SANCTUARY MANDELA

 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Sanctuary Mandela
  
 494 reviews 
 
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 Michael 
 
12 September 2026
 
 
  
Excellent ☺Beautiful hotel staff were brilliant
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Peter Pentz 
 
10 September 2026
 
 
  
I’ve travelled far and wide, but I must say there are few hotel stays quite as unique and special as Sanctuary Mandela. Set in the leafy suburb of Houghton, this boutique hotel occupies the former residence of President Nelson Mandela and truly lives up to its name, it is a sanctuary. From the moment you arrive, the experience feels different. You are greeted with “Welcome home”, as though you are a long-time guest returning. Check-in takes place in a comfortable lounge setting while you enjoy a welcome drink, immediately setting the tone for a stay that feels intimate, personal and wonderfully relaxed. I stayed in Room 2, which was formerly Mr Mandela’s study. The property has been beautifully restored and renovated, striking an exceptional balance between its important heritage and contemporary luxury. You never lose the sense of history, yet it feels every bit like a refined modern boutique hotel. The staff are exceptional. Service is incredibly personal and tailored to your preferences; everyone seems to know your name, and nothing is ever too much trouble. You are genuinely made to feel like a president! One detail I particularly loved was the 24/7 tea and coffee butler service. There are no ordinary tea and coffee facilities tucked away in the room,instead, you simply order what you would like. A cortado in bed? No problem. It arrives. That little touch was absolute luxury and one of the highlights of my stay. The Cape Island bathroom amenities are another lovely detail and add to the sense of understated South African luxury throughout the property. Perhaps what impressed me most is how completely Sanctuary Mandela allows you to forget that you are in the middle of a bustling city. It is peaceful, calm and deeply relaxing, while also giving you the extraordinary opportunity to stay somewhere with genuine historical significance. Without a doubt, one of the most memorable hotel stays I have ever had. An exceptional property, made even more special by exceptional people.
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Galeboe Moeng 
 
27 July 2026
 
 
  
Beautiful Jazz Sunday. Enjoyed the Trio perfomance, the food was exquisite especially the Rooibos Springbok starter and the ginger pudding. Thabang gave an awesome tour and was very detailed.
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Lauri 
 
24 July 2026
 
 
  
Great place, Forth it, value for money, ☺Hospitality was excellent, great place of character, staff with charm! ☹Sound proofing was pretty awful, need earplugs!

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 Devendri Adari 
 
13 July 2026
 
 
  
We just did the tour and we loved it. However I was  sad that we couldn't go into the President room, I thought it would have been part of the tour but it wasn't.
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Moeketsi 
 
9 July 2026
 
 
  
Would definitely stay there again. ☺The service and friendly staff. ☹All was excellent.
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Sal M 
 
4 July 2026
 
 
  
A viewing that turned into lunch! Loved the feeling of being in Madiba's old residence, it's filled with photographs and stories. The staff were welcoming, attentive and knowledgeable. The food was great. Highly recommend for special occasions and celebrations.
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Bruno Becker 
 
1 July 2026
 
 
  
Pure luxury in a place full of history. You'll feel, as they said, at Home. Sad we just stayed for one night.
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Bruno 
 
30 June 2026
 
 
  
A historic stay in a historic setting. ☺It's a gem of a boutique hotel. Perfect for couples. In an exclusive location with top-notch service. The cuisine is high-quality, and the included breakfast is delicious. The beds are comfortable, and small touches like the welcome drink, the sweets, and the guided tour of the house greatly enhance the experience. We would have loved to visit the foundation. ☹This comment is very unfair because it's not related to the service, but we found the room design odd, as there wasn't a clear separation to provide privacy for the bathroom. There's a glass partition, but you can hear everything, and there's no real privacy. Perhaps adding a wall would help. However, this wouldn't affect our decision to return.

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 Keke Nkgapele 
 
29 June 2026
 
 
  
My stay at Sanctuary Mandela was exceptional from start to finish. The service was warm, attentive, and genuinely heartfelt. Every member of the team went out of their way to make me feel welcome and accommodated. It truly felt like coming home. The food was another highlight, beautifully blending South African flavours with international cuisine in a way that felt both familiar and refined. Every meal was thoughtfully prepared and added to the overall experience. More than just a luxury stay, Sanctuary Mandela offers a sense of peace, history, and hospitality that lingers long after you’ve left. I would gladly return and highly recommend it to anyone looking for an experience that nourishes both the soul and the senses.
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Olubukola “Bucatti” Ojewale 
 
28 June 2026
 
 
  
Beautiful environment with historical feel and atmosphere
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Huw W 
 
24 June 2026
 
 
  
