316 Best Hotels in South Africa

In beautifully manicured gardens, De Kloof Luxury Estate is a chic boutique hotel that offers five-star accommodations in one of the town’s oldest Cape Dutch manors. The handsome house, which has been lovingly restored, has original wood ceilings and floors and stylish décor with French flair. The most romantic room is the loft, housed in one of the detached buildings. It's decorated in white and silver, with an exposed thatch roof and a spacious private balcony. Deluxe rooms are in a walled garden and have private patios. The restaurant, 18 Zero One, serves a four-course dinner either inside the dining room or in the garden.

This restored Cape Dutch homestead, built in 1698 and situated on 30 acres of farmland, has rustic decor and spacious rooms with all the creature comforts. If possible, book a room in the old stable with a private patio overlooking the garden. Breakfast is served on an expansive terrace and includes croissants and home-baked breads. The fine-dining restaurant is open from October until May has a three-course set menu that is highly rated by guests. You can enjoy peaceful walks through the orchards and vineyards, take a guided wine tour, or kick back at the pool. 

The nine rooms comprising this beautiful Victorian house in a very central Tamboerskloof location make for a stylish and convenient base while exploring Cape Town. Rooms are styled with an eclectic modern African aesthetic and bright bold colors, and include lots of perks like a local mobile phone, international sockets, and fast Wi-Fi. Some rooms are a bit small, so if you tend to spend a lot of time lounging in bed, you may feel cramped. The appealing and spacious public areas include a large bright lounge with a fireplace, lots of books and magazines, and an iPad. A large solar-heated pool and hot tub also enjoy nice views of Table Mountain. An honor bar, free afternoon cake, complimentary hot soups in the winter, and friendly 24/7 service complete the picture.

The rooms and cottages at this 19th-century farmstead are comfortably furnished and decorated in a relaxed country style with floral throws and fresh flowers. Set in a lush garden with rolling lawns and abundant roses and azalea bushes, there is wine tasting on site, as well as a coffee shop serving tasty cakes and pastries. If you're feeling energetic, try your hand at bass fishing or horseback riding on the estate.

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.

An excellent value-for-money location on Mouille Point's sought-after strip, this simple inn's rooms are basic but neat and comfortable, a few even enjoying sea views. Close to the V&A Waterfront and across the street from a popular seafront promenade, the inn's lounge overlooks the ocean with comfy leather couches, and the owners are friendly and helpful.

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.  

This small guesthouse offers big hospitality and the closest thing to cosseting luxury that you'll find in the immediate vicinity of Augrabies Falls. Situated 3 km (2 miles) from the national park, it's on a large property with its own airstrip and, consequently, has a bit of a small desert-oasis resort atmosphere, with an unusual avenue of very tall palm trees out front. The food and service are good, and the rooms are cushy rooms with dressing gowns and walk-in wardrobes. A lovely wooden deck equipped with sun beds and tables and centered on an enticing swimming pool (really needed in summer) is a gorgeous sanctuary after a day exploring this lesser-known corner of South Africa. A three-bedroom villa offers greater privacy.

This small and stylish boutique hotel in Green Point is perfect for those who appreciate a minimalist-artsy decor, seeking a quiet stay in a convenient location. With a kind of Pompidou-at-the-beach aesthetic, rooms come in different sizes, but none is small, and all are well designed, with tasteful contemporary artwork. Some have their own private decks or garden terraces. A charming if small pool and deck area at the front of the property enjoys great views, and there is also an inside lounge area where helpful staff serve up delicious cocktails and snacks.

Along a lovely, meandering stretch of river, this camp is divided into northern and southern sections that include a variety of accommodations ranging from log cabins to forest huts. The southern half has several family-friendly cottages that sleep up to six, as well as log cabins and forest huts that sleep up to four. The cabins are prettier than the cottages, but both are bright and pleasant. The forest huts are a bit smaller. The much smaller northern section is more secluded and has a few grassy campsites on the river and a dozen rondavels (round huts). The communal bathroom areas for the campsite are clean and more than adequate.

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.

In a farmstead originally built in the 1860s, this hotel has thick whitewashed walls, tile floors, and timber beams. Rustic pine furniture and bright floral fabrics decorate the rooms, some of which have fireplaces and views of the lagoon. The restaurant's à la carte menu combines West Coast ingredients with French flair. Breakfast is said to be the best in town—with homemade bread, warm pastries, cheeses, bacon, eggs, cereals, and a view to die for. 

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.

