316 Best Hotels in South Africa

Set on a 500-acre working farm that is among the oldest on the Cape, Babylonstoren is a bucolic lodging with a dozen lovingly renovated thatched roof-cottages gazing up at the dramatic Drakenstein Mountains. They overlook lush fruit and vegetable gardens containing more than 300 types of produce. One of the newer additions is the Farmhouse, which has nine suites centered around a courtyard with a glimmering swimming pool, sauna, and salt room. Other than the bright and delightful rooms, there's a multitude of perks to staying here: guests can join in activities like bread-baking and wine tasting. This gorgeous oasis will both delight and restore.

Built in 1906 for shipping magnate Sir John Ellerman, what may be Cape Town's finest hotel sits high on a hill up from Sea Point in Bantry Bay, graced with stupendous views of the sea and an art collection that puts the National Gallery to shame. Broad, terraced lawns fronted by elegant balustrades step down the beautifully landscaped hillside to a sparkling pool, and farther on, to a contemporary art gallery (which, as with every feature at Ellerman, is for guests only). Decorated in an updated Regency style, the drawing room, living room, and library are sumptuously elegant, yet not forbiddingly formal. Guest rooms flaunt enormous picture windows, high ceilings, and exquisite bathrooms. The hotel accommodates only a handful of guests, and a highly trained staff caters to every whim. In the kitchen chefs prepare whatever guests request, and all drinks except wines and champagne are included in the rates. If you're traveling with a group, or want absolute privacy, the adjacent (and even costlier) Ellerman Villas are the way to go.

Public areas—dining room, cozy lounges, library, and a long terrace—sprawl along one bank of the Great Fish River (one of the few rivers in the region flowing continuously, despite a prolonged drought) with floor-to-ceiling windows that bathe the interior stone walls, Persian rugs, fireplaces, deep armchairs, bookcases, and collection of old prints and photographs in clear light. Each of the spacious African-inspired en suite bedrooms, reached by gravel paths, overlooks the river and the opposite cliffs. It'll be hard to tear yourself away from your personal plunge-pool-with-a-view to go viewing game, but it'll be well worth it since the reserve's rangers and the immaculate terrain offer some of the country's most productive and varied game drives. 

A 30-minute drive from Hermanus, this luxury lodging sits on 2,500 acres overlooking Walker Bay. Privacy is paramount in the soothing suites, which have fireplaces, sunken bathtubs, and private sundecks opening onto mountains as far as the eye can see. Rates include breakfast, lunch, and a five-course dinner, plus activities such as horseback riding and trips to a nearby coastal cave. Children will delight in the playground, petting zoo, and treasure hunts at the reserve. 

This lovely lodge is set on a steep cliff overlooking the Sundays River and the town of Addo. Classically decorated rooms graced with lovely antiques are in separate thatch buildings, all with verandas overlooking the river. The bathrooms are spacious and luxuriously appointed with large tubs and enormous shower stalls. Some rooms have both indoor and outdoor showers. Hitgeheim is situated on an eco-reserve and you can go for walks to observe birdlife and some of the 11 indigenous antelope species found here. The food is fabulous, and most guests opt to stay for the four-course dinners, although simpler dinner options can be tailor-made to your preferences. The lodge has its own game-viewing vehicles and guides, which can be booked at an extra cost.

For an Out of Africa experience and great game, you can't beat Selati, an intimate, stylish, colonial-style camp that was formerly the private hunting lodge of a famous South African opera singer. The early-1900s atmosphere is created by the use of genuine train memorabilia—old leather suitcases, antique wooden chairs, nameplates, and signals—that recall the old Selati branch train line, which once crossed the reserve in the 1870s. At night the grounds flicker with the lights of the original shunters' oil lamps. Dinner is held in the boma whereas brunch is served in the friendly farmhouse kitchen. Glitterati and European royalty have stayed at the spacious Ivory Presidential Suite, with its Persian rugs and antique furniture.

