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Book a royal stay at the 10 best luxury hotels in South Africa!
South Africa may be known for its stunning landscapes, wildlife, and cultural heritage. However, you can also find here some of the most luxurious hotels you can ever stay in.
I’ve stayed in several, each offering unique comforts and experiences. Some even have historical significance, like suites once occupied by Nelson Mandela!
If you’re looking for elegance, history, or a stay immersed in nature, here are the top luxury hotels you’ll love.
Taj Cape Town
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Address: Wale Street corner Saint Georges Mall, Wale St, Cape Town City Centre
Phone: +27 218 192 000
Check-in Time: 2 p.m.
Check-out Time: 11 a.m.
Website: https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/hotels/taj-cape-town/
Theme: Urban luxury
Taj Cape Town occupies the old South African Reserve Bank and Temple Chambers, both recognised as national monuments, allowing you to stay in not one but two historic buildings!
Its design blends classic Indian influences with Florentine architecture, creating a unique mix of heritage and contemporary comfort.
Plus, this five-star hotel is right in the heart of Cape Town, close to the Company’s Garden and bustling local markets.
With 176 rooms and suites, including Luxury Rooms, Heritage Rooms, and Suites, the hotel offers top-notch comforts like plush bedding, flat-screen TVs, minibars, and spacious bathrooms.
Many rooms boast stunning views of Table Mountain or the lively city streets.
Guests can also enjoy a heated indoor pool, the Jiva Spa, and dining at the Bombay Brasserie.
We spent a night in a Heritage Room, and it was a memorable experience. The space was beautifully furnished, complete with tea and coffee-making facilities. Every time I opened the curtains, I was met with breathtaking views of Table Mountain!
Tip: Book a room on the Taj Club Floor or a suite for perks like private check-in, butler service, complimentary breakfast in the Taj Club Lounge, and evening canapés!
One&Only Cape Town
Media From: oocapetown
Address: Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
Phone: +27 214 315 888
Check-in Time: 2 p.m.
Check-out Time: 11 a.m.
Website: https://www.oneandonlyresorts.com/cape-town
Theme: High-end luxury resort
One&Only Cape Town exudes modern style with a touch of African warmth. It’s an urban escape in the heart of the V&A Waterfront, perfectly placed for exploring the city.
The hotel sits on two private islands, giving you incredible views of Table Mountain and the marina.
The 131 rooms and suites are designed with warm lighting and natural colours. You can pick a spacious room with a great view or go for a suite with a lounge and a big balcony. Either way, comfort and style come standard.
Staying here felt exclusive, with the private islands adding to the sense of tranquillity. The infinity pool was a great place to unwind after a day out. Plus, I was able to enjoy world-class dining at the only Nobu restaurant in South Africa.
Tip: Stop by the Wine Loft for a tasting session featuring over 5,000 South African wines!
Delaire Graff Estate
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Address: Helshoogte Rd
Phone: +27 218 858 160
Check-in Time: 2 p.m.
Check-out Time: 11 a.m.
Website: http://www.delaire.co.za/
Theme: Luxury, art, and nature
Delaire Graff Estate is a five-star hotel set on the slopes of the Helshoogte Pass, offering sweeping views of the Simonsberg Mountains and rolling vineyards. It’s a quiet, luxurious escape in the heart of the Cape Winelands.
With just six Superior Lodges and a four-bedroom Owner’s Villa, privacy is a given.
Each lodge comes with its own infinity pool, so you can take a dip without sharing the space. There’s also a larger outdoor infinity pool if you prefer to swim while soaking in vineyard views.
I once stayed here with my family for a retreat, and the gardens were a real highlight, beautifully landscaped with indigenous plants and striking sculptures. The on-site gallery also showcased an impressive collection from the hotel’s owner, Laurence Graff.
Tip: The only Graff boutique in Africa is in this hotel. You can shop for exquisite jewellery and luxury linens from 100% Capri.
The Silo Hotel
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Address: Silo Square, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
Phone: +27 216 700 500
Check-in Time: 2 p.m.
