Sanctuary Mandela
Location: 4 13th avenue Houghton estate, Johannesburg, za
Star Rating: 10 Stars
Property Type: Hotels
About this Property
Luxurious Amenities
Sanctuary Mandela offers an outdoor swimming pool, garden, restaurant, and bar for a truly relaxing stay. The 24-hour front desk, concierge service, and free WiFi ensure guests' needs are met promptly and efficiently.
Comfortable Accommodation
Guests can expect air-conditioned rooms with modern amenities like a flat-screen TV, safety deposit box, and private bathroom. The cozy rooms with bed linen and towels provide a comfortable retreat after a day of exploring Johannesburg.
Delicious Dining Options
Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast at Sanctuary Mandela, offering à la carte, continental, or Full English/Irish options. Whether you prefer a light bite or a hearty meal, the on-site restaurant caters to all tastes.
Experience luxury and comfort at Sanctuary Mandela. Book your stay now for an unforgettable experience.
Important Information
Please inform of your expected arrival time in advance. You can use the Special Requests box when booking, or contact the property directly using the contact details in your confirmation.
Guests are required to show a photo ID and credit card upon check-in. Please note that all Special Requests are subject to availability and additional charges may apply.
Policies
Check-in: 02:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Check-out: 11:00 AM
Amenities & Facilities
- Health or beauty spa nearby
- Offsite parking discounted rates available
- Fitness facilities (surcharge)
- Parking
- Non-smoking rooms
- Air conditioning
- Swimming pool
- Restaurant
- Room service
- Lift / Elevator
- Luggage storage
- Safety deposit box
- Fax/photocopying
- Ironing service
- Massage services
- Shuttle service (additional charge)
- Concierge service
- Heated pool
- Salt-water pool
- Outdoor furniture
- Staff adhere to local safety protocols
- Guest rooms disinfected between stays
- Cleaning standards that are effective against Coronavirus
- Physical distancing rules followed
- Hand sanitizer in guest room and key areas
- Cashless payment available
- Fire extinguishers
- First aid kit available
- Sanitized tableware & silverware
- Invoice provided
- Guests can opt-out any cleaning services during stay
- Smoke alarms
- Guest room sealed after cleaning
- Physical distancing in dining areas
- Food delivered to guest room
- CCTV outside property
- Process in place to check health of guests
- 24-hour security
- Security alarm
- Thermometers for guests provided by property
- Key card access
- Television in common areas
- Front desk (limited hours)
- Free wired internet
- Golfing on site
- Airport transportation - pickup (surcharge)
- Airport transportation - drop-off (surcharge)
- Pool sun loungers
- Offsite parking discounted rates available
- Beach yoga on site
- Fitness facilities (surcharge)
- Internet access
- Housekeeping on request
- Wine release events
- Reception hall
- Exercise/lap pool
- Japanese garden
- Health or beauty spa nearby
- Swimming nearby
- Vegetarian menu options available
- Accessible shuttle
- No accessible shuttle
- Accessible train station shuttle
- No accessible train station shuttle
Rooms Available
-
Presidential Room
1 King Bed
538-sq-foot room with garden views
Layout - Bedroom
Relax - In-room massage available
Internet - Free WiFi and wired internet access
Entertainment - 42-inch Smart TV with premium channels and Netflix
Food & Drink - Coffee/tea maker, room service (limited hours), and free bottled water
Sleep - Pillowtop bed, Egyptian cotton linens, blackout drapes/curtains, turndown service, and bed sheets
Bathroom - Private bathroom, deep soaking bathtub, and separate shower with a hydromassage showerhead
Practical - Safe, laptop workspace, and phone
Comfort - Air conditioning, daily housekeeping, fresh towels every 2 days, fresh bed sheets every 2 days
Accessibility - Height-adjustable showerhead
Need to Know - No cribs (infant beds) or rollaway/extra beds available
Non-Smoking
Room/bed type depends on availability at check-in
Max Occupancy: 2 (2 Adults)
- Coffee/tea maker
- Safety deposit box
- TV
- Telephone
- Air conditioning
- Hair dryer
- Bathrobe
- Desk
- Private bathroom
- Slippers
- Satellite channels
- Tile/marble floor
- Wardrobe or closet
- Toilet paper
- Bottle of water
- Shampoo
- Room service (limited hours)
- Wheelchair accessible
- Daily housekeeping
- Designer toiletries
- Premium bedding
- Turndown service
- Blackout drapes/curtains
- In-room massage available
- Separate bathtub and shower
- Free WiFi
- Pillowtop mattress
- Partially open bathroom
- Deep soaking bathtub
- Room and bed type depend on availability check-in
- No rollaway/extra beds
- No cribs (infant beds)
- Hydromassage showerhead
- Bedsheets provided
- Smart TV
- Soap
- Window screens
- Electrical adapters/chargers
- Laptop-friendly workspace
- Restaurant dining guide
- Hand-held showerhead
- Portable shower seat
- Height-adjustable showerhead
- Location - top floor
- Mobile key entry
- Printer
- Magnifying mirror
-
Luxury Room, 1 King Bed
1 King Bed
441 sq feet
Relax - In-room massage available
Internet - Free WiFi and wired internet access