A little haven in Joburg This boutique hotel that was once Nelson Mandela’s home has been renovated to the highest standard, all the staff are amazing, big shout to Sebo (hope I spelt that right) you were the perfect host. We were looked after so well. We ate at the hotel restaurant and did not regret it, exceptional food and service, thank you all for making our time with you memorable and very special.
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Lynn 
 
24 May 2026
 
 
  
Staying at Sanctuary Mandela is an experience to remember! ☺Staying at Sanctuary Mandela was an exceptional experience on all counts. The staff was so friendly , helpful, and knowledgeable. The restaurant was a culinary delight. Nelson Mandela’s life stories are reflected throughout. We highly recommend staying here!
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Martin 
 
21 May 2026
 
 
  
Wonderful stay in this sublime, chic, and classy hotel ☺ Everything! A magnificent building, attentive staff (special mention to Sibuca, the passionate bartender), the tour of the property with the story of Nelson Mandela. This hotel is absolutely extraordinary! ☹ Nothing, everything is just perfect

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 Betty LaMarr 
 
15 May 2026
 
 
  
It was incredible to dine in the former Presidential home of Nelson Mandela.  The food was inspired by his choices and I found the meals delightful and tasty.
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Moeka 
 
11 May 2026
 
 
  
Exceptional ☺ Everything exceeded my expectations. The hospitality was warm and the atmosphere was very comfortable. The breakfast was so delicious that I came back for dinner as well. They even offer guided tours of the hotel upon request. It's absolutely flawless.

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 Alexandra 
 
10 May 2026
 
 
  
Exceptional ☺ A dream house. ☹ Unfortunately, the pool was dirty and neglected.

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 Sizwe Gcayi 
 
17 March 2026
 
 
  
A world class facility, true to Madiba's Legacy.
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Shelagh Hunter 
 
14 March 2026
 
 
  
We spent 3 days in Sanctuary Mandela recently waiting for a delayed flight home. The staff were first class, extremely helpful and pleasant. Nothing was too much trouble. The breakfast was excellent and there was plenty of choice. The room (we were in Nel) was large, bed comfy and bathroom luxurious. The tour around the house was very informative and thought provoking. The art work... amazing. A privilege to stay in and learn more about Nelson Mandela's home.
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 tuhin sengupta 
 
11 March 2026
 
 
  
Some sights around Johannesburg
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Kay Brook 
 
11 March 2026
 
 
  
This is a fantastic hotel with a great history. Staff were lovely.  Food amazing.  Never left hotel so location not really acknowledged but it is all very very good. Xxx.  Function rooms amazing.  Great Mandela history tour too.
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Gisele Atherton 
 
9 March 2026
 
 
  
Formally Nelson Mandela's home in Johannesburg from his release in 1990 until 1998, the property is now owned by the Nelson Mandela Foundation. The former residence is now a boutique hotel that features the Insights Restaurant. This restaurant serves traditional South African cuisine utilising native spices and recipes from the cookbook by his personal chef for 22 years, Xoliswa Ndoyiya. The welcoming atmosphere was evident from the initial greeting of "Welcome Home". Dining in the former residence of Nelson Mandela is a unique experience. Tasting the meals his chef would cook for him at Insights Restaurant in his home is unforgettable. We enjoyed a delicious and beautifully presented dinner. The attentive service throughout the evening was exceptional; a thoughtful touch was the inclusion of sealed white envelopes containing the menu on our tables. After our meal, we were asked if we were ready to start the tour. It was a fantastic journey through Nelson Mandela's life, inviting us to walk in his footsteps. The hotel guide gave us an exceptionally informative commentary. The sanctuary rooms had historic photos, paintings, patriotic decor, and framed handwritten letters. The fireplace and the renowned balcony of the house are preserved to capture the essence of the Mandela residence and to remind us that President Bill Clinton, former US First Lady Michelle Obama, and world leaders were hosted in the house. He kindly showed us one of the hotel rooms that we could stay in. We will book a stay there on our next visit to Johannesburg. We took a taxi from our hotel in Sandton, which took approximately 30 minutes. Highly Recommend.
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Tripadvisor  
 
  
 
 
 Gisele A 
 
8 March 2026
 
 
  
