🍃 Branching Out: Forest and Treehouse stays in South Africa ~ Gone are the days when treehouses were merely childhood forts, where kids could climb high and lose themselves in imaginary worlds among the branches.
🌴 Today, these leafy platforms have stepped into the spotlight. From hotels nestled in trees to secluded treetop hideaways, these modern treehouse stays offer solitude and seclusion in enchanting forest settings, appealing to the adventurous souls unafraid of heights.
🥂 Hotels have evolved beyond being just places to rest your head. In a bid to stand out, establishments have ventured beyond conventional accommodations.
🍃 Embracing the treehouse trend, destinations like Les Cabanes du Bois Landry in France, TreeHouse Point in Seattle, USA, and Cabanes als Arbres in Spain have emerged and set a trend.
🌲 Not to be outshone, South Africa boasts its fair share of treehouse stays across the country, particularly in some of its top wildlife reserves.
🐦 If you feel ready for a digital detox, there are few settings that’ll have you feeling as in touch with nature as a treehouse hidden in the forest canopy, where you’ll wake to the sound of birdsong.
💕 You may think this means a rustic, off grid break, and there certainly are some of those. But in South Africa we also have luxury treehouse stays with four poster beds and 300 thread count linen, claw-footed bathtubs with views and soft towels on heated rails.
Let nature heal and replenish your soul...
Treehouse Stays in the WESTERN CAPE
Melozhori Treehouse
Melozhori Treehouse tops the best ‘treehouse stays’ category with its location, romantic offering and the luxury experience, that is booked up months in advance. It’s perfect for two guests looking for a private, romantic retreat in the Breede River valley. Plan and book!
DETAILS:
Sleeps 2 guests in 1 luxury bedroom with beautiful en-suite bathroom, includes a #BathWithAView, hot tub, luxury furnishings and fittings and those views!
Find out more at Melozhori Treehouse
Also see Breede River Valley accommodation
Vindoux Guest Farm & Spa
The private Tree Houses at Vindoux provide stunning views. Every tree house has a full en-suite bathroom with a spacious spa bath, luxurious linens, tea and coffee amenities and a romantic atmosphere. Savour a light breakfast or dinner on your exclusive tree-top patio with views of the orchards and mountains.
DETAILS:
The onsite kitchen offers delectable treats for all tastes! You can arrange for in-room dining with options for two or three-course meals. Additionally, gourmet picnics, takeaways, and a variety of wines and beers can be arranged.
Find out more at Vindoux Guest Farm & Spa
Also see other Tulbagh accommodation
Treehouse Stays in the GARDEN ROUTE
Treedom Villa
This charming treehouse sanctuary features an open, elevated design with large windows that blend effortlessly with the pristine natural surroundings, welcoming the local wildlife that frequents the area.
DETAILS:
The treehouse villa accommodates 4 guests in 2 open-plan bedrooms with 1 bathroom. Amenities include access to a swimming pool and the option for a dinner in the ‘love tunnel’ (pre-booking necessary). Pet-friendly upon request.
Find out more at Treedom Villa
Also see all Wilderness Accommodation
Teniqua Treetops
These honeymoon tree house stays are intimate 2-sleeper cabins with stunning views, spacious two-person baths overlooking the forest, and complete privacy. Set on custom-built platforms in scenic locations, they offer cozy tented bedrooms, fully equipped kitchens, and bathrooms with leafy surroundings and an outdoor deck area.
DETAILS:
In addition to the honeymoon tree houses, Teniqua Treetops offers a deluxe couples’ treetop and a family treetop suite.
Find out more at Teniqua Treetops
Also see Sedgefield accommodation
Ballots Bay Treehouse
Ballots Bay Treehouse is a distinctive coastal retreat nestled among milkwood trees, overlooking a secluded pebble beach and the Meul River mouth. Climb the 67-step wooden staircase to the treehouse and find yourself completely surrounded by nature.
