With gorgeous natural wonders, rich cultural heritage, and delicious food, South Africa is a destination one must see when they explore the African continent. Many tourists come here to enjoy safari tours at Kruger National Park. At Boulders Penguin Colony, you can witness penguins in their natural habitat. If you seek to soak in the beauty of the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Point in the southeastern Cape Peninsula is the place to be. Are sightseeing and city walks your cup of tea? You can explore beautiful South African cities, such as Johannesburg, Pretoria, and the country’s oldest city - Cape Town. A fabulous accommodation can level up your vacation experience. If you’re into luxury and comfort, 5-star retreats are perfect for you. To know more, check out this list of the top 5-star hotels in South Africa.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) hotel ratings, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 13, 2024.
1. The Silo Hotel; Cape Town (from USD 1869)
Luxurious and pricey, but worth the splurge for special occasions.
Exceptional rooftop pool/bar, exquisite interior design, and breathtaking views.
Perfect location near V&A Waterfront with easy access to attractions and restaurants.
Delicious breakfast with a variety of items, outstanding hot chocolate, and unique dining experiences.
Immersing vacationers in majestic views of Table Bay Harbour, The Silo Hotel is a waterfront paradise that not only offers stunning scenery but also an Instagram-worthy design. A combination of antique and modern fittings adorn this upscale retreat that was originally a grain elevator in the 20s. Rooms here are individually decorated and are fitted with minibars, soaking tubs, and internet access. Level up your stay by booking the Royal Suite with opulent decor and a private balcony.
Guests will also have access to The Silo Hotel’s shared amenities, including a fitness center, a year-round rooftop pool, and a spa.
The Silo Hotel
Address: Silo Square, V&A Waterfront
2. Days At Sea Beach Lodge; Trafalgar (from USD 208)
Luxurious accommodations with stunning views, though some find the food and drinks to be pricey.
Private access to the beach, infinity pool, and beautiful gardens. Some areas may need renovations.
Superb location with breathtaking ocean views and easy access to the beach.
Excellent breakfast and dinner, though some find the food to be overpriced for the quality.
A paradise for sunseekers, Days At Sea Beach Lodge is a beachfront retreat that makes guests fall in love with the beauty of the Indian Ocean. The hotel’s elegant design blends well with the verdant surroundings. From dipping in the outdoor pool to availing of spa services, pleasurable activities are in store for guests. You might also want to try, fishing, snorkeling, and horseback riding while here.
The air-conditioned accommodations are blessed with sea views and are equipped with flat-screen TVs and WiFi for in-room entertainment.
3. The Houghton Hotel, Spa, Wellness & Golf; Johannesburg (from USD 202)
Great value for money, especially for the spacious rooms and luxurious amenities.
Impressive range of amenities, including a spa, pool, and golf course.
Quiet and serene location, perfect for attending events or exploring nearby attractions.
Delicious and varied dining options, with attentive and courteous staff.
The Houghton Hotel, Spa, Wellness & Golf nestles in Johannesburg offers a wide range of modern-day pleasures. Here, you may expect fabulous rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, sophisticated furnishings, and ensuite baths with posh soaking tubs.
Indoor and outdoor pools are available at the property. If you’re not in the mood for a swim, some rounds of golf might interest you. Don’t forget to try the delectable dishes at the in-house eateries or the full-body massage at the spa.
4. Mantis No5 Boutique Art Hotel; Port Elizabeth (from USD 163)
Luxurious but overpriced, with spacious suites and excellent dining options.
Large rooms, beautiful art collection, spa, cinema, and gym facilities.
Conveniently close to the beach and Boardwalk Mall, with a secure and peaceful environment.
Delicious breakfast and dinner, with exceptional service and friendly staff.
A short stroll from Mantis No5 Boutique Art Hotel can take you to Hobie Beach, making this hotel the perfect home base for beach aficionados. Although, you should be warned - with this retreat’s stylish design and world-class amenities, you might not want to leave the premises. The outdoor pool invites guests to a refreshing swim, perfect for hot summer days. The spa offers beauty services, from facials to nail care, ensuring that you look your best while on a holiday. Instagram-savvy foodies will love The Jazz Room, which not only offers delicious dishes but also visually pleasing details that are a feast for the eyes.
Should you need an extra pair of hands with the kids, don’t hesitate to avail of babysitting services.
