LOOK: R430,000 for one night in South Africa's most expensive Airbnb
From butlers to private aeroplane runways, these lavish listings are bringing all-inclusive to a whole new level.
South Africa's relationship with Airbnb is a little strained right now.
There has been a lot of discourse around the company's rapid growth in Cape Town.
Airbnb has been included on a long list of complaints about soaring housing costs in the Mother City, alongside foreign property buyers.
However, Airbnb remains an easy way to find affordable accomadation locally and internationally.
For the average South African, that might be the case, but some people don't know the meaning of the word "budget" and don't need to set a maximum price cutoff.
For those who are looking for the ultimate getaway with the ultimate price tag, here are the most expensive Airbnb listings in South Africa as of April 2026.
7. Montana del Mar, Camps Bay: Starting price R112,168 a night
With the Twelve Apostles as a backdrop and oversized windows overlooking Lion's Head, this sleek, contemporary villa located above Camps Bay is the dream coastal location.
Includes:
- Five bedrooms
- Terrace with a Jacuzzi
Compared to the other accommodations on the list, this seems almost approachable.
Just note before booking that not all the bedrooms have en-suites, and for that price, you might want to reconsider.
6. Villa Llandudno, Llandudno: Starting price R113,911 a night
Llandudno in Cape Town is known for its higher pricing and is considered one of the more exclusive coastal suburbs.
So it comes as no surprise that it would feature on this list.
Includes:
- Ten bedrooms across four floors
- Lift
- Pool
- Hot tub
- Fully equipped gym
- Wine cellar
- Cinema room (with popcorn and slushy machine)
5. Samara Karoo Reserve, Great Karoo: Starting price R158,125 a night
According to News24, this is one of the most surprising locations on the list, but it "makes a reasonable case for itself".
The Manor at Samara is located within a 67 000-acre private wilderness in the heart of the Great Karoo.
The Samara Karoo Reserve has spent years rewilding the semi-desert landscape and is now home to Big Five, cheetah, and over 225 bird species.
Includes:
- Four suites (sleeps eight) - each with a private patio and freestanding bath
- A private chef
- A personal guide
- A vehicle
- 21-metre infinity pool overlooking the mountains and a waterhole.
What to do:
- game drives
- cheetah tracking on foot
- conservation activities.
If you do decide to book, they have a two-night minimum, bringing the actual cost to R316,250.
4. Kaanapali Family Villa, Kapama, from R119,500 a night
The Kaanapali Family Villa is situated within the Kapama Private Game Reserve in the Greater Kruger and can accommodate up to four guests.
So if you decide to split it, it will only run you close to R30,000 per person.
Includes:
- 170-square-metre suite
- A lap pool
- Full bar
- Wii console
- Riverfront views over the Klaserie
- Access to the reserve's bar, lounge, library, and fitness centre.
3. 21 Nettleton, Clifton: Starting price R159,120 a night
This is probably the most recognisable and famous of the listings.
Perched high above Clifton, it sits on one of Cape Town’s most sought-after residential addresses
Includes:
- Six-bedroom villa (16+ guests)
- A waterfall that cascades into the pool
- A chef
- A butler
- A driver
- Breakfast
- Spirits, beer, afternoon tea, canapés, and sunset cocktails.
2. Quantum Villa, Lion’s Head: Starting price R171,500 a night
Quantum Villa sits on the slopes of Lion's Head and boasts floor-to-ceiling views of the Atlantic.
Includes:
- Seven en-suite bedrooms (sleeps 14)
- An infinity pool
- Heated jacuzzi
- Sun-drenched deck
- Indoor fireplace
This is the most expensive pure-villa stay on this list, with a three-night minimum, totalling R514,500.
If you can convince ALL your friends to split the cost, it's only R36,643 per person, per night.
1. Mapogo Villa, Sabi Sand: Starting price R429,975 a night
Mapogo Villa is indeed within the Sabi Sand Nature Reserve, one of the most celebrated private game reserves in the world.
The villa is located right on an active waterhole, very much the centrepiece of the Cheetah Plains property.
Includes:
- Four private suites (sleeps eight)
- Twice-daily game drives
- All meals
- Fine wine and spirits
- Guided bush walks
- Spa treatments
- A gym
- Laundry
- A Nikon camera and lenses on loan for the duration of the stay
- Airstrip transfers are included if arriving by private charter
For those who can't stomach spending this much, the reserve also offers two other villas from just R334,125 a night.
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Image: Cheetah Plains