Accommodation in Southern Africa

Given the variety of attractions in Southern Africa and the fact that tourists from all walks of life visit the region annually, one is right to expect a wide variety of accommodation options, from the very ultimate in luxury hotels and 5-star resorts to rustic lodges and comfortable guest houses, and all the way down to budget self-catering apartments and cheap backpackers’ hostels.

Beach accommodation

Typically the best accommodation is to be found at the most popular tourist ...

Accommodation in Southern Africa

Given the variety of attractions in Southern Africa and the fact that tourists from all walks of life visit the region annually, one is right to expect a wide variety of accommodation options, from the very ultimate in luxury hotels and 5-star resorts to rustic lodges and comfortable guest houses, and all the way down to budget self-catering apartments and cheap backpackers’ hostels.

Beach accommodation

Typically the best accommodation is to be found at the most popular tourist attractions, such as the international hotel franchises at Cape Town’s Waterfront or the beach resorts holiday clubs and hotels on the Seychelles and Mauritius.

Beach-front towns and cities also have a wealth of more affordable accommodation options, such as B&Bs, private self-catering holiday homes and apartments, guest houses, camping sites and caravan parks.

Game park accommodation

Some game farms and national parks have accommodation within their boundaries, while others refer tourists to accommodation in the nearby towns and cities. By and large, accommodation within game farms is quite expensive as they tend to be in the vein of luxury tented camps and safari lodges. Although, some of the less developed parks have relatively cheap and very rustic bush camping sites. Many game farms also strive to be as environmentally-friendly as possible with a number of eco-hotels and “green” accommodation options.

Accommodation outside of game farms is usually more affordable and usually includes camping sites for tents and caravans, self-catering chalets, bed and breakfasts and guest houses.

Mountain accommodation

Once again, accommodation in mountainous areas is varied and caters to all budgets. The South African Drakensberg Mountains, for instance, contains a number of luxury hotels and 5-star resorts, not to mention self-catering chalets and cottages and, of course, overnight camping accommodation on the many mountain trails and paths. Many of the new hotels being built have a green focus and aim to have as little impact on the environment as possible.

City accommodation

The major cities of the region have the most varied accommodation options. You will find luxury hotels and spas, international and budget hotels, group, family and pet-friendly accommodation, caravan parks and camping sites, backpackers and youth hostels, bed and breakfasts, guest houses, holiday homes and cheap motels.

If you’re just flying for business you can stay at an airport hotel or book a suite at the same hotel as your conference venue.

Holiday accommodation

Speak to your travel agent about the accommodation options at your destinations. You might be able to get group accommodation deals or lower prices for booking hotel accommodation out of peak holiday season. You might also be able to get special accommodation rates for long weekends or benefit from specials advertised for romantic getaways.