Mantis No5 Boutique Art Hotel
Address: 5 Brighton Drive, Summerstrand
South Africa Tour Guide
Thabang Molefe
My name is Thabang Molefe, Director/ Owner of Tsalanang Travel & Tours. I’m a qualified National Tourist Guide in South Africa, born and breast fed in Johannesburg. I have worked in the sports & events industry where I discovered my passion for traveling, and later worked with some of the TOP destination management/operators in South Africa. I love meeting people, and exchangin... Read more
Tours by Thabang
South Africa Tour Guide
Jakes
Jakes is registered and accredited with FET Certificate Tourist Guiding. He is competent to advise clients on all essential aspects of travel in South Africa having passed the SA Specialist course from South African Tourism. As a good story teller, he makes any historical situation or site come to life; and this is what makes him to stand out as a knowledgeable and exciting guide. “I’m always a... Read more
Tours by Jakes
5. Turbine Hotel & Spa; Thesen Islands (from USD 119)
Set on the banks of Knysna River canals, Turbine Hotel & Spa is a scenic retreat with gorgeous views of Knysna Lagoon. Guests love chilling on the hotel’s expansive deck with a swimming pool and the best view of the area. The in-house restaurant’s Italian fares will take you to Europe without leaving South Africa. A full body massage, facials, and a manicure at the spa should be included in your plans.
In terms of design, Turbine Hotel & Spa is tastefully curated with a combination of industrial and modern influences. Wooden floors, brick details, and exposed metal rails are integral parts of the hotel’s aesthetics.
Turbine Hotel & Spa
Address: TH36 Sawtooth Lane, Thesen Islands
6. Riboville Boutique Hotel And Restaurant; Johannesburg (from USD 227)
If relaxation, bliss, and luxury are your top priorities, Riboville Boutique Hotel And Restaurant is the perfect home away from home for you. The hotel nestles in a country setting on an equestrian property. Its location affords you a convenient distance from the hustle and bustle of downtown Johannesburg.
Here, you’ll sleep in charming accommodations with rustic finishes, brick accents, and floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook serene landscape views. Room service will make you feel like a VIP. You can indulge yourself at the spa or at the main restaurant, where gourmet local and international fares take center stage.
Riboville Boutique Hotel And Restaurant
Address: Cnr R55 & Maxwell Drive, Waterfall Equestrian Estate, Waterfall City, Johannesburg
7. Menlyn Boutique Hotel; Pretoria (from USD 131)
Menlyn Boutique Hotel is a fashionable hotel set in a modernist abode. It is within walking distance of Menlyn Park Shopping Center and also has on-site attractions for guests who prefer to stay on the premises. Feel free to enjoy some laps in the outdoor pool, stretch in the fully equipped gym, or spoil yourself with massages at the spa.
Guests who are into cooking can book an apartment fitted with a well-appointed kitchen. Those who want to stay away from the kitchen can benefit from the on-site restaurant, which is operational from breakfast to dinner.
Menlyn Boutique Hotel
Address: 209 Tugela Road, Ashlea Gardens
8. Endless Horizons Boutique Hotel; Durban (from USD 155)
Endless Horizons Boutique Hotel wears its 5-star status like a badge of honor. The fabulous retreat showcases an elegant interior design curated with neutral colors and wooden finishes. From a fitness center to an infinity pool, the hotel is packed with wellness facilities that ensure a soulfully relaxing experience.
Endless Horizons Boutique Hotel is also close to the beach, which can be reached by a short drive. In fact, you can admire picture-perfect ocean scenery from many parts of the hotel, especially from the pool terrace.
Endless Horizons Boutique Hotel
Address: 108 Umhlanga Rocks Drive
9. Batavia Boutique Hotel; Stellenbosch (from USD 128)
Are you a traveler with a deep appreciation for luxury? Batavia Boutique Hotel will surely impress you. Nestled in a 19th-century building and equipped with contemporary pleasures, this refined hotel offers the best of the past and present. From the intricate chandeliers and the brass details to the rustic finishes, the interior is packed with visually pleasing accents. Select rooms have soaking tubs that level up guests’ bathing experience.
One of Batavia Boutique Hotel’s main attractions is the outdoor pool, which is a year-round playground for water lovers.
10. Mosselberg on Grotto Beach; Hermanus (from USD 184)
Is Hermanus your destination in South Africa? You might consider making Mosselberg on Grotto Beach your home away from home. This luxurious retreat nestles in an affluent beach community and offers accommodations with a view. While the beach can be reached on foot, the swimming pool with cascade details urges guests to stay. This beachfront boutique retreat offers other activities as well, such as watersports, aerobics, walking tours, and horseback riding.
Spa and beauty services are offered at Mosselberg on Grotto Beach, delighting guests who are into wellness. The expansive sun deck offers alfresco dining.
Mosselberg on Grotto Beach
Address: 253a, Tenth street, Voelklip
Enjoy a luxurious vacation in South Africa
From breathtaking natural attractions to luxurious retreats, South Africa has everything a tourist seeks. If you want the best of the best for your accommodation, this list of the top 5-star hotels in South Africa will definitely come in handy. Use it as your guide for choosing the perfect home away from home.
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