Pet-Friendly Holiday Accommodations in South Africa

Jun 19, 2023

The more time you spend with your pet, the more emotionally attached you feel to your furry friend. And once you create a strong emotional bond with your pet, it becomes difficult to go on a holiday without them. Now you need to look for a holiday accommodation that is pet friendly so you can go along with your dear pet.

Thinking of traveling to South Africa with your pet? Our pets are part of the family and we like to take them with us when traveling. We are delighted to share with you pet-friendly accommodations for people and their pets traveling in and to South Africa. But before we jump to the pet-friendly holiday abodes, let us have a quick review of the tips for traveling with your pet.

TIPS FOR TRAVELLING WITH YOUR PET

Prior arrangements and all applicable documentations need to be done beforehand.
It is wrong to assume that every holiday destination will allow all pet types and breeds. Before finalizing your booking, message the establishment in advance to confirm if your pet's breed and size are permitted at their location.
Please be aware that additional charges may apply like a fee per pet and a cleaning fee on departure.
Schedule a visit to your vet to ensure your pet's overall health. Arrange to collect a current vaccination certificate and Health Certificate of your pet.
Make sure your pet's identification tags are up-to-date and readable.
Remember to pack ample water to prevent dehydration.
Pack all supplements and treatment doses to avoid missing doses.
Pack a first aid kit in the event of an injury or medical emergency.
Exercise your pet prior to departure. A tired pet is much more willing to travel than an active pet.
Feed your pet at least four hours prior to departure to prevent travel sickness.
Treat your travel-anxious pet with a travel remedy.
Ask your vet for the correct calming remedy for your pet.
Trim your pet’s toenails to prevent snags and injury, especially because your pet will be confined to a cage or crate while traveling which restricts their movement.
Import Permits may also be required. Get it before you travel.

Let us explore a few holiday accommodations in South Africa, from comfortable to luxurious options, where pets are welcome to accompany their pet parents. We have listed here some of the top pet-friendly accommodations in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban. For a comprehensive list of pet-friendly places in every province in South Africa, you can also refer to the blog post 'Best Pet-Friendly Places in Every Province in South Africa.'

Johannesburg

1. Hartebeestpoort dam: Kassaboera Lodge

For a perfect weekend getaway, head to Kassaboera Lodge to relieve the stress of your daily life. This lodge is just 30 minutes from Pretoria and 45 minutes away from Johannesburg. It is located in the Magalies Meander province, on the edge of the Hartbeespoort Dam.

The standard services offered at this accommodation are comfort, warmth, and outstanding hospitality. The nearby areas include some of South Africa’s most well-known attractions like Sun City, the Cradle of Humankind, and intriguing nature resorts.

2. Magaliesburg: Saamrus Guest Farm

Saamrus Guest Farm offers stunning farm cottages in Magaliesburg, Gauteng, and is a self–catering accommodation. This guest farm is positioned in a woodland valley and is about 1-hour drive from Pretoria and Johannesburg. These charming comfortable cottages are available to rent. They are surrounded by 500 hectares of immaculate nature filled with beautiful bird life and the freedom to walk anywhere you, please. Saamrus Guest Farm is the perfect getaway for romantic and nature lovers alike.

3. Heidelberg: Malonjeni Game Farm

Malonjeni, also famous as “The Place of the Gathering” offers warm hospitality and a divine peaceful farm atmosphere. This farm is 270 hectares and houses animals like the Red Hartebeest, Antelope, Black Wildebeest, Eland, Blesbuck, Springbok, and Zebra. Malonjeni provides space for a conference, small weddings, camping, and caravanning and caters to numerous needs located in a landscape of hills and rocky outcrops.

Cape Town

1. Fish Hoek, Muzienburg, and False Bay: Whale Watchers

Cape Town’s most affordable and fascinating destination, Whale Watches, is a luxury self-catering accommodation. There are over 30 seasides or beachfront properties to choose from, all catering to many individual, family, or group requirements.

2. Pringle Bay: 3 Flavours

Flavours Guest House is located in the serene beauty of an 8.5 hector fynbos reserve. It is situated on the popular coastal route the R44, Overberg. It offers a warm reception to the guests and a tranquil and peaceful place surrounded by Majestic Mountain and sea views. This destination is perfect for those who love the beach and nature and are interested in exploring Winelands, the Overberg, Cape Town and beyond.

3. Wellington: Lady Loch Bed & Breakfast

Nested in the Winelands of the Western Cape Lady Loch is a guest house and conference space. This excellent accommodation is conveniently located on the outer edge of Wellington, a lovely town with lots of history and breathtaking countryside and mountain range.

If you are looking for a place to stay overnight, for a short holiday, or a conference meeting, Lady Loch Guest House is the perfect place to choose. This guest house caters to everyone‘s pocket, as they have budget or luxury accommodation options.

Durban

1. Umhlanga: La Loggia Self Catering

The service, style, and class of hotel with self-catering accommodation are offered at La Loggia. The La Loggias make you feel peaceful with its warm hospitality and affordability. The rooms are neat and clean, modernly decorated, as well as luxurious and comfortable. The service is friendly, quick, and efficient. It is surrounded by a subtropical oasis where you will toughly enjoy their luxury sea-facing apartments and cottages.

2. Mooi River: Rearsby Farm

The Rearsby Farm is on the top of a former Noble Hill. Overlooking Giant’s Castle Mountain Range, Rearsby Farm is located amongst the beautiful KwaZulu Natal midlands. This accommodation has four unique luxury cottages that have exquisite views and private verandas. Rearsby Farm offers both self-catering and bed & breakfast options. This accommodation is perfect for travelers looking for peace, tranquility, and country-style hospitality.

3. Ballito: Ce La Vie Guesthouse

Ce La Vie Guest House is a luxury bed & breakfast accommodation and is situated on the Dolphin Coast of Ballito. If you are intending to stay for business or a family holiday with your friends and family this is the best destination to opt for. The beautiful endless views of the Indian Ocean and the wide variety of activities appeal to everyone.

All these holiday accommodations and destinations in South Africa are pet friendly, so your pets can accompany you on your holidays. Have a safe and sound holiday.

Also, Read: Exploring South Africa with Pet