Stunning South Africa has so much to offer: it’s no wonder this nation is one of the most sought-after travel destinations in the world. From the winding roads of the Garden Route to the dramatic coastlines, orange sunsets across the bush, and rolling hills of Cape Winelands, you’ll experience the trip of a lifetime no matter where you choose to base yourself here.
The most difficult part? Deciding where to stay. South Africa is home to any number of incredible Airbnbs in all shapes and sizes. But beautiful views, decadent swimming pools, and uncluttered elegance are a constant in every part of this amazing country. Not sure where to start? Read on for all of the best South African Airbnbs of your dreams.
Glen Beach Main House Boasts On the Beach in Camps Bay
Combining modern touches with cozy beach chic, this four-bedroom house boasts a prime location on Camps Bay Beach with easy access to the seashore as well as local restaurants, cafes and shops. Dark wooden accents combine with white sofas and wicker furniture to create an atmosphere of casual beach elegance that’ll inspire you to whip off your shoes the second you walk in and truly relax. Chill out in the open-plan lounge areas or enjoy a brilliant sunset from an expansive deck, featuring a swimming pool, sun loungers and plenty of space. The house offers various amenities, including heated floors in each bedroom, WIFI, an indoor fireplace and whirlpool baths in some rooms. Perfect for a group of friends or family, this property can accommodate up to eight guests across four bedrooms.
Everview Suite
Perched high up overlooking Camps Bay, this breezy apartment offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean as well as the rugged outcroppings of Table Mountain. High ceilings accented with exposed Oregon pine trusses give a feel of tremendous space and welcome the refreshing sea breeze. Staying here comes with lots of perks: you won’t know whether to take a dip in the pool, explore the beach or simply relax in the outdoor seating area with a good book first. Pour a glass of wine in the kitchen, walk through the spacious open-plan living area, open the sliding doors onto the deck and experience the sunset over the pool. This apartment features three bedrooms, but the master bedroom is the crown jewel, offering spectacular views of the ocean on the left and Lion’s Head behind. It’s a great spot for those looking for a quiet retreat or for the more adventurous type seeking the perfect day trip.
Exquisite Three Bed Home With Breathtaking Views
Wake up to the sound of waves crashing and the dramatic sea views of Misty Cliffs in this bunker-style architectural wonder. Located on the bluffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and bordering the Baskloof Fynbos Nature Reserve, this is a wonderful place to disconnect from daily stress and find peace in nature. You’ll love this spot’s Zanzibar style and quirky touches like the outdoor pizza oven, wood-fired hot tub, and carefully curated collection of art and handpicked furnishings. The whitewashed brick walls combined with brightly painted doors, Middle Eastern-inspired tiles, and the endless blue of the ocean and skies create stunning contrast. Sleeping up to six guests in three comfortable bedrooms, this is a great place for you and your closest friends to enjoy time away together. Other amenities include a fully-equipped kitchen, an indoor fireplace, a rooftop terrace, and a large balcony overlooking the dramatic waves.
Private Modern 10 Bedroom Home Tucked Away In Sandton
This modern industrial home is the perfect place for large groups to stay while enjoying all that Sandton City has to offer. And, spoiler: there’s a lot. There’s room for up to 16 guests across 10 bedrooms here. The place promises to keep you entertained with a game room equipped with a pool table, darts and TV, a covered patio with a barbecue set as well as a large outdoor space complete with a sunken pool. This home also features a large kitchen that’s perfect for socializing while cooking big meals to enjoy together. Those looking to stay fit while on vacation will love the home gym – or you could just walk around the rooms a few times because the place is so big!
