There are some hotels you book because you truly can’t imagine staying anywhere else. That’s how we feel about Tsala Treetop Lodge. Tsala is located in Plettenberg Bay, South Africa, along the Garden Route. And if we were planning a trip to South Africa, there’s few places we’d rather stay. But it’s not about safari game drives or exploring by the beach. Instead, this stay is all about connecting with nature and being immersed in this jungle sanctuary. It’s luxe, it’s private, and it’s one of the most peaceful stays in the world. Here’s what you need to know if you’re thinking about booking Tsala Treetop Lodge.
This post contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
What Makes Tsala Treetop Lodge Unique?
A stay at Tsala Treetop Lodge, South Africa, includes private infinity pools, glass walls with forest views, no crowds, and silence. But that’s not all. We view Tsala as the premier adult treehouse. And it’s not your typical treehouse stay. It’s luxe, beautifully designed, and in such a unique location. We love it when an architecturally unique property becomes an immersive escape, and doesn’t feel kitschy. There’s no sense of kitsch here. It’s elevated both in the literal sense and in the experience.
The Rooms: What Are You Actually Booking?
There are two main room categories at Tsala. The first are the luxury suites, and the second are the private villas. The Tsala Treetop Lodge prices run about $970 to $1,400 per night for two adults, with the private villas being the more premium of the two. There are 10 suites and 6 villas available. Here’s what you can expect from both.
Luxury Suites
- Private deck
- Infinity pool
- Large living area
- Fireplace
- Massive bathroom with soaking tub
Private Villas
- Larger space
- Multiple bedrooms
- Separate lounge and dining areas
- Bigger pool
- More private location
The private villas are perfect for those celebrating big, or for a larger group sharing the cost. Tsala is not a budget hotel. It’s a luxury property with a premium price tag. But we find that it’s competitively priced for the level of privacy, comfort, and nature immersion you get.
The Location
Tsala is located along the Garden Route, about an hour and a half from George Airport. You’ll need a rental car both to get to the location and to explore nearby.
Nearby Activities
For nearby activities, we recommend hiking through Robberg Nature Reserve, visiting the beach in Plettenberg Bay, and visiting Birds of Eden, the Garden Route’s bird sanctuary.
You can also arrange for a boat ride to see whales and dolphins, swimming with seals, a guided safari of Monkeyland, stand-up paddleboarding, fishing charters, horseback safaris, cycling, and kayaking. There’s also yoga and pilates, a full gym, and in-room spa treatments available.
But what gets us really excited is the opportunity to go shark cage diving, sky diving, bungee jumping, canyoning, and ziplining. This area has a plethora of unbelievable activities for you at all levels of adventure.
We recommend a minimum of two nights at Tsala to enjoy the property and still get this chance to explore.
Food
Sometimes hotel food is just meh and is ordered out of convenience. Not at Tsala. The Tsala Treetop Lodge restaurants are top-tier. And the view? Next freaking level. Breakfast is included and pretty substantial. There’s fresh fruit, pastries, hot dishes, and delicious coffee. Dinner is typically refined South African cuisine. And we love that there are multiple restaurants on site, so you can switch up your choices and atmosphere as often as you’d like.
Who is This Stay Best For?
Tsala is such a phenomenal, remote stay. But remoteness may not be right for everyone. Here’s how to tell if a stay here is right for you.
You should absolutely book here if you:
- Prioritize privacy
- Appreciate an immersive setting
- Are planning a milestone trip
- Care about atmosphere as much as amenities
Maybe consider another stay if you:
- Need constant activity
- Want beachfront access
- Are traveling with young kids
- Prioritize walkability
Best Time to Visit
South Africa’s spring and summer seasons last from October to April. We think this is the best time to visit because you’ll have warmer weather. Their winter is from June to August, which is also beautiful and brings cooler weather, but it isn’t quite the tropical paradise spring and summer supply.
Other Hunter Hotels
Hunter Hotels owns