Sanctuary Mandela Johannesburg from his release in 1990 until 1998, the property is now owned by the Nelson Mandela Foundation. The former residence is now a boutique hotel that features the Insights Restaurant. This restaurant serves traditional South African cuisine utilising native spices and recipes from the cookbook by his personal chef for 22 years, Xoliswa Ndoyiya. The welcoming atmosphere was evident from the initial greeting of "welcome home". Dining in the former residence of Nelson Mandela is a unique experience. Tasting the meals his chef would cook for him at Insights Restaurant in his home is unforgettable. We enjoyed a delicious and beautifully presented dinner. The attentive service throughout the evening was exceptional; a thoughtful touch was the inclusion of sealed white envelopes containing the menu on our tables. After our meal, we were asked if we were ready to start the tour. It was a fantastic journey through Nelson Mandela's life, inviting us to walk in his footsteps. The hotel guide gave us an exceptionally informative commentary. The sanctuary rooms had historic photos, paintings, patriotic decor, and framed handwritten letters. The fireplace and the renowned balcony of the house are preserved to capture the essence of the Mandela residence and to remind us that President Bill Clinton, former US First Lady Michelle Obama, and world leaders were hosted in the house. He kindly showed us one of the hotel rooms that we could stay in. We will book a stay there on our next visit to Johannesburg. We took a taxi from our hotel in Sandton, which took approximately 30 minutes. I would thoroughly recommend visiting this restaurant when staying in Johannesburg.
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Marti Artigas Oliveras 
 
11 February 2026
 
 
  
We had dinner there and everything was great: the food, the atmosphere, and the staff who were very attentive.

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 faithforkeepsss 
 
29 January 2026
 
 
  
Attended an event. Beautiful hotel with a rich history and friendly staff.
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Tripadvisor  
 
  
 
 
 kriskiel75 
 
28 January 2026
 
 
  
An unbelievable experience Sanctuary Mandela Hotel is an exceptional place to stay. We only stayed for one night on our way into Kruger for a six-night safari, but we honestly wished we could have stayed longer. From the moment we arrived, the staff were genuinely lovely and couldn’t do enough for you. The bar staff deserve a special mention — very professional, friendly, and great at what they do. The meals were unbelievable, made even better by the open kitchen where you can see everything being freshly prepared. The quality of the food was outstanding. The rooms are of a very high standard — spotless, beautifully finished, and extremely comfortable. You really feel relaxed the moment you walk in. The hotel is steeped in history, which makes the whole experience even more special. The history tour was absolutely brilliant and brought everything to life in a very moving and informative way. A perfect stop before heading into Kruger, and somewhere we would highly recommend to anyone looking for comfort, great service, amazing food, and a powerful connection to history.
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Helen Sinclair 
 
27 January 2026
 
 
  
Gorgeous hotel. Was previously the residence of Nelson Mandela when he was in office, and it’s been refurbished as a boutique hotel.  It’s beautiful inside and out, the room we stayed in was simply stunning, with a huge modern en-suite bathroom, a bed which I think was at least super-king sized and lots of storage space with wardrobes and drawers.  Towels were fresh, clean and in excellent condition. Toiletries were supplied.  We slept very well, the only night time noise was the local wildlife (birds, crickets etc).  We watched Southern Masked weaver birds in their nests in the trees, we saw Grey Go-Away Birds (that’s a real name), Bird of Paradise plants in the gardens, lizards etc.  Toiletries in the bedroom supplied were liquid soap, body lotion, shampoo, shower gel, a complimentary vanity kit, shower cap, there were two beautifully thick white towelling robes on hangers and a free standing bath with twin wash basins.  There seems to have been no expense spared.  We also received complimentary sundowners on arrival.  The room was stunning as was the food.  The staff were exemplary and couldn’t do enough for us.  We were only sorry we only stayed for one night before we went on to our safari holiday.  You had to really stay in the hotel grounds as it is unsafe to wander round Johannesburg yourself but that’s just due to the country’s crime/ political scene.  But there is a swimming pool at the hotel too so you do have something to do if you want a bit of exercise.  I even received a lovely little note from the staff marking my birthday which was a nice touch.  At night we found a little marshmallow dessert in a little domed glass left in our room too.   These little touches made it nice and personal.  Literally one of the best hotels we’ve stayed in, if not the best.
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 David Plessis 
 
22 January 2026
 
 
  
Everything was perfect; there were so many thoughtful touches that made the stay extraordinary. For example: little notes about Mandela's life story every day, little cakes every day, and impeccable service and staff from reception to security, including the restaurant and cocktail service. A true 5-star hotel. Furthermore, sleeping in Mandela's former home made the experience even more unique. Thank you for everything; I highly recommend it.

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 Melissa 
 
9 January 2026
 
 
  
Words can’t describe the experience! The Sanctuary is simply amazing. It’s the little personal touches that make a huge difference. You will become emotional as you walk on the footsteps of Nelson Mandela. The rooms and halls are well curated! We will return!
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Nathalie 
 
1 January 2026
 
 
  
Everything was perfect ☺ Super friendly, clean, great food.

