Sanctuary Mandela

On Christmas, my family and I had the chance to dine at Sanctuary Mandela, and it was a memorable experience during our visit to Johannesburg for the holiday. We were initially disappointed to find that the menu had changed, but we were pleasantly surprised by the excellent choices available to us. As it was a holiday, the restaurant was quite empty, which suited us just fine. The staff were incredibly attentive, and their pride in their roles was evident. I particularly enjoyed a perfectly cooked steak, which was not only delicious but also beautifully presented. The drinks were also top-notch. It's worth noting that this restaurant is situated at a former home of Nelson Mandela, which has been transformed into a boutique hotel and restaurant.

My room was spacious, spotless, and spectacular. I'd corresponded with Tumi, the manager, prior to my visit. She was warm and welcoming as was the woman at the front desk who greeted me when I arrived. The breakfast, which is included, is a la carte. I ordered several things, thinking the portions would be small. They were not. Everything was delicious (yogurt and fruit, eggs benedict) and the coffee (I take it black, no cream or sugar) was super. My only criticism was in regards to the restaurant dinner. I ordered chicken tangine which were two thighs in a tangine sauce. The thighs had so many bones and such little meat that I thought they were actually pigeon. The sauce was mediocre.

Sanctuary Mandela is an incredible boutique hotel that celebrates Nelson Mandela. It was his residence during his presidency. There is so much history here as you get the tour of all the artifacts and the history of how this place was rebuilt to honor his legacy. The staff were amazing and it was so welcoming as the first words when we arrived was "welcome home". We stayed for 2 nights in September 2023 and enjoyed the Presidential suite. Breakfast and dinner were included as well as the mini fridge was well stocked. We were greeted with champagne and a charcuterie board in our room. We also did a tour of the Nelson Foundation which was close to the hotel. At one dinner we had Mandela's personal chef join us. Xoliswa Ndoyiya told us so many stories about him, we felt that he was there with us. I would highly recommend a stop here if you are in Johannesburg. Thank you to all the staff for making our stay so enjoyable and memorable.

We could not have been happier with the total experience at the Sanctuary! The staff became like family the first day of our first of 2 stays there. And now a month later, we're still in awe of them. We loved every minute of our stay. And our only regret is that we had to leave and return home. We miss everything about Sanctuary Mandela - particularly the kindest and most caring staff in the world!

Amazing introduction to Jo-Burg and South Africa. The staff embodies grace, warmth, hospitality and pride in the history of this special place. Was an honor to stay there and to be surrounded by the energy and spirit of such an important historical figure. The meals were outstanding experiences. Even bought the cook book as a special momento-will attempt to bring the experience home with us. Thank you to entire staff for taking such thoughtful care of our family💛

Sanctuary Mandela is truly a hidden gem. The hotel has a palpable energy about it. The space is well thought out and everything in the hotel really does lend itself to peaceful reflection. We enjoyed everything about our stay here. The staff are friendly and helpful. Sbu in particular was amazing and he went out of his way to make sure our evening was special. The quality of the food is top tier and the portions are quite big. We could not have picked a more perfect property to overnight at for our wedding anniversary and we will definitely be returning whether it be for a meal at Insights, another stay or Jazz Sundays.

Sanctuary Mandela is simply perfection. This was the 4th hotel we used in Johannesburg on our last trip, and it was by far the best place to stay. Highly convenient location and well worth the drive from the airport if you have an overnight connection in Joberg. Honestly, everything was brilliant - the food (for dinner and breakfast) the staff, the room, the grounds and the facilities. Couldn't recommend this place more highly.

STAY HERE!!!!! I can't imagine a better place to stay to truly take in all that Nelson Mandela did for this country and truly learn and honor this remarkable man. They converted his prior home into this beautiful small boutique hotel. My travel agent (elsewhere- highly recommend) recommended it. First of all, it is small and personal. The staff is like none other than I have experienced in the world. The US should take notes. So nice, so kind, so welcoming. I honestly wanted to hang out with them. So interesting to talk to. My husband was born in Johannesburg a few miles away and this was his first trip back in 47 years. Needless to say alot changed since 1977. He mentioned he would love some pap (pronounced pup) and it wasn't on the menu. Our waiter had the chef make some the next day. It is a traditional meal similar to southern grits and it takes all day to make. That was special. Be sure to allow time (30 min) to take the tour of the hotel. All the rooms have meaningful names, all the photos tell a story. The room was very comfortable. Laundry service every day was included. And a special history lesson/ treat each evening. The food at the restaurant was excellent. Most hotels are just a place to stay and are not memorable. Sanctuary Mandela is aptly named and will be remembered forever. HIGHLY recommend.

We were welcomed home and it felt like we were home. The restoration was absolutely beautiful and Mr. Mandela would be truly grateful. We visited for Sunday brunch and jazz. It was the perfect setting. The food and entertainment was wonderful. Will definitely be back.