The 5 best off-the-grid places to stay in South Africa

Posted by Lisa Abdellah on 21 April 2023

The modern definition of luxury – and freedom – involves disconnecting from the rush of the everyday, our devices and load shedding.   

With Freedom Day coming up, we’ve uncovered the best off-the-grid listings on Airbnb in South Africa for the perfect escape. A riverside lodge to retreat to with your family or a secluded hut in the mountains to switch off and get stuck into a book.  

It’s time to pack your bags, turn off your phones, and add a little serenity to your trip away for the long weekend.

Karoo Ridge River Lodge, Middelburg, Eastern Cape 

Situated on a 5 000-hectare working farm, visiting the Karoo Ridge River Lodge is like stepping back to a quieter time. The area is particularly scenic – think picturesque mountains, open plains and riverine thicket. You’re almost guaranteed to see indigenous Nguni and Ankole cattle, and it’s a birdwatcher’s paradise. 

Hut on poles in the bush, Hluhluwe, KwaZulu-Natal

off the grid places to stay in south africa

You know you’re away from the hustle and bustle when the sounds you hear at night are those of hippos and hyenas, and your daytime company is giraffe and zebra. This solar-powered treetop cabin prides itself on offering guests an authentic back-to-basics experience. A weekend disconnected from our devices is a modern freedom, right?

Houseboat on a wine farm, Grabouw, Western Cape

off the grid places to stay in south africa

What a unique way to relax and unwind! Stokies Ark, as the houseboat is named, is permanently moored to the banks of the largest dam on the South Hill Vineyards wine farm in scenic Grabouw. In addition to stunning views of the surrounding Kogelberg Biosphere mountains, guests can also enjoy wine tasting and a picnic on the farm. 

Wild Syringa, Magaliesburg, Gauteng 

Expect silence, serenity and breathtaking views at Wild Syringa on Kokopelli Farm in the Magaliesburg district. The fireplace in the lounge makes it especially inviting for a warm winter getaway. Remember to pack your hiking boots, as the area boasts fabulous trails. 

Waterwood, Vaalwater, Limpopo 

off the grid places to stay in south africa

If your idea of freedom is complete isolation, this luxury tent has your name on its door. Embrace the beauty and simplicity of the bush on foot or a mountain bike, or relax on the deck and soak up the views. 

Pictures: Supplied

Follow us on social media for more travel news, inspiration, and guides. You can also tag us to be featured. 

TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter

ALSO READ: The quiz that all adventurers need when planning their next holiday






yoast-primary - 1004429
tcat - Travel ideas
tcat_slug - travel-ideas
tcat2 - Travel ideas
tcat2_slug - travel-ideas
tcat_final - travel