136 Best Hotels in South Africa

The lovely and well-located Georgian and Victorian Cape Cadogan boutique hotel dates back to the beginning of the 19th century, and boasts a style that successfully blends contemporary and antique furnishings. The charming public areas—a library, lounge with wood-burning fireplace, and patio with a pool—are great places to relax, and the staff are accommodating and able to arrange just about anything you need. Located in the trendy Kloof Street area, it is within walking distance of numerous cafés and restaurants. Those interested in self-catering will find the More Quarters, a series of well-appointed apartments in four historic homes just a few feet from the hotel, the ideal lodging option for a longer stay or for families wanting more space.

Enjoying a stellar location in the working harbor section of the Waterfront—and rightfully renowned for its excellent service—the discreetly refined Cape Grace is popular with American celebrities, including the likes of Bill and Hillary Clinton. Decor at this storied hotel reflects the mélange of indigenous and foreign influences that have come to epitomize the Cape: hand-painted fabrics embellished with proteas, antiques like old cane fishing rods and Dutch china, and nautical murals make up the eclectic theme. Fantastic understated service, a world-class restaurant, and a charming library where you can take afternoon tea, enjoy views of the ships, or cozy up by a fire. 

Just a stone's throw from the Green Point stadium and the V&A Waterfront—and surrounded by restaurants and public transportation—the Cape Royale offers spacious apartment-style accommodations that make a great base for longer-term travelers. One-, two-, or three-bedroom suites, all with fully equipped kitchens and many with some kind of view, are roomy and luxurious with a clean, contemporary aesthetic. The Casuarina Spa downstairs offers fantastic treatments at competitive prices, and the rooftop pool and Sky Bar are a beautiful though not child-friendly place to spend an afternoon soaking in stunning 360-degree views with a cocktail or three. A free shuttle departing every 10 minutes from 8 to 8 takes you to the V&A Waterfront. Great bargains can be found online.

With acres of gardens and spectacular views across the Constantia Valley, this idyllic old-school getaway in two historic buildings makes the world beyond disappear. Built within the former winery and manor house of an 18th-century wine estate, large and elegant rooms are furnished in either a grand English-country or more pared-down, contemporary look. Rooms on the Hohenort side are gorgeous, with four-poster beds, fine draperies, reproduction antiques, and (upstairs) amazing views across the valley from private decks. Numerous exquisitely outfitted public areas from a library to nooks and crannies across the stunning garden mean you're never short on private places to disappear. A fantastic on-site restaurant, The Conservatory, boasts excellent, gracious service.

This delightfully unpretentious lodge, one of the oldest in Sabi Sands, is set among huge trees on the banks of an attractive dam that is a magnet for game—particularly elephants. The lodge has private concession traversing rights over 21,004 acres, so only two vehicles at a time are game-viewing, and what game-viewing! You're almost guaranteed the Big Five, with daily leopard sightings. Eight comfortable thatch chalets, each with a small viewing deck, overlook the bush, food is plentiful and good, and the service is friendly and attentive. The public areas are bright and cheerful, and you can sit on the big viewing deck all day and watch the passing show if you prefer.

Victorian splendor meets modern glam at this small and intimate boutique hotel perched over Cape Town's trendy and ever-popular V&A Waterfront. Six rooms decked out in antique silver artifacts, crystal chandeliers, and edgy artwork, and the competence of the understated service are sure to impress. The property's prime location allows easy (and safe) exploration of the Waterfront with its plethora of dining, shopping, and other attractions. But with 24-hour room-service, a pool and bar overlooking the V&A Ferris wheel and harbor attractions, and a full range of treatments and gym facilities at the Sanctuary Spa annex, it's entirely possible you'll never want to leave.

One of Sabi Sand's oldest lodges, Dulini River Lodge scores 10 out of 10 for its gorgeous location—one of the best in the whole reserve—with lush green lawns sweeping down to the Sand River. Game-viewing is so superb that you'd be unlucky not to spot the Big Five. The experienced rangers and staff, some of whom have been at the lodge for years, will look after you in a friendly, unfussy way. Children from 8 years and older are welcome and this is the best family option in the Dulini Collection. Your roomy air-conditioned suite (try to sleep with the windows open so you don't miss that lion roaring or hyena whooping) is decorated in soft earth colors and has its own heated plunge pool. The South African wine list is very impressive and showcases some more boutique offerings.  

