Best hotels in South Africa

Tucked into the foothills of the Swartberg Mountains, Buffelsdrift is a convenient safari pitstop on the Garden Route that delivers proper bushveld atmosphere without the malaria tablets. The lodge hugs a five-hectare waterhole where hippos grunt and terrapins paddle, while giraffe, zebra and buffalo graze the opposite banks. It's more accessible glamping than remote wilderness – just ten minutes from Oudtshoorn and the famous Cango Caves – but that proximity to civilisation is part of its charm. Dawn meerkat safaris, night drives in search of the elusive 'shy five', and encounters with rescued elephants add genuine wildlife credentials, whilst the restaurant dishes up hearty Karoo fare alongside award-winning Route 62 wines. A solid choice for families or anyone wanting to dip their toes into safari life.

Timelessly elegant and deeply inviting, Black Rhino offers a private sanctuary to gather with loved ones and immerse yourself in a truly authentic Cape safari experience, set against the sweeping valleys and mountain vistas of Gondwana Game Reserve.

Embraced by 180-degree views of the majestic Outeniqua mountain range, Black Rhino is poised above a vast valley blanketed in fynbos. This exclusive villa accommodates up to six guests and is fully serviced with its own chef and private field guide. Your time here unfolds entirely to your rhythm, creating the ease and comfort of a second home in the wild.

Picture the scene: your six-year-old whispering excitedly about the elephant tracks they've just spotted, whilst your toddler naps peacefully back at base after an morning of butterfly chasing. This is where families come to create those golden safari memories that'll have the kids boring their university friends senseless years later.

Jonkmanshof. A private escape, nestled in the small and picturesque Klein Karoo town of Montagu. The back drop of captivating mountain views and manicured farm gardens enfold the Cape Dutch style heritage house. Contemporary South African art lives with 18th century Cape furniture in the well preserved and fully restored interiors. Book one of their unique suites or the full house in exclusivity. Chic and elegant with impeccable attention to detail. Our 4 boutique suites each offer a unique experience. Each suite is an unforgettable experience unto itself and are furnished with a mix of carefully selected antiques and contemporary furniture and art. All the bedrooms have remote ceiling fans for the hot summers and down feather duvets, underfloor heating and cashmere blankets for the cold Karoo winters. Jonkmanshof homestead forms part of HEMELHUIJS, the well established design restaurant in Cape Town and voted as one of the best breakfast restaurants in the city. Food and hospitality is at the heart of the experience when staying with them.