Entertainment - 42-inch Smart TV with premium channels and Netflix
Food & Drink - Coffee/tea maker, room service (limited hours), and free bottled water
Sleep - Pillowtop bed, Egyptian cotton linens, blackout drapes/curtains, turndown service, and bed sheets
Bathroom - Private bathroom, deep soaking bathtub, and separate shower with a hydromassage showerhead
Practical - Safe, laptop workspace, and phone
Comfort - Air conditioning, daily housekeeping, fresh towels every 2 days, fresh bed sheets every 2 days
Accessibility - Hand-held showerhead
Need to Know - No cribs (infant beds) or rollaway/extra beds available
Non-Smoking
Room/bed type depends on availability at check-in
Max Occupancy: 2 (2 Adults)
- Coffee/tea maker
- Safety deposit box
- TV
- Telephone
- Air conditioning
- Hair dryer
- Bathrobe
- Desk
- Private bathroom
- Slippers
- Satellite channels
- Tile/marble floor
- Wardrobe or closet
- Toilet paper
- Bottle of water
- Shampoo
- Room service (limited hours)
- Daily housekeeping
- Designer toiletries
- Premium bedding
- Turndown service
- Blackout drapes/curtains
- In-room massage available
- Separate bathtub and shower
- Free WiFi
- Pillowtop mattress
- Partially open bathroom
- Deep soaking bathtub
- Room and bed type depend on availability check-in
- No rollaway/extra beds
- No cribs (infant beds)
- Hydromassage showerhead
- Bedsheets provided
- Smart TV
- Soap
- Window screens
- Electrical adapters/chargers
- Laptop-friendly workspace
- Restaurant dining guide
- Hand-held showerhead
- Portable shower seat
- Height-adjustable showerhead
- Mobile key entry
- Printer
- Magnifying mirror
-
Deluxe Studio
1 Double Bed
323 sq feet
Relax - In-room massage available
Internet - Free WiFi and wired internet access
Entertainment - 42-inch Smart TV with premium channels and Netflix
Food & Drink - Coffee/tea maker, room service (limited hours), and free bottled water
Sleep - Pillowtop bed, Egyptian cotton linens, blackout drapes/curtains, turndown service, and bed sheets
Bathroom - Private bathroom, deep soaking bathtub, and separate shower with a hydromassage showerhead
Practical - Safe, laptop workspace, and phone
Comfort - Air conditioning, daily housekeeping, fresh towels every 2 days, fresh bed sheets every 2 days
Accessibility - Magnifying mirror
Need to Know - No cribs (infant beds) or rollaway/extra beds available
Non-Smoking
Room/bed type depends on availability at check-in
Max Occupancy: 2 (2 Adults)
- Coffee/tea maker
- Safety deposit box
- TV
- Telephone
- Air conditioning
- Hair dryer
- Bathrobe
- Desk
- Private bathroom
- Slippers
- Satellite channels
- Tile/marble floor
- Wardrobe or closet
- Toilet paper
- Bottle of water
- Shampoo
- Room service (limited hours)
- Daily housekeeping
- Designer toiletries
- Premium bedding
- Turndown service
- Blackout drapes/curtains
- In-room massage available
- Separate bathtub and shower
- Free WiFi
- Pillowtop mattress
- Partially open bathroom
- Deep soaking bathtub
- Room and bed type depend on availability check-in
- No rollaway/extra beds
- No cribs (infant beds)
- Hydromassage showerhead
- Bedsheets provided
- Smart TV
- Soap
- Window screens
- Electrical adapters/chargers
- Laptop-friendly workspace
- Restaurant dining guide
- Hand-held showerhead
- Height-adjustable showerhead
- Mobile key entry
- Printer
- Magnifying mirror
-
Deluxe Room, 1 King Bed
1 King Bed
377-sq-foot room with garden views
Relax - In-room massage available
Internet - Free WiFi and wired internet access
Entertainment - 42-inch Smart TV with premium channels and Netflix
Food & Drink - Coffee/tea maker, room service (limited hours), and free bottled water
Sleep - Pillowtop bed, Egyptian cotton linens, blackout drapes/curtains, turndown service, and bed sheets
Bathroom - Private bathroom, deep soaking bathtub, and separate shower with a hydromassage showerhead
Practical - Safe, laptop workspace, and phone
Comfort - Air conditioning, daily housekeeping, fresh towels every 2 days, fresh bed sheets every 2 days
Accessibility - Hand-held showerhead
Need to Know - No cribs (infant beds) or rollaway/extra beds available
Non-Smoking
Room/bed type depends on availability at check-in
Max Occupancy: 2 (2 Adults)
- Coffee/tea maker
- Safety deposit box
- TV
- Telephone
- Air conditioning
- Hair dryer
- Bathrobe
- Desk
- Private bathroom
- Slippers
- Satellite channels
- Tile/marble floor
- Wardrobe or closet
- Toilet paper
- Bottle of water
- Shampoo
- Room service (limited hours)
- Daily housekeeping
- Designer toiletries
- Premium bedding
- Turndown service
- Blackout drapes/curtains
- In-room massage available
- Separate bathtub and shower
- Free WiFi
- Pillowtop mattress
- Partially open bathroom
- Deep soaking bathtub
- Room and bed type depend on availability check-in
- No rollaway/extra beds
- No cribs (infant beds)
- Hydromassage showerhead
- Bedsheets provided
- Smart TV
- Soap
- Window screens
- Electrical adapters/chargers
- Laptop-friendly workspace
- Restaurant dining guide
- Hand-held showerhead
- Portable shower seat
- Height-adjustable showerhead
- Mobile key entry
- Printer
- Magnifying mirror
-
Studio
This studio features a safe deposit box, a carpeted floor and a flat-screen TV with streaming services. The unit offers 1 bed.
