Rolihlahla Room
2 guests · 1 bedroom · 1 bathroom
From R 6,950 a night
1 of 20
Photos by Google
Madiba's post-freedom home in Houghton EstateDining inspired by Xoliswa Ndoyiya, Mandela's long-time personal chefWalking distance to the Nelson Mandela Centre of MemoryHeated salt-water poolCentre of Memory vault tour with the Mr President suite
About this place
Experience the profound legacy of Nelson Mandela at Sanctuary Mandela, a boutique heritage hotel located in the former private residence of South Africa's beloved icon in prestigious Houghton Estate, Johannesburg.
This tranquil retreat seamlessly blends contemporary luxury with historical reverence, offering guests a unique opportunity to stay where Madiba once lived, where global icons like Michael Jackson and Oprah Winfrey were hosted, and where history continues to inspire transformation.
The hotel features 9 individually designed rooms, each dedicated to an aspect of Nelson Mandela's life and legacy. Choose from Deluxe Studios (30m²), Deluxe King Rooms (35m²), King Suites (38-41m²), or the magnificent Presidential Suite (50m²). All rooms feature en-suite bathrooms with both bath and shower, and offer king-size or twin bed configurations.
Dine at Insights Restaurant, where Chef Xoliswa Ndoyiya creates a curated menu inspired by Madiba's favourite dishes - recipes perfected over 20 years of cooking for him from presidency to retirement. Explore the heritage art gallery featuring archived materials and original furnishings, relax by the heated outdoor swimming pool, or find contemplation in the beautiful gardens.
Elements of the original home are preserved throughout - from reused bricks in reception to original flooring transformed into art, and Madiba's wall turned into a gallery. Operating in partnership with the Nelson Mandela Foundation, this sanctuary focuses on justice, sustainability, and transformation, offering guests not just accommodation, but a meaningful journey through South African history.
Ideal for business travellers seeking serenity, couples wanting a meaningful stay, heritage tourists, and conscious travellers who appreciate the intersection of luxury and legacy.
Amenities
Free parking on premises
Swimming pool
Wifi
Bed linen
Towels
Get to know where you stay
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Availability
Any room
Any available room
9 rooms, sleeps 2 to 2
Check-in
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Check-out
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November 2026
December 2026
A night is shown as unavailable only when every room is taken.
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Where you'll sleep
Choose a room type. We confirm availability with Sanctuary Mandela once you send your dates.
Tata Room
2 guests · 1 bedroom · 1 bathroom
From R 7,950 a night
466/64 Room
2 guests · 1 bedroom · 1 bathroom
From R 4,850 a night
Accused No.1 Room
2 guests · 1 bedroom · 1 bathroom
From R 4,850 a night
David Motsamayi Room
2 guests · 1 bedroom · 1 bathroom
From R 4,850 a night
Madiba Room
2 guests · 1 bedroom · 1 bathroom
From R 6,950 a night
Mr President Room
2 guests · 1 bedroom · 1 bathroom
From R 10,500 a night
Nel Room
2 guests · 1 bedroom · 1 bathroom
From R 7,950 a night
Nelson Room
2 guests · 1 bedroom · 1 bathroom
From R 7,950 a night
Nature
What lives at Sanctuary Mandela
These are records, not promises. Wild animals and birds move, so sightings are never guaranteed.
About Houghton Estate
Houghton Estate is one of Johannesburg's most prestigious suburbs, home to grand mansions, the Houghton Golf Club, and the late Nelson Mandela's residence. This exclusive neighbourhood on a ridge offers spectacular views, large properties with mature gardens, and a central location near Rosebank and the city. Houghton represents Johannesburg's old-money elegance.
See more places in Houghton EstateImportant information
Check-in and check-outIn 14:00 · Out 11:00
Check-in Time
14:00 - 18:00
Please arrange your arrival within this time window. If you need to arrive outside these hours, please contact the host in advance.
Check-out Time
By 11:00
Please ensure you check out by this time to allow for cleaning and preparation for the next guests.
Cancellation and changes50% refund 30+ days
Refund schedule
- 50% refundcancel 30+ days before check-in
- No refundwithin 30 days of check-in
Please note that some accommodations may have their own specific cancellation policies that differ from our standard policy. These will be clearly indicated on the accommodation's page or during the booking process.
For any questions regarding cancellations or to request a cancellation, please contact our customer support team.
Pet policyNo pets
Pet policy
Pets are not allowed
Travel insuranceInformation only
Spekboom does not advise on, recommend, or sell insurance.
For information only: Expatriate Group provides travel, health and life cover for international travellers and can generate a quote online. Any policy is arranged and managed entirely by Expatriate Group.
See travel insurance quotesSpekboom Tree (Pty) Ltd is not a financial services provider and does not provide, recommend, or arrange financial or insurance products or advice. Expatriate Group (ref 30286D) is authorised and regulated to provide any quote, advice, or policy. Spekboom introduces interested customers to Expatriate Group and may receive a commission if cover is taken out through this link.
Before you book
Payment terms
Payment is required at the time of booking to secure your reservation.
Cancellation PolicyStrict
- 50% refundcancel 30+ days before check-in
- No refundwithin 30 days of check-in
Note: The 2.5% conservation contribution, payment processing fees, and any applicable referral commissions are non-refundable in the event of cancellation. Conservation contribution fees (2.5%) support conservation and community projects in the destinations you visit. Payment processing fees are absorbed by Spekboom for completed bookings, but cannot be recovered once a booking is cancelled. Referral commissions, where applicable, are paid to the referring party upon booking confirmation.
Payout Protection: Guest payments are held until the free cancellation window passes. This protects guests who cancel within their cancellation window and ensures hosts receive guaranteed payouts after the cancellation period ends.
House rules
Guests are expected to respect the house rules of each accommodation. These rules will be provided upon booking confirmation.
Check-in & Check-out
Check-in from 14:00 • Check-out by 11:00
Liability
Spekboom acts as an intermediary between guests and accommodation providers. While we strive to ensure accurate information, we cannot be held liable for any discrepancies or issues arising from the accommodation itself.
By making a booking through Spekboom, you agree to our Terms of Service (Version 3.5). You acknowledge that: (1) the 2.5% conservation contribution and payment processing fees are non-refundable in the event of cancellation (Spekboom absorbs payment processing fees for completed bookings); (2) Spekboom acts as an intermediary platform governed by South African law. For the complete terms and conditions, please visit our full Terms of Service page.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Sanctuary Mandela located?
Sanctuary Mandela is in Houghton Estate, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa. The map on this page shows the area.
What are the check-in and check-out times at Sanctuary Mandela?
Check-in is from 14:00 and check-out is by 11:00. Contact the camp directly if you need to arrange early check-in or late check-out.
How many guests can Sanctuary Mandela accommodate?
Each room sleeps 2 guests. The rooms section on this page shows the limit for each one.
What causes does a booking at Sanctuary Mandela support?
A portion of every booking at Sanctuary Mandela contributes to Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital. See the property's causes section for how the funds are used.
How do I book Sanctuary Mandela?
Pick dates on this Spekboom page and request availability. We confirm with Sanctuary Mandela, they assign the unit, then you pay on Spekboom.
Book your stay
From R 4,850 a night
Rated 4.8 by 356 guests on Google
Request to book. Send your dates and we will confirm availability with Sanctuary Mandela.
Nothing is charged until the host says yes
Want to find out more?
Ask Dassie anything about this place or the area.