DETAILS:
The threehouse stay accommodates 4 adults and 2 children in 3 bedrooms with 2 bathrooms. Fully equipped kitchen, hot tub, WiFi, braai facilities, and an indoor fireplace. What’s not to love?
Find out more at Ballots Bay Treehouse
Also see other George accommodation
Fernhill Tented Treehouses
These treehouse stays include a variety of glamping tents. Each tent features its own wooden deck offering views of the farm’s forest. The tents can host 2 to 4 people each and have king-size beds and a sleeper couch or a bunk bed. The wood-paneled en-suite bathroom is fitted with a spa bath and an overhead shower.
DETAILS:
Options include a 2-sleeper or family tent. There are plenty of activities nearby, including exploring ancient forests, cycling and hiking trails, and visiting charming eateries.
Find out more at Fernhill Tented Treehouses
Also see other Rheenendal accommodation
The Treehouse Cottage
The Treehouse Cottage is located in Ashlands, a rural estate nestled within the indigenous forest of the Crags, between Nature’s Valley and Plettenberg Bay. The birdlife here is remarkable, with daily sightings of Knysna Loeries and many other stunning forest birds.
DETAILS:
This charming and cozy cottage features a small open-plan layout with a living area equipped with DStv and a decoder. It includes a double bed and two single beds (suitable for children) along with a modern bathroom.
Find out more at Treehouse Cottage
See all other Plettenberg Bay accommodation
Forest Valley Cottages
Each Forest Valley cottage offers unmatched views of the stunning Knysna forest and the surrounding Outeniqua mountain range. Guests can choose from 8 self-catering romantic hideaways, all facing the valley and thoughtfully designed with privacy and comfort in mind..
DETAILS:
The cottages each accommodate 2 adults (with one cottage accommodating 4 adults, no children). Each cottage boasts unique features, including a special bath or Jacuzzi.
Find out more at Forest Valley Cottages
Also see other Knysna accommodation
Tsala Treetop Lodge
Tsala Treetop Lodge offers luxurious treehouse stays nestled in the forest canopy, with ten hideaway suites and six villas. Each suite boasts a lavish bedroom, elegant sitting room with fireplace, and a regal bathroom. Enjoy dining al fresco on your private deck, and relax in the infinity pool, seemingly suspended in mid-air.
DETAILS:
Each suite features a sitting room with fireplace, spacious bathroom, and a private deck for al fresco dining. Plus, enjoy your own infinity pool, seemingly floating in the air.
Find out more at Tsala Treetop Lodge
Also see other Harkerville accommodation
The Big Tree House
The Big Tree House Lodge provides distinctive self-catering accommodation in Knysna. The three timber-framed units offer stunning views of the Knysna Lagoon and the Knysna Heads.
DETAILS:
Each unit features a private deck with braai facilities, complete with firelighters, charcoal, and braai grids. For your security, all units are equipped with alarms and have designated parking spaces.
Find out more at Big Tree House Lodge
Also see other Knysna accommodation
Treehouse Stays in the EASTERN CAPE
The Fernery Lodge & Chalets
Experience the splendour of Tsitsikamma – where awe-inspiring landscapes meet captivating ocean vistas. Nestled amidst waterfalls, sea, and river gorges, these luxury chalets provide an unparalleled retreat. Take a dip in the pool, unwind in the jacuzzi, or enjoy in the gym and sauna. Amidst it all, marvel at the breathtaking views!
DETAILS:
It’s a dilemma whether to soak in the stunning surroundings from the Lodge’s deck area with its swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, and gym, or to revel in it from one of the six deluxe suites.
Find out more at The Fernery Lodge & Chalets
Also see other Tsitsikamma accommodation
Treehouse at Chelsea Manor
The Treehouse at Chelsea Manor offers treehouse stays enveloped by nature and an array of bird species. With breathtaking valley and distant sea vistas, it’s one-of-a-kind. Featuring two open loft bedrooms, kitchenette, and a living area with seating, a TV with Netflix and Wi-Fi access, it opens onto a balcony overlooking the forest.