Max Occupancy: 2 (2 Adults)
- Shower
- Safety deposit box
- TV
- Air conditioning
- Hair dryer
- Bathrobe
- Refrigerator
- Desk
- Seating Area
- Toilet
- Private bathroom
- Heating
- Slippers
- Wardrobe or closet
- Linen
- Upper floors accessible by elevator
- Clothes rack
- Toilet paper
- Trash cans
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Body soap
- Shower cap
- Socket near the bed
- Adapter
- Hypoallergenic pillow
- Accessible by lift
- Smoke alarm
- Key card access
- Carbon monoxide detector
- Concierge services
- Single-room air conditioning for guest accommodation
- Hand sanitiser
-
Deluxe King Room
This double room features a sofa, a carpeted floor, a flat-screen TV with streaming services and garden views. The unit offers 1 bed.
Max Occupancy: 2 (2 Adults)
- Shower
- Safety deposit box
- TV
- Air conditioning
- Hair dryer
- Bathrobe
- Refrigerator
- Desk
- Seating Area
- Toilet
- Private bathroom
- Heating
- Slippers
- Sofa
- Wardrobe or closet
- Additional bathroom
- Linen
- Upper floors accessible by elevator
- Clothes rack
- Toilet paper
- Trash cans
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Body soap
- Shower cap
- Socket near the bed
- Adapter
- Hypoallergenic pillow
- Accessible by lift
- Smoke alarm
- Key card access
- Carbon monoxide detector
- Concierge services
- Single-room air conditioning for guest accommodation
- Hand sanitiser
-
King Room
The spacious double room offers a safe deposit box, a sofa, a carpeted floor and a flat-screen TV with streaming services. The unit has 1 bed.
Max Occupancy: 2 (2 Adults)
- Shower
- Safety deposit box
- TV
- Air conditioning
- Hair dryer
- Bathrobe
- Refrigerator
- Desk
- Seating Area
- Toilet
- Private bathroom
- Heating
- Slippers
- Sofa
- Wardrobe or closet
- Additional bathroom
- Linen
- Upper floors accessible by elevator
- Clothes rack
- Toilet paper
- Trash cans
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Body soap
- Shower cap
- Socket near the bed
- Adapter
- Hypoallergenic pillow
- Accessible by lift
- Smoke alarm
- Key card access
- Carbon monoxide detector
- Concierge services
- Single-room air conditioning for guest accommodation
- Hand sanitiser
-
Presidential Suite
The suite features 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom with a bath and free toiletries. The suite provides a mini-bar, a safe deposit box, a sofa, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, as well as garden views. The unit offers 1 bed.
Max Occupancy: 2 (2 Adults)
- Minibar
- Shower
- Safety deposit box
- TV
- Air conditioning
- Hair dryer
- Bathrobe
- Refrigerator
- Desk
- Seating Area
- Toilet
- Private bathroom
- Heating
- Slippers
- Sofa
- Wardrobe or closet
- Additional bathroom
- Linen
- Upper floors accessible by elevator
- Clothes rack
- Toilet paper
- Trash cans
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Body soap
- Shower cap
- Socket near the bed
- Adapter
- Hypoallergenic pillow
- Accessible by lift
- Smoke alarm
- Key card access
- Carbon monoxide detector
- Concierge services
- Single-room air conditioning for guest accommodation
- Hand sanitiser
Guest Reviews
- Martin (10/5): Merveilleux séjour dans ce sublime hôtel chic et classe - Tout! Une maison magnifique, le personnel aux petits soins (mention spéciale pour Sibuca le barman passionné), la visite du lieu avec l’histoire de Nelson Mandela. Cet hôtel est absolument extraordinaire ! Rien, tout est juste parfait
- Moeka (10/5): - すべてが期待以上でした。おもてなしが温かく、居心地がとてもよかったです。朝食はおいしすぎて夕食も食べに帰ってきました。お願いしたら館内ツアーもしてくれます。非の打ちどころがないです。
- Ciaran (10/5): -
- Alexandra (10/5): - Traumhaft schönes Haus. Leider war der Pool dreckig und ungepflegt.
