BUDGET FATHER’S DAY GIFTS: EXPERIENCE GIFTS FOR DAD UNDER R 1000

With Father’s Day approaching on Sunday, 18st June, it’s a good time to start thinking about what you might want to get Dad this year. 

If your budget’s looking a little on the slim side, there’s no need to panic. Do you hear us? Please back away from the aftershave gift box; you’re better than that. Being on a budget needn’t stop you from gifting Dad with an incredible, unique experience gift that he’ll remember forever. 

We’ve rounded up our favourite budget-friendly Father’s Day gifts for under R 1000, so whatever your budget and whatever Dad loves to do, you can find something perfect for him. 

SCENIC STEAM TRAIN JOURNEY IN CAPE TOWN TO ELGIN RAILWAY MARKET - R 625

For Dads who love trains, this scenic stream train adventure in Cape Town to Elgin Railway market is the perfect experience gift. Dad will have the chance to see the beauty of Cape Town in  a vintage locomotive and embark on a picturesque adventure through the stunning landscapes of the Western Cape. 

As you step off the train and it comes to a stop at the Elgin Railway Market, you'll be welcomed by a lively centre of exquisite craftsmanship, mouth watering culinary delights, and captivating live performances. Feel free to explore the market at your own pace, wandering through stalls adorned with handmade treasures, artisanal cheeses, and fresh, locally grown produce. Immerse yourself in the delightful aromas of the regional cuisine as you savour every moment.

HALF DAY TUK TUK WINE TOUR FOR TWO IN FRANSCHHOEK - R 500

Kicking things off with one for the wine-loving dads out there, this tuk tuk tour takes 2 lucky guests on a sun-speckled trip through the idyllic Franschhoek region, all from the quaint vantage point of an adorable blue tuk tuk! During this 4-and-a-half-hour tour, Dad and his guest will visit 3 wine farms of their choosing, sampling – in our humble opinion – the best wines South Africa has to offer. 

Throughout their culinary journey, they’ll meander through vineyards and roll past mountains in their tuk tuk, taking in the incredible views of the valley and Cape Dutch architecture. A perfect day out!

SUNDAYS RIVER CANOE HIRE - R 199

This is the first of a few water-based experiences on our ‘Gifts for Dad’ budget list – but how could we resist, with so many great activities to do on the water in South Africa? 

This Sundays River canoe hire voucher is the perfect Father’s Day gift for Dads who prefer a more laid-back water experience, gifting him with 4 blissful hours cruising through the river at a leisurely pace that suits him. (Note the experience is for 2, so if you’re lucky he might even take you with him!)

This laid-back canoe experience takes place on Sundays River, originally named Nukakamma (‘Grassy Water’) by the Khoisan people for its luscious evergreen riverbanks. During his peaceful journey, Dad will take in the surrounding natural beauty as he glides along in his vessel. Along the way he may even spot some of the local wildlife who call the area home, including Cape Otters, Vervet Monkeys, Bushbuck, Kudu or Porcupines!

HALF DAY VAAL RIVER RAFTING EXPERIENCE - R 220

Yes, it’s another water experience, but this time we’re turning up the adrenaline dial to cater to those more daring and adventurous dads! 

This Vaal River rafting experience will see Dad splash and careen through the explosive rapids in a raft, having the time of his life on the water! Don’t worry, it’s not all adrenaline; there’ll also be opportunities for a more leisurely float as Dad takes in the Free State landscape and North West province from his inflatable croc. 

His trip finishes with the small but powerful Gatsien rapid, so he’s sure to emerge soaked and smiling from ear to ear!

BEGINNERS FLY FISHING LESSON IN GAUTENG - R 475

We hate to stereotype, but we’d be remiss to make a list of Father’s Day experience gifts without including at least one fishing-related activity. If that’s not Dad’s thing, feel free to skip to the luxurious culinary cruise we have listed below, perfect for foodie dads. However, if Dad’s always looking for the next opportunity to cast the line, read on!

This fly fishing lesson takes place in the beautiful Cradle of Mankind Heritage Area, so Dad can pursue this relaxing hobby in gorgeous natural surroundings.

During his 2.5 hour experience, he’ll learn the history of fly fishing and go over the various equipment used. Once he’s acquainted with his new favourite sport, it’ll be time for him to choose the correct flies to fish with, implementing tips from his instructor as he casts the line. Next, he waits! By the end of his session, Dad will hopefully have caught (and released) his very first fish. 

SENIC BOAT CRUISE IN CAPE TOWN - R 960

… and now onto a sophisticated experience for dads who love scenic ways to relax. There’s few things better than relaxing with a glass of sparkling wine, but we think this luxury scenic boat cruise in Cape Town tops it. 

Departing from the  the V&A Waterfront, friendly waiting staff will greet Dad with a glass of sparkling wine on arrival and welcome him on board. 

 The boat will either head to Clifton 4th Beach or Table Bay depending on the weather, giving guests unparalleled views of the sun dropping below the horizon in one direction and the famous 12 Apostles in the other. Give Dad a chance to sit back and relax as he's spoiled on this luxury cruise experience. 

EXPRESS SEGWAY TOUR EXPERIENCE IN DURBAN - R 285

Isn’t there just something about the Segway that’s inherently Dad-like? That’s why we can’t resist adding this Durban Segway tour to our list of budget-friendly gift ideas for Father’s Day. 

With this fun and unique gift voucher, Dad can choose his own adventure: a Moses Mabhida Stadium Tour, or a Golden Mile Tour which will take him down the iconic promenade on the Durban coastline. Whichever tour he chooses, he’ll have the time of his life gliding along and taking in the eclectic sights of Durban. He’ll get plenty of fantastic photo opportunities, expert tuition from the instructor, and a full 45 minutes of fun facts and interesting stories. 

ONE HOUR HORSE RIDING TRAIL IN LYDENBURG - R 290

For dads who love animals, it doesn’t get much better than this one hour horse riding trail in Lydenburg. He’ll begin his experience on the farm, where he’ll be greeted by a delightful menagerie of pigs, cows, goats, and – of course – horses.

The instructor will talk the group through what to expect from the trail and provide everyone with helmets, before introducing Dad to his noble steed for the journey. During his relaxing horse trail, Dad will explore the wilderness and mountainous areas of Lydenburg. The experience will last for an hour, during which time he’ll learn a few tips on becoming a great rider, then spend some time with the other animals back on the farm!

THANKS FOR READING! 

… That concludes our roundup of the best budget gifts for Father’s Day, all for under R 1000. If the purse strings are tight this year, Dad needn’t miss out on a fantastic Father’s Day gift that will make him smile for years to come. If you’re still searching, you can browse our full range of fun and unique experience gifts here. Don’t forget to leave a comment; we’d love to hear from you!