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 Meghan Petersen 
 
30 December 2025
 
 
  
Our stay at Sanctuary Mandela was absolutely amazing. From the moment we arrived, we felt so welcome. The staff were genuinely some of the friendliest people I have ever met and their service was truly exceptional. The hotel itself is stunning, beautifully maintained and always spotless. Breakfast was absolutely delicious every morning, with so much care put into the food. What really stood out was how comfortable and personal the experience felt…it truly felt like home. I would love to return again sometime soon and cannot recommend Sanctuary Mandela highly enough.
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Ellen Mcintyre 
 
29 December 2025
 
 
  
It was a total delight staying at Sanctuary Mandela. The historic nature -including the heritage tour - of the hotel made this stay so special and a perfect introduction to our first stay in South Africa. The rooms and decor were lovely, and the food at dinner and breakfast were delicious and elegantly served. This was also a great value. Highly recommend!
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Lungile 
 
8 December 2025
 
 
  
Perfect staycation ☺ I loved everything from the “welcome home” to the food and the scenery.
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Mark Turner 
 
6 December 2025
 
 
  
A fitting renovation of Mandela's one-time home, with nicely understated legacy items such as photos and paintings.  The restaurant has a good menu.
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Ilan 
 
4 December 2025
 
 
  
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
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Lloyd Adam Naidoo 
 
28 November 2025
 
 
  
Want different? Plan your next date at Sanctuary Mandela in Houghton! Looking for somewhere exclusively private, enclosed in history, seating that gives you full access to groovy music and classy food? Sanctuary Mandela has it all and with their Sunday bookings, you're guaranteed to have a great time! Thank you to Kerwin, Smiley and the Mandela Sanctuary Team! It was an absolutely pleasure enjoying the place that Mandela once called home.
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Siobhan Kearney 
 
11 November 2025
 
 
  
These rooms were amazing. The staff made you feel so important. The tour given of the hotel was very informative and felt like you were getting to know details about Nelson Mandela that you normally wouldn't hear.
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Rahwa Joseph 
 
11 November 2025
 
 
  
Such a great experience here for a stay and Jazz Sunday, beautiful hotel and experience
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 JS_in_Bangkok 
 
9 November 2025
 
 
  
Such rich history and a great dining experience. A wonderful dining experience in such a prestigious home of Nelson Mandela. The food, fine and service is first class. The “love letter” menu is quite a poignant message and very well explained by the staff. There are many photographs and mementos of such an icon in South African history, which are explained during a tour by the staff. I will return and recommend to all.
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Naledi Masina 
 
8 November 2025
 
 
  
Great atmosphere and curated menu
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Booking  
 
  
 
 
 Jennifer 
 
2 November 2025
 
 
  
Exceptional ☺ 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
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 JP Grinter 
 
24 October 2025
 
 
  
Unbelievable - staff are amazing
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Tripadvisor  
 
  
 
 
 Sue W 
 
19 October 2025
 
 
  
Very Interesting The building has mainly been renovated after it went into ruin. They have made a nice job of it and captured the history of nelson Mandella. Very comfortable hotel and good food.
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Mashudu 
 
15 October 2025
 
 
  
Wonderful ☺ Cleanliness
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Scott 
 
13 October 2025
 
 
  
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
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Jean 
 
13 October 2025
 
 
  
All the staff were very attentive throughout the stay ☺Intimate hotel ☹Nothing

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 Jolie Holliman-Douge 
 
12 October 2025
 
 
  
We had the most wonderful stay at the Mandela Sanctuary while celebrating our anniversary. From the moment we arrived, the staff made us feel genuinely cared for. Ora at the front desk, Thabang in the dining area, and Subusiso at the bar all went above and beyond to make our visit feel extra special. Their kindness, attentiveness, and warmth captured the true spirit of South African hospitality. The grounds are beautiful, the energy is peaceful, and the service is exceptional — we left feeling both celebrated and restored. Highly recommend to anyone visiting Johannesburg!
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Tripadvisor  
 
  
 
 
 Resort43563161533 
 
12 October 2025
 
 
  
Heartfelt hospitality at the Mandela Sanctuary We had the most wonderful stay at the Mandela Sanctuary while celebrating our 5th wedding anniversary. From the moment we arrived, the staff made us feel genuinely cared for. The beautiful and caring spirit of Mandela is felt throughout this space and staff. From Ora at the front desk, Thabang in the dining area, and Subusiso at the bar, everyone demonstrates excellence, above and beyond to make guests feel extra special. Their kindness, attentiveness, and warmth captured the true spirit of South African hospitality. The grounds are beautiful, the energy is peaceful, and the service is exceptional — we left feeling both celebrated and restored. Highly recommend to anyone visiting Johannesburg!
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Simon 
 
7 October 2025
 
 
  
The Best days are Sundays with live jazz during lunch. The food is prepared with exceptional touch and very delicious.
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Booking  
 
  
 
 
 Jean 
 
6 October 2025
 
 
  
☺Delicious restaurant Comfortable rooms ☹Nothing

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