- Veronique (9/5): Séjour de 2 nuits parfait avec tout le confort et une visite privilégiée orientée sur Nelson Mandela - Séjour très agréable dans ce charmant hôtel plein de sérénités, à l’image de son ancien habitant Nelson Mandela rien
- Alice (10/5): - It was not clear that the wine pairing is an additional charge and not included in the meal that was already costly R775 for the meal and R775 for the pairing per person was hefty Drinks too expensive
- pierre lebreton (9/5): -
- catherine (10/5): On rêve d'y retourner - Nous avons passé 2 nuits fabuleuses dans cet hôtel, qui a une ame.Tout y est parfait. Le slogan: vous êtes chez vous est absolument respecté. Toutes nos demandes ont été écoutées par un personnel aux petits soins Rien
- Marius (10/5): All great!!! -
- Paul (10/5): Beautiful property with historical background great food and staff - The historical and backstory of this hotel Renovation was beautifully done I think if we stayed any longer than 1/2 nights the location might have been an issue
- Chantal (10/5): - Quartos e serviço. Restaurante maravilhoso.
- Paola Negro (10/5): - It's thrilling to It's thrilling to walk in the footsteps of a historic giant. The staff is extremely professional, the location is elegant, and the food is exquisite.of a historic giant. The staff is extremely professional, the location is elegant, and the food is exquisite.
- Theuns (9/5): -
- Nathalie (10/5): Es war alles perfekt - Super freundlich, sauber, tolles Essen.
- Lungile (10/5): Perfect staycation - I loved everything from the “welcome home” to the food and the scenery.
- Ilan (9/5): Excellent service with welcoming staff who are extremely accommodating - Quiet area good location, secure and peaceful Noise from the dining area travels upstairs to the rooms
- Yves-Marie (10/5): -
- Jennifer (10/5): - Whilst everything was excellent, the staff were exceptional. Each and every one of them were delightful, engaging, polite…. Very comfortable too and we will be back
- Mashudu (9/5): - Cleanliness
- Scott (10/5): Truly amazing - Wow - what a place. SM exceeded all of our expectations, Food, Service and staff were all amazing. Marked down on Location as you need to Uber everywhere but the actual location is great it is just it is a little out of town Nothing
- jean michel (10/5): Tout le personnel a été au petit soin pendant tout le séjour - Hôtel intimiste Rien
- Bongi (10/5): - Thoroughly enjoyed our stay and wish we could have stayed longer. This place is pure perfection, with a sprinkle of customisation that makes each individual guest feel special. Kagiso was our waiter for lunch and supper and very attentive. We will be back again!!!
- jean michel (10/5): - Restaurant délicieux Chambres confortables Rien
- Shekkola (10/5): - Every aspect of our stay was intentionally welcoming. From the welcome beverages to the bedside treat, we felt cared for every moment of our stay. The tour of the sanctuary allowed us to have an inside look into the life of Nelson Mandela. Each person at the sanctuary told us more about the beautiful history of his time there. We highly recommend a stay at the sanctuary to all who visit Johannesburg. The meals were exceptional and designed with a global perspective. Each dish has its own story. There is amazing variety.
- Luke (8/5): Its not too bad to be honest, was expecting more considering how much it is per night. - Iconic No lifts ( broken) The shower and what we are paying per night does not match
- Ilan (9/5): Very attentive staff who are willing to make your stay very enjoyable. Excellent restaurant. - We’ll maintained and new wing with well fitted rooms Occasionally the smell from the kitchen reached the room
- Hamda (9/5): - Friendly staff. Very comfortable and welcoming atmosphere.
- Mei-Hua (9/5): We like the hospitality and the Modern design of the rooms&building. This is a historical place where Nelson Mandela - Historical buildings and architecture. Every room has a name for his past history.
- Anthony P (9/5): - The hotel was lovely and has such an interesting history. The staff are excellent and extremely helpful and thoroughly enjoyed our stay. Only a very minor issue; We stayed 3 nights, and the relatively restaurant's smallish dinner menu didn't change. On a longer stay, it might be difficult to have a variety of choices.
- Jamye (10/5): - Upon arrival, the staff greeted us by saying, “Welcome Home”. I have never received such a warm reception of hospitality by a hotel. The dinner, the rooms, the staff, the jazz brunch, and the tour, were amazing!! I am already planning my next stay. My only regret, is wishing I knew about the hotel sooner.