Check-out Time: 11 a.m.
Website: http://www.theroyalportfolio.com/the-silo-hotel/overview/
Hotel Theme: Art, luxury, and industrial heritage
Stay in the once-tallest building in sub-Saharan Africa, The Silo Hotel. It’s part of the collection of luxury hotels founded by Liz and Phil Biden.
The beauty of staying here is that you’ll get to enjoy a unique blend of history and contemporary design while basking in modern luxury.
With only 28 rooms, the hotel has a private and exclusive feel. You can choose from Silo rooms, luxury suites, or the penthouse, the most premium option.
Each room comes with stylish décor, plush bedding, and en-suite bathrooms with soaking tubs overlooking Table Mountain and the harbour.
I stayed here once during a work conference, and it was a memorable experience. The pillowed glass windows gave the building a distinctive look, making me wonder how the design came about.
After the conference, I unwound at the rooftop pool and bar, taking in Cape Town’s skyline and the breathtaking view of Table Mountain.
Tips:
- Don’t forget to visit the art galleries like The Vault, which includes rotating exhibitions by local artists.
- Take a walk around the hotel to admire Liz Biden’s collection of African art.
Hopewell Private Game Reserve
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Address: R72, Alexandria, Alexendria
Phone: +27 832 813 383
Check-in Time: 2 p.m.
Check-out Time: 11 a.m.
Website: http://www.hopewell-lodge.com/
Theme: Luxury, nature, and conservation
Stay in a thriving wildlife sanctuary at Hopewell Private Game Reserve. This luxury lodge offers an intimate experience in the African bush while supporting conservation and sustainability efforts. By staying here, you’ll be contributing to the protection of endangered species, including a vital cheetah breeding program.
Your accommodation is one of just six exclusive lodges set within 3,000 hectares of untouched wilderness. Each lodge has sweeping views of the reserve and a warm, inviting atmosphere, complete with a fireplace for chilly evenings.
With only a handful of guests at a time, the experience feels personal and unrushed.
I enjoyed two game drives a day, giving me plenty of time to spot elephants, giraffes, and cheetahs without the crowds. As the day wound down, I relaxed in my private plunge pool—an ideal way to soak in the beauty of the bush.
Tip: They also offer night drives, giving you the chance to see nocturnal wildlife and witness how the bush comes alive after dark.
Royal Malewane
Media From: royalmalewane
Address: F5J7+RM Amanda
Phone: +27 157 930 150
Check-in Time: 2 p.m.
Check-out Time: 11 a.m.
Website: https://www.theroyalportfolio.com/royal-malewane/
Theme: Luxury, safari adventure, and conservation
Royal Malewane is another top-notch lodge where you can experience wildlife without giving up modern comforts. Tucked away in the Thornybush Private Game Reserve, this tranquil retreat is surrounded by untouched wilderness.
Accommodation options include six luxury suites, two royal suites, and the exclusive Africa House. Each space comes with a private deck, a plunge pool, and breathtaking views of the bush. You’ll also have access to your personal chef who will prepare your meal using fresh local ingredients!
I stayed at Africa House with my family for two nights, and it was a feast for the senses with its vibrant colours and rich textures.
On the first day, we explored the reserve in a private 4×4 vehicle while our ranger helped us track the black rhino. The second day was all about relaxation, enjoying a massage at the Royal Malewane Bush Spa, and relaxing in the outdoor pool.
Tip: For a family-friendly stay, book Africa House. It includes extra amenities like board games and puzzles to keep the little ones entertained.
Saxon Hotel, Villas & Spa
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Address: 36 Saxon Rd, Sandhurst
Phone: +27 873 757 777
Check-in Time: 2 p.m.
Check-out Time: 11 a.m.
Website: http://www.saxon.co.za/
Theme: Luxury, heritage, and contemporary design
Set within 10 acres of lush gardens, Saxon Hotel offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city. It’s a place teeming with history, as it was a former retreat for Nelson Mandela after his release from prison. It was also where he wrote his autobiography, Long Walk to Freedom.
