Pet-friendly travel is no longer a niche. More South African travellers are choosing holidays that include their dogs, and searches for dog-friendly accommodation continue to climb.
Across the Cape Country Routes collection, several privately owned hotels, lodges and guest houses welcome four-legged family members alongside their human companions.
Here are standout options where dogs are not an afterthought, but part of the experience.
West Coast escape with beach walks
Located in Paternoster on the Cape West Coast, the eco-conscious Gonana Collection offers contemporary seaside stays with a strong sustainability focus. Set right on Bekbaai Beach, it suits families who want space, style and sea air for both humans and dogs.
Pet-friendly options include the Coral Villa on the quieter Bekbaai side, the Oyster, Scallop and Mussel Studios, and the Acacia and Aloe Houses.
The Acacia and Aloe Houses were winners of the 2022 Afristay Pet-Friendly Destination Award. These properties welcome small to medium, socialised and well-behaved dogs. The Gonana Guesthouse itself is not pet-friendly.
Art, character and dogs in the Karoo
Just off Route 62 in Barrydale, the four-star Karoo Art Hotel blends heritage charm with creative flair. Two of its standout rooms welcome dogs.
The Garden Suite offers a spacious option, while the Dog Box provides a beautifully styled garden room with a kitchenette, secluded patio and privacy from the hotel’s main gardens.
“Coming from a family of dog lovers, we think it’s fitting that two of the finest rooms on the property are also the dog-friendly ones,” says owner Sue Melvill.
Classic country charm in Montagu
The four-star Montagu Country Hotel is a reliable choice for travellers with pets. Dogs stay free of charge in selected rooms fitted with laminated flooring and garden access.
Small to medium, socialised and well-behaved dogs are welcome. Owners are asked to bring their own dog food, bowls and bedding, and to clean up after their pets. Dogs must be on leads in public areas and are not permitted in the dining room.
“We are friendly to friendly dogs,” explains owner PJ Basson.
Beachfront stays in Jeffreys Bay
Just 30 metres from the famous Supertubes surf break, Supertubes Guest House offers dog-friendly accommodation in its self-catering apartments.
11 Pepper features three en-suite rooms, while 16 Pepper, also known as Khaya Zinza, offers five en-suite rooms, three with sea views. Both apartments welcome one small to medium, house-trained and well-behaved dog. The properties are not enclosed, so supervision is essential.
Karoo stars and nature walks
Travelling through the Northern Cape with a dog often limits options, but Rogge Cloof Private Nature Reserve makes it easy. Located 15 kilometres from Sutherland, the reserve’s eco-village offers self-catering cottages and houses that welcome socialised, well-behaved dogs.
Dogs are allowed on leads during game walks and exploring experiences, but are not permitted in the restaurant. The setting is ideal for travellers chasing wide-open landscapes, night skies and quiet Karoo air.
Why pet-friendly accommodation matters
Pet-friendly stays remove the stress of kennels and separation. They also allow families to relax, explore and create shared memories. As more South African establishments adapt to this demand, planning holidays with dogs becomes easier and more enjoyable.
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