- Michelle B (10/5): - Love this place. I felt right at home. I would definitely recommend. The place is beautiful and very well made. I didn’t care for the dinner menu and the breakfast was served cold. I ordered pancakes and bacon. I would still recommend this lovely es. We celebrated our anniversary and they had some really nice for us when returning from dinner
- Sandbar60 (10/5): Welcome home - What a fabulous boutique hotel - very comfortable rooms , friendly and informative staff , great food. In fact everything we could have hoped for. We loved the attention to detail regarding Nelson Mandela’s life - highly recommend the tour. Pity we couldn’t stay longer to appreciate more of the history. Thankyou.
- Rory (6/5): Charge for late checkout unclear and extortionate price. - Bar staff and check in were amazing. I was charged 50% of the daily rate for a late checkout when I had inquired the night before at dinner if it was ok. The response was that no check ins the next day so ok and no mention of an additional charge. On checkout they argued that it was included in my booking. Com correspondence. Manager at checkout insisted on payment which I felt unreasonable and unfair. The checkout Experience ruined an otherwise great stay.
- Kay1312 (10/5): Exceptional - What a truly beautiful little boutique hotel! The staff are unbelievably friendly and can’t do enough for you, welcoming you home the moment you arrive. There are only 9 bedrooms but each one has a connection to Nelson Mandela which is explained on your tour. The tour is really interesting and I highly recommend it. Food was incredible and plenty of it! Rooms are beautiful and have everything you need for a comfortable stay. I’m sad we only got to enjoy for one night, I’d return in a heartbeat!
- Mellisha (10/5): Superb - Excellent stay. Staff were so helpful and friendly. Nothing was too much trouble for them. The history of the place was just amazing, it was truly great experience Nothing. Everything was fabulous
- D3952HMlesleyr (10/5): Wonderful! - I will never forget my visit to this wonderful hotel. The fact that it was once Nelson Mandela's home made it even more special to me. The rooms are beautiful and very comfortable and the food is exceptional. I can't praise the lovely team of staff enough, such gracious and warm people. I only wish I could have stayed longer. Absolutely fabulous! Treat yourself!
- Rosie (10/5): Wonderful birthday trip - The staff were fabulous …nothing was too much trouble. The tour was very interesting and we loved learning more about the property and the art and history. . We had supper at the restaurant and it was delicious….thank you so much for making my birthday very special, this will be our go to place in Johannesburg. .We only stayed one night on a layover between flights and it was so worth it .. It was all wonderful
- Joachim_56 (7/5): Good - It Is our second visit to Sanctuary Mandela We had a lovely room The lady who did the tour of the property was excellent Service was attentive The food was a let down .overpriced and average compared to our first experience in February 2024 The wines we ordered were unfortunately apparently not available and we ended paying a dear R 872 for a very average bottle of wine . A real pity as we used to recommend this property for the experience and no longer feel it is worth it
- Mellisha (10/5): Exceptional - The history that is offered is unique and inspiring. The staff are amazing and so helpful and accommodating. The food is second to none. Facilities were great and the service incredible Absolutely nothing
- Royster111 (10/5): Hidden Gem - This place is a hidden gem. We booked a one night stopover before heading to Kruger and this hotel was perfect (It’s about 25 mins from the airport). The hotel organised our transfers and everything ran so smoothly from initial communication through to check in. Communication over email was almost instant! Everyone in the hotel met you with an enthusiastic smile. They are passionate about their job and are proud about the heritage of the building they work in. We had lunch, dinner and breakfast and all meals were exceptional, including some local specialties. The knowledge of the bar staff and the service was again, superb. We had a tour of the property where we learned more about the links with Mandela including some unique artefacts and super artwork. The bed was huge and very comfortable and left us feeling refreshed for the next leg of our journey. In summary, I’d book again in an instant next time I pass this way. Thanks to all the staff for a superb stay and for widening our knowledge!
- Joyce (10/5): Exceptional -
- Joan (8/5): Excellent location and service - Service, building, people No windows in the room, WC not separated from room
- Nobantu (9/5): The best staycation, had a great time connecting with my family! - Its proximity to my home, cosy and beautifully decorated. Feels like home... Nothing
- georgiegirl7 (10/5): Thoroughly recommend this hotel but try and stay 2 nights if you can - Stayed at Sanctuary Mandala Hotel for one night before going onto our safari lodge as part of a tour. We were supposed to be staying at a different hotel outside of Johannesburg, but it was changed a few weeks before. So glad it was as the hotel was perfect. The hotel is in a quiet residential area about 27 kms from the airport. It should have taken around 30 minutes to get there but took around an hour because of all the traffic through the city. The hotel has 9 individual rooms built around what was Mandala’s home. The place is fascinating as its filled with memorabilia and is dedicated to his life. To add to the history, the staff were friendly and helpful, and the food (lunch, dinner & breakfast) was excellent. Do take the guided tour of the hotel if offered as it’s a fascinating look into the history of apartheid and Mandala’s life. The only disappointment is we spent only one night at the hotel and would have loved to have stayed for at least another night so we could have spent more time looking around and maybe get to use the hotel pool. If you get chance do stay at this hotel.
