Written by Justin Mewse
February 2023 (Updated February 2025)
Why do we love South Africa so much? It’s like discovering a whole ‘world’ within just one country’. The landscapes are diverse, as are the types of holiday you can enjoy there.
…And then there are the luxury hotels and lodges. Each and every first-class stay we’ve featured on this specially curated collection of recommended holiday escapes boast fabulous locations, high-end attentive service and supreme comforts.
Recommended Luxury Safari Stays
Luxury safari stays offer discerning travellers an unparalleled experience, combining gorgeously authentic accommodations, personalised service, and exclusive game drives amidst the captivating wilderness of Africa.
Mhondoro Safari Lodge & Villa, Limpopo Region
Mhondoro Safari Lodge & Villa is a luxurious, five-star private safari lodge and villa situated within the malaria-free Welgevonden Game Reserve in the Waterberg District of the Limpopo Province in South Africa. In an under three-hour drive or a one hour flight from Johannesburg, you can escape into this ideal safari destination to experience the magic of the Big 5 at home here in the African bush.
Shamwari Private Game Reserve, Eastern Cape
A stay at Shamwari Private Game Reserve is one that will remain with you forever. Due to its location in the heart of the Eastern Cape, the reserve offers abundant wildlife, fauna and flora exclusive to the area and unforgettable encounters with nature. Accommodations here range from premier lodges that offer gracious living and luxury explorer tented camps through to private villas.
Gorah Elephant Camp, Eastern Cape
A stay at Shamwari Private Game Reserve is one that will remain with you forever. Due to its location in the heart of the Eastern Cape, the reserve offers abundant wildlife, fauna and flora exclusive to the area and unforgettable encounters with nature. Accommodations here range from premier lodges that offer gracious living and luxury explorer tented camps through to private villas.
Simbambili Game Lodge, Kruger National Park
Simbambili Game Lodge is located in the northern part of the world-famous Sabi Sand Game Reserve in the Greater Kruger Park, an area renowned for its game viewing and prolific leopard sightings. Set amongst the old Knobthorns and Jackalberries, Simbambili offers sophisticated safari accommodation that echoes its unspoilt landscape. The lodge overlooks a waterhole so you’d be hard pressed to leave when you can watch a herd of elephants come down to drink or warthogs playing in the mud.
Saseka Tented Camp, Kruger National Park
Perched on a bend of the seasonal Monwana River, Saseka Tented Camp is one of the most sought-after luxury safari destinations in the Greater Kruger Park area. Saseka means ‘beautiful’ in the local Tsonga language, and everything here from the tented suites to the relaxed atmosphere, the food and personal service, is just that.
Recommended Luxury Garden Route Stays
Luxury Garden Route stays enchant travellers with indulgent accommodations, breathtaking coastal views, and bespoke experiences that immerse guests in the natural beauty and charm of this iconic South African journey.
Tsala Treetop Lodge, Between Knysna and Plettenberg Bay
Ideally situated between the coastal towns of Knysna and Plettenberg Bay in the Western Cape, Tsala is a wonderful location from which to explore the beautiful Garden Route or just to spend time relaxing at the peaceful lodge. The magical allure of Tsala is irresistible to those who appreciate exclusivity, fine fare, romance and adventure. With beautiful private suites and villas, breathtaking views and forest seclusion, unique architectural design and excellent personal service, it is a fantastic get-away destination.
Hunter’s Country House, Between Knysna and Plettenberg Bay
Hunters Country House combines gracious elegance with sheer comfort and impeccable service with warm hospitality. Far from the madding crowd, yet conveniently close to a wide variety of leisure activities. Enjoy each of Hunter’s Country House luxurious room types, all individually designed and decorated with its own distinctive atmosphere. All have private patios and gardens, while certain suites have their own plunge pools. Guests staying at Hunter’s Country House have access to all the fantastic facilities available, when you’re not out exploring the wonderful Garden Route. You can soak up the sun, shop, read, enjoy a glass of wine or share their adventures with your family and friends.
Fancourt, Between Mossel Bay and Knysna
Fancourt, South Africa’s award-winning golf resort, is situated in the heart of the spectacular Garden Route, 7km from George Airport (GRJ). Spanning across 613 hectares of countryside at the foot of the Outeniqua Mountains, Fancourt offers an unforgettable experience. The resort boasts two five-star hotels, the Fancourt Hotel and The Manor House Boutique Hotel.