DETAILS:
Accommodates 4 guests in 2 bedrooms with 1 bathroom. Guests can enjoy an outdoor dining area and braai facilities located on a lower deck.
Find out more at Treehouse at Chelsea Manor
Also see other Port Elizabeth accommodation
Forest Dome
Immerse yourself in the essence of nature with this extraordinary accommodation, designed to intimately connect you with the captivating forest environment. Perched securely on a platform, the dome offers a sweeping panorama of the forest, providing an immersive retreat that honors the splendor of the natural world.
DETAILS:
Rates include breakfast. Inside The Forest Dome, you’ll discover a TV with Netflix and Wi-Fi. For a relaxing soak, indulge in your private hot tub and gas braai area, where the ambiance of the forest sets the scene for an enchanting treehouse stay.
Find out more at Forest Dome
Alsop see other Storms River accommodation
Thunzi Bush Lodge
Thunzi Star Gazing Dome is a tranquil sanctuary in the Malaria free Eastern Cape Province nestled at the base of a 44 hectare private valley overlooking the pristine and lush De Stades river wetland.
DETAILS:
Thunzi Stargazing Dome is furnished with a Queen-size bed. The bathroom is in its own dome, connected to the main dome. There is also an outside double shower. The kitchen is equipped with a twin air fryer, gas hob and fridge. There is a smart TV with Netflix. Outside on the deck is a ceramic braai, chill net, wood fired hot tub and picnic area.
Find out more at Thunzi Star Gazing Dome
Also see all Port Elizabeth Accommodatio
Treehouses in LIMPOPO
Bona Ntaba Tree House Lodge
Bona Ntaba Lodge stands out as a distinctive retreat, offering three treehouse chalets and a central lodge with a thatched roof. The lodge is equipped with a fully stocked kitchen, a boma with braai facilities, and a lounge area with sunset deck. Each wooden treehouse stay is elevated to provide views of the bush and mountains from its private balcony.
DETAILS:
Two treehouses have their own private kitchen and boma. The other two units share a spacious kitchen and boma located at the nearby centrally situated Lounge Building.
Find out more at Bona Ntaba Tree House Lodge
Also see other Limpopo accommodation
The Log Cabin at Thaba eNtle
Uncover a haven in the wild with The Log Cabin at Thaba eNtle, a secluded retreat designed for a romantic getaway for two. Set amidst the rugged bushveld, this three-tiered tented treehouse stay features a luxurious king-sized bed, fully equipped kitchen and an outdoor lounge area, beckoning guests to immerse themselves in the tranquil surroundings of nature.
DETAILS:
Relish in moments of serenity at the pool or relax in the spacious hammock. Reserve your escape now and experience the enchantment of seclusion.
Find out more at The Log Cabin at Thaba eNtle
Also see Waterberg accommodation
Pezulu Tree House Lodge
Pezulu stands as a boutique Tree House Game Lodge nestled in the wildlife-abundant region of Limpopo Province, a mere forty minutes from the renowned Kruger National Park. Its main thatched building intertwines gracefully around a majestic Marula tree, housing a lounge, dining area, curio shop, and a stunning rock swimming pool.
DETAILS:
Accommodation rates cover breakfast and dinner, featuring traditional South African cuisine. Guests dine under the stars in our picturesque outdoor boma.
Find out more at Pezulu Tree House Lodge
Also see other Hoedspruit accommodation
Bona Ntaba Tree Houses
Find yourself enveloped in tranquility and seclusion within your personal thatched tree house, where breathtaking sunsets cascade over the mountains and wildlife freely roams the camp, often visiting the watering hole.
DETAILS:
Each treehouse stay accommodates 2 adults, with two of them also suitable for two children. Offering individualized experiences, each treehouse boasts its own unique features.
To find out more see Bona Ntaba Treehouse
Also see other Hoedspruit accommodation
Bushwa Private Game Lodge
Nestled in the Waterberg biosphere, this game lodge promises an unforgettable safari experience. Bushwa offers luxurious safari-style tents and intimate tree houses, providing glimpses of nocturnal wildlife like hyenas, jackals, and porcupines. Just 250 km from Johannesburg.