- Thapelo (9/5): Superb -
- Sudan (10/5): Exceptional -
- SERGIO (10/5): - The hotel and the staff are amazing! We felt at home all the time, they take care of every little detail, cant recommend it enough
- Cezanne (10/5): Exceptional -
- Janeen (10/5): - Impeccable Service by staff & Guest Relations. Top notch Restaurant. Exceptional breakfasts with your stay. Dinner cuisines & Cultural Experiences! History, wines & food ! Top Notch! Options are very plentiful , insanely delicious. Foods that soothes the soul . The ambience of the Boutique hotel is just simply Amazing! I will definitely come back Beds are super comfy. You will definitely get a goodnight nights rest . Housekeeping Superb !! Welcome drinks w/ a South African greeting is something one must witness. Attentiveness is on another Level of making sure their guest are treated with the upmost respect. I felt like the Queen that I am ! That’s what you will get coming back home . Thanks You Everyone for making my Gmom & my Birthday a very special & blessed day. Thank you Linda ! We love you 🇺🇸 If you don’t stay here, you can still visit the Restaurant with a reservation. Best dining experience!!!
- Mariska (10/5): Exceptional -
- Kagiso (9/5): Superb -
- Lwazi (9/5): Superb -
- Matthew (10/5): Exceptional -
- Pitsi (10/5): Incredible - The breakfast was awesome. The property location is easily accessible. Nothing at all. All went well.
- Kagiso (10/5): Exceptional - It feels like “home”
- Patrick (10/5): - Beautiful property with excellent and attentive staff. Great breakfast and really tasty lunch. I highly recommend!
- Rafael (9/5): Awesome Sanctuary to view Mandela's History - A place of historical significance within South Africa. View beautiful images & painting of Mandela. The Sanctuary Mandela opened in late 2021 - so place / furnishing is new and well maintained. The onsite restaurant, Insight caters to a fixed local dinner menu enjoyed by Mandela himself. You have to try the oxtail! Staff arranged a lovely romantic turndown for the evening! The rooms are awesome - but we didn't fully understand how to open the blinds/curtains, which remained closed during our stay.
- Waimate01 (10/5): Very special - So obviously Nelson Mandela is held in high regard by many people around the world, so staying at his once-presidential house is pretty special, and we were made to feel special from the moment we arrived. We were the only guests staying overnight, but the restaurant was full because it's a very good restaurant and clearly a place people go for special occasions. Included in the dinner or stay is a tour of the house and various memorabiliae. The next morning they were preparing for some sort of corporate function in the main area, so they prepared a private table for two in an upstairs area. Very thoughtful.
- Kmacdona (10/5): You must stay here! - We were a family of 4 in two rooms at the hotel and we couldn't pass up the opportunity to spend the night at Nelson Mandela's former home. Rooms 1, 2 and 3 are the original bedrooms and rooms 4-9 were added. All guests are offered a tour of the hotel which takes about 30 minutes. No need for a reservation. Just let them know when you arrive when it fits into your schedule. Rooms were amazing with very high ceilings (15 feet..ish) and very large. The entire place felt more like a spa, encouraging reflection. The staff members were phenomenal and very friendly. It is about a block from stop 3 (Nelson Mandela Foundation) on the Hop On, Hop Off bus tour, so that can provide easy access to other points of interest.
- Angus (10/5): Sanctuary Mandela is Exceptional - Our experience at Sanctuary Mandela was exceptional from when we arrived to when we departed. The food, ambience and service went beyond our expectations. Thank you for making our stay incredible.
- Willemien (9/5): Superb -
- Raf (10/5): Exceptional - Amazing place. Never had such an experience. Great staff, food excellent and this in an historical location
- Rebecca (9/5): We had a lovely stay - Beautiful setting, lovely staff, great food. Very minor point but the doors should be better soundproofed. We could hear everything from the restaurant very clearly which to some extent takes away the feeling of privacy in the bedroom
- Luiza (10/5): Perfect stay in all senses in historical site - PERFECT hotel!!! 5-star feeling, truly!!! Historical site (Mandela’s house during his presidential years, beautifully renovatex). super exciting to get to stay there and see all of the carefully curated pieces of art around Nelson Mandela’s life and history. Easy to get cabs and uber around it. Very comfortable beds, AMAZING food and bar. Super friendly staff. Simply surreal experience, can’t recommend it enough! Shower head could be improved in room “tata” (nothing major)
- MooreTraveltheWorld (10/5): Good food, attentive staff, beautiful history! - On Christmas, my family and I had the chance to dine at Sanctuary Mandela, and it was a memorable experience during our visit to Johannesburg for the holiday. We were initially disappointed to find that the menu had changed, but we were pleasantly surprised by the excellent choices available to us. As it was a holiday, the restaurant was quite empty, which suited us just fine. The staff were incredibly attentive, and their pride in their roles was evident. I particularly enjoyed a perfectly cooked steak, which was not only delicious but also beautifully presented. The drinks were also top-notch. It's worth noting that this restaurant is situated at a former home of Nelson Mandela, which has been transformed into a boutique hotel and restaurant.