The Turbine Boutique Hotel & Spa, Knysna
A boutique 5 star hotel on Thesen Islands which offers guests luxurious Knysna accommodation options, exceptional cuisine, stunning views, and a range of world-class facilities. The Turbine Hotel & Spa was an ambitious project which transformed an old power station into a unique 5 star boutique Knysna hotel. All the old machinery which was used in this power station has been lovingly restored and forms an integral part of the hotel’s aesthetics. Soak up its fascinating history as you walk past massive turbines on the balcony and marvel at the intriguing steel pillars and pipes that now form part of its funky décor.
Recommended Luxury Cape Winelands Stays
Luxury Cape Winelands stays provide an exquisite escape, combining elegant vineyard accommodations, gourmet dining, and exclusive wine tastings, offering guests an unforgettable immersion into the enchanting world of South Africa’s premier wine region.
Last Word Franschhoek
Last Word Franschhoek is the best hotel in Franschhoek for independent, savvy travellers. Explore South Africa’s gourmet capital from this 5-star boutique hotel on Huguenot Road, mere heartbeats away from some of the world’s most celebrated eateries. Discover classic, understated elegance in one of the eight lavishly appointed, spacious en-suite Superior Rooms and two sumptuous Pool Suites. The latter, replete with sparkling semi-private plunge pool and leafy courtyard, ideal for rejuvenating moments that are solely yours.
Oude Werf Hotel & Restaurant, Stellenbosch
As the oldest running hotel in South Africa, with a history spanning three centuries, Oude Werf offers a unique blend of modern luxury and vintage charm, providing guests with an unforgettable experience. Guest rooms boast chic antique style and modern amenities, creating a warm and intimate atmosphere that is designed with your comfort in mind. Located in the heart of Stellenbosch on Church Street, the hotel is the perfect starting point for exploring the town’s world-class restaurants, trendy cafe’s, boutique shops and famous vineyards.
Recommended Luxury City & Suburban Stays
Luxury Cape Winelands stays provide an exquisite escape, combining elegant vineyard accommodations, gourmet dining, and exclusive wine tastings, offering guests an unforgettable immersion into the enchanting world of South Africa’s premier wine region.
Last Word Constantia, Cape Town
Last Word Constantia in South Africa’s first-ever wine region and Cape Town’s sophisticated suburb of Constantia, is a hidden gem. This 5-star boutique hotel’s backyard is a patchwork quilt of noble estates under vines, as steeped in beauty as in historic value, and home to a literal feast of gastronomic delights to boot.
Last Word Long Beach, Cape Town
Imagine endless beach views, fresh air and inspiration on tap in nature’s playground, yours to explore. The Atlantic Ocean sparkles at your feet, inviting you to linger longer, and savour the extraordinary. The incredible seascapes captivate your imagination as swim, surf, stand-up paddling boarding, or stroll along the shore, a shimmering white beach.
Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa, Johannesburg
Set among lush acres of landscaped gardens you`ll find an urban sanctuary right in the heart of Joburg. With close attention to detail and exceptional service, Fairlawns creates an intimate atmosphere where some of the globe’s most vibrant personalities converge. The chic, upscale suites are individually decorated in varying themes ranging from Eastern influence to French provincial, each featuring every desired modern amenity.
Recommended Luxury Tour Itineraries
We’ve delved into the holiday porfolio from a number of our favourite Africa travel experts and found what we believe are the best trips you can book for those those seeking glamour, attention to detail and first-class service and hospitality.
14-Day KwaZulu-Natal in a Nutshell
Experience the best of KwaZulu-Natal on this luxurious two-week self-drive tour. Stay at the iconic Oyster Box, explore the breathtaking Drakensberg Mountains, uncover battlefield history at Rorke’s Drift, enjoy thrilling safaris in Manyoni Game Reserve, and relax in beachfront luxury on the stunning Dolphin Coast.
