Long weekend drives a 40% spike in South African hotel rates

14 August 2024 — Hotel rates for the August long weekend, which celebrates Women’s Day in South Africa, have been booked at rates 40% higher than the average winter season earnings. This data comes from RoomRaccoon, a leading hotel management software company that analysed reservation data from over 4500 rooms in boutique hotels, B&Bs and guesthouses across the country.

The average daily rate (ADR) for the long weekend from 8 to 12 August 2024 rose to R1810, peaking at R2070 on Friday, 9 August. This is a significant jump from the winter average of R1287 recorded between 1 June and 12 August and slightly below the year-to-date average of R1991.

RoomRaccoon data also indicates that independent hotels generated an additional R5.4 million in ancillary revenue over the four-day period. Airport transfers, breakfasts, spa treatments, bottles of wine, and MCC were among the top add-ons purchased.

Niels Verspui, the Market Head of RoomRaccoon, South Africa, commented on the findings: “It’s remarkable to see a long weekend in winter generating results nearly on par with the summer peak season. This rate spike shows that independent hotels and lodges are effectively capitalising on long weekend local demand, even during traditionally slower periods.”

To grow revenue beyond simply increasing ADR, Niels advises hotels to diversify revenue streams and implement smart upselling strategies: “Independent hotels with limited room capacity can’t rely solely on bookings for growth. By offering additional bookable services in the booking journey, RoomRaccoon-run hotels are not only filling rooms but also enhancing their bottom line and achieving substantial gains.”

About RoomRaccoon

RoomRaccoon is an award-winning Hotel Management System trusted by thousands of independent properties across the globe. RoomRaccoon’s cloud-based platform empowers hoteliers with a category-redefining, comprehensive range of products and solutions to increase revenue, streamline operations, and enhance the guest experience. And with over 400 integrations, RoomRaccoon is one of the most connected solutions on the market. Founded in 2017 by a hotel owner and tech entrepreneur, RoomRaccoon was recognized as a finalist for the Best Hotel Management Software in the World by Hotel Tech Awards in 2024.

Media contact:

Lindsay Krause, Senior Brand Manager, [email protected]