Meaning ‘Place of Gold’, a reference to Gauteng’s thriving gold industry, this prominent yet tiny province is South Africa’s economic epicentre. From its capital, Johannesburg, to the tree-lined streets of Pretoria, Gauteng has witnessed an explosion of culture in the last decade. As well as being an urban oasis, this diverse province is also home to the Cradle of Humankind, a World Heritage Site, and one of Africa’s oldest and most significant archaeological discoveries. Our collection of the best places to stay in Gauteng, combine the urbane attractions of Johannesburg, the leisurely stays of Pretoria, as well as several rural escapes.
Johannesburg, South Africa’s largest city, is defined by its urban sprawl, with each neighbourhood being entirely distinct from the next. Once considered a place to avoid, Johannesburg now boasts a thriving art and music scene, with culture lovers travelling from around the country, and indeed to the world, to attend its long list of festivals and musical events. The neighbourhood of Maboneng in particular is especially hipster-friendly. From Maboneng to Soweto (standing for ‘South West Townships’), another of Johannesburg’s main attractions, originally an informal settlement, it has thrived from forced habitation to an address of social prestige. Visit to experience African culture at its most welcoming and delve deeper into Soweto’s rich historical significance, including the former home of Nelson Mandela and the Hector Pieterson Museum.
To the north, the more chilled out Pretoria, South Africa’s administrative capital, lives life in a slower lane. Famed for its purple-haze of jacaranda-lined streets (blooming between October and November) it is home to stately museums and smart leafy suburbs. Once the height of the apartheid regime, today, Pretoria, though still less cosmopolitan than the other major cities of Cape Town and Johannesburg, welcomes a new sense of multiculturalism. Though still largely Afrikaans (you’ll hear plenty of it spoken around town) you’re unlikely to meet anyone who doesn’t understand English. As with Johannesburg, Pretoria's inner-city has witnessed an impressive urban renewal. A once rundown locale, it has welcomed plenty of new trendy bars, restaurants, and cafés.
Our collection of the best places to stay in Gauteng, showcase the best in family, couples, boutique, and best value stays.
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Gauteng
Excellent value and great fun this cultural village provides a fascinating stay for those wanting to experience South Africa's rich culture. Families will love. Traditional style thatched cottage are decorated in brightly coloured prints and artwork. Dining is a buffet spread.
Johannesburg (Melville, )
A quirky owner managed guest house, located in the inviting neighbourhood of Melville. Filled with turn of the century furnishings, each room boasts period features and bags of character. Snacks are available in the kitchen, and breakfast is included in the rate. Great value.
Johannesburg
Charming owner managed guesthouse, located in the quiet suburb of Melville, yet within easy reach of the main sights of the city. Each room is a good size, with tea and coffee making facilities, en-suites, and sunny terraces. There's a pool and a hearty English breakfast served each morning.
Johannesburg
A one of a kind modern, minimalist hotel within the popular neighbourhood of Melville. Each room is light and bright, with colourful interiors and the best have their own private balcony. A superb breakfast is served, plus there's a popular on-site coffee shop, and restaurant. Excellent value.
Pretoria
A modern boutique hotel located in a quiet neighbourhood yet within easy reach of central Pretoria. Each of the suites is large, with every modern amenity, en-suites, and the best private balconies. There's a sunny pool, a spa, plus an excellent breakfast served each morning.
Johannesburg
Located in a trendy corner of Johannesburg, this hip hotel, designed by acclaimed local architect David Adjaye provides guests with an excellent value, stylish stay. Each of its rooms is decorated in rich colours with vibrant prints and private balconies. A buffet breakfast is served.
Gauteng
A great value stay with plenty of outdoors activities on your front doorstep. Whilst the rooms are simple, dining is excellent with gourmet seasonal dishes available throughout the day. A hearty buffet breakfast is served. Beautiful grounds, a spa, and inviting pool complete the package.
Johannesburg
Dating back to the 1930s this former post office turned boutique hotel provides guests with a heritage stay amidst this characterful suburb of Johannesburg. Opulent suites include silk linens and capacious beds. Choose from indoor and outdoor dining and indulgent menus. A great stay.