There are 53 luxurious rooms and suites, including executive luxury rooms, one-bedroom suites, presidential suites, and Nelson Mandela Platinum suites.
All accommodations are equipped with modern amenities, including wide-screen televisions, DVD players, and surround-sound systems.
I love staying here to escape the busy Joburg business district. Plus, it’s linked to major highways and transport, allowing me to reach various parts of the city or nearby attractions.
Whenever I’m tired of city life, I love to hang out in their beautiful garden, allowing me to relax after a day of exploration or meetings.
Tip: Check out the Cigar Lounge in the hotel where you can indulge in a variety of high-quality cigars like
Four Seasons Hotel Westcliff
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Address: 67 Jan Smuts Ave, Westcliff
Phone: +27 114 816 000
Check-in Time: 3 p.m.
Check-out Time: 12 p.m.
Website: https://www.fourseasons.com/johannesburg/
Theme: Modern elegance
Take in breathtaking views of Joburg by staying at the Four Seasons Hotel Westcliff. Perched on a hillside and surrounded by eight acres of landscaped gardens, this five-star hotel offers a peaceful escape from the city’s buzz.
The hotel features 80 rooms, each thoughtfully designed with sleek chrome finishes and locally inspired artwork. Every room comes with top-tier amenities, but what truly stands out is the curated collection of contemporary African art that adds a unique touch to the experience.
For me, this was the perfect spot to unwind in style. It’s home to the city’s only outdoor spa lounge, offering panoramic views of Joburg’s lush urban forest. Plus, the Azure lap pool provided a great way to stay active while enjoying the fresh air.
Tip: Check out the hotel’s activities section for experiences like guided photography tours or scenic running trails within the property.
La Residence
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Address: Elandskloof road, Franschhoek
Phone: +27 218 764 100
Check-in Time: 2 p.m.
Check-out Time: 11 a.m.
Website: https://www.theroyalportfolio.com/la-residence/
Theme: French château
La Residence sits on a private 30-acre estate, surrounded by vineyards and framed by mountain views. Designed like a French château, it features manicured gardens, elegant water features, and an atmosphere of understated luxury.
As part of The Royal Portfolio, it was named one of the world’s best hotels by Condé Nast Traveller in 2024!
The hotel has 16 uniquely styled suites, each offering its own charm. The rooms include double beds, private balconies, en-suite bathrooms, and grand marble four-poster beds. Antique furnishings add a homely touch.
I booked a one-bedroom vineyard suite as a surprise for my wife, and it was the perfect choice. The view over the vineyards made our stay feel effortlessly romantic. With unlimited wine from the hotel’s own vineyard and a gourmet breakfast included, the experience felt truly special.
Tip: The hotel offers bicycles for exploring the estate and nearby Franschhoek village, with recommended scenic routes to soak in the breathtaking surroundings.
Kapama Karula
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Address: Kapama Private Game Reserve, R40, Hoedspruit
Phone: +27 741 336 874
Check-in Time: 2 p.m.
Check-out Time: 11 a.m.
Website: http://www.kapama.com/kapama-karula/
Theme: Elegance and tranquility
For a tranquil yet luxurious retreat, book a stay at Kapama Karula. True to its name, which means “place of peace,” this five-star lodge is designed with whitewashed wood and expansive glass panels to blend seamlessly with nature.
Communal areas like the library, lounge, and dining spaces provide a perfect setting for relaxation while immersing yourself in the surrounding wilderness.
Accommodation includes ten Superior Villas and two Superior Family Villas, each with a private deck and a heated plunge pool. Modern conveniences like a minibar, Nespresso machine, Wi-Fi, and air conditioning ensure a comfortable stay.
There are also floor-to-ceiling glass doors offering uninterrupted views of the Klaserie River and the wildlife beyond!
I stayed here with my family for three days, and it was one of our most memorable trips. We explored the bush on foot, enjoyed game drives to spot the Big Five, and visited nearby villages to experience local culture firsthand.
Tip: Join their photography safari workshop to learn how to capture stunning images of wildlife and landscapes.