Velvet cushions and rugs that echo the African sky at dawn, rough-hewn rock walls that recall the hills that dot the reserve, and decor that includes handwoven baskets, animal hides, and neutral shades offset by pale greens and blues, create the fresh, contemporary aesthetic of this intimate, classy lodge that caters to families with young children. Your bedroom, which has its own plunge pool and exquisite views of the distant hills, may qualify as one of the biggest you will ever sleep in. When you can bear to tear yourself away from your sleeping quarters, you can chill by the rim-flow lodge pool with only the birds and the sounds of the wilderness to keep you company. Children, meanwhile, can "help" the chefs in an interactive kitchen, and because the lodge is fenced, there's a lawn where youngsters can play and run around a bit. Other children's activities include things like kite-building, making plaster casts of lion tracks, or fishing with a ranger. 

Located in a residential area, this gracious boutique hotel was once a private home owned by the Oppenheimer family. Each individually decorated suite mimics classic Eastern and European style with large windows that overlook the manicured gardens that are spread across 5.7 hectares (14 acres). The large grounds, with their sweeping lawns and rose beds, play host to picnics in the summertime and romantic private dinners after sunset. Guests can unwind poolside or at the Balinese-themed spa. There's also a well-equipped gym, an à la carte restaurant, and conference facilities that frequently host weddings.

Zimbali's tranquil 700-hectare (1,730-acre) setting is in one of the few remaining coastal forests in the province with direct access to the beach, and the award-winning resort is a stylish mix of African and Balinese, with lots of glass, dark wood, and rough woven fabrics. Rooms have an indulgently private and luxurious feel to them, with crisp white linen, wood carvings, large baths, and balconies that look out onto the forest, lake, and sea beyond. It's a wonderful place to laze around, enjoy afternoon tea, play a round of golf, or swim in the private Mauritian-style pool on the beach. The service is warm, friendly, and slick.

If you're one of those people who believe that humans have opposable thumbs for the sole purpose of gripping a golf club, you'll love Fancourt, a luxury golf resort in the shadow of the Outeniqua Mountains. With an on-site luxury spa and well-equipped gym, it has a country club feel. Choose between staying the Fancourt Hotel, which has villas in a landscaped gardens, and the 150-year-old Manor House, transformed into a boutique hotel. Of the four restaurants on the property, the most popular are Henry White's, which serves classic European cuisine, and the Italian eatery La Cantina.

This boutique hotel in a game estate within the Cradle of Humankind aptly alludes to the mysterious and fascinating story of the development of humanity in every bit of its decor and can be a good option if you want to spend some time outside but near Johannesburg. Artworks of bygone years adorn the walls and the modern architecture takes into account the landscape. The windows have sweeping views and natural veld (pronounced felt)—long, African grasses—grows on the rooftops. Guests can visit the nearby Sterkfontein Caves and Maropeng Visitor Centre for an additional cost. The superb fine dining restaurant, Roots, specializes in contemporary cooking with a South African influence, but only serves breakfast and dinners, with the exception of a four-course, wine-paired lunch on Sunday. You can also order a gourmet picnic to eat on one of the private wooden platforms alongside the riverside. There's also a gallery and wine cellar on the property. 

This inviting camp has 10 stone-and-thatch suites in individual chalets set amid thick riverine bush; some chalets are linked by interconnecting skywalks, which is great for families or groups traveling together (children six years and older are welcome). Decorated in warm, comforting earth tones, each chalet has its own wooden viewing deck and plunge pool. Old family photographs decorate the walls and tables in this camp, reminding you of Londolozi's decades-old history. Relax on the huge thatch dining and viewing deck that juts out over a quiet backwater of the Sand River, and watch the mammals and birds go by. Or join a group yoga class under the African sky.

Set in a 5,000-acre natural heritage site, this attractive lodge lies just a couple of miles from the famous battle site of Rorke's Drift and overlooks the drift where survivors of the British defeat at Isandlwana fled across the Buffalo River. Rooms are individual cottages that open onto gardens, with fireplaces and wood furniture. Rent a room in a cottage or the whole cottage, depending on your group size. The focal point of the lodge is the lounge and dining room, evocatively decorated with old rifles, British regimental flags, Zulu spears, and antique military prints. Battlefield tours with experienced guides cost R1,560 per person for two sites, transport, and refreshments.

This midsize boutique hotel on a quiet street in Sea Point is one part playful, Ibiza-inspired style—think orchids and a bright Greek Isle palette of white and turquoise—and one part elegant African touches. Rooms in the main building are very masculine with lots of dark wood, silvered surfaces, and Oriental carpets, while those in the so-called East wing come in neutral tones of white, silver, or taupe, and are airy and bright. Almost all of the East rooms have some kind of private deck or patio area, and most enjoy at least a partial mountain or sea view. Staff are friendly and happy to organize day trips and tours. The fresh and bright public spaces, including two pools surrounded by chaises and nice if partially blocked views, encourage socializing and lend a resort ambience.

Within easy striking distance of the best game-viewing areas, this lodge overlooking the Bellair Dam is unashamedly family-friendly. The layout is fresh and funky, with a grassy inner garden that invites impromptu cricket matches, as well as an outdoor pool with a shallow area for children. There's also a playroom, babysitting for the under-fours, and a "Kids on Safari" program. The accommodations incorporate traditional Karoo-style architecture. Each of the rooms has a private deck or a balcony with a commanding view. Meals focus on traditional South African cuisine with a twist. A specialty is lamb shank, a typical Karoo dish.

On the edge of a forested gorge with the Tsitsikamma Mountains in the background, this lovely lodge puts you close to many of the Garden Route's most popular attractions. You will be hard-pressed to find a reason to leave your room, however, with its private verandah and stunning views. Dinners (available for guests only) featuring local seafood and venison are sociable affairs taken around a huge table in the main house. Breakfasts are enjoyed outdoors on the patio. An energetic one-hour walk through the forest will bring you to Monkeyland and Birds of Eden. The lodge is conscientious about environmental and social issues, hiring and training staff from the local community.

This delightful, value-priced camp owned and operated by Honeyguide is situated on both sides of a riverbed within Manyeleti Private Game Reserve. Simply designed and built of corrugated iron and wood, the large public areas overlook green lawns leading to the pool and outside bar. There's a private space in front of each of the 12 platform tents (all with modern conveniences and en suite bathrooms) to chill out and take in the sights and sounds of the surrounding bush. As part of the Children's Safari activities, kids can make clay footprints, learn about the little bugs and critters they see on their guided walks, play soccer, swim, relax in the playroom, and then dig into a special kids' menu.

This tented camp, built on wooden platforms, minimalist but with surprising luxury touches (owned and operated by Honeyguide within Manyeleti Private Game Reserve), gives you the total bush experience at half the price of some of the more upscale lodges. Designed to reflect Hemingway's Africa, it sits in a tamboti grove overlooking a dry riverbed. You'll feel very close to the bush (but quite safe and secure) in your large, comfortable tent with its leather couch and en suite bathroom with concrete bath, double shower, and separate toilet. Tea or coffee is served in your tent at dawn, and meals are served communal style in a big safari tent around a long wooden table in an intimate, relaxed atmosphere. Spot game as you lounge on the swimming pool deck, or browse in the temperature-controlled wine cellar. No children under 12, but children are allowed at its sister camp, Khoka Moya.

Just 10 minutes from town, this tranquil property is set amid gardens that descend into a forested valley. The heart of the lodge is an old farmstead, a lovely thatch building with low beams and large fireplaces. Guest rooms are in cottages with their own fireplaces and verandahs. Three suites have private plunge pools. Tasteful antiques grace the rooms, and clawfoot tubs are the centerpiece of many of the gigantic bathrooms. Most guests eat at the hotel's excellent table restaurant, which brings a French touch to local South African produce. There's also the option of eating at Zinzi's, a separate restaurant on the grounds. The Summer House, in the garden, is open for tea, lunch, and early dinner in summer. The lodge is very child-friendly, making it one of the few places where you don't have to sacrifice sophistication for family accommodations.

A few paces from international arrivals and adjacent to the car-rental companies and bus terminal, this is a good choice for those who have a one-night layover. The InterContinental is very comfortable and upscale, with a chic African interior of warm woods and granite. Those who spend a few nights here do so for the business and meeting facilities and proximity to industrial areas, though it's also a quick 12-minute ride on the high-speed Gautrain into the center of Sandton from the airport. Rooms are soundproof and have blackout curtains, and the eighth-floor heated pool, gym, and spa offers jet-lag-specific treatments. There are great runway views from the gym and pool. The Quills Restaurant and Bar on the ground level serves meals 24 hours.

This lodge within the iSibindi Eco Reserve, 9 km (4 miles) from Rorke's Drift, combines game-viewing and Zulu cultural experiences with battlefield tours led by excellent local guides and historians. Enjoy early-morning and evening game drives, and cultural evenings with traditional Zulu dancers and traditional food. Visit the village across the river where the sangoma (traditional healer) will "throw the bones" for you and read your fortune. Rooms are in Zulu-style elevated beehive huts with private decks, which have lovely views of hill and valley. An attractive lounge and bar area shows off African prints and Zulu artifacts, and an outdoor bar and sunken pool share the views.

The two lodges that make up Jaci's Lodges are family-owned and have a longstanding reputation for friendliness, superb game drives, and comfortable accommodations. They are located side-by-side in the southeast of the reserve on the edge of the Marico River. At Jaci's Safari Lodge, you'll stay in one of eight roomy tented suites with outdoor showers, handcrafted mosaic baths, and a private deck overlooking the bushveld and river below. There are also two suites that sleep about 8 each if you have a bigger family group and two romantic star bed suites. The welcoming public areas are cheerful with a seamless fusion of contemporary and African decor. Children are well catered for (6 to 12 years, younger by special arrangement). The eight suites of the secluded Jaci's Tree Lodge, built of wood and thatch and perched on stilts connected by wooden walkways, have views through the riverine trees across the Marico River. All stays include all meals, house drinks, and game drives.

This intimate lodge, with only five suites, is the ultimate in luxury, with its marble floors, elaborate chandeliers, and plush furnishings. Watch animals at a waterhole on a wide plain from the deck in front of the main lodge area, the sunken fire pit, or from the luxury of your own deck or private plunge pool. Many Madikwe lodges serve excellent food, but at Jamala Madikwe, fine dining is taken to the next level, with three chefs serving up a different menu each night, sometimes running up to six courses and including dishes like tempura lobster served with a soy dipping sauce and compressed pork belly with wilted pak choi. For something really special, inquire about joining a unique conservation experience such as notching a rhino or collaring a cheetah, which the lodge offers in conjunction with the park's management.

A beautiful garden entrance leads you into this stylish oasis of a guesthouse where you can expect an atmosphere of luxurious privacy and attentive concierge service from on-site management. Spacious and elegantly designed suites all come equipped with king-sized beds, a patio or terrace, and extras like a bluetooth speaker, yoga mat, and beach-ready bag. Local cell phones are also available for complimentary use by request. From the exclusive Higgovale area above the Gardens neighborhood, views of Table Mountain from the garden (and most room terraces) are lovely when the weather is clear. Aesop bath products add a luxe touch to sleek bathrooms.

On the road to Tsitsikamma, this magnificent 1,500-acre estate offers spacious suites that make you feel like you're staying in your own country home. This historic Cape Dutch homestead was once the home of a Russian émigré, Baron Peter Behr, back in the 1940s. Accommodations are in separate buildings and feature antique furnishings, book-filled shelves, handsome fireplaces, and private balconies. Many have staircases leading to charming children's rooms. The food in the restaurant is delicious, beautifully presented, and made from fresh, local ingredients.

The greatest asset of this hotel, primarily a time-share resort, is its location: in a bowl of rocky hills on the edge of the game reserve. The resort has an underground blind overlooking a waterhole, which is connected to the lodge via a tunnel; sit here (especially in the evening) armed with drinks, patience, and plenty of insect spray for a rewarding hour or so. Guest rooms have high thatch ceilings and large glass doors that open onto a verandah. It's best to secure a unit far from the noise of the reception, dining, and pool areas. You can pay to go on day or night game drives in open-air vehicles or to go on guided walks with an armed ranger—both are worthwhile. The breakfasts at the restaurant are legendary.

The sheer beauty of the setting has not changed since this wine estate was founded in 1692. Its classic Cape Dutch manor house is flanked by the rolling vineyards and mountains of the Jonkershoek Valley. You can eat casual alfresco meals on the terrace (weather permitting), grab some upmarket pub food in the utterly charming Taphuis, or opt for fine dining at the Manor Kitchen, where chef Stephen Fraser pulls out all the stops. The menu changes regularly, but always features some South African touches like game meat, local oysters, or cheese from the Winelands region.

A great base for exploring the Constantia winelands, this peaceful boutique hotel with a lovely garden and incredibly spacious rooms successfully combines elegance with homey intimacy. The decor is classical, and fine touches include fluffy robes, luxurious toiletries, and wonderful baths with gorgeous mosaic details. Groups can even rent the entire establishment. Breakfast is served in the lush garden or conservatory, while lunch and dinner are only available on request.

Renowned for its relaxed and informal atmosphere, Leopard Hills is one of the premier game lodges in the Sabi Sands area. Set on a rocky outcrop with panoramic views of the surrounding bushveld, this small lodge offers privacy and luxury. Its main draw is its spectacular game-viewing; during a two-night stay you're almost guaranteed to see the Big Five at close quarters. Rangers are eager to share their knowledge and quick to rush guests off to see big game. The decor has an authentic bush theme, which gels well with the surroundings. Each double room has its own private pool (in addition to the main pool) and deck overlooking the bushveld. Bathrooms have his-and-her showers both indoors and out.