Few countries can rival South Africa for variety, where extraordinary wildlife, acclaimed wine estates, spectacular scenery and vibrant cities come together with remarkable ease.
South Africa is a country of remarkable contrasts, where world-class cities, celebrated wine regions, dramatic coastlines and extraordinary wildlife come together within a single destination. Few places offer such variety, allowing travellers to move effortlessly between safari lodges, vineyard estates, mountain landscapes and some of the most beautiful coastal scenery on the continent.
Cape Town remains one of the world's most spectacular urban settings, framed by mountains, ocean and a coastline that stretches towards the Cape Winelands and the Garden Route beyond. Elsewhere, rugged wilderness, historic towns and vibrant cultural influences reveal a country shaped by both its natural beauty and its complex, fascinating history.
Wildlife experiences rank among the finest anywhere in Africa, with private reserves and national parks offering unforgettable encounters with the continent's most iconic species. Across South Africa, luxury safari lodges, boutique hotels, vineyard retreats and coastal hideaways provide exceptional opportunities to experience a destination that continues to reward travellers with its diversity, energy and sense of adventure.
Moments of discovery often become the most memorable part of any journey, whether found through an exceptional hotel, a remarkable landscape or an experience that reveals a destination in a new light. The places that stay with us longest are those that create a genuine sense of connection.
Across islands, coastlines, mountains and vibrant cities, every destination offers its own character and rhythm. Some invite adventure, others encourage slower exploration, but the most rewarding journeys are often those that combine comfort, authenticity and a sense of place.
From luxury hotels and boutique retreats to safari experiences, rail journeys and small-ship voyages, our collection celebrates travel that feels considered, inspiring and memorable long after returning home.
Thakadu River Camp, a luxurious retreat in the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve, offers an intimate safari experience overlooking a serene valley and river. Its elegant tented suites blend sophisticated comfort with the untamed beauty of the African bush. Each air-conditioned tent suite, adorned with mosquito nets, features a private patio with captivating views of the Madikwe landscape, tea-and-coffee facilities, and a well-appointed private bathroom. The family tent suites include an additional sleeper couch, ensuring spacious comfort for groups, all enveloped by the reserve's vibrant wilderness and natural serenity. All-inclusive meals and beverages are served in the communal dining room, with its warm wooden floors and cosy fireplace, perfect for cooler evenings, or guests can opt for room service upon request. The open-plan lounge and outdoor pool provide tranquil spaces to unwind, while the attentive staff arrange rejuvenating massages and laundry services to enhance the refined experience. Twice-daily game drives, guided by expert rangers, offer thrilling Big Five encounters, with guests over six years welcome to join. Located 20 km from Gaberone and a 3.5-hour drive from O.R. Tambo International Airport, with complimentary parking, Thakadu River Camp seamlessly fuses luxurious indulgence with the wild allure of Madikwe's pristine landscapes.
From £365 per night
Thanda Safari, a luxurious retreat 23 km north of Hluhluwe in Zululand, blends romance and exclusivity on a 14,000-hectare Big Five private game reserve. Meaning 'love' in isiZulu, it celebrates Zulu culture and vibrant wildlife. The nine luxury bush suites at Thanda Safari Lodge feature private infinity pools, expansive viewing decks, private salas, lounges, fireplaces, and full bathrooms with indoor and outdoor showers, ensuring refined comfort amidst breathtaking vistas. Villa iZulu, accommodating up to ten guests in five individually decorated suites, offers private decks, a heated pool, boma, library, wine cellar, and a grand deck overlooking a lively waterhole. Thanda Tented Camp, with 15 colonial-style tents, provides an authentic bush experience with en-suite canvas bathrooms, viewing decks, a dining tent, boma, and a 10x5m rim-flow pool, while the Jabula Tent adds a romantic flourish with a king-sized bed, separate lounge, outdoor shower, and splash pool. Culinary masterpieces, crafted with fresh ingredients, are served in private bomas, the dining room, or on scenic decks, paired with selections from the wine cellar or enjoyed in the cigar bar. The award-winning spa, blending Western techniques with ancient Zulu holistic practices, offers rejuvenating treatments, complemented by public facilities like a lounge, library, and private business area. Twice-daily game drives in open vehicles deliver thrilling encounters with the Big Five, over 400 bird species, and cultural experiences like Zulu warrior rituals. Recognised as Africa's Leading Luxury Lodge at the 2013 World Travel Awards, Thanda Safari, located in a low-risk malaria area, offers unmatched hospitality and conservation-focused adventures. Situated in northern Zululand, it provides a soulful fusion of sophisticated luxury and the wild beauty of South Africa's flora, fauna, and cultural heritage.
