OUR FAVORITE HOTELS & LODGES IN SOUTH-AFRICA
When traveling through South Africa, you’ll experience one breathtaking moment after another—day after day. Honestly, such a road trip can be pretty exhausting, which is why staying in good hotels makes all the difference. A comfortable bed, a nice shower, or a relaxing pool—those are things we truly appreciate while traveling. In South Africa, we set out to find the best places to stay. Unique accommodations, each with its own charm. These are almost always small-scale hotels where you’re guaranteed to have a wonderful stay. Many of these places are quite popular, so it’s smart to book early.
Note: We list starting prices. Hotel rates vary a lot depending on your travel dates and how early you book. So the starting price can increase significantly if you book last-minute or travel during peak season.
What destination in South Africa are you looking for accommodation in?
Great hotels in and around Plettenbergbaai
Panoramic Blue B&B
At Panoramic Blue B&B, you’ll get a room with a view! From your room, you can look out over Plettenberg Bay, and because it’s situated on higher ground, the views stretch far. You’ll stay in a comfortable room at a great price and be warmly welcomed.
Low Season
Room starting from $47
High Season
Room starting from $56
Ocean Watch
In a fantastic location in Plettenberg Bay, you’ll find Ocean Watch. It has a lovely rooftop terrace with lounge couches, a nice pool, and an amazing view of the bay. Great restaurants are within walking distance, but you won’t need to leave for a delicious breakfast.
Low Season
Room starting from $72
High Season
Room starting from $125
Howberry Hills
Peace, nature, and affordable luxury—at Howberry Hills, you can expect an incredible stay. The lodge sits on a 27-acre estate and is perched on a hill, offering amazing views. There’s a chef on-site who can prepare delicious breakfasts, lunches, and dinners. Howberry Hills is a 15-minute drive from downtown Plettenberg Bay.
Low Season
Room starting from $86
High Season
Room starting from $86
Great hotels in Swellendam
A Hilltop Country Retreat
This great hotel earns its 9 rating on Booking.com for a reason. The apartments are spacious and super stylishly decorated. There are plenty of cozy spots to relax, and a small pool to cool off in on warm days. The location is also stunning, with beautiful mountain views.
Low Season
Room starting from $48
High Season
Room starting from $59
Cypress Cottage
Cypress Cottage is another wonderful place to stay in Swellendam. The owner is incredibly welcoming, full of great tips, and does everything to make you feel at home. The rooms are uniquely decorated, there’s a lovely pool, and each morning a delicious, hearty breakfast is served.
Low Season
Room starting from $56
High Season
Room starting from $56
Great hotels in Cape Town
Villa Viva
For a lively vibe, head to Villa Viva in the Gardens neighborhood. This charming guesthouse is run by incredibly kind people who go out of their way to make your stay enjoyable. There’s a pool, and you’ll be treated to a tasty breakfast in the morning. Villa Viva is part of an organization working to make clean drinking water accessible to everyone. By staying here, you’re directly supporting that mission!
Low Season
Room starting from $44 | Dorm starting from $23
High Season
Room starting from $55 | Dorm starting from $25
Urban Oasis Aparthotel
Looking for luxury at an affordable price? Then Urban Oasis Aparthotel is the place for you. It’s right in the center of Cape Town, just a few blocks from Long Street. You’ll stay in a modern loft, studio, or apartment equipped with a washing machine, air conditioning, a kitchen, and a super comfortable bed. There’s also a great rooftop pool.
Low Season
Room starting from $55
High Season
Room starting from $76
Home Suite Hotels Station House
This ultra-modern and perfectly styled hotel is a joy to stay in. It’s ideally located in Sea Point, with plenty of great restaurants just a short walk away. On the rooftop terrace, you can enjoy the beautiful pool and take in amazing views of the ocean and Lion’s Head. Breakfast is included and served at a nearby restaurant—and the food is absolutely delicious!
Low Season
Room starting from $67
High Season
Room starting from $110
Great hotels & lodges in St. Lucia
Luxury Tented Village
At Luxury Tented Village, you’ll stay in a luxury tent with a veranda and a spacious bathroom. There’s a large pool with lounge chairs, and the location couldn’t be better—right in the center of St. Lucia, with all restaurants within walking distance. This is a one-of-a-kind accommodation where they truly understand what glamping is all about.
Low Season
Luxury tent starting from $67
High Season
Luxury tent starting from $72
Lepard Corner Lodge
If glamping isn’t your thing, then Leopard Corner Lodge is a wonderful hotel. You’ll stay in a beautifully kept room that’s always spotlessly clean. There’s a lovely garden, a great pool, and the staff goes above and beyond to make you feel welcome. A delicious breakfast is included in the price.
Low Season
Room starting from $81
High Season
Room starting from $81
Lodge Afrique
Looking for a bit more luxury? Then Lodge Afrique might be just right for you! Tucked away in a lush garden full of palm trees and other greenery, you’ll find several traditional African-style cottages. There’s a great pool, and the staff is incredibly friendly. A perfect place to fully relax in beautiful St. Lucia.
Low Season
Chalet starting from $110
High Season
Chalet starting from $121
Great hotels in Graskop
Zur Alten Mine
Zur Alten Mine is a great place to stay at a budget-friendly price. You’ll sleep in a chalet fully equipped with everything you need—like a heater, a kitchen, a comfy bed, and a BBQ. The chalets offer a lot of privacy, and you can truly enjoy peace and quiet surrounded by nature. It’s located just outside the village of Graskop, so it’s best to stay here only if you have a rental car.