To experience one of South Africa's most beautiful and isolated parks and gain insight into an ancient culture, stay at this simple but comfortable lodge, owned by the ‡Khomani San and Mier communities and located deep in the desert, 32 km (20 miles) along a track across the red dunes of the Kalahari. The main reception area and rustic en-suite chalets (built with clay, wooden poles, and thatch to authentically blend with the environment) overlook a heart-shaped salt pan. Activities include game drives in an open safari vehicle, walks with San trackers, and watching San artists at work. At night, the stars are dazzling, especially at new moon; a telescope combines modern technology and ancient tradition as the San share their legends of the night sky with you.

Set in labyrinthine gardens amid expansive vineyards on Kanoneiland (Cannon Island) in the Orange River just outside Upington, this handsome guesthouse has a mix of large rooms filled with imaginative, handcrafted and/or up-cycled furniture and fittings and more modest, but equally homey, doubles. During a stay here, you can enjoy access to the fabulous grounds, wonderful food, and a luxurious spa with a tucked-away garden treatment area if you want to be in nature during your massage. The lovely setting encourages you to walk around the island and discover its history and people—this is slow country, and interactions with the local farming community are enlightening. An excellent breakfast is included, and delicious dinners are also served.

The edge of the spectacular Botrivier Lagoon is where you'll find the luxurious Arabella Hotel & Spa. Your private balcony gazes down on this birder’s paradise, and you just might spot rare species on the water’s edge. Rooms are crisp and modern, with huge windows letting in lots of light. The 18-hole golf course is among the best in South Africa, the spa is known for its soothing treatments, and the pool is surrounded by lush greenery. For all the luxury, the hotel is also very child-friendly, with extensive child-care programs.

This Victorian guesthouse offers luxurious accommodations and excellent food in the middle of 17,000 acres of rare renosterveld scrubland, home to the endangered geometric tortoise. There's also plenty of springbok, rhebok, bontebok, wildebeest and other creatures around the mountains, streams, and plains. Watch sheep shearing in action, or you can hike, bike, swim, or paddle. Rooms have thick comforters and crisp linens. Ask for one that opens onto the verandah, especially in summer. Rates are full-board, and include brunch, afternoon tea, sundowner drinks, dinner and two daily activities. There are also two self-catering houses that are ideal for families or groups. 

In a 100-year-old house on leafy Elsemere Road, in the heart of historic Belgravia, this charming guesthouse is within easy walking distance of many of Kimberley's historic attractions, including the McGregor Museum, Dunluce, and the Rudd House. The furnishings are tasteful and homey and include antique wooden furniture, Persian carpets, and prints of Dutch masters and South African landscapes. In addition to two rooms in the main house, one of which has its bathroom outside the room, there is a self-catering cottage. It retains its original Oregon pine floors and pressed steel ceilings. Most of the cupboards are original, glowing with a new coat of paint.

About 3 km (2 miles) upstream from Keurboom Lagoon, this award-winning B&B has a tranquil location on the banks of the Bitou River. Rooms overlook a pretty garden and a quiet bird-rich and lily-filled pond. The decor is understated and soothing, with neutral pastels dominating. Breakfasts are delicious affairs with freshly baked breads, muffins, and other goodies, in addition to the usual fruit, cereal, and eggs. Bitou feels like it's in the middle of nowhere, but it's only a 10-minute drive from the center of Plettenberg Bay. Don't pass up the opportunity to explore the river in one of the available canoes.

Conveniently located on a quiet street in upper Sea Point, this small good-value hotel in a beautiful Victorian-era home boasts concierge-level owner-rendered service and gorgeous quirky style in spades. Most of the comfortable and beautifully decorated rooms in this lovingly restored house have their own balconies, and a few have mountain or partial sea views. Perks include extra-long beds, air-conditioning, beach bags and sunscreen, flat-screen TVs, and free DVDs to lend. Elegant yet funky African-chic decor adds to public spaces that are chockablock with goodies like candy and cookie jars, a bar, and plenty of worthwhile reading material. An amazing breakfast is served on the covered sundeck overlooking the lovely heated saltwater pool and compact garden. Dinners can be provided on request, and management is happy to arrange other goodies like off-site spa treatments, picnic baskets, and tailored day trips with the lodge's own tour guides.

