5 Best Hotels in Sandton, Johannesburg

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.

Conveniently situated in the heart of bustling Sandton, the Maslow is a case study in modern, seamless sophistication and, if only for a few moments, you'll forget you're anywhere near a city. Beyond the basics of free high-speed Wi-Fi, universal plug points, and first-class conferencing facilities, business travelers can expect unique offerings like the Incubator Room for out-of-the-box strategy sessions, or the Wayfarer Lounge, which provides a well-equipped work base (equipped with private showers) between flights. Minutes from the Sandton Gautrain station, the Maslow offers a free shuttle service that departs every 15 minutes, also stopping at Sandton City Mall and Nelson Mandela Square. The beautifully designed Africology spa is one of the most unique of its kind in Johannesburg, and the tranquil Oasis Garden is the perfect place for some downtime. Ask for a room on the far side of the wing that overlooks the garden and pool. 

Located just 55 steps from the Sandton Gautrain station, this is a popular destination for international tourists and local business travelers with well-appointed rooms, an outdoor splash pool, and a deck that overlooks Sandton's high-rise buildings. The interior has a bright and modern aesthetic, and clever design elements have been incorporated throughout the hotel to mimic features of the Gautrain station and rail line. The hotel also likes to keep visitors guessing by introducing fresh new concepts to entertainment offerings and food menus, such as Central One’s Full Flavour Board for 2, or a new DJ on the deck every weekend. Ask about the weekly specials.

One of the first luxury hotels to open in Sandton, the Sun has a very upmarket designer African feel. Elegant and luxurious, the look draws inspiration from bold earth tones and sculptural baobab trees. Guest rooms are small but classy and superbly laid out, with understated lighting and pared-down furniture. The spa includes eight treatment rooms and offers everything from massages and facials to waxing and manicures.

Directly connected to Sandton City via a sky bridge, this hotel is particularly attractive to keen shoppers and businesspeople who value proximity and easy access to Johannesburg's premier mall and meeting venues. Smart and upscale in every way, it delivers an Afro-chic aesthetic in the form of African art and sculpture and rooms decorated in earth tones. Despite the hotel's large size, the staff strives to deliver intimate service, which is especially useful for business travelers who form the main client base. The gym, spa, and swimming pool offer the perfect excuse to relax when the meetings are done.