The widest selection of unusual accommodations in South Africa

A cabin, a lighthouse, a glamping, your extraordinary stay awaits you

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South Africa unique stays
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7283 Unique places to stay in South Africa

Best family friendly South Africa unique stays

Among the 7283 accommodations in South Africa, here are the 4 best family friendly unique accommodations

The Hamlet - South Africa
9.3 127 reviews

The Hamlet

farm, Swellendam
The Hamlet is a farm stay located just 1.6km from the Swellendam Golf Course and 4.2km from the Drostdy Museum, making it ideal for exploring the town and its surrounding attractions. The property has consistently received excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness and overall experience.
This one-bedroom farm stay offers 64 square metres of space and can accommodate up to 3 guests. Amenities include a private entrance, a terrace, a swimming pool, a hot tub, a garden, a barbecue, and a fully equipped kitchen, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
The Little Unknown In The Forest - South Africa
9.9 23 reviews

The Little Unknown In The Forest

farm
This converted barn, part of a working farm in the Diepwalle forest, is situated approximately 40km from both Plettenberg Bay and Knysna, offering easy access to the Camino Trail, Outeniqua trails, and various mountain biking routes such as Petrus-se-Brand and Harkerville trails.
The self-catering property sleeps four guests in two ensuite double bedrooms, features an open-plan living area with a log burner and fully equipped kitchen, a north-facing veranda overlooking a dam, and excellent braai facilities, plus secure parking.
Bloukrans Off-grid Cabin - South Africa
9.7 3 reviews

Bloukrans Off-grid Cabin

cabin, Montagu
Bloukrans Off-Grid Cabin is located in Rietvlei Number 1, 19 kilometres from Montagu Golf Club and 21 kilometres from Hick's Art Gallery.
This recently renovated, family-friendly cottage offers 121 square metres of living space for up to seven guests, featuring a well-equipped kitchenette with a fridge, an outdoor dining area, barbecue facilities, and a private patio, with hiking and cycling opportunities nearby.
Bushmanspad Estate - South Africa
9.6 7 reviews

Bushmanspad Estate

chalet, Bonnievale
This self-catering cottage is located in Bushmanspad Estate, Bonnievale, 12 kilometres from Marloth Nature Reserve and 13 kilometres from Bonnievale Golf Club.
The chalet accommodates up to three guests in one bedroom and offers a fully equipped kitchen, a living room, complimentary Wi-Fi, and private parking.

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Best South Africa unique stays with a pool

Launch Pad 95 - South Africa
10 120 reviews

Launch Pad 95

house, Buffelspoort
This luxurious Buffelspoort lodge is situated 30 metres from a mountain stream, at the entrance to Tonquani Gorge.
The 400 square metre self-catering retreat boasts a king-size bed, wood-burning stove, private outdoor area with fire pit, and access to on-site tennis, putt-putt, and three swimming pools, sleeping up to two guests.
Knysna River Club Getaways - Luxury Waterfront Chalets - South Africa
8.7 189 reviews

Knysna River Club Getaways - Luxury Waterfront Chalets

chalet, Knysna
This Knysna holiday home is situated 5.8km from Knysna Heads and 6.7km from Pezula Golf Club, offering easy access to other nearby golf courses and Knysna Forest.
The 250 square metre self-catering property boasts on-site mini-golf and table tennis, alongside a terrace, air conditioning, parking and fully equipped kitchen.
Africa Inn-chalet 3 - South Africa
9.8 212 reviews

Africa Inn-chalet 3

chalet
This Oudtshoorn self-catering cottage is situated on a 220-hectare farm near the Swartberg Mountains, offering easy access to Oudtshoorn's attractions.
The one-bedroom, one-bathroom unit sleeps two, features a private kitchenette, dining area, indoor and outdoor showers, a refreshing splash pool, and handmade hiking trails across the farm, providing stunning Swartberg mountain views.
Top Tipi - South Africa
9.6 131 reviews

Top Tipi

teepee
Addo Afrique Estate, bordering Addo Elephant National Park, offers this unique tipi-style accommodation approximately 0.1km from a national road and 0.4km from a railway line.
Each self-catering tipi on the game reserve sleeps up to 12 guests, providing private bathrooms, braai facilities, and panoramic game viewing opportunities, including self-drive game viewing within the estate.

