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Top staycations in and around Johannesburg
If you are itching for a change of scenery but are reluctant to travel far for that feeling, then staycations are for you. Johannesburg, aka Jozi or Joburg as locals call it, is South Africa’s biggest city and the Capital of Gauteng; it’s also where many people from around the country come to find jobs, and for me, it’s where the vibe resides!! When you are ready to satisfy your travel itch, I love finding some unique places to escape to and fulfil that feeling of wanderlust, whether in the city or just an hour outside. Below I share a few places you can enjoy, especially if you are in Jozi or reside here.
In no particular order:
1. African penthouses
If you are looking for a real city experience that makes you feel like you could be in a typical New York styled penthouse, then these are for you. They are smack bang in the middle of town, and African penthouses currently have 4 breathtaking penthouses available on Airbnb. Each penthouse has access to a shared pool and private jacuzzis on the rooftops. It’s also surprisingly quiet and serene. It’s perfect for friends, couples and families.3 top gems: Amazing interior and amenities, flawless service and great views of the city.
Budget: Ranges from R1331 – R1850 per night per penthouse (all are self-catering).
Booked through Airbnb.
2. Farmhouse 58
It is a short 40-minute drive out of Johannesburg in the Cradle of Humankind. This newly operating gem is perfect for space outside of the hustle and bustle of the city. Farmhouse 58 is ideal for an escape to reconnect, create meaningful connections and spend time in solitude too. It truly exudes serenity, comfort and harmony. They currently have 6 premium suites, 7 deluxe rooms, 8 standard rooms, a family room and one suite with bunk beds.
It is perfect for solo travellers, couples, friends and small families.
3 top gems: The design is led by comfort & simplicity, community connectedness & activities are close by.
Budget: R1250 – R4 700 per night, depending on the suit. (Breakfast is included.)
Booked through their website.
3. Rosemary Hill Farm
I’m sure by now you can tell how much I appreciate nature and farm living, and at Rosemary Hill Farm, it’s no different. Rosemary Hill Farm is an organic family and community-run farm in Pretoria, just an hour away from Johannesburg. They have a host of accommodations to suit all budgets and groups of visitors from cabins, lofts, the Zenkaya, cottages and more. They also have a restaurant on the farm where you can enjoy lunch and dinner (breakfast is included in your rate). The staff is friendly and warm, and the farm is a great place to spend a few nights away from Johannesburg.
It is perfect for: families, friends, couples and solo travellers.
3 top gems: The food (it’s all mostly from the actual farm and organic), the number of experiences available & the variety of accommodations & facilities for events.
Budget: R1 650 – R2 500 per night (breakfast included)
Booked through their website.
4. Sibani Lodge Luxury Tents
Sibani Lodge is a 40-minute drive outside of Johannesburg within the Cradle of Humankind with an array of accommodation options such as a lodge, cottages, a luxury villa, luxury tents and self-catering campsite option too. I stayed at the luxury tents, which are really luxurious with great amenities, great linen and a private verandah to unzip and enjoy the view from every morning or evening with a glass of wine.
It is perfect for couples and friends.
3 top gems: A game drive is included in your stay, with great views and the magic of the bush.
Budget: From R880pps – R2100pps per night.
Booked through their website & bookings.com
5. Protea Hotel Wanderers by Marriot Bonvoy
I’m not a huge fan of hotels, but this iconic hotel has been revamped and is in the perfect location, Illovo in Johannesburg. From the moment you step inside, you know it’s time to really unwind with the friendly smiles greeting you. It’s an urban oasis in the city with fantastic food, views and rooms.
It is perfect for business travellers, couples, friends and small families.
3 top gems: Great food, modern touches & the deck (a must hang out spot)
Budget: R1 0878 – R4 100 per night booked through the Marriot website.
*If you are a Marriot Bonvoy member, you enjoy further discounts.
6. Daze House
Who said you need to hop onto a plane to feel like you’re travelling within Africa? At Daze House, you get a taste of what Africa has to offer as a continent through scent, art, food and décor. Daze house is a black-owned boutique hotel focused on art, community, handmade products and one of a kind experiences and events. Located in Johannesburg in a suburb called Cyrildene in the East of Johannesburg. You get to transport to Lesotho, Kenya, Zimbabwe, Morocco, Namibia and more. When I visited, I stayed in their Lesotho room. I could instantly feel connected with the art and interior of the room. Another fun fact? Jidenna has stayed here too, in the Zimbabwe room, so I am pretty sure that you, too, would feel right at home.
It is perfect for business travellers, couples & friends.
3 top gems: Stunning & thoughtful décor, attention to detail & delectable breakfasts.
Budget: R1073- R1431 per room per night.
Booked on Airbnb & bookings.com
7. Thaba Eco Hotel
A short 20-minute drive from the East of Johannesburg and you will find yourself at Thaba Eco hotel in the South of Johannesburg, a 4-star hotel. The feeling of an escape and touch of luxury hits you from the minute you check-in, with your personal porter to help you get settled in. I’ve visited this hotel twice and absolutely love the experience I’ve had here. You ultimately feel like you are in a nature reserve where you can sit back, relax and enjoy a breath of fresh air even within Johannesburg. Your booking comes with breakfast at their Kraal restaurant, and they also offer eco-drives and romantic picnics.
It is perfect for couples & friends.
3 top gems: Amazing views, a divine array of food and outstanding facilities.
Budget: R1050 – R1 253per room per night (they offer breakfast, lunch and dinner depending on the package you choose)
Booked on their website.
8. Leadwood Safari Camp
Located in the heart of the Dinokeng Big 5 Game Reserve, this newly opened camp offers a unique and special kind of glamping experience only an hour away from Johannesburg. I remember seeing these on one of my favourite content creators pages (@cabinseekers) and saving it right there because of how private it was and how it.