Johannesburg (9 Waterfall Drive, Waterfall City, )
Boasting such picturesque views, you'd never believe you're just a 30-minute drive from beating heart of Johannesburg. Opulent suites, with enormous beds, are the height of luxury. This, combined with gourmet dining and equestrian facilities, is the perfect urban meets rural stay. Adults-only.
Johannesburg
A slick city hotel in a convenient location in central Johannesburg. Each of its rooms has a minimalist New York loft feel, with moody palettes and plush textiles. Continental dishes are served at Level Four Restaurant or enjoy drinks at the champagne bar. Outdoors there's a very inviting pool.
Johannesburg (Parkwood, )
Delightful owner-managed guesthouse with fabulous indoor-outdoor living. Each of the rooms is large, decorated in colourful palettes, and all the mod cons. Some with private terraces. There is an inviting pool, al fresco lounge areas, and well-maintained gardens. A superb breakfast is served.
Johannesburg
Sleek and modern boutique hotel boasting a popular gourmet restaurant. Focusing on its unique seasonally inspired menus it is a destination in itself - not to be missed. Rooms are light and airy, the best opening out onto a leafy garden with an outdoor pool. A great value stay.
Johannesburg
Stylish boutique hotel boasting commendable eco principles, designer interiors, and superb dining. The Peech family have turned their family home into a sleek address in the inviting neighbourhood of Melrose. Modern rooms are spacious with leafy garden views, and an inviting pool. A great stay.
Gauteng (Magaliesburg, )
This stylish boutique safari lodge provides excellent value for money in a beautiful setting, with all the amenities of a five-star hotel. An inviting spa as well as excellent wildlife opportunities nearby, plus acres of verdant grounds. An excellent breakfast is served - dining outdoors is a treat.
Johannesburg (Houghton Estate, )
Grand private house turned hotel, located in one of Johannesburg's smartest locale's Houghton Estate. This 15-bedroom hotel provides guests with lavish suites, large bathrooms, an outdoor pool and spa treatments. Gourmet dining is on the menu, though guests should be aware no alcohol is served.
Johannesburg
Nestled in the charming suburb of Houghton this refined hotel provides fabulous suites with Persian rugs and sparkling chandeliers. Some include private balconies with hot tubs. There is a superb spa, excellent dining, as well as an inviting pool and sunny gardens.
Johannesburg
Located in a leafy suburb of bustling Johannesburg this charming B&B is a refined stay within an urban jungle. Trickling ponds and birdsong provide the soundtrack to your stay. Elegant rooms are filled with antique pieces, fine silks, and luxurious bathrooms. Lunch and dinner on request.
Johannesburg
Slick hotel in the heart of Johannesburg's CBD yet within easy access to many of its most popular sights. Towering tall this smart hotel provides guests with all the amenities: a spa, pool, and large leisure complex. Rooms are decorated in a classic style, with lavish bathrooms.
Johannesburg (Montecasino Boulevard, Fourways, )
A luxurious hotel located within the Montecasino complex, you're within walking distance of plenty of designer shops, restaurants, and bars. Bedrooms are made for lingering with smart bathrooms and modern amenities. An extensive breakfast is served.
Pretoria
This Tuscan style villa is pure luxury with spectacular views and landscaped gardens. Nestled amidst olive groves and lavender bushes it brings a touch of Italy to the African landscape. Rooms are filled with antiques, plus adults only make it a refined stay. A perfect spot.
Johannesburg
A very sophisticated country house within an inviting suburb of Johannesburg. Dine on haute cuisine to your heart's content at "Into the Woods" the hotel's award-winning restaurant, or indulge in a spa treatment if that's more your style. Beautifully appointed rooms make it an idyllic stay.
Johannesburg (Atholl)
A stylish hotel in Johannesburg, an ideal stop-off point for pre-safari trips, with a relaxed ambiance, a choice of two pools, pleasant gardens and a truly excellent restaurant with a changing seasonal menu. Explore the city or simply relax and recharge your batteries before the next adventure.
Johannesburg
One of Johannesburg's finest hotels The Saxon provides luxurious lodgings in the heart of town. Sample Asian flavours at Qunu, a generous breakfast each morning, or high tea in the afternoon. Lavish interiors create a refined ambience whilst spa treatments are the height of indulgence.