- Francesca (10/5): - My room was spacious, spotless, and spectacular. I'd corresponded with Tumi, the manager, prior to my visit. She was warm and welcoming as was the woman at the front desk who greeted me when I arrived. The breakfast, which is included, is a la carte. I ordered several things, thinking the portions would be small. They were not. Everything was delicious (yogurt and fruit, eggs benedict) and the coffee (I take it black, no cream or sugar) was super. My only criticism was in regards to the restaurant dinner. I ordered chicken tangine which were two thighs in a tangine sauce. The thighs had so many bones and such little meat that I thought they were actually pigeon. The sauce was mediocre.
- Alannawo (10/5): Perfect stay in Johannesburg - Sanctuary Mandela is an incredible boutique hotel that celebrates Nelson Mandela. It was his residence during his presidency. There is so much history here as you get the tour of all the artifacts and the history of how this place was rebuilt to honor his legacy. The staff were amazing and it was so welcoming as the first words when we arrived was "welcome home". We stayed for 2 nights in September 2023 and enjoyed the Presidential suite. Breakfast and dinner were included as well as the mini fridge was well stocked. We were greeted with champagne and a charcuterie board in our room. We also did a tour of the Nelson Foundation which was close to the hotel. At one dinner we had Mandela's personal chef join us. Xoliswa Ndoyiya told us so many stories about him, we felt that he was there with us. I would highly recommend a stop here if you are in Johannesburg. Thank you to all the staff for making our stay so enjoyable and memorable.
- John (9/5): A great place to stay for a night with an exceptional history - See my last review. We used the hotel as the first and last night of a safari trip See my last review
- John (9/5): A wonderful place to stay for a night or two - Fantastic property with a great history, staff could not have been more helpful, the tour was great Same lunch and dinner menu
- Michael (10/5): This is the best boutique hotel we have ever experienced over many years and all the continents! - We could not have been happier with the total experience at the Sanctuary! The staff became like family the first day of our first of 2 stays there. And now a month later, we're still in awe of them. We loved every minute of our stay. And our only regret is that we had to leave and return home. We miss everything about Sanctuary Mandela - particularly the kindest and most caring staff.
- michaelsE9061ZZ (10/5): This is the best boutique hotel we have ever experienced over many years and all the continents! - We could not have been happier with the total experience at the Sanctuary! The staff became like family the first day of our first of 2 stays there. And now a month later, we're still in awe of them. We loved every minute of our stay. And our only regret is that we had to leave and return home. We miss everything about Sanctuary Mandela - particularly the kindest and most caring staff in the world!
- 83colleenw (10/5): Unique & Unforgettable Hotel - Amazing introduction to Jo-Burg and South Africa. The staff embodies grace, warmth, hospitality and pride in the history of this special place. Was an honor to stay there and to be surrounded by the energy and spirit of such an important historical figure. The meals were outstanding experiences. Even bought the cook book as a special momento-will attempt to bring the experience home with us. Thank you to entire staff for taking such thoughtful care of our family💛
- Mzimase (9/5): Superb - Staff through out the hotel were attentive and helpful The order had to be repeated twice as the eggs were not done well as per request
- Richard (10/5): We really enjoyed our stay at the Sanctuary Mandela Hotel and would thoroughly recommend it to anyone planning to stay a - Everything! The interior design is very attractive, both the individual rooms and the common areas. The staff were friendly and welcoming. The meals were interesting and delicious. Nothing at all!
- LieslF11 (10/5): Serene reflection in the city - Sanctuary Mandela is truly a hidden gem. The hotel has a palpable energy about it. The space is well thought out and everything in the hotel really does lend itself to peaceful reflection. We enjoyed everything about our stay here. The staff are friendly and helpful. Sbu in particular was amazing and he went out of his way to make sure our evening was special. The quality of the food is top tier and the portions are quite big. We could not have picked a more perfect property to overnight at for our wedding anniversary and we will definitely be returning whether it be for a meal at Insights, another stay or Jazz Sundays.
- Jamie (10/5): Exceptional - The property was gorgeous! The staff was absolutely amazing and made us feel like family! The food was delicious! Everything was perfect and I can't imagine staying anywhere else while in Johannesburg!
- Lucy (9/5): Exceeded expectations. - Great breakfast , staff were friendly and went above and beyond to help us celebrate our daughter-in-law’s birthday Pool was shady but not a problem for us!
- Dr (10/5): Exceptional -
- LDNviaBNE (10/5): Hands Down the Best Place to Stay in Johannesburg - Sanctuary Mandela is simply perfection. This was the 4th hotel we used in Johannesburg on our last trip, and it was by far the best place to stay. Highly convenient location and well worth the drive from the airport if you have an overnight connection in Joberg. Honestly, everything was brilliant - the food (for dinner and breakfast) the staff, the room, the grounds and the facilities. Couldn't recommend this place more highly.
