Hotels in Illovo

Illovo Unveiled: A Tapestry of Nature, Culture, and Adventure Awaits

Nestled in the heart of Johannesburg, Illovo is a vibrant urban oasis that blends cosmopolitan flair with local charm. Known for its trendy cafes, boutique shopping, and lively nightlife, Illovo offers a taste of South Africa's dynamic culture. Explore the lush greenery of the nearby parks or indulge in gourmet dining experiences. Just a short drive away, the stunning beaches of Amanzimtoti and Ilfracombe in KwaZulu-Natal beckon, while the Umzimbazi Lagoon offers serene views. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Illovo is the perfect gateway to experience the best of Johannesburg and beyond. For the best hotel rates in Illovo, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Illovo

Some of the best places to stay in Illovo are Sandton, Rosebank and O.R. Tambo. Illovo, Johannesburg, is a fantastic base for exploring nearby attractions. Sandton is known for its luxury hotels and vibrant shopping scene, making it a favorite for first-time visitors. Rosebank offers a mix of culture and modern amenities, including street markets and art galleries. O.R. Tambo International Airport is ideal for convenient travel connections. Each area features a range of accommodations from upscale to budget-friendly options, ensuring a comfortable stay for all travelers. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Illovo:

1. SandtonOpens in a new window: Sandton is a vibrant city hub known for its luxury shopping, entertainment, and business opportunities. It features attractions like Montecasino for romantic outings and Melrose Arch Shopping Centre for family-friendly experiences. For accommodations, consider Sandton Sun and TowersOpens in a new window, a 5-star hotel ideal for business travelers, offering comprehensive meeting facilities and a central location. Another excellent option is Davinci Hotel And Suites On Nelson Mandela SquareOpens in a new window, which caters to families and couples with its romantic packages, spa services, and accessible business amenities. If you're looking for a relaxing retreat, The Capital on the ParkOpens in a new window offers a full spa and outdoor pool, perfect for unwinding after a busy day.
2. RosebankOpens in a new window: Rosebank combines a cosmopolitan atmosphere with family-friendly attractions, making it a great base for travelers. Key points of interest include the Nelson Mandela Square and shopping options at Melrose Arch. 54 On BathOpens in a new window is a luxurious choice with a focus on business amenities and child-friendly services, while Clico Boutique HotelOpens in a new window features a full-service spa and accessible pools for relaxation. For a family-oriented experience, Hyatt Regency JohannesburgOpens in a new window provides excellent childcare services along with wellness treatments, ensuring a comfortable stay for all.
3. O.R. TamboOpens in a new window: O.R. Tambo is an ideal location for travelers seeking convenience and entertainment, with shopping options like East Rand Mall nearby. InterContinental Johannesburg O.R Tambo Airport, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window is perfect for business and family travelers, featuring various meeting spaces and childcare services. Another great choice, Peermont D'oreale Grande at Emperors PalaceOpens in a new window, is connected to a casino for those looking for entertainment, while Lakeview Boutique Hotel & Conference CenterOpens in a new window caters to golf enthusiasts, offering a unique experience alongside business facilities, ensuring a well-rounded stay for every guest.

Things to do in Illovo for first time

Three days in Illovo offer a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Enjoy a round of golf, unwind on stunning beaches, and explore nearby attractions. Dive into the vibrant local culture with live music at jazz clubs, or embark on thrilling wildlife safaris. Illovo is a hidden gem worth discovering! Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Illovo:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at the iconic Nelson Mandela Square, where you can take a moment to appreciate the impressive statue of Nelson Mandela and explore the surrounding shops and eateries. Afterward, head to CIRCA on Jellicoe, an art gallery known for its contemporary exhibitions and stunning architecture. Spend your afternoon at the Everard Read Gallery, one of South Africa's leading art galleries, showcasing an array of local and international artworks, making it a perfect spot for art enthusiasts.
• Day 2: Start your day with an exhilarating visit to Gold Reef City Casino, where you can try your luck at the gaming tables or enjoy the thrilling rides at the amusement park. After some excitement, stroll over to Mary Fitzgerald Square, a vibrant public space often bustling with local events and performances. Wrap up your day by walking across the Nelson Mandela Bridge, which offers a beautiful view of the Johannesburg skyline, especially stunning as the sun sets.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at the Apartheid Museum, where you can delve into South Africa’s complex history and gain insights into the struggles for freedom. Following this, enjoy a serene walk in the Johannesburg Botanical Garden, an oasis of tranquility filled with beautiful flora and picnic spots. Conclude your itinerary with a visit to the Carlton Centre, the tallest building in Africa, where you can take an elevator ride to the viewing deck for breathtaking panoramic views of the city.

5 tips to find a great Illovo hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The best time to visit Illovo on a budget is from October to December, when hotel prices drop significantly. For a truly enjoyable experience and to explore the area's main attractions, it's recommended to stay for at least 2-3 days. While in Illovo, you can take advantage of the affordable entertainment options, including the local stadium and sports facilities, making it a great value for money destination.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're seeking last-minute deals to Illovo, you might find some enticing offers waiting for you. To explore these options on Hotels.com, navigate to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you could uncover discounted hotel rates close to your travel date. You might also consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, allowing you to stay informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions. This way, you're more likely to seize opportunities to save on your Illovo hotel stay.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Illovo.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Illovo is usually more expensive. If you opt for accommodations further from the city center, you can take advantage of transport options like cars and taxis to explore the area while potentially saving on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your next stay in Illovo and join Hotels.com’s One Key programme which allows members to earn and redeem rewards points for hotel bookings. Move through blue, silver, gold and platinum tiers and unlock benefits such as earning free nights, room upgrades, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up now.

What to eat in Illovo

Here are a few popular dishes in Illovo, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa:

• Braai: A quintessential South African barbecue, braai is not just a meal but a social event. It typically features a variety of meats, including boerewors (sausage), lamb chops, and steak, grilled over an open flame. This communal cooking style is often accompanied by sides like pap (a type of maize porridge) and chakalaka (a spicy vegetable relish). Braais are famous for their relaxed atmosphere, where friends and family gather to enjoy good food and great company, making it a must-try experience in Illovo.
• Bunny Chow: Originating from Durban, bunny chow is a unique street food that encapsulates South African flavors. This dish consists of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with a spicy curry, often made with chicken, lamb, or vegetables. Its convenience and portability make it perfect for spontaneous dining, reflecting the country’s diverse culinary heritage and its Indian influence.

Best time to go to Illovo

Illovo experiences its lowest average temperature in July, at 53.1°F (11.7°C), while January is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 70.7°F (21.5°C). December tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Illovo are January, February, and September, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by dry to light rainfall. In contrast, May, October, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by dry to light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.