Sanctuary Mandela Hotel Johannesburg Exterior photoSanctuary Mandela Hotel Johannesburg Exterior photoSanctuary Mandela Hotel Johannesburg Exterior photo

Sanctuary Mandela – A Favorite for Families in Johannesburg

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Check rooms and rates
From$264 /night
Check-in
17Aug
Check-out
18Aug
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

4 13Th Avenue Houghton Estate, Johannesburg, 2198
-
Close to the Nelson Mandela Foundation
Perfect
9.5
10.0
/10
5.0
/5

5-star boutique hotel in Johannesburg, set in Nelson Mandela's former home

Dining

The on-site Insights Restaurant serves traditional South African cuisine using recipes from Nelson Mandela's personal chef Xoliswa Ndoyiya. A comprehensive menu of health-focused dining options is available, and special diet menus can be requested in advance. The bar offers wines and champagnes, and breakfast options include continental, full English/Irish, vegetarian, and gluten-free selections.

Wellness & Pool

The outdoor swimming pool uses heated salt water and is open year-round, with sun loungers and pool towels provided. The spa and wellness centre offers customizable packages that can include back, couples, foot, full body, head, neck, and sports massages. A well-equipped fitness centre is also available on the property.

Accommodations

Each of the 9 rooms has a connection to Nelson Mandela, with Room 3 (Tata) offering a private balcony overlooking the peace garden. Rooms have air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, minibars, and streaming services, plus private bathrooms with garden views. The nightly turndown service includes handwritten notes and sweet treats.

History & Tours

The hotel was Nelson Mandela's home from 1990 to 1998 and is now owned by the Nelson Mandela Foundation. A guided tour of the property is offered to all guests, covering preserved areas such as the fireplace and the balcony where world leaders like Bill Clinton and Michelle Obama were hosted. Curated artwork, framed handwritten letters, and historic photographs are displayed throughout the property.

Services & Location

Sanctuary Mandela is located 600 yards from the Nelson Mandela Foundation and 3.6 miles from Johannesburg Botanical Gardens. The hotel provides a complimentary airport shuttle, free private on-site parking, and 24-hour front desk and concierge services. Business travellers have access to a business centre, meeting and banquet facilities, and express check-in/check-out.

Highlights

Location: 600 yards from Nelson Mandela Foundation

Dining: Insights Restaurant with Mandela's chef recipes

Rooms: 9 rooms including Tat a with private balcony

Wellness: Heated saltwater pool open all year

Spa: Customizable packages with 8 massage types

History: Former home of Nelson Mandela (1990-1998)

“There's an undeniable 'wow' factor here, perhaps because it's so intertwined with history. Once home to Nelson Mandela, the property now operates as a boutique hotel, bringing a contemplative, almost surreal feeling to any stay. It certainly left a lasting impression.”
Hotel logo
Grace WhitmanContent & Editorial Director at Familyhotels

Choose from a variety of room types

Choose from a wide variety of rooms designed for families, including double rooms, family suites, and rooms with breakfast included
  • Studio
    2 persons
    30 sq. feet
    1 King-size bed
    Bathtub
  • Deluxe King Room
    2 persons
    35 sq. feet
    1 King-size bed
    Bathtub
  • King Room
    2 persons
    41 sq. feet
    1 King-size bed
    Bathtub
Show all rooms

Availability and pricing for your selected dates

Book your family’s getaway in a snap with up-to-date availability and pricing!
August 2026 - August 2027
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Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

Each family-friendly hotel provides top-notch amenities for an unforgettable stay with your loved ones
Facilities: Perfect
9.5/10Review score

General

  • Non-smoking rooms
  • Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • Safe deposit box
  • 24-hour reception
  • VIP check-in/ -out
  • Express check-in/ -out
  • No pets allowed
  • 24-hour security
  • Luggage storage
  • Lift
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access

Sports & Fitness

  • Golf course

Services

  • Airport shuttle
  • Room service
  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Dry cleaning
  • Tours/Ticket assistance
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • In-room breakfast
  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Special diet menus

Business

  • Business centre
  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Spa & Leisure

  • Saltwater pool
  • Heated swimming pool
  • Sun terrace
  • Garden area
  • Spa & wellness centre
  • Back massage
  • Head massage
  • Full body massage
  • Foot massage

