South Africa is a country where you can wake up in the savannah, spend the day among vineyards or on safari, and enjoy a coffee in the evening with a view of the ocean. It’s one of the most diverse states in Africa: home to a dozen cultures, with 11 official languages spoken, and a warmth towards travellers that feels genuinely rare.
To explore this rich and varied country in comfort, choosing the right hotel is essential — not just a place to sleep, but somewhere to truly connect with the spirit of South Africa. We've selected 6 standout hotels and lodges which, in Scenario Travel’s opinion, reflect the many sides of the country: its wine heritage, colonial history, wild landscapes, and contemporary art scene.
The Vineyard
Cape Town
From $300
The Vineyard is not just a hotel — it’s a story two centuries in the making. Founded in 1800 and located near the picturesque eastern slopes of Table Mountain, it preserves its historical legacy while blending it with modern comfort and eco-conscious initiatives.
The hotel offers 5 room categories, where elegant contemporary design is enhanced by luxurious touches. Many rooms feature a balcony or terrace with stunning views of the surroundings. Set within lush gardens inhabited by charming tortoises — residents since the 1980s and now a symbol of The Vineyard — the hotel offers a serene atmosphere and a strong connection with nature.
A scenic walking trail begins right at the hotel’s main entrance, leading across the historic Liesbeek River and offering beautiful views of Table Mountain.
Marataba Mountain Lodge
Marakele National Park
From $900
A peaceful and luxurious retreat tucked away in the heart of the majestic Waterberg Mountains, within Marakele National Park. This lodge is truly exclusive, with only five suites available.
Each luxury suite is a cosy yet refined space with stunning views over the Waterfall Valley. The minimalist architecture and Scandinavian-inspired design are reflected in the clean wooden furnishings and natural colour palette. Eco-friendly and fully powered by solar energy, the lodge is seamlessly integrated into its natural surroundings.
Guests are offered a private safari vehicle and a certified FGASA guide who will introduce you to the region’s wildlife. All in all, it’s the ideal escape for those seeking to disconnect and experience the wild in complete privacy.
Monwana Game Lodge
Thornybush Nature Reserve
From $2,230
On the border of the legendary Kruger National Park lies Monwana Game Lodge — a contemporary safari lodge, recognised as the best in Africa and ranked among the world’s top 25 hotels by Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards.
It’s set within the Thornybush Nature Reserve — a private 14,000-hectare wilderness area. Easily accessible via direct flights from Cape Town and Johannesburg, the lodge features just six luxury suites and a private residence. Each suite is unique and fully equipped for a comfortable stay, complete with a private terrace and pool.
Guests can watch wildlife right from the main lodge, which overlooks a waterhole. Experienced guides lead safaris through the savannah, where you can encounter members of the Big Five, rare birds, and ancient geological landscapes.
The Silo Hotel
Cape Town
From $1,500
This hotel feels more like a contemporary art museum — and quite literally sits on top of one! The Silo Hotel occupies six floors of a former grain silo building, the rest of which houses the Zeitz MOCAA — home to the largest collection of contemporary African art on the continent (entry to the museum is included in your stay).
Here you’ll meet young South African creatives and international travellers with a passion for art. Each of the 28 rooms and suites has its own distinctive style and atmosphere, but what most guests remember are the bathrooms — featuring Tiffany-blue wardrobes, black-and-white striped floors, and bathtubs positioned right by panoramic windows.
Don’t miss the rooftop pool with 360-degree views of the city — it’s like swimming in a glass aquarium.
One&Only Cape Town
V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
From $1,000
One of Cape Town’s most prestigious addresses, One&Only Cape Town offers a quiet, luxurious retreat on the stylish Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. With views of the marina and Table Mountain, refined interiors, the world-renowned Nobu restaurant and a private island spa, this hotel is all about indulgence.
Accommodation ranges from classic rooms to suites and private residences. All are elegant and spacious, decorated in warm tones with contemporary artworks, and feature balconies with views of either the mountain or the waterfront. For those seeking seclusion, there are exclusive two-storey penthouses with butler service.
It’s the perfect place for guests who want exceptional service, proximity to the city centre, and a sense of privacy. Picture this: breakfast by the water, a stroll through boutiques, and an evening in the Wine Studio, offering a curated selection of local wines and a tasting menu by the chef — a flawless day in Cape Town.
Belmond Mount Nelson
Cape Town
From $1,000
The iconic pink hotel that has charmed guests since 1899 — and celebrated its 125th anniversary in 2024!
Belmond Mount Nelson takes place between the slopes of Table Mountain and the heart of Cape Town. Notable past guests include Winston Churchill, John Lennon, and Nelson Mandela. Designed in Victorian style, the hotel offers luxurious rooms full of elegant touches: four-poster beds, Venetian mirrors, cosy fireplaces, and balconies overlooking manicured gardens.
There are also 8 exclusive historic cottages nestled within a rose garden — ideal for groups seeking privacy and tranquillity.
Traditional afternoon tea, antique lifts, artwork on the walls and a calm, refined atmosphere make this the perfect place for lovers of classic charm.
South Africa has a unique way of surprising you — and these hotels offer the best way to experience its spirit.
Get in touch with us — and the Scenario Travel team will help you choose the ideal hotels for your journey or write a bespoke scenario: safari, helicopter tours, wine tastings, hot air balloon flights, whale watching, and much more.
Explore on your travels with us
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