Kingfisher River Lodge in Mjejane, Kruger Park
The Kingfisher River Lodge is more than just a stay – it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You could wake up here to a parade of elephants walking along the property fence line and wind down your evening while watching a pod of hippos soaks in the river below. Situated on the banks of the Crocodile River and providing direct views of the world-renowned Kruger National Park, this opulent property brings together the best of a luxury African bush experience. The interior design creates an atmosphere of easygoing elegance with clean lines, crisp gray tones and minimalistic decor. Every touch is designed with luxury in mind, like the Egyptian cotton bed linens, freestanding bathtubs and swimming pool with its built-in daybeds. There’s plenty of space for up to four adults in its two bedrooms, but it’s important to note that children under 12 are not allowed at this Airbnb.
Manzini River House
Derived from the Swazi language, “Manzini” means “the place of water”, which is only fitting because this lodge is located on the banks of the Crocodile River with views of the rushing rapids. The Manzini River House promises easy, casual living within the confines of the exquisite Mjejane Private Game Reserve. It’s a place where relaxation is key: there’s a cozy atmosphere throughout with plush leather sofas, stone masonry and warm tones in every room of the property. You can enjoy picturesque sunset reflections across the swimming pool from the open-plan dining area opening onto the terrace. Described by previous guests as both a restful and exciting getaway, the Manzini River Lodge offers the adventure of the wilderness with the comfort of home.
Stay on a Working Flower Farm in a Modern Home
This modern farmhouse is the perfect choice for those seeking a unique stay in the Cape Winelands. Secluded between hills on a working flower farm, the property is an ode to the modern bohemian lifestyle. This is a house with a heart and soul that provides hidden treasures and beautiful touches, telling stories to those who dig deep to find them. Perfect for art lovers or anyone with an eye for design, you’ll find quirky art pieces and fresh flowers dotted throughout, adding pops of color in every direction. Some of its endless amenities include Wi-Fi, pool toys, an indoor fireplace and a full kitchen. This secluded home can comfortably fit nine guests in four bedrooms, so it’s perfect for a group trip or special occasion.
Enjoy Exquisite Style At Clarens Mountain House
Set high up on the slopes of Mount Horeb overlooking the town of Clarens, the Clarens Mountain House wows everyone who stays here with its incredible views. The pink and yellow tones of the sandstone mountains contrast beautifully against the rolling green hills: something you’ll spend some time gazing at each morning when you first wake. Featuring five bedrooms with space for up to ten guests, this is a brilliant choice for families traveling with children wanting to explore the surrounding area. Even the children’s bunk bed room offers amazing views! The accommodation is conveniently located close to many shops, art galleries, restaurants and even a brewery in the charming town of Clarens.
VAME Beach Front Bungalow
Nestled in the pristine dunes of Yzerfontein, VAME Beach House is an awe-inspiring place to unwind and stick your toes in the soft sand. Designed to calm the mind and offer plenty of privacy, this seafront property is set up in a minimal yet luxurious style. White walls, huge floor-to-ceiling windows facing the ocean, sanded concrete finishings and super soft beds make the home feel cool and easy to live in. Up to seven guests can enjoy breathtaking sea or dune views from any of the three bedrooms or from the pool area. Another neat feature: the pool area is designed to provide shelter from the wind so it’s a great place to relax or barbecue even when it’s windy. This retreat from the bustle of the world offers direct beach access, wifi, a private pool, indoor fireplace, barbecue and, of course, the sounds of the seashore.
Cliff House
You’ll wake up to the crash of waves against rocks below every night you spend at the Cliff House. Watch the early morning sunshine light up your bedroom and breathe in the smell of sea salt in the air: it’s a top place for chilling out. The home is reminiscent of “slow coast” architecture found on the Northern Coast of California with walls of windows overlooking the sea, natural wood elements and nearby hills covered in lush grass and succulents. Take in the views and enjoy a sundowner from almost anywhere in this property, but the hot tub and the private pool are popular choices. If the evening gets cold, you can always light a fire in the cliff-side fire pit or snuggle up in bed with a good book. There are four bedrooms in total that can accommodate up to eight guests, but the truly incredible detail is the ocean view bathtub in Bedroom One.