- Shelley (9/5): we were welcomed home when we arrived and that was exactly how we felt for our entire stay of three nights - everything
- Amanda (10/5): From the moment we booked the staff were so helpful It is a destination in its own right. A perfect place to spend a nig - Everything, it oozed with warmth, happiness and history. The food is also fabulous.
- Miriam (10/5): Exceptional - Attentive staff with sweet & extremely thoughtful personalised touches for our stay. Our room and bathroom were great. Breakfast (included) and dinner were super delicious and Mandela’s previous chef was part of the team - how amazing is that!? Talk about eating with history. The hotel itself is full of history and we loved the tour around residence. Highly highly recommend this hotel! Nothing!!
- Ntsoaki (10/5): It was breathtaking absolutely heavenly, unique and very intimate for those that enjoy not crowded places. - The staff member’s smile with the words “ Welcome Home” I travel a lot and never have I been welcomed like this. I felt like I was home and my family & friends were welcomed exactly the same way hours later after my check in. Throughout our stay the staff’s professionalism was impeccable. Their love for people is commendable, the food is on another level👌🏾 I love everything about this gem. However it will be great if they can consider to have rates for locals, unless their niche market is Europeans /Foreign nationals who pay with💰and £
- Nomthandazo (8/5): if you're interested in SA History you will love it. - breakfast was great. good location I had requested that they do something special for my friend's birthday and they didn't refuse but just disregarded that request.
- LJucha (10/5): Only place in Johannesburg to stay - STAY HERE!!!!! I can't imagine a better place to stay to truly take in all that Nelson Mandela did for this country and truly learn and honor this remarkable man. They converted his prior home into this beautiful small boutique hotel. My travel agent (elsewhere- highly recommend) recommended it. First of all, it is small and personal. The staff is like none other than I have experienced in the world. The US should take notes. So nice, so kind, so welcoming. I honestly wanted to hang out with them. So interesting to talk to. My husband was born in Johannesburg a few miles away and this was his first trip back in 47 years. Needless to say alot changed since 1977. He mentioned he would love some pap (pronounced pup) and it wasn't on the menu. Our waiter had the chef make some the next day. It is a traditional meal similar to southern grits and it takes all day to make. That was special. Be sure to allow time (30 min) to take the tour of the hotel. All the rooms have meaningful names, all the photos tell a story. The room was very comfortable. Laundry service every day was included. And a special history lesson/ treat each evening. The food at the restaurant was excellent. Most hotels are just a place to stay and are not memorable. Sanctuary Mandela is aptly named and will be remembered forever. HIGHLY recommend.
- David (9/5): Superb -
- Thapelo (10/5): Exceptional -
- Renay (10/5): Exceptional -
- Dudu (9/5): Superb -
- Khathutshelo (10/5): Heaven! - Omg... I loved everything. From parking until I checked out. What a pleasant experience. The people, facilities, breakfast. I did not want to leave. One of my best experiences. The staff is the best Absolutely nothing. Could stay there endlessly.
- Maggie (10/5): Absolutely fabulous - The service was the best and friendliest service iv'e have Nationally as well as internationally.
- karencU7790QQ (10/5): Beautiful - We were welcomed home and it felt like we were home. The restoration was absolutely beautiful and Mr. Mandela would be truly grateful. We visited for Sunday brunch and jazz. It was the perfect setting. The food and entertainment was wonderful. Will definitely be back.
- Thapelo (9/5): Superb -
- Barry (10/5): Exceptional - The staff were so warm and welcoming. They were extremely attentive and the room was spacious, it was decorated superbly and it was a great night out. We were surprised by the attentiveness of the staff at every turn. We had left for a dinner reservation outside of the hotel and when we had returned, we had already had our turndown service sorted and a small cookie and water waiting when we had returned. The shower was great and the amenities were really top class. Sleep was amazing. Room is really dark so we had a really great sleep. In the morning, we had the most amazing breakfast and the staff were really attentive and even remembered that my partner was allergic to mushrooms and had noted it on the breakfast plate. Thank you for the most amazing visit. We will be back! There is nothing notable. It was great! I cant fault the hotel on anything at this time. They have been communicative, they were attentive and the experience was amazing.
- Joan (10/5): Exceptional - Our stay was exceptional in everyway!!! The warmth of all the staff was above and beyond anything we have experienced anywhere. Truely, memorable.
- Thapelo (9/5): Superb -
- Sadiki (10/5): Exceptional - Everything was on point. 💯 There's nothing we didn't like.
- Amandajanewilde (10/5): Exceptional -
- TrailBlazer705083 (10/5): Great food, friendly staff and wonderful place - Great hotell with friendly and very helpful staff. The food was amazing, perfect prepared meat and wonderful flavours. Just loved everything. All the rooms tells an own story from a period of Nelson Mandela’s life. All is put great together and creates a wonderful atmosphere.
- Peter (10/5): Exceptional -
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