South Africa
Where to stay with your family in South Africa
South Africa’s accommodation is as varied as the landscape itself, from mountain hideaways and chic working farms to iconic spa hotels and luxurious safari lodges. Not only does South Africa offer families an exceptional choice of places to stay, but it also represents excellent value, with generous hospitality and delicious, hearty food.
Cape Town’s boutique guesthouses are popular with families, many occupying beautifully restored Victorian townhouses with mountain views and small swimming pools. There are also family-friendly apartment hotels located centrally, close to the VA Waterfront and along the Atlantic Seaboard. Head into the Winelands, and you’ll find welcoming estates surrounded by vineyards, where children roam freely while parents linger over lunch on the terrace. Along the Garden Route, lodges overlook forests, mountains and dramatic coastlines, with hiking trails and outdoor activities right on the doorstep.
Then there is South Africa’s safari accommodation, one of the finest collections anywhere in Africa. From intimate family-run lodges to luxurious camps in private game reserves, there’s something to suit every family and budget.
Family-friendly hotels in South Africa
Accommodation in South Africa is fabulous and hard to sum up as there’s so much choice. Here is a small selection of our favourites.
Spier Hotel, Winelands
Set on a working wine farm just outside Stellenbosch, Spier combines beautiful surroundings with plenty to keep children busy. There is a large swimming pool and expansive grounds to explore, while parents can enjoy excellent food and award-winning wines. Comfortable family rooms and a relaxed atmosphere make it a real hit with families.
Kariega Main Lodge, Eastern Cape
This malaria-free reserve is one we recommend often for families new to safari. The log chalets are spacious, the play area keeps younger children happy between game drives, and children of all ages can join morning and evening safaris. With two rivers and Big Five sightings on the doorstep, it’s a brilliant introduction to the bush.
Xanatseni, Kruger
Tucked away in a private concession within the Greater Kruger area, Xanatseni is wonderfully relaxed and unpretentious. We rate the two-bedroom Tseni Suite for families, complete with its own guide and vehicle. Add a watering hole view from the lookout tower and warm, down-to-earth staff, and it’s a firm Stubborn Mule favourite.
Makakatana Bay Lodge
The only privately owned lodge inside iSimangaliso Wetland Park, Makakatana sits right on the shores of Lake St Lucia. Spacious family rooms open onto private decks, and boat safaris bring hippos and birdlife close without ever feeling formal. We’d suggest it for families keen on a slower, more relaxed safari.
The Oyster Box, Durban
Overlooking the Indian Ocean and the Umhlanga lighthouse, The Oyster Box is one of South Africa’s most iconic hotels. Families are well looked after – there’s plenty to keep children entertained, with private cinema and direct beach access, while the Palm Court high tea and Grill Room give parents a proper treat too. A stylish coastal stop for all ages.
Why book with Stubborn Mule?
There really is a remarkable range of accommodation available for families in South Africa and it can be bewildering to know which to pick. This is where our expertise comes into play, as we love matching the right hotel to the right family. During our initial conversation, we will discuss what will work for your family and then suggest properties accordingly. Yes, we’ve got our favourites, as you can see from above; however, we will use our years of experience to recommend places that truly suit your family.
South Africa in pictures
