Best hotels in South Africa

Perched within the wilds of the Lalibela Wildlife Reserve, this five-star retreat proves that sometimes the best view in the house belongs to the hippos. Built from local stone and thatch, the lodge sits beside a bustling waterhole that serves as nature's own theatre. Elephants lumber down for their evening tipple whilst you sip yours at the cocktail bar, and the hippos provide a rather unconventional but thoroughly entertaining soundtrack to dinner. The interiors strike that delicate balance between safari nostalgia and contemporary comfort - think carved wooden sculptures alongside plush sofas that invite you to sink in and stay awhile.

Some properties promise you'll feel at one with nature – this one actually delivers by hoisting you up into the canopy itself. Constructed entirely within the embrace of towering indigenous trees, this luxury tented camp offers five canvas suites that quite literally give you a bird's-eye-view of the world below. The elevated walkways connecting each pavilion make you feel rather like you're navigating some wonderfully sophisticated treehouse village, whilst the active waterhole visible from the main deck provides endless entertainment courtesy of the local wildlife. It's particularly beloved by serious birders who come hoping to spot the rather splendid Knysna Turaco - an emerald-green beauty that's notoriously camera-shy but absolutely worth the wait.

The ethos of Sederkloof Lodge is the tranquil enjoyment that the spectacular Baviaanskloof, World Heritage Site, in the Eastern Cape, South Africa, offers. The lodge consists of 6 luxury stone-and-glass hideaways in the mountains, with communal lounge and dining areas, pool and bar facilities. Guests can enjoy complete privacy in their chalet and a view of the gorge and mountain unimpaired by other human artifacts. The Lodge is situated a short walk from the luxurious mountain chalets, spectacularly located on the edge of another gorge with glorious views of the Baviaanskloof mountains.

River Lodge is a unique lodge built on the banks of the Bushmans River and comprises 10 superbly appointed spacious thatched suites. Inside the Lodge guests can find a quiet spot in one of the lounges, page through a book in the library, relax at the pool or take in the magnificent views from the deck overhanging the river. Guests can also be pampered in the beautiful Sala with a range of spa treatments. Special activities include boating, canoeing, fishing and daily boat trips to the Kenton beaches.

This simply self-catering beach accommodation puts you only 50m from the world famous Supertubes beach and surf spot. The used-to-be backpackers, originally known as Surfpackers, is now the laid back accommodation that feels like a home away from home. It offers seven basic twin, double and family en-suite rooms that are serviced daily. An open plan kitchen, lounge and entertainment area (featuring a pool table and indoor braai) is shared by the rooms in the house.

This beach house boasts uninterrupted views of the ocean and mountains. Due to its prime location, some of the world’s top surfers choose to stay here, right on Jeffreys Bay’s infamous surf spot, “Supertubes”. Whilst a delicious full breakfast is included at the restaurant every morning, self-catering facilities at African Perfection 2 combine luxury beach accommodation and the comforts of home.

After the day's safari with the family, enjoy the "African Feel" at the Schotia Bush Lodges All set within dense subtropical thicket, with a rustic-brick look and thatched roofs, these family-friendly lodges provide comfort that you would expect of a top class reserve - they are all en suite with a shower/bathroom with running hot and cold water and coffee/tea making facilities.

African Perfection 1 is directly on Supertubes, South Africa’s best wave. This luxury accommodation in Jeffreys Bay hosts guests from all over the world who choose to stay here because of the fantastic views and proximity to the ocean. The classically styled bed and breakfast offers eight en-suite rooms, individually decorated with a distinct and celebrated African sentiment. Featuring private balconies with epic views of the right-hand surf point, Supertubes, African Perfection 1 is ideal for guests who prefer a quiet, exclusive getaway.

Affectionately known as Sandy’s Spot, 41 Mimosa is a multi-level, self-catering holiday home with phenomenal views of the ocean and mountains that make Jeffreys Bay beautiful. There are two options when booking this house. It can be booked as a 3 bedroom house that sleeps 6 guests (4 adults and 2 children), or a 5 bedroom house that sleeps 10 guests comfortably (8 adults and 2 children). The house is on a large property with a pool, surfboard rack and outdoor shower. It’s completely enclosed, so perfectly pet-friendly and has an electric gate and alarm system. Parking is inside the property, up a steep driveway.

Dating back to the early 1900s, Long Hope Villa is a beautifully-restored Eastern Cape farmhouse. Situated in a remote location within Addo Elephant Park, the villa offers an exclusive safari experience. Original wooden floors and farmhouse doors capture the old-world charm, while three luxury bedrooms, each with walk-in wardrobe and spacious charming bathroom add to the home-away-from-home appeal. Luxuries such as percale linen, soft furnishings and even a Pillow Library ensure a sumptuous stay. Relax in one of the lounges, or put your feet up in the TV room, as you take in the comforts of your accommodation. Enjoy a cocktail at the bar while your personal chef whips up delicious meals in the kitchen - you may even join in with the preparations if you wish! You'll be surrounded by unique Eastern Cape bushveld while you enjoy a swim in the private pool or sit alongside a fire under the star scattered sky. Long Hope Villa makes an ideal safari destination for families or small groups. Your private game ranger will ensure you have a truly memorable Addo experience - even specialist birding and photography safaris are on offer.