiara Lodge on Facebook).

Hazyview Cabanas

(Mpumalanga): A prime base for exploring the nearby Kruger National Park, off-peak stays offer quieter game viewing and more flexible itineraries.

(Follow Hazyview Cabanas on Facebook).

San Martinho Beach Club

(Bilene, Mozambique): Perfect for group travel, celebrations and extended stays, this Mozambique resort near Maputo offers uninterrupted ocean views and relaxed coastal living, particularly appealing outside peak travel periods.

(Follow San Martinho Beach Club on Facebook).

Menlyn Mix

(Pretoria): This modern urban hospitality hub is ideally suited to corporate retreats and bleisure travel.

Off-peak periods offer a quieter, more productive environment for teams, with seamless access to business hubs, meeting spaces and lifestyle amenities.

FAQs About Off-Peak Holidays In South Africa

What Are The Benefits Of Off-Peak Holidays In South Africa?

Off-peak holidays in South Africa offer lower prices, fewer crowds, greater availability and more flexible booking options, making them ideal for families, couples and business travellers.

What Are The Best Off-Peak Holiday Destinations In South Africa?

Top destinations include the Drakensberg, Pilanesberg, Kruger, KZN South Coast and Clarens regions, all offering excellent value and experiences outside peak seasons.

Is Vacation Ownership A Good Investment?

Yes.

Vacation ownership remains globally relevant and a great investment for travellers, with major international hospitality brands continuing to invest in the model.

Modern offerings provide flexibility, quality assurance, and access to multiple destinations at competitive prices.

Where Can I Find The Best Timeshare Resorts In South Africa?

The Beekman Group offers a portfolio of leading timeshare resorts across South Africa and Mozambique, including bush, beach and mountain destinations designed for year-round travel.

Is Off-Peak Travel Cheaper?

Absolutely.

Off-peak travel comes with great discounts and is ideal for multi-generational holidays, offering more space, better value and less crowded environments.

Book Your Holiday

Travellers are encouraged to book early, travel flexibly and explore off-peak availability to unlock the best value across South Africa and Mozambique’s top destinations.

For bookings and enquiries, visit https://www.beekmanholidays.co.za

Call 0861 269 846

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