Frequently asked questions about unique stays in South Africa

  • What are some hidden gems to explore in South Africa?

    Beyond the well-trodden tourist paths, you'll find incredible hidden gems. Consider the Cederberg Wilderness Area for its dramatic rock formations and hiking trails, or explore the Tankwa Karoo National Park for its otherworldly landscapes and stargazing opportunities. For a cultural experience, visit the small town of Nieu-Bethesda, known for its quirky art scene and the Owl House, a unique artistic creation. These locations offer a more intimate and authentic South African experience.
  • Which airport should you arrive at in South Africa?

    The best airport for you depends on your destination within the country. O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg is the largest and best connected, serving as a major hub for domestic and international flights. Cape Town International Airport (CPT) is another significant airport, ideal if you're heading to Cape Town or the Western Cape. King Shaka International Airport (DUR) in Durban is a good option for those travelling to KwaZulu-Natal.
  • What is generally accepted for payment in South Africa, cash or card?

    Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in larger cities and tourist areas, but it's always wise to carry some South African Rand (ZAR) in cash, especially for smaller establishments or rural areas. ATMs are readily available in most towns and cities.
  • How would you describe the safety of road conditions and driving habits in South Africa?

    Road conditions vary significantly. Major highways are generally well-maintained, but smaller roads, particularly in rural areas, can be less developed. Driving habits can be quite different from what you might be used to; defensive driving is essential. Be aware of potholes and unpredictable driving. Consider hiring a car with a GPS and always drive with caution.
  • What steps should you take if your passport goes missing in South Africa?

    Report the loss or theft immediately to the South African Police Service (SAPS). You'll then need to contact your country's embassy or consulate in South Africa to obtain an emergency travel document. Keep copies of your passport details and contact information for your embassy readily available.
  • Where in South Africa should you spend a week to experience the best of the country?

    A week allows for a good taste of South Africa's diversity. A possible itinerary could include a few days in Cape Town, exploring Table Mountain, the V&A Waterfront, and perhaps a wine tour in Stellenbosch. Then, fly to Kruger National Park for a safari experience, followed by a visit to Johannesburg to explore its cultural offerings and vibrant city life.
  • Where in South Africa can you have the best weekend experience?

    For a vibrant city break, Cape Town offers stunning scenery, excellent restaurants, and a lively nightlife. Alternatively, a weekend in Franschhoek, nestled in the heart of the winelands, provides a more relaxed experience with beautiful vineyards, gourmet food, and charming towns to explore.
  • What festivals in South Africa are highly recommended for visitors?

    The Cape Town Carnival is a spectacular visual feast, showcasing vibrant costumes and music. The Grahamstown National Arts Festival is a significant cultural event featuring theatre, music, dance and visual arts. The Spier Wine Farm hosts the annual Spier Summer Sunset Concerts, with a diverse range of artists.
  • Does South Africa have Uber or comparable ride-hailing services?

    Yes, Uber and Bolt are popular and widely available ride-hailing services in major South African cities.
  • What’s the top spot in South Africa for favourable weather conditions?

    The best spot for favourable weather depends on the time of year. During the South African summer (November to March), the Western Cape, particularly areas like Cape Town and the surrounding winelands, generally experience warm, sunny weather. During the winter (June to August), the warmer parts of the country, such as KwaZulu-Natal, offer more pleasant temperatures.