Low Season
Room starting from $34
High Season
Room starting from $36
Rustique
Rustique is another great option in Graskop. This small-scale hotel is run by a very welcoming host who has put a lot of care into the room decor. For the colder nights, there’s a heater and an electric blanket.
Low Season
Room starting from $53
High Season
Room starting from $53
Westlodge B&B
At Westlodge B&B, you’ll be warmly welcomed with genuine hospitality. The building itself is eye-catching—painted completely pink!—and the inside is just as charming. While it may look a little dated, you can tell a lot of thought has gone into the decor. There’s a large garden, and each morning you’ll be treated to a generous and tasty breakfast. You’ll feel right at home here!
Low Season
Room starting from $81
High Season
Room starting from $81
Great lodges in Kruger National Park
Bushriver Lodge
This affordable lodge sits right on the Olifants River, where crocodiles swim, elephants come to drink, and hippos wander around at night. It’s a breathtakingly beautiful spot with both budget rooms and affordable villas. From your balcony, you can watch the river, giving you a true African experience. Good to know: the Kruger Park entrance is about a 45-minute drive away.
Low Season
Room starting from $85
High Season
Room starting from $107
Rukiya Safari Camp
Rukiya Safari Camp is a fantastic lodge to stay at in Kruger Park. You can choose between a luxury safari tent with a view of the river or the bush—both are amazing! There’s a stunning pool perfect for cooling off after a morning safari, and even from the pool, you can enjoy the beautiful views. In short, this is the perfect lodge to treat yourself to a luxurious stay.
Low Season
Luxury safaritent starting from $205 including breakfast & dinner
High Season
Luxury safaritent starting from $205 including breakfast & dinner
Lion Tree Top Lodge
Want to sleep in a treehouse while wild animals might stroll by? At Lion Tree Top Lodge, that dream becomes reality. This small-scale lodge feels adventurous yet incredibly cozy. The people who work here are unbelievably kind! When night falls, the campfire is lit, and you’ll be served a delicious meal. In the morning, you can spot wildlife from your bathtub in the treehouse.
Low Season
Room starting from $192 including breakfast & dinner
High Season
Room starting from $192 including breakfast & dinner
Great lodges in eSwatini
Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary
This isn’t just any lodge—it’s truly something unique. It’s located in the middle of a national park where you can stay in traditional huts or more luxurious homes with fantastic views. Animals like zebras and warthogs (Pumba!) roam right past your cottage. In the evenings, you can relax by the campfire, and during the day, you can enjoy activities like biking through the national park.
Low Season
Room starting from $65
High Season
Room starting from $69
Mantenga Lodge
Mantenga Lodge is perfect if you’re looking for more luxury and a special place to stay. You’ll sleep in a spacious room with air conditioning and a modern bathroom. There’s a lovely pool for warm days and a fantastic restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. From the terrace, you’ll have amazing views over Swaziland’s natural beauty!
Low Season
Room starting from $70
High Season
Room starting from $70
Great hotels & lodges in Addo
Addo African Home
For the best value, check out Addo African Home. You’ll stay in a super charming round cottage with a thatched roof, surrounded by a beautiful garden. There’s a great restaurant on-site where you can enjoy delicious meals. Addo African Home also offers a variety of wellness activities like massages, yoga, Pilates, and meditation classes.
Low Season
Room starting from $70
High Season
Room starting from $79
Addo Wildlife Lodge
Is Addo African Home fully booked? Then Addo Wildlife Lodge is a perfect alternative. Although it’s a bit more expensive, the concept is very similar. Here too, you’ll stay in a cozy and beautifully decorated cottage with lots of privacy. Animals like impalas roam around the grounds. Addo Wildlife also has a wildlife rescue center, which is definitely worth a visit!
Low Season
Room starting from $136
High Season
Room starting from $187
Gerald’s Gift Guest House
Gerald’s Gift is a stunning B&B where you can also enjoy a fantastic dinner. The chef, Ramon, prepares incredible dishes, so you won’t even need to leave for a restaurant. You’ll stay in a stylish double room and can relax in the beautiful flower-filled garden with a pool.
Low Season
Room starting from $70
High Season
Room starting from $70
Great hotels in Durban
Globe Palms
On the hills of Durban, you’ll find this very stylish and unique B&B. The interior is done in full colonial English style—truly a sight to see! In the morning, you’ll be treated to a delicious breakfast with fresh croissants, cheese, and orange juice.
Low Season
Room starting from $78
High Season
Room starting from $78
Ocean Vista Boutique
Ocean Vista Boutique is an absolute delight to stay in. From your room, you’ll have stunning ocean views—now that’s how you want to wake up! There’s also a lovely rooftop terrace where breakfast is served each morning, and total relaxation awaits you by the pool.
Low Season
Room starting from $114
High Season
Room starting from $114
Great hostel and hotel in Johannesburg
Premier Hotel O.R. Tambo
Do you have an early or late flight? Then it’s a good idea to stay near the airport. Premier Hotel O.R. Tambo is the best hotel located right next to the airport. You’ll sleep in a comfortable room, there’s a swimming pool, and in the morning you can enjoy a delicious, extensive breakfast buffet. It’s the perfect choice if you’re traveling onward the next day and don’t have the time or desire to visit Johannesburg.
Low Season
Room starting from $90
High Season
Room starting from $96