This Fair Trade lodging (Bulungula's only lodge) is owned by the local community, which is not an uncommon thing on the Wild Coast, but what makes it different is that the local people are fully integrated in the running of the lodge. Accommodations are in traditional rondavels (round thatched huts) overlooking the lagoon and ocean with simple furnishings: a bed, a table, and a stick suspended from the roof on which to hang clothes. The eco-friendly, odor-free composting toilets and paraffin-fired hot showers are communal and situated in colorfully decorated thatched buildings. Meals are served in a large lounge-cum-bar, where you can engage in long discussions. You can use the cooking facilities, but far more appealing (and delicious) are the generous, simple, well-cooked meals on offer. A shuttle is available from a pick-up point just outside Mthatha and from closer destinations (where there is safe parking). If you are self-driving, you can find a detailed map on the Bulungula website (and you are warned to follow it very carefully). Guided trips include canoeing, cultural tours, horseback riding, and a 37-km (23-mile) walk to Coffee Bay via Hole-in-the-Wall, but you can opt for a full-body massage, learn traditional fishing skills, or simply hang out and drink home-brewed beer in the village, sitting on the grass and getting to know the residents.

The stark beauty of the mountains, the incredible rock formations, and the tumbling waterfalls of this nature reserve were probably as attractive to the San of long ago as they are to visitors today. More than 130 San rock-art locations can be seen on a tour with a trained guide, and you can also go hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and canoeing. Only game endemic to the area has been reintroduced, including wildebeest, zebra, eland, and the endangered bontebok. The food is exceptional, including the legendary springbok loin. The attention to detail in rooms is astonishing: an artist's sketchbook and paints in your room and an African tale for a good-night story at your bedside.

This surprisingly stylish and great-value guesthouse is within walking distance of all the bohemian pleasures in the charming fishing village of Kalk Bay. Located in a grand old house above the harbor, bright and airy rooms are decorated in a contemporary beach-chic style, and most have sea views. Comfortable and stylish public areas include a glassed-in sunroom, meeting room, lovely outdoor terrace, pool and garden, and small bar. You only get 50MB of free Wi-Fi, but a good breakfast is included if you book directly. Those planning on a longer stay may want to inquire about the self-catering apartment across the street.

This truly enchanting hideaway tucked away at the foot of the Drakensberg Range near Rosetta overlooks a trout-filled lake encircled by mountains and old trees. Richard and Mouse Poynton, legendary South African chefs and hosts, renovated the 1936 family fishing farm and created a perfect combination of comfort, tranquility, style, and exceptional food. Homemade biscuits, hand-painted and stenciled walls, lovingly embroidered cushions and samplers, fluffy mohair blankets, and heated towel racks are just a few of the details you'll find here. Rich, natural, superb food rules the day with all sauces made from scratch. You'll eat sumptuous meals with ceremony but no pretension in an intimate dining room warmed on cold days by a blazing log fire.

In France this exclusive establishment would be called an auberge—a five-star destination hotel with a superb restaurant suitable for an overnight or weekend jaunt—and the two-story, sandstone building along the river would not be out of place in Provence. De Hoek sits amid semi-indigenous gardens in the exquisite Magalies River valley. The quiet rooms have golden walls and dark mahogany furniture. Some of the superior suites have fireplaces, and all rooms have underfloor heating. Archery, croquet, lawn bowling, and mountain walks are some of the activities available, but the magnificent restaurant—serving classy five-course dinners and a five-course Sunday lunch (booking essential for outside visitors)—is what brings most people.

The gorgeously landscaped grounds at this dramatically located hotel—featuring a mix of indigenous and exotic species that create an opulent yet grounded feel—are scattered with enormous "lodges," each with their own butler's kitchen and private heated pool. Then there's the estate's excellent spa, cinema, and truly inspiring art collection, which includes some of South Africa's biggest names. (Vladimir Tretchikoff's iconic painting Chinese Girl greets you in the foyer.) And if that's not enough, you can enjoy Delaire's impeccable wines (sampled from an appropriately majestic tasting room), and the estate's two restaurants—its eponymous flagship and the newer Indochine, both seriously impressive.

