Best hotels in South Africa

As the name might give away, this Marriot-managed hotel is just five minutes away from OR Tambo International Airport – and comes complete with a complimentary shuttle service from the terminal. Mostly used by travellers as a comfortable stopover on the way to other destinations in southern Africa, the hotel is well-equipped with all the amenities one might need, from an outdoor pool and spa, sauna and fitness area to a 24-hour restaurant, and good Wi-Fi. The hotel is also close to the Mall of Africa and the Eastgate Shopping Centre should you need to stock up on anything for your travels.

After a complete refurbishment and new ownership, Tulela is both a world away from modern life and thoroughly steeped in luxury – not excessive, but discreet and respectful of its natural surroundings. Discretely tucked in the trees on a bend in the seasonal Ntsiri River on the western edge of the Greater Kruger region, Tulela sits in the Klaserie Private Game Reserve (one of the largest privately owned sanctuaries in South Africa), at the heart of the country's most iconic wildlife area. See the Big Five along with the other major players – wild dog, cheetah, giraffe, and a host of birds.

Narina Lodge is an intimate retreat along the banks of the Sabie River, in the private Lion Sands concession in southern Kruger. It shares an unfenced border with the infamous Sabi Sand region, and the game viewing in this part of South Africa is, quite simply, outstanding. The lodge is beautifully positioned beneath centuries-old riverine trees, and with just nine ultra-luxurious suites, exclusivity is guaranteed. Safari activities are varied, with the freedom to follow the game off road, and explore after dark, but a real highlight is the opportunity to spend a night out in the bush, on a magical treehouse platform with only the stars for company.

Khaya Ndlovu is situated in the Khaya Ndlovu Game Reserve, surrounded by nature, yet a stone’s throw away from Hoedspruit, gateway to the greater Kruger - wildlife haven of the Limpopo Province, South Africa. Khaya directly translates to 'home' or 'haven' in the isiZulu language, one of South Africa’s eleven official languages. It could not be more appropriate for what they represent. They offer a true home away from home experience, where you set the pace of your own holiday, working only to a time-lapse deadline! Offering a variety of rooms to accommodate any African safari traveller. The Leadwood Honeymoon suite is perfect for the romantic couple looking for a luxurious option or travellers that enjoy the finer things in life. The Acacia Family Suite is suitable for a family of 4 or a group of 4 adults who don't mind sharing a bathroom. There are 2 other suites inside the Manor House. There are also garden units available which offers incredible spacious options for any traveller needing to get away from it all. Game drives are conducted on the 5,500 hectare Rietspruit Game Reserve which is home to a huge variety of wildlife with wide-ranging views of the beautiful Drakensberg Mountain Range and Blyde River Canyon.

The Silo is a unique ultra-modern structure which has been transformed from a former grain silo into a magnificent luxurious hotel with a dramatic futuristic feel. This industrial-style marvel of architecture and design is positioned above the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA), home to an ever-changing series of exhibitions, featuring some of Africa’s most talented artists. It's a brand new addition to Cape Town’s iconic skyline in a prime position on the lively V&A Waterfront, with astounding all-round views of the harbour, the City Bowl, and Table Mountain.

Known simply as ‘The Franschhoek’ to many, the friendly team at The Last Word have managed to encapsulate the best of this pretty winelands village into one smart, elegant and beautifully furnished boutique hotel. Hidden in a splendid garden of dazzling bougainvillea and delicate roses just off Franschhoek’s main street, the hotel is as refined and sophisticated as the world-class wineries that surround it. If you’re looking for some soul-seeping tranquillity and a quiet, romantic base amidst the vines then this is the place for you.

Luxurious and perfectly intimate, Lion Sands Ivory Lodge might be small, but it certainly packs a punch. Positioned right on the banks of the Sabie River (it’s one of the few in the area with direct river access) in the private Lion Sands Reserve, the views stretch all the way to the Kruger, and its inhabitants can often be seen trotting past the glass-walled suites and ambling alongside the pool. Interiors are modern, contemporary and elegant (think soothing colour palettes and the highest-spec finishing touches), but most importantly, the lodge is in an area with particularly high numbers of game and birds, including the Big Five – the animals that top everyone’s safari bucket list.

This intimate lodge sits on the edge of a crystal clear lagoon, nestled between the magnificent Overberg Mountains, and the famous whale coast near Hermanus in the Western Cape. Here you will unwind and relax to the sights and sounds of nature at its very best. Secluded luxurious suites offer breath-taking views and there are so many ways to enjoy the spectacular surroundings - from boat cruises and guided nature walks to kayaking, E-biking and whale watching. Mosaic delights with its friendly warmth, sumptuous cuisine and one of the best sunsets along the Garden Route.