** Delightful accommodation stays **
From £4,719pp
Operated by African Pride
- Stay at the iconic Oyster Box in uMhlanga Rocks, overlooking the Indian Ocean
- Hike through the dramatic Drakensberg Mountains from your base at Cathedral Peak
- Explore the battlefields of Spioenkop and Rorke’s Drift with expert guides
- Experience thrilling safaris in Manyoni Game Reserve, spotting the Big Five
- Unwind on the Dolphin Coast with three nights of beachfront luxury at Sala Beach House
- 1 night The Oyster Box, uMhlanga Rocks on a Bed & Breakfast basis
- 2 nights Cathedral Peak, Drakensberg Mountains on a Full Board basis
- 1 night Three Tree Hill, Spioenkop on a Full Board basis
- 2 nights Fugitive’s Drift, Rorke’s Drift on a Full Board basis
- 2 nights Leopard Mountain Safari Lodge, Manyoni Game Reserve on a Fully-Inclusive basis
- 3 nights Sala Beach House, Dolphin Coast on a Bed & Breakfast basis
- Activities as included by the lodges or camps
- Community and Conservation fees as included at lodges or camps
- Group C car hire
- Return international flights
- ABTA & ATOL protected
14-Day Cape Coast Self-Drive
This 14-day self-drive tour covers Cape Town, the Cape Winelands, the Garden Route, and a malaria-free safari in the Eastern Cape. Enjoy city exploration, wine tasting, scenic drives, and an exhilarating Big 5 safari in Shamwari, with luxury stays at boutique accommodations and private game reserves.
** Big 5 safari in Shamwari Private Game Reserve **
From £5,300pp
Including flights
Operated by Mahlatini
- Explore Cape Town’s iconic sights, including Table Mountain and Boulder’s Beach, while staying at Kensington Place
- Enjoy wine tasting and fine dining in the Cape Winelands, based at the exclusive Leeu Estates
- Drive along the scenic Garden Route, staying at Kanonkop House with views of Knysna Lagoon
- Experience a Big 5 safari at Shamwari Private Game Reserve
- Stay at the luxurious Shamwari Bayethe Lodge, enjoying game drives, nature walks, and sundowners
- Visit the Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre and Born Free Big Cat Sanctuaries for a behind-the-scenes look at conservation efforts
- 4 nights Kensington Place, Cape Town on a Bed & Breakfast basis
- 2 nights Leeu House, Winelands on a Bed & Breakfast basis
- 4 nights Kanonkop House, Knysna on a Bed & Breakfast basis
- 3 nights Bayethe Tented Lodge, Shamwari Private Game Reserve, Shamwari Game Reserve on an All-Inclusive basis
- All scheduled safari activities at Shamwari Bayethe
- Conservation donation to Save the Rhino
- Community projects contribution with Uthando
- Group C car hire
- Return international flights
- ATOL protected
17-Day South African Rail Discovery
Explore South Africa in luxury aboard Rovos Rail’s ‘Pride of Africa.’ Enjoy a leisurely 12-night All-Inclusive tour, visiting Pretoria, Spioenkop, Oudtshoorn, Cape Town, and renowned game reserves. Extend your journey with stays at Victoria Falls, Chobe National Park, or Cape Town’s stunning coastline.
** SAVE up to £200pp **
From £7,795pp
Including flights
Operated by Distant Journeys
- Travel in luxury aboard the Rovos Rail, offering a unique rail experience across South Africa
- Explore the iconic Kruger National Park, home to the Big Five and diverse wildlife
- Visit Spionkop for historical insights and battlefield tours
- Discover Bloemfontein, known for its cultural and historical significance
- Enjoy a safari adventure at Addo Elephant National Park, famous for its elephant population
- Experience the scenic beauty and outdoor activities in the charming coastal town of Knysna
- 1 night Irene Country Lodge, Pretoria on a Bed & Breakfast basis
- 1 night Fancourt Hotel & Resort, Knysna on a Full Board basis
- 1 night Camps Bay Retreat, Cape Town on a Bed & Breakfast basis
- 12 nights Rovos Rail on an All-Inclusive basis
- Sightseeing tour in Durban
- Game drives in Kruger National Park, Hluhluwe-Imfolozi National Park, Spionkop Game Reserve and Addo Game Reserve
- Visit the Spionkop battlefields
- Explore Knysna Lagoon
- Visit an Ostrich farm
- Explore the Cango Caves
- Transfers
- Return international flights
- ATOL protected
14-Day Cape Town to Kruger: Luxury South African Rail Journey
Experience South Africa on this two-week luxury adventure from Cape Town to Kruger. Explore the city’s history, visit Robben Island, see African penguins on the Cape Peninsula, and enjoy Cape Winelands wine tasting. Travel aboard the Rovos Rail before ending with a thrilling Big Five safari in Sabi Sands.