This massive luxury hotel adjacent to the International Convention Centre, that underwent a multimillion-rand face-lift in 2016, is a short taxi ride from the city center and beachfront and is favored by businesspeople and conference-goers. The rooms are well appointed for the business traveler and tastefully decorated in light wood and neutral tones, with African touches, and have either beach or city views. If you're staying in an executive room, you're invited to the large club room with business facilities on the ground floor, where guests can get breakfast and free Internet access. Sweeping public areas are graced with marble pillars. The Big Easy Wine Bar + Grill by Ernie Els and buffet restaurant Vasco's on-site offer exciting dining options. Impeccable service makes it one of the top Hilton hotels in Africa. Rates can vary significantly, often relating to what's on at the convention center.

One of the most scenic in South Africa, this luxury tented camp sits on a horseshoe bend of a dry riverbed at the foot of soaring cliffs. It's a great place to reconnect with yourself, your partner, and nature. Don't be misled into thinking that "tented" in this context means roughing it. The fabulously appointed “tents” are more like chalets and blend of glass, stone, and canvas to harmonize with the surrounding landscape. Each opens out onto a private wraparound wooden deck with a whirlpool tub and has an uninterrupted view of the landscape. If you want to be alone, then dine here under the stars on seasonal local produce like roast rack of lamb, marinated ostrich fillet, or line fish in a coconut curry sauce. Or stroll to the spacious dining room for a pre-dinner cocktail before enjoying an excellent meal and equally fine service.

This gorgeous lodge, designed to take full advantage of its lofty views, has a charming contemporary sleekness that's very different from the other Shamwari properties. Expect curving terraces, walkways, and elevated decks with aerial viewing pods. Aside from the clever use of space and light, thatch and wood and neutral hues combine to heighten the sense of restful tranquility—you really can meld with your environment here, and will frequently find yourself eye-to-eye with birds in the tree canopy. All rooms have indoor and outdoor showers and private decks with plunge pools. Glass walls fold away to bring the feel of the bush into the room. As with all the lodges at Shamwari, meals are creative events that may be à la carte and served in the restaurant one night, and then take place in the stone-walled boma the next, where you'll be treated to an upmarket take on a traditional South African braai, all the meat cooked on open fires. 

This property boasts some of the best views in Hogsback, as well as 15 acres of handsome gardens (in which there's also one of South Africa's best labyrinths), a range of self-catering cottages that are perfect for families or groups—some are perched right on the cliff's edge and perfect for romance-seeking couples—and 10 simple but comfortable en-suite rooms with whitewashed walls. These rooms have showers but no baths, whereas some of the cottages have both. If you're planning to be in Hogsback for more than a night or two, then definitely take one of the cottages, each of which has its own distinctive theme, including some in the traditional rondavel style; some cottages have two or three bedrooms. All of the cottages have log fireplaces and private decks in a pretty setting. The on-site restaurant serves breakfast, light lunches, and an à la carte dinner; there's also a Saturday morning market where you can stock up on artisanal goodies.

In the heart of a lush dairy farm that dates back to the 1800s, original stone buildings have been converted into a five-star luxury hotel and spa. The award-winning spa is uniquely African. Dr. Elliott Ndlovu, a sangoma (traditional African healer), herbalist, and ethnobotanist, helped to develop Fordoun's signature range of holistic products. Book a session with him and watch him "throw" the bones and assess your wellbeing, as well as prescribe healing herbs that he grows in Mooi River. Tuck into some of the specials at the on-site gourmet Skye Bistro which uses fresh farm produce; book in advance if you're not a guest. If you're energetic, you can go fly-fishing, mountain biking, play a round of golf, or go shopping. Ask for a mountain-facing suite or stock up on local goods along the Midlands Meander and check into a self-catering suite for a budget-friendly alternative. 