DETAILS:
Experience romance in the private Treehouse stay, set beside a waterhole, 2 km from the Main lodge. Enjoy privacy with an outdoor shower and a deck overlooking the water. Choose between bed and breakfast or a fully inclusive rate covering accommodation, meals, and two daily game drives.
Find out more and book at Bushwa Private Game Lodge
Also see other Vaalwater accommodation
Maroelani Private Safari Lodge
Maroelani Private Nature Reserve beckons those seeking a lavish and romantic bush retreat. Situated in Limpopo Province, Maroelani is an intimate safari lodge entirely off the grid.
DETAILS:
Perched three meters above ground, each treehouse stay boasts spacious glass doors flooding the rooms with natural light. Enjoy a deck with a hammock overlooking the mountains and bush. The bathroom offers stunning views through a large glass panel, ensuring privacy while animals graze below.
Find out more and book at Maroelani Private Safari Lodge
Also see other Hoedspruit accommodation
nThambo Tree Camp
Embark on a Kruger Safari adventure at nThambo Tree Camp. Nestled within the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, which forms part of the Greater Kruger, it boasts unfenced borders with the Kruger National Park. Here, guests can engage in Big Five game drive safaris.
DETAILS:
nThambo Tree Camp offers five “tree house” chalets, each accommodating two guests. Featuring mosquito nets and solar-powered fans and lights, all chalets ensure a comfortable stay. With a maximum capacity of ten guests, the camp guarantees a personalized and intimate safari experience.
To find out more and book see nThambo Tree Camp
Also see other Kruger Park accommodation
Lion Tree Top Lodge
While Lion Tree Top Lodge’s treehouses offer a unique charm, the true highlight of any stay lies in the opportunity to witness the majestic lions. While guests certainly appreciate the cozy tented and wooden treehouses boasting spacious decks, sunken baths, and outdoor showers, it’s the chance to stroll alongside two beautiful female white lions, raised after being orphaned, that garners rave reviews.
DETAILS:
Your stay includes breakfast, high tea, and dinner, with evenings spent gathered around the firelight in the boma with your hosts, creating unforgettable memories.
Find out more or book see Lion Tree Top Lodge
Treehouse Stays in MPUMALANGA
Serenity Mountain & Forest Lodge
Tucked away in a verdant riverine forest, this serene getaway boasts luxurious, thatched chalets, creating an intimate and romantic atmosphere for the perfect treehouse stays. Each chalet exudes spaciousness and elegance, featuring private decks that overlook mountain streams.
DETAILS:
With only 7 suites catering to a maximum of 14 adults, your stay ensures exclusivity. Delight in dining at the restaurant, venture on picturesque hikes, enjoy a romantic picnic, indulge in spa treatments, or relax by the swimming pool basking in the sunlight.
Find out more at Serenity Mountain & Forest Lodge
Also see other Malelane accommodation
Lion Sands Tree Houses
Enhance your stay at one of Lion Sands’ safari lodges in the Sabi Sands game reserve with a truly unique experience. Lion Sands offers three extraordinary tree houses, where sleeping under the stars in absolute seclusion while immersing in the sounds of the bush is an unparalleled adventure.
DETAILS:
The Treehouse Stay Experience can be booked alongside your accommodation at the lodge of your preference for an additional rate per person per night. Your room will be maintained and ready for your return at any time. Simply pack an overnight bag with essentials, leaving the rest of your belongings at the lodge.
For additional information see Lion Sands Ivory Lodge
Also see Sabi Sands accommodation
The Treehouse at LoerieRoep
The Tree House presents a charmingly appointed unit, featuring creatively upcycled wooden doors and window frames. Its rustic yet luxurious aesthetic blends seamlessly with the surrounding aged Jacaranda trees, creating a secluded haven that is simply irresistible, perfect for honeymooners.