Exclusive Tree House Hideaway
Is there anything more magical than spending the night in a treehouse? Designed to create symmetry with its environment, Synergy is the quintessential treehouse hideaway for the adults who long for the treehouses of their childhoods but also desire refinement and luxury. Situated in the tranquil hills of Scarborough, Synergy offers endless views of the ocean and the surrounding area. Having only two bedrooms, this haven in nature is intimate with relaxing pathways between rooms, a lush garden that winds around the rocks and ample deck space beneath the tree branches. Guests can take a cooling dip in the plunge pool during the day or warm themselves by the fire pit in the evening. Some amenities include a kitchen equipped with Smeg appliances, Wi-Fi, an outdoor shower and an indoor fireplace.
Ocean Pearl Seafront Villa
Located in a secluded area of Britannia Bay, Ocean Pearl provides an extra special getaway for anyone seeking serenity and the sound of the ocean. Distressed wood tables, polished concrete floors, and minimalist, tasteful decor combine to create a modern home built seamlessly into the coastline. High ceilings and elevated walkways create an industrial feel that’s balanced by the area’s natural beauty. Whether you want to take a stroll on the beach, go mountain biking or even enjoy horseback riding, this accommodation is guaranteed to satisfy both the adventure and relaxation seekers. With four bedrooms and enough space to comfortably house eight guests, this home is perfect for anyone looking to go all out during their time in South Africa. The coolest part? Watching the whales while swimming in the pool – something you’ll remember long after you’ve checked out.
Gweda Lodge Mabalingwe, A Big Five Game Reserve
If you want to experience the stunning natural environment of the Mabalingwe Nature Reserve without ever leaving your balcony (or even your bed), this is the place for you. Easily accessible from the nearby town of Bela-Bela, Gweda Lodge provides a luxurious escape for large groups looking to experience exquisite sunsets and see the area’s famed wildlife. You can watch ostriches and other animals visit the watering hole from the comfort of the swimming pool or the open planned living room: it’s the closest thing you’ll find to living amongst the animals without waving goodbye to luxury. Stone and leather accents give this Airbnb a rustic yet high-end feel. It’s home to five bedrooms in total that can accommodate up to 15 guests and even comes with a chef who prepares delicious meals so you don’t have to worry about a thing.
Tamboti River Lodge in Mjejane, Kruger Park
The incredible views of the Crocodile River and untamed wilderness are the first things you’ll notice when you enter this next-level lodge, but not the last. While other spots nearby give you a glimpse into Greater Kruger National Park, Tamboti Lodge makes you feel like you’re truly living the life of an explorer. Watch elephants bathing in the river and, if you’re lucky, you might even see one of the more elusive Big Five animals from the comfort of the lodge’s private deck or pool. Complete with a five-star rating awarded by the Tourism Council of South Africa, this luxurious Airbnb is divided into the main house and five separate chalets. Each chalet can accommodate two guests, making it ideal for both smaller and larger groups. The lodge is self-catering, but if you don’t want to cook, the hosts can organize caterers to make your stay even more relaxing.
Cloud 9 Spectacular Unequalled Private Villa
It’s hard to find a villa that comes close to both the majesty and coziness of Cloud 9. Set in the heart of the Garden Route, high above Swartvlei Lakewith, with 360-degree views of the surrounding areas, it’s easy to see how this incredible place gets its name. Cloud 9 embraces a lifestyle of sumptuous elegance and meticulous design. Sofas you’ll sink into, gorgeous views from every corner, and an infinity pool with its serene waters. Sitting atop a two million-year-old sand dune, Cloud 9’s architectural design was inspired by the ancient, sacred geometry that’s all around it. Featuring eight bedrooms with enough space to accommodate up to 16 guests, this villa is a once-in-lifetime stay for anyone looking to share quality time while enjoying Swartvlei lagoon’s natural beauty. If you’re lucky, you may see a lynx or even a honey badger.