Located in the leafy and affluent suburb of Walmer, just a 5- to 10-minute drive from the airport, this friendly family-owned guesthouse is a charming place to pause and recuperate for a night or two before traveling on from Gqeberha. Set around a pretty Victorian-era colonial farmhouse, many of the rooms are in former stables and outbuildings with original exposed beams, while some are in the neighboring house. The grounds comprise lush communal gardens, two pools, tennis court, a braai (barbecue) area, and even a trampoline. If you're staying for a bit longer, you can borrow mountain bikes and golf clubs (the nine-hole Walmer Golf Club, aka "Little Walmer" is right across the road) free of charge. Rooms are large and cozy, with lush carpets and incredibly spacious showers. Luxury rooms also have bathtubs, and all rooms have kitchenettes. The walls feature artworks painted by the owner. If you want the pick of the rooms, ask for "Terrace," which has a handsome, masculine look, or "Cobblestones" which is just so pretty. There's also a three-bedroom "Attic Unit" with full self-catering facilities.

Hidden in a rare sand forest, this fabulous lodge overlooks a small waterhole where nyalas, warthogs, and baboons frequently come to drink. A real departure from traditional safari lodges, it's modern, with a vaguely Japanese Zen feel, thanks to glass-paneled walls, light woods, and a deliberately spare, clean look. The effect is stylish and very elegant, softened by modern African art and sculpture. Suites use the same architectural concepts as the lodge, where walls have become windows, and rely on the dense forest (or drapes) for privacy. It's ideal for spotting the bird rarities (such as the African Broadbill) of this unusual biome. 

The iconic Four Seasons The Westcliff is the paragon of a luxurious urban resort. Perched atop a hill, its view of Johannesburg’s urban forest (and purple haze of jacarandas in spring) provides an exquisite setting. All 117 rooms offer immaculate accommodations along with all the refinements you’d expect from a five-star establishment. The resort’s business facilities are equally impressive. Staff exude a love for Johannesburg and are quick to recommend places of interest to international visitors. Guests are also offered escorted tours of inner-city cultural hubs like Maboneng Precinct and Braamfontein. Expect nothing short of impeccable dining with a South African flair at Flames, which is accessible via panoramic glass elevators.

On a private concession within the main section of Addo, this picturesque colonial-themed camp has accommodations in spacious, luxurious safari tents with thick thatch canopies and interiors furnished in fine antiques from the colonial era. Each tent has an en-suite bathroom with shower and a private deck with uninterrupted views. The main lodge area is a gracious old farmhouse with an interesting history dating all the way back to 1856. The whole camp is completely unfenced and overlooks a waterhole, so it's possible to watch elephants, buffalo, and other animals from your lunch table or the verandah. Dinner is served by romantic candlelight, either on the verandah or in the splendid dining room.

In a gorgeous Cape Dutch manor house that dates from the mid-18th century, the hotel sits amid acres of vines beneath Paarl Rock, overlooking the Drakenstein Mountains. Suites are either in the nicely renovated stables and other historic structures or in attractive newer buildings constructed in traditional Cape Dutch style. Rooms are a tasteful mix of modern and antique: reed ceilings and thatch comfortably coexist with heated towel racks and other creature comforts. As you might expect, there is also an excellent restaurant on the premises.

For supreme comfort in a gracious setting with great historical ambience, try this inn set in English-style gardens in the leafy suburb of Walmer. Beautiful antiques, four-poster beds, gorgeous fabrics and rugs furnish the spacious rooms—some of which are downright enormous, with plush sofas and huge wardrobes. The Victorian bathrooms are also huge, with separate showers and marble-top vanities. All rooms except one have balconies or outdoor areas; if you want the best of the best, ask to stay in "Flamingo," a huge upstairs corner room that feels extra-special. The two downstairs rooms open onto leafy garden courtyard areas. The hotel restaurant offers exceptional dining (nonguests can be accommodated if there's space, so do book in advance), attested to by a string of restaurant awards. More private romantic dinners-for-two can also be arranged and hosted in the handsome "Green Room," one of the lovely lounges with a fireplace. There's also a wonderfully atmospheric underground wine cellar where tastings can be arranged; outside, there's a pool, tennis court, and—sadly—a small conference venue.