DETAILS:
This air-conditioned unit boasts a bedroom with a queen-size bed and an en-suite bathroom equipped with a shower. A well-appointed kitchenette includes a microwave, stove, fridge, and oven. Guests can also enjoy Wi-Fi access, with daily servicing provided for the treehouse stay.
Find out more about the Tree House at LoerieRoep
Find other Nelspruit accommodation
Ulusaba Safari Lodge
The accommodations are designed in a ‘tree house stay’ style, immersing you in the heart of bush life. Witness captivating views of wildlife strolling past on their way to the nearby watering hole. Opting for Safari Lodge as your safari base grants you access to all the facilities and activities available at Ulusaba Game Reserve.
DETAILS:
Lodge amenities include swimming pools, gym, wine cellar, spas with panoramic views, a Bush Observatory ideal for stargazing, and tennis courts. Guests can partake in safari walks, moonlit bush dinners, and, of course, the twice-daily game drives.
Find out more and book at Ulusaba Safari Lodge
Also see other Sabi Sands accommodation
Treehouses in KWAZULU-NATAL
Far Away Place Tree House
Once upon a time in a Far Away Place … Two young men dreamed of revisiting their childhood by building a Tree House – but to a standard that will blow you away. This luxury treehouse in Currys Post with a view to the mountains and forests will leave you feeling like a child again.
DETAILS:
Sleeps 2-3 guests in 1 bedroom with 1 bathroom. There is a sitting area with a fireplace and a TV with Netflix and Wi-Fi and a well equipped kitchenette.
Find out more at Faraway Place Tree House
Also see all Midlands Accommodation
Honeywood Forest Lodge & Spa
Discover this hidden gem nestled along the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast. With just 7 rooms, a gourmet restaurant, and an on-site spa, all tucked away in a wonderfully secluded forest setting, it’s an experience not to be overlooked. Though not traditional tree houses, they exude the same enchanting ambiance.
DETAILS:
We recommend the private Lapa Suite. This romantic unit is nestled at the edge of the Honeywood garden forest, offering pure rustic luxury. Drift into a peaceful slumber in the king-size bed, enveloped by a spacious mosquito net. Cozy up next to the fireplace with a book and a glass of wine. With an open-plan layout, you can savour the tree-lined views from every corner of the Lapa.
Find out more at Honeywood Forest Lodge
Also see other Port Shepstone accommodation
Sycamore Avenue Treehouses & Cottages
Immerse yourself in the creatively crafted Treehouses, designed to ignite your imagination and foster relaxation, inviting you to rediscover the joys of childhood. Luxuriate in a private Spa-Bath, bask in the warmth of a cozy fire, or treat yourself to a glass of wine on the patio while savoring the sunset over Giants Castle at these treehouse stays!
DETAILS:
Among the accommodations are six captivating treehouses, each featuring its own en-suite facilities and luxurious spa baths. Adorned with inviting fireplaces and private balconies, these arboreal retreats offer tranquil views of the magnificent Drakensberg.
Find out more at Sycamore Avenue Treehouses
Also see other Mooi River accommodation
In the NORTH WEST PROVINCE
Mamagalie Forest Lodge
The four sleeper lodge is unique in that it is set in an ancient Wild Olive forest. Completely surrounded by trees, it offers total privacy to guests. The lodge has a master bedroom and another bedroom which has been built into the trees.
DETAILS:
The bathroom has a large double bath and shower. The open plan kitchen and dining room are perfectly equipped for a self catering stay.
Find out more and book Mamagalie Forest Lodge
Also see other Mooinooi accommodation
Tranquility Lodge
Tranquility Lodge is a very private open plan lodge nestled amongst the trees and overhanging a small stream on the Mamagalie Mountain Lodge farm. Here guests can enjoy the majestic views of the Buffelspoort Valley.
DETAILS:
The treehouse is perched some 8 metres off the ground it is a true modern day tree house in MooiNooi. It sleeps 2 guests in 1 bedroom with 1 bathroom. The outside shower is suspended off the front of the lodge and is wrapped by the branches of the fig tree…
Find out more at Tranquility Lodge
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