Region: Gauteng

Properties in the Gauteng region.

Gauteng and North West Region

Gauteng & North West Provinces

Weather in Gauteng

People from Johannesburg consider their climate to be the best in South Africa.

Winter  (June – August) It is situated on the High Veld (approx. 2000 metres above sea level) and can get very cold yet dry in winter. High temperatures 14C and overnight lows -2C

Summer (November – April) In the summer temperatures are typically above 30C and usually accompanied by afternoon thunderstorms.

Spring (September/October) High temperatures in high 20C; Overnight lows around 9C.  Usually no rain

Autumn (May) High temperatures around 14C and overnight lows of 0C.

This includes the huge metropolitan area of Johannesburg and Pretoria and some of the most remote locations in South Africa. This diverse area includes the wilderness areas of Madikwe and the Pilanesberg . This is also an inland playground from the theme parks and museums of Johannesburg and Pretoria to Sun City with its mixture of casinos, entertainment and water activities. Wherever you go you will find luxury hotels and more affordable bed & breakfast lodges. The Malaria free Game Reserves feature some excellent Safari Lodges particularly in Madikwe near Botswana and also in the Pilanesberg.

Places to visit in Gauteng

  • Towns  Johannesburg is re-emerging as a vibrant city. There are still no go areas but take guided tours to Soweto and the city.
  • Pretoria has imposing buildings, monuments & the cycad gardens.
  • Pre-history  Visit The Cradle of Humankind and the renowned Sterkfontein caves.
  • Fun  Sun City for relaxation, casinos, golf and world class entertainment.
  • Golf  Numerous world class golf courses including Sun City
  • Theme Parks  & Museums   Gold Reef City takes you back to the early days and The Museum of Apartheid provides a poignant record of South Africa’s past.
  • Game Reserves  The Pilansberg and Madikwe provide the ‘Big Five’, wonderful, malaria – free safaris and breathtaking wilderness experiences.
  • Health  There is no need to take anti malaria precautions in this part of South Africa.

Accommodation in Gauteng

A wide variety of beautiful guest houses, luxury hotels & stunning Private Safari Lodges are available across the region.

The Cascades, Sun City

The Cascades, Sun City

The Cascades is a lower cost alternative to The Palace of the Lost City for people wanting to stay at Sun City. This is a good and affordable option for families with good sized international style accommodation.

About the Location

You have access to all the facilities of Sun City including the casino, championship golf course and the Valley of the Waves pool complete with phenomenal wave machine. You are also on the edge of the Pilanesberg National Park and the hotel can arrange guided safaris in this fascinating location.


Balalaika Hotel, Sandton, Johannesburg

A good location for a short stay in a safe a lively part of Johannesburg

This large hotel is part of the Protea Hotels chain and we have chosen it for this collection because of the excellent service standards it provides, the comfortable rooms, calm ambiance and its location. There is a pool and a pretty garden which is a restful oasis to enjoy a quiet drink!

About the Location

The hotel is one of the most convenient for the Sandton Mall area that is now the hub of Johannesburg’s lively business and financial district. This is also one of the largest shopping malls in South Africa.  A a  complement the Balalaika’s own grill restaurant, The Bull & Bear restaurant which is adjacent serves excellent grills. Whether you need a one-night stopover before your onward journey or you are seeking a base from which to explore this fascinating city and area, The Balalaika will provide you with a comfortable, inexpensive location.
Palace of the Lost City

Palace of the Lost City, Sun City

Las Vegas meets Disneyworld in the African Bush

This remarkable hotel offers the ultimate in extravagance. The hotel is a large international style hotel yet retaining unique African touches – although to some this may seem rather ‘over the top’. It is very Disneyesque in concept and construction so you will be promised a stay with a distinct difference. You can choose between suites, luxury and standard rooms. There are two pools to choose from as well as the facilities in Sun City.

About the Location

Pilanesberg Game Reserve is close by and almost part of the theme as it lies within an ancient (long extinct) volcanic crater. Game drives can be arranged into the reserve together with numerous other activities. This is only a 2 1/2 hour drive from Johannesburg International Airport or local flights can be arranged into the nearby Sun City Airport. A good location for Golfers with many international tournaments held here.


Ivory Tree Game Lodge

Ivory Tree Game Lodge, Pilanesberg, North West Province

Malaria free reserve conveniently located 2 1/2 hours’ drive from Johannesburg Airport this is an option for clients on a budget or with time constraints

Although a large lodge with 60 rooms the management succeed in retaining a personal feel. Accommodation is in individual thatched huts many overlooking the bush. We liked the type of mosquito net that is provided around the bed allowing you a comfortable sleep even though this is a malaria free area. The bathrooms are large and there is a private outdoor shower. The central facilities are excellent with a wonderful pool seemingly open to the bush although the entire property is fenced. The accommodation is arranged around a valley in a horseshoe shape. Be sure to look for the crocodiles under the walkway from reception.

About the Location

Game drives are provided by knowledgeable and personable rangers who will drive you into the wonderfully wild Pilanesberg National Park. Please note that as this in a National Park the rangers are not allowed to drive off road. The park is situated scenically in the remarkably rocky remains of an ancient (1.3 billion years) volcanic crater and boast the ‘Big Five’ plus cheetah and Cape Hunting Dog. This property is excellent value even though it is graded 5 star. This is within an easy 2 1/2 hour drive along good roads from Johannesburg.


The Fairlawns, Morningside, Johannesburg

Stunning luxurious Boutique hotel in a leafy suburb of Johannesburg

Fairlawns is an exceptionally luxurious boutique hotel set in the heart of Johannesburg’s business district of Sandton. The emphasis is, however, on tranquillity and gracious living. All 19 suites are very spacious and fully equipped to the highest standards. There is a huge gym equipped to international standards and a large outdoor pool.

About the Location

Temporary membership is arranged for the nearby golf courses, tennis and squash courts. The bar with its renowned wine list complements the a la carte restaurant.  the financial district of Sandton is close by (10 minute drive) complete with its extensive mall and great restaurants. For clients looking for something a little different in Johannesburg this is one of the best small hotels we have discovered.


Etali Safari Lodge

Etali Safari Lodge, Madikwe Game Reserve

Etali Safari Lodge is the perfect combination of Animals, Romance & the African Bush.  

We regard Etali as one of the best Safari Lodges that we have stayed at. A combination of peerless accommodation, excellent food (not always present at even some of the most expensive safari lodges), wonderful ambiance and superb game viewing. Above all, Etali has some of the most helpful staff that we have encountered makiong this a truly memorable experience. The very private accommodation is in 10 separate, thatched lodges. Each has comfortable living and sleeping quarters and a generous bathroom complete with double indoor shower and a private outdoor shower too. The deck is ideal for game viewing or just gazing at the splendid southern hemisphere stars – but don’t be surprised if the odd giraffe tries to ‘sneak’ past in the dark! The private plunge pool on your deck is, in fact, a heated Jacuzzi! This is truly your own 5 star heaven in the bush. The central facilities are excellent and include a fully equipped outdoor gym and an adjacent wellness centre.

About Etali’s Location

The experienced rangers and trackers will guide you on your game drives and, if you prefer, a bush walk. Dinner is in the boma close to a waterhole and we were particularly impressed by the impromptu show from a lone elephant that appeared committed to enjoying a drink and a shower while the guests / onlookers enjoyed their breakfasts.