Best South Africa unusual places with a garden

Hope's Harvest Nook - South Africa
No reviews

Hope's Harvest Nook

chalet, Montagu
Hope's Harvest Nook is a recently renovated chalet in Montagu, located 1.9 kilometres from Montagu Golf Club and a 12-minute walk from Hick's Art Gallery.
This self-catering lodge accommodates up to three guests in one bedroom, featuring a kitchenette with a fridge and microwave, free WiFi, a garden with outdoor dining, and parking.
Val D'orcia | Romantic Tuscan Treehouse & Hot Tub - South Africa
10 22 reviews

Val D'orcia | Romantic Tuscan Treehouse & Hot Tub

cabin
This Kranspoort Vakansiedorp cabin, situated within Kranspoort Eco Estate, offers easy access to Loskop Dam, a short drive away.
The self-catering cottage boasts one bedroom, one bathroom, sleeping two guests, and features a kitchen with fridge and freezer, plus access to a swimming pool, outdoor chess, and a boma; birdwatching and wildlife viewing are readily available from the property.
Matilo Cabins | Cactus Deck | Hot-tub & Fireplace - South Africa
9.8 34 reviews

Matilo Cabins | Cactus Deck | Hot-tub & Fireplace

cabin
This Zoar mountain retreat, a 1-bedroom cabin near Route 62, is a 563km drive from Cape Town and offers off-grid living with solar power and WiFi.
The self-catering lodge sleeps four, boasting a kitchen, bathroom, wood-fired hot tub, indoor fireplace, and sunlit deck with mountain views; nearby attractions are accessible via Route 62.
Bush Hideaway - South Africa
9.8 61 reviews

Bush Hideaway

farm, Waterberg District Municipality
This five-bedroom, five-bathroom self-catering house is located 20km outside Thabazimbi in the Waterberg District Municipality, offering easy access from the town and avoiding lengthy gravel roads.
The property boasts a private swimming pool, open-plan living areas, a veranda with BBQ facilities, and stunning views overlooking a dam and the Waterberg mountains; it sleeps up to ten guests and includes a large dam perfect for birdwatching.

Best South Africa unique stays with a jacuzzi

Among the 7283 accommodations in South Africa, here are the 4 best unique accommodations with a jacuzzi

Forest Hills - South Africa
9.6 196 reviews

Forest Hills

chalet, Knysna
This chalet is situated in Knysna, just a short drive from popular landmarks like Simola Golf and Country Estate, Knysna Forest, and Knysna the Heads. Guests consistently rate the accommodation excellent for location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The property features a fully equipped kitchen, a comfortable living area with a satellite flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom with modern amenities. Enjoy the beautiful views of the pool and surrounding garden from the private terrace, relax in the Jacuzzi, or make use of the picnic area.
Luna Cabin - South Africa
9.8 8 reviews

Luna Cabin

cabin
This Wildernis, Western Cape self-catering cottage boasts a superb location, details of which are unavailable, thus preventing specification of proximity to local attractions.
The one-bedroom, one-bathroom lodge sleeps two guests and includes a kitchen with fridge, swimming pool, jacuzzi, garden, sauna, parking, and excellent user ratings across location, cleanliness and overall experience.
Off-grid Karoo Escape With Panoramic Mountain View - South Africa
10 1 review

Off-grid Karoo Escape With Panoramic Mountain View

cabin
360 on Stone offers secluded off-grid luxury lodges within the Chris Hani District Municipality, Eastern Cape Karoo, situated between Cradock and Tarkastad. This retreat provides accommodation for up to six guests across three bedrooms and three bathrooms, featuring a private hot tub, open-air showers, a fire pit, and a large indoor fire hearth for a connected outdoor experience.
Bamboo Cabin - South Africa
10 5 reviews

Bamboo Cabin

cabin
This secluded one-bedroom, one-bathroom lodge is situated at the base of Bamboo Mountain in Harry Gwala, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, offering complete privacy and panoramic mountain views.
Guests can enjoy a private hot tub and peaceful natural surroundings, with the accommodation designed for romantic getaways and tranquil escapes for two, though a high-rise vehicle is required for property access.