From £380 per night
Leeu House, an intimate five-star oasis in the heart of Franschhoek village, offers luxurious serenity amidst secluded gardens. Its prime location invites exploration of the Cape Winelands' vibrant attractions. The 12 elegantly appointed rooms and one suite, adorned in soothing neutral tones, feature air-conditioning, espresso machines, minibars, flat-screen televisions, and electronic safes. Luxurious en-suite bathrooms, with marble floors, underfloor heating, double vanity tops, and heated towel rails, ensure refined comfort, blending contemporary sophistication with the tranquil charm of the surrounding valley. The Conservatory restaurant delights with innovative fusion cuisine, crafted from organic, fresh produce, served in an elegant setting that enhances the dining experience. Guests can unwind by the 15-metre outdoor swimming pool or relax in the meticulously landscaped gardens, soaking in the serene ambiance of this private retreat. With a 24-hour front desk and airport shuttles available, Leeu House ensures seamless hospitality. Just 350 metres from the Huguenot Memorial Museum and within walking distance of Franschhoek's art galleries, restaurants, and boutiques, with Cape Town International Airport an hour's drive away, this exquisite haven combines luxurious comfort with the vibrant allure of the Winelands.
From £445 per night
The Cellars-Hohenort, a distinguished five-star retreat in Cape Town's historic Constantia Valley, offers an elegant escape amidst world-renowned gardens and vineyards. Part of The Liz McGrath Collection, it sits in the scenic “Cape Town's Vineyard” region. The 51 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, including a two-bedroom villa and the exclusive three-bedroom Madiba Villa with a dining room, lounge with fireplace, private pool, service kitchen, and bar, feature air-conditioning, smart televisions, seating areas, and breathtaking views of Table Mountain or the lush estate gardens. Each space is adorned with artworks by South African artists, blending sophisticated comfort with cultural richness for a refined stay. The Conservatory restaurant, built around a majestic 300-year-old oak tree, serves exquisite traditional recipes, offering an unforgettable culinary journey, while two award-winning dining venues showcase fresh, local ingredients. The Fresh Wellness Spa, with its holistic approach, provides rejuvenating treatments using indigenous ingredients, featuring a steam room, facial and massage rooms, and manicure and pedicure suites, complemented by two shimmering pools, a gym, and a tennis court. Ideal for weddings and special functions, the hotel's own vineyards enhance its charm, with complimentary parking adding convenience. Located just 4 km from Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden and a 15-minute drive from Cape Town's city centre, The Cellars-Hohenort seamlessly blends luxurious sophistication with the timeless allure of the Constantia Valley's natural and cultural treasures.
From £160 per night
The Oyster Box, a celebrated five-star hotel on KwaZulu-Natal's Umhlanga beachfront, epitomises understated luxury and gracious hospitality. Overlooking the iconic Umhlanga Lighthouse and Indian Ocean, it offers breathtaking coastal vistas. The individually decorated rooms, suites, and villas, part of the Red Carnation Hotel Collection, feature handcrafted furnishings, air-conditioning, and thoughtful amenities, with select units boasting private patios or plunge pools. Each space exudes timeless elegance, blending modern comforts with the serene beauty of the oceanfront setting, perfect for romantic escapes or group retreats. Dining is a highlight, with The Ocean Terrace famed for its curry and seafood buffets, The Grill Room offering sophisticated fine dining, and three distinctive bars: the Oyster Bar, vintage-style Chukka Bar, and rooftop Lighthouse Bar with panoramic ocean views. The award-winning spa, nestled in tropical gardens, complements two shimmering pools, a private cinema, and a well-equipped gym for ultimate relaxation. Steps from Umhlanga Village and the beach, with free private parking and just a 15-minute drive from King Shaka International Airport, The Oyster Box seamlessly blends luxurious sophistication with the vibrant allure of KwaZulu-Natal's coastal charm, ideal for honeymoons, group getaways, and memorable occasions.
From £270 per night
Saseka Tented Camp is the newest lodge at Thornybush, offering a truly unique, luxurious experience in a Big Five nature reserve adjacent to the Kruger National Park. Perched on the seasonal Monwana River, each spacious safari tent overlooks the dry riverbed, where you can expect animal sightings right from the comfort of your own private deck. Designed and decorated by the award winning team of Silvio Rech and Lesley Carstens, Saseka Tented Camp combines natural, sustainable architecture with cutting-edge design, coming together in this truly unique offering. There are eight luxury tents, each with their own private deck and pool - perfect for couples looking for a romantic safari experience, where privacy and comfort are assured. For families or small groups, The Leadwood Villa offers a central lounge and dining area, shared deck and pool, as well as a dedicated safari vehicle.Featuring river views, Saseka Tented Camp provides accommodation with balcony, around 41 km from Orpen Gate. There is an on-site restaurant, plus free private parking and free WiFi are available. This 5-star luxury tent offers private entrance.The units are equipped with air conditioning, a fridge, a minibar, a coffee machine, a walk-in shower, bathrobes and a desk. There is a private bathroom with bath in every unit, along with slippers, a hair dryer and free toiletries. At the luxury tent, all units are equipped with bed linen and towels.A continental, Full English/Irish or American breakfast can be enjoyed at the property. Guests can relax in the in-house bar or lounge.The luxury tent features a sun terrace and an outdoor fireplace.Timbavati Private Nature & Game Reserve is 43 km from Saseka Tented Camp, while Blyde River Canyon is 45 km away.
From £1600 per night