The days of waiting for “the right time” or “the right person” to travel are over. Across South Africa, women are packing their bags for shorter, more frequent escapes with their best friends — and they’re doing it their way.
Image used for illustrative purposes/Its me pravin/Unsplash
A growing trend called Girl Grouping is redefining how women travel. Recent research reveals that 14% of female travellers are planning women-only trips this year, drawn by the friendship, freedom, and fun such journeys promise.
Whether married, single, or with children, these “babecations” are increasingly focused on transformative, life-moment experiences that blend learning, luxury, and sisterhood. Imagine a Pilates session surrounded by the Drakensberg Mountains in Newcastle, horseback riding in the Midlands Meander, or an interactive Zulu dance experience in Hluhluwe.
Corné Alberts, National Marketing Manager at ANEW Hotels & Resorts, explains: “This new trend is about joining your tribe and purposely seeking out travel destinations that will result in creating ultimate memories, with space to connect and catch up.”
Here’s why women are embracing Girl Grouping:
1. Power in the pack
Safety is still a consideration, but so is solidarity. Women are choosing to travel in small, trusted groups of friends, family, or colleagues — typically four to six people. These intimate squads share laughs, playlists, and petrol costs, while carefully selected accommodation enhances the experience. Multi-bed suites, small villas, or hotels with flexible room configurations make all the difference.
2. The 2-night reset
Short, frequent breaks are the new normal. Many women are opting for two to three-night stays, often within driving distance or a quick local flight, offering just enough time to break routines, reconnect, and recharge. Hotels within two hours of major cities are ideal, especially those offering winter specials or mid-week packages with extras like spa treatments, excursions, or even a game of Padel or putt-putt.
3. Downtime and hard laughs
These trips aren’t about rigid itineraries or luxury for show. Instead, they focus on soul-healing downtime paired with meaningful conversation. Simple pleasures — a wine tasting, sunrise hike, or dinner in a charming courtyard — often create deeper connections than the destination itself.
4. Insta-worthy moments that stay private
Modern girl group getaways are curated, but not for Instagram. Women travel for the experience, not the feed. While photos are taken, it’s the spontaneous moments — a shared morning coffee or a surprise birthday cake at check-out — that are treasured most, kept for the group rather than social media.
5. Local Is Lekker
No passport? No problem. These trips celebrate local experiences that feel special yet accessible. Think two-hour shisanyama at a resort, private beach escapes along the North Coast, or stargazing in Newcastle. Familiar surroundings gain meaning when shared with the right company.
Girl Grouping isn’t just a travel trend; it’s a movement that celebrates female friendship, freedom, and the joy of discovering South Africa together. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or an adventure in a lesser-known corner of the country, women are proving that the best journeys are those taken with the people who matter most.
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