** Ride aboard the luxurious Rovos Rail **
From £13,800pp
Including flights
Operated by Audley
- Discover Cape Town’s history and culture on a private walking tour and Robben Island visit
- See African penguins and stroll through the Kirstenbosch Gardens on a Cape Peninsula tour
- Spend a day wine tasting in the Cape Winelands
- Journey across South Africa aboard the Rovos Rail, visiting lesser-known areas of the country
- End with a Big Five safari in the Sabi Sands Wildtuin private reserve, bordering the Kruger
- 4 nights Cape Grace, Cape Town
- 1 night Saxon Boutique Hotel & Spa, Johannesburg
- 3 nights Sabi Sabi Selati Lodge, Sabi Sands Game Reserve
- 3 nights Rovos Rail
- Activities as detailed in the itinerary
- Transfers
- Return international flights
- ATOL protected
16-Day Enigmatic Wildlife Small Group Tour
This wildlife journey through South Africa’s Northern Cape showcases rare mammals, birds, and reptiles across diverse landscapes. From nocturnal safaris in Marrick to Augrabies Falls, Namaqualand’s floral wonders, and Cape Town’s rich biodiversity, expect unforgettable encounters with nature’s most elusive and fascinating creatures.
** Exceptionally guided with unparalleled expertise **
From £6,885pp
Including flights
Operated by Rainbow Tours
- Enjoy night drives to spot rare nocturnal mammals like aardvark and black-footed cat
- Explore Mokala National Park, home to rare antelope and Kalahari birdlife
- Witness Augrabies Falls and search for unique reptiles and elusive wildlife
- Discover Namaqualand’s floral wonders and coastal ecosystems in Port Nolloth
- Exceptional guiding and unparalleled expertise
- Accommodation and meals as specified in the itinerary
- Activities and excursions as specified in the itinerary
- Transfers
- Return international flights
- ATOL protected
11-Day Extraordinary South Africa
Experience incredible wildlife, immersive adventures, and fine wine on this extraordinary South African journey. Enjoy stylish safaris, paddleboarding along Cape Town’s rugged coast, and world-class dining in the breathtaking Winelands. With every moment unforgettable, you’ll leave craving a return to this spectacular destination.
** Delve Into the Wilderness of the Makalali Conservancy **
From £4,500pp
Including flights
Operated by Scott Dunn
- Spend a night under the stars as you fall asleep in a four-poster bed on Garonga’s sleep-out deck, overlooking a waterhole
- Delve into the wilderness of the Makalali Conservancy, tracking animals in an open-top safari vehicle
- Paddle in the Atlantic Ocean on SUP’s, as you explore the coastline surrounding Boulders Beach in Cape Town and observe penguins and seals
- Delight your taste buds with mouth-watering cuisine and world-class wines in Franschhoek
- Unforgettable cutting-edge hotels, experiences and restaurants with a focus on design, fashion and innovation
- 5 nights 4* Garonga Safari Camp
- 3 nights 5* Kensington Place
- 2 nights 5* Leeu House
- Activities as detailed in the itinerary
- Private English-speaking local guides
- Private transfers
- Return international flights
- ATOL protected
Find My Perfect Holiday Destination
By using our intelligent search tool, we will present you with a tailored list of destinations based on your requirements.
From the European beaches of Antalya and Majorca or the Caribbean sands of Barbados to the culture and cuisine of Thailand or majestic scenery of the Canadian Rockies, we’ve well over 400 destinations to inspire you.
Holiday Inspiration Delivered To Your Inbox
Sign-up to the Inspire My Holiday newsletter for the following…
* Receive details of the latest offers – plus savings that are exclusive to our subscribers
* Be the first to hear about some amazing competitions with truly incredible prizes
* Keep abreast of the hottest travel trends
* Discover outside-the-norm holiday ideas
* Discover articles, blogs & travel guides to your next getaway