Unique stays for an exceptional getaway in South Africa

Camp in luxury, wake up in a castle or fall asleep under the stars with these beautiful and unique stays in South Africa.

Whether you’re looking for something luxurious or something completely out of the ordinary, this list of accommodations have you covered.

Picture: Leadwood Safari Company

Camping has never looked as glamorous as it does at Leadwood Safari Company. This accommodation offers glamping at its finest within the Dinokeng Big 5 Game Reserve. Choose to relax in the open-air hot tub as the sun goes down, or pre-book a game drive to make the most of your time in the bush.

Nothing quite compares to staying in a treehouse, especially one so luxurious as Tsala Treetop Lodge in Plettenberg Bay. Live out your childhood dreams in these comfortable and contemporary tree houses with a cosy fireplace and indoor heating to keep out the winter chill.

Picture: The Bubble Valley

The Bubble Valley offers the first bubble tent suites in Africa. Spending a romantic getaway in one of these tents is a truly unique experience. Drink champagne beneath the stars while enjoying a relaxing soak in your private hot tub.

Picture: Andrew Kellet/ Baby Blue Houseboat

‘Tick some unique boxes’ by staying on this Norwegian Lifeboat-converted Houseboat on the Mtamvuna River that borders KwaZulu Natal and the Eastern Cape. Stretch out on the king-size bed, enjoy warm meals cooked on the two-plate gas stove, and explore the region on the tandem kayak provided.

The Pyramid within the Misty Mountains Reserve perfectly defines a romantic getaway. The glass pyramid lets you enjoy the stars from your bed or wallow in your private jacuzzi while taking in nature’s night lights.

On the edge of the quaint Graskop town is the regal Flycatcher Castle. Many pieces in the castle were collected throughout Southern Africa and other continents. The views look out over the Mantitshi Wetland and river. Stay in one of the five classically decorated suites and feel like royalty for a night or two.

The Kruger Station within the Kruger National Park showcases the last train to have travelled through the park. If you’re looking for a unique stay, sleeping in a refurbished train carriage in the middle of a game reserve is hard to beat.

The Cave House ‘combines the rugged, raw beauty of nature with the luxurious comfort of a Victorian era dwelling.’ This unique stay is situated in Abriskloof Private Pod Reserve and offers an escape from the daily grind. It allows you to reconnect with nature, soak in the incredible surroundings, and feel like the only person/ people on earth for a little while.

Sail away with your loved ones on a self-drive and self-catering and houseboat. Knysna houseboats have a rooftop sundeck, lounge deck, hot showers, and two double beds. It’s the perfect spot to use as a base while exploring the beautiful town and cruising around the lagoon.

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