You won’t believe #1

The best holiday destinations for South Africans in 2025 are in and trust me, you’ll want to start packing! This is the year to finally tick off some items on your travel bucket list and Qatar Airways (aka one of the best airlines in the world 2025) is here for it! Qsuites, world-class service in the sky and a 48-hour stopover program like no other (spoiler; it’s more than your ordinary layover), you might need to book your flight right away but not before you finish reading this because #1 will definitely shock you! 

Top Holiday Destinations for South Africans in Africa

10. Lagos, Nigeria

Why visit Lagos? Apart from being the hub of Nollywood (Nigeria’s film industry) and the birthplace of Afrobeats, Lagos is a city buzzing with energy, deep culture and of course a party scene that never sleeps (there’s a reason Nigeria is known as the energy capital of Africa). 

• Best time to visit: November to April (dry season)
• How to get there: Cheap flights to Lagos with Qatar Airways
• What to see: Lekki Conservation Centre, Nike Art Gallery, Tarkwa Bay Beach
• Must-try: Jollof rice and suya (spicy grilled meat)
• Is Nigeria Visa Free for South Africans: Yes, you don’t need a visa to visit Lagos

Need a place to stay in Nigeria? Check out the best hotels in Lagos.

9. Port Louis, Mauritius

Why visit Mauritius? Contrary to popular belief, Mauritius is more than just about the beach. Cities like Port Louis have a lot of history, french architecture and big-city living but with close access to the beach for that occasional ocean escape. Earning its spot among the top holidays for South Africans this year…and of course the usual blue water, sandy beaches and dolphins (you know, all the boring stuff! Just kidding). 

• Best time to visit: May to December (cool, dry season)
• How to get there: Cheap flights to Mauritius with Qatar Airways
• What to see: Trou Aux Biches, Le Caudan Waterfront, Citadel Fort Adelaide, 
• Must-try: Dholl puri and gateau piment (spicy lentil fritters) and of course that street cuisine (heavenly!)
• Is Mauritius Visa Free for South Africans: Yes, you don’t need a visa to visit those pristine beaches.

Feeling Mauritius? Book a Mauritius holiday package!

Top Holiday Destinations for South Africans in Asia

8. Malé, Maldives

Why visit the Maldives? Simple, turquoise waters, sandy beaches and vibrant reefs. It’s the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Whether it’s a romantic escape, spa treatments or snorkeling and diving, it’s all here. No wonder honeymooners, families and nature lovers keep coming back to this top holiday destination for South Africans to visit. 

• What’s the best time to visit: November to April
• How to get there: Fly to the Maldives with Qatar Airways
• Top experiences: Snorkelling, sunset cruises, luxury resorts
• Visa-free for South Africans? Yes! South Africans can stay visa-free for 30 days.

You would look so good in the Maldives, book a package now!

7. Bangkok and Phuket, Thailand

Why visit Thailand? Think picture-perfect beaches, epic nightlife and some of the best street food in the world. Best of all, it is one of the most Rand-friendly destinations ever, no wonder it’ss one of the top holiday destinations for South Africans in 2025. Phuket, specifically, offers adventure, relaxation and delicious Pad Thai (seriously good!).

• What’s the best time to visit: December to April
• How to get to Thailand: Fly to Phuket with Qatar Airways
• Is Thailand Visa-free for South Africans? Yes! 30 days visa-free.
• Top picks: Phi Phi Islands, Big Buddha, Patong Beach

Say “Phuk-et” to your ordinary life and book a Thailand Getaway!

Speaking of Thailand, here are 10 movies you didn’t know were filmed in Thailand.

6. Singapore

Why visit Singapore? A futuristic city with world-class attractions, stunning architecture and a food scene that will blow your mind. Singapore is a perfect stop for South Africans looking for a mix of urban adventure and relaxation.

• What is the best time to visit: Anytime – it’s warm year-round
• How to get there: Fly to Singapore on Qatar Airways
• Visa-free for South Africans? Yes! South Africans get 30 days visa-free in Singapore.
• Must-see: Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, Sentosa Island

5. Istanbul, Turkey

Why visit Istanbul? A city with a foot in both Europe and Asia, Istanbul is one of the most exciting holiday destinations for South Africans in 2025. It’s packed with history, culture, and some of the best kebabs you’ll ever eat.

• Best time to visit: April to June, September to November
• How to get there: Cheap Flights to Istanbul with Qatar Airways
• Visa-free for South Africans? Yes! South Africans can visit Turkey visa-free for up to 30 days.
• Top spots: Hagia Sophia, Grand Bazaar, Bosphorus cruise

Is Turkey calling your name? Answer with a holiday package!

Top Holiday Destinations for South Africans in Europe

4.  London, United Kingdom

Why visit London? History, culture and endless things to do. Whether you’re here for the pubs, West End shows or just want to take a selfie with Big Ben, London remains one of the top holiday destinations for South Africans in 2025.

• Best time to visit: May to September (for decent weather)
• How to get there: Qatar Airways flights to London
• Must-see: Buckingham Palace, Tower of London, Camden Market
• How to get a UK Visa: South Africans need a visa to get into the UK, don’t let that discourage you. Find out how you can get your Visa here.

3. Paris, France

Why visit Paris? The list is endless: romance, art and a whole lot of croissants. Paris is one of the most visited destinations in 2025, and for good reason, it has been a long time contender in the annual ranking of best cities in the world. Book a trip and find out why. 

Top Holiday Destinations for South Africans in the Middle East

2. Dubai, UAE

Why visit Dubai? Luxury shopping, sky-high buildings, and thrilling desert safaris. Dubai is always a good idea, especially if you like your holidays with a side of opulence. 

Live like Dubai royalty (well, for a couple of days), Book a Dubai package!

1. Doha, Qatar – 48-Hour Stopover Bonus!

Why? A visa-free, Qatar Airways stopover program lets you explore for up to 48 hours.

• Best time to visit: October to April
• Visa-free for South Africans? Yes! No visa needed for stays under 30 days.
• What to do?

• Wander around Souq Waqif
• See the futuristic skyline at West Bay
• Check out the Museum of Islamic Art
• Relax at The Pearl-Qatar

What is the Qatar Airways 48-Hour Stopover program?
Qatar Airways’ 48-hour stopover lets you make the most of your layover in Doha. You’ll get to explore top sights like the Museum of Islamic Art, enjoy luxury hotel stays and immerse yourself in the city’s rich culture – all while being pampered with world-class service. It’s a mini-vacation during your vacation, no matter where you are flying to as long as you have made a stop in Doha!

Which destinations does Qatar Airways fly to from South Africa?

Qatar Airways connects South Africa to over 150 destinations worldwide, including London, Paris, Phuket and more.

Is Qatar Airways a good airline?

Absolutely. It’s been ranked one of the best airlines in 2025, thanks to its QSuites, premium service and top-tier lounges.

Does AirwayQatars offer premium cabins?

Yes! Their Qsuites come with private cabins, lie-flat seats and sliding doors—basically, a five-star hotel in the sky.

Ready to Book the top destinations for South Africans 2025

You’ve got your list. Now, it’s time to start your next journey. Let Qatar Airways and Travelstart handle the rest. Book your flights today and tick off the top holiday destinations for South Africans in 2025! Your travel bucket list will thank you for it!