Room features

  • Air conditioning
  • Mini-bar
  • Garden furniture
  • Ironing facilities

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
Show more

Sanctuary Mandela Location

4 13Th Avenue Houghton Estate, Johannesburg, 2198
Explore Johannesburg
Local Highlights Near Sanctuary Mandela
  • Top Attractions
  • Activities
  • Dining
  • Entertainment
Nelson Mandela Foundation
Nelson Mandela Foundation
8 minutes' walk
A tribute to Nelson Mandela, featuring exhibitions on his life and legacy. Guided tours enhance the experience.
Johannesburg Zoo
Johannesburg Zoo
10 minutes' drive
Home to over 2,000 animals, this zoo offers educational programs and interactive encounters for all ages.
South African National Museum of Military History
South African National Museum of Military History
5 minutes' drive
Covers South Africa's military history with extensive exhibits, including aircraft and tanks. Great for history buffs.
Jhb Zoo Lake
Jhb Zoo Lake
10 minutes' drive
A picturesque park with walking paths and picnic spots around a lake, ideal for families seeking a day outdoors.
Hiking at James & Ethel Gray Park
20 minutes' walk
Nature trails with diverse wildlife, perfect for casual strolls or challenging hikes. Family-friendly and scenic.
Golf at The Wanderers Golf Club
5 minutes' drive
A premier golf experience set amidst lush landscapes. Tee times recommended for this challenging yet scenic course.
Wellness at a Spa
10 minutes' drive
Relax with spa treatments available at nearby wellness centers. Great for travelers seeking rejuvenation and calm.
vida e caffe
11 minutes' walk
Light bites and excellent coffee in a trendy café atmosphere. Offers vegan options and outdoor seating.
The Saxon Hotel's fine dining
5 minutes' drive
Luxurious dining featuring gourmet South African cuisine. Perfect for romantic evenings; reservations recommended.
Killarney Mall Restaurants
5 minutes' drive
A variety of casual dining options in a vibrant shopping destination. Great for families with diverse tastes.
Theatre on the Square
15 minutes' drive
Offers a variety of live performances, including plays and comedy shows. Suitable for all ages with a welcoming vibe.
Live Music at The Living Room
15 minutes' drive
Rooftop venue known for local music acts. Vibrant atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed evening out.
Comedy Shows at Montecasino
20 minutes' drive
Features weekly comedy nights and entertainment shows. Family-friendly with a range of dining options available.
Tips on navigating the city
  • City Centre
    Johannesburg 9 min  ·  3.7 mi
  • Airports
    Rand (QRA) 33 min  ·  13.7 mi
    O.R. Tambo International (JNB) 34 min  ·  14.0 mi
  • Train
    Gautrain Sandton Station 8 min  ·  3.2 mi
    Ellis Park Railway Station 8 min  ·  3.2 mi
Get access to exclusive early booking discounts for your family’s upcoming getaway
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:00-23:59
Check-out
from 06:00-11:00
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.
Breakfast
The hotel Sanctuary Mandela provides visitors with a free full breakfast.
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
9
Former name
sanctuary nelson mandela's house

Family-focused reviews and ratings

Read feedback from other families who have stayed to ensure you make the right choice.
Review score
Based on 63 verified reviews
9.6 /10
Perfect
98 %
Recommend
Cleanliness
9.8/10
Comfort
9.7/10
Facilities
9.5/10
Free WiFi
10.0/10
Location
9.4/10
Staff
9.9/10
Value for money
9.1/10
Pros
Interesting history
Attentive staff
Comfortable beds
Cons
Small dinner menu
Guest reviews
based on 74 reviews
9.5/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
Open reviews
FAQs
About Sanctuary Mandela
What is the check-in and check-out policy at Sanctuary Mandela?
Check-in is at 14:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
How far is Sanctuary Mandela from O.R. Tambo International Airport?
The hotel is 23 km from O.R. Tambo International Airport.
Is parking available at Sanctuary Mandela?
Free private parking is available on-site without the need for a reservation.
What are the dining options at Sanctuary Mandela?
The hotel features an on-site restaurant that serves local dishes.
What amenities can guests expect in the rooms at Sanctuary Mandela?
Rooms include air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, seating area, and garden views in some.
Which attractions are generally close to Sanctuary Mandela?
Nearby attractions include Parkview Golf Club (6 km), Johannesburg Stadium (6 km), and Gold Reef City Casino (11 km).
Does Sanctuary Mandela provide any recreational facilities?
The hotel features an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre, and a golf course.
Are there any additional services available at Sanctuary Mandela?
The hotel offers airport transfers, concierge service, room service, and a business area.
Is breakfast available at Sanctuary Mandela and what does it include?
Breakfast is available for an additional charge and includes à la carte, continental, or Full English/Irish options.
Is there a smoking area at Sanctuary Mandela?
The hotel is a non-smoking property.

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