If you can't wait to hit the water, then this guesthouse is a great choice. It's bright, airy, and right on the beach. Rooms are, not surprisingly, decorated in blue and white and have an outside shower for wet suits, boards, and such. Sea-facing rooms are ideal for families, with two beds downstairs and two in a loft. To top it off, the property is connected to the Cape Sports Centre complex. Friday Island also has a lovely beachfront bar and restaurant, making it a good place to stay even if you don't take to water in a big way.

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.

You can't beat the location of this pleasant hotel midway between South and North beaches and only a five-minute drive from the city center. Rooms are on the tired side, each with a small sitting area. All face the sea, but request an upper-floor room for the best views. Views from the pool deck on the 30th floor are superb.

Swaths of scarlet bougainvillea run riot in the lush gardens of this family-owned country inn with tastefully furnished rooms that each have a small verandah (the newest Mountain Rooms have the best interiors). It was here that Rider Haggard wrote some of his adventure stories, inspired perhaps by the mysterious lights and elusive flickering flames that give the mountain its spooky name. Large, invitingly restful public areas have terra-cotta tiles and comfortable cane furniture. Don't miss the enthusiastic Zulu dancing before a succulent barbecue under the stars. The friendly staff can arrange tours to the neighboring game reserves (Manyoni and uMkhuze are closest), a boat cruise on Lake Jozini, and authentic cultural sights, or will fix you up to go bird-watching or fishing. There's also the opportunity to treat yourself at the swish on-site spa. 

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.

Walking into the Grand is like entering a different world. The owner describes the decor as "monastery meets bordello," and this seems apt: think mismatched boho-chic sofas in animal prints and brocades, ornate fireplaces, and huge silver candelabra. And that's just the reception areas—the private-entrance rooms are just as fabulous. Beds are piled high with goose-down pillows, and bathtubs are placed in front of French windows with amazing views of the ocean and mountains. The Grand Rendezvous restaurant has a tasty all-day menu, and The Old Town Caffé serves bistro classics.

One of the best-loved and oldest hotels on the Meander, Granny Mouse has cozy thatch rooms, all slightly different, with a bush view, fireplace, and homey, though upmarket, atmosphere. Freestanding rooms offer more privacy and peace than the newer hotel wing, though the latter have more space. All rooms have a his-and-hers bathroom vanity and a separate bathtub. The main hotel building—formerly an unusual farmhouse with doors and windows from an old church—offers conviviality and warmth in its several lounges. The on-site bistro is locally famous for its lavish breakfasts and afternoon teas. Upstairs, the fine dining restaurant is known for its gorgeous plating in an intimate room. Some of the best places on the Meander are within easy reach.

In an 1860 manor house, Green Gables is decorated with antiques and feels very much like an upscale home. Expect fine linen, brass bedsteads, and country-style decor. The friendly hosts also own the Miller's Pub and the Green Gables restaurant where locals hang out, which is always a good sign. You can eat dinner at the pub and catch up on all the small-town news.

Deliciously luxurious, if rather formal, this 1875 inn, high up on the Meander in the foothills of the Drakensberg, is steeped in history and misty beauty. Some suites are in the original house; others in the gardens look onto an ethereal, lovely lake. The hotel has undergone a trendy revamp and each suite is individually decorated in a gloriously cosmopolitan collision of fabrics and furnishings from Africa, Europe, and the East. The food, which has garnered top honors, is just as rich and eclectically surprising. Dinner (reservations are essential) is an unforgettable event with wine-pairing. Tijnhuis offers a relaxed venue for high teas and lunches Wednesday through Sunday. If you have time, visit Summerhill Stud, the neighboring Thoroughbred racehorse stud farm. 

Located in the Hluhluwe half of the park, the camp's self-contained chalets have high thatch ceilings, rattan furniture, and small verandahs. Unless you plan to cook, forgo the more expensive chalets with fully equipped kitchens and eat at the restaurant. If you're on a tight budget, opt for a basic rondavel with two beds, a basin, and a refrigerator; toilet facilities are communal. Chalets with best views are No. 40 upward. A restaurant, pub, convenience store, and a gas station are on-site.

In the foothills of the Langeberg Mountains, A Hilltop Retreat offers spacious and luxurious self-catering accommodations. Decorated with furniture and finishes made by local artists and artisans, each suite is uniquely appointed. Rooms are modern and comfortable, with king-sized beds decked out in Egyptian cotton sheets. There's a splash pool and barbecue area for all to enjoy. For R100, the staff will stock everything you need for breakfast.

Conveniently situated on road out to the Cango Caves, this warm and friendly lodge has bright, airy rooms with modern furnishings. There's an attractive garden that surrounds a boomarang-shaped swimming pool. In case you're wondering, the lodge's name is pronounced shlung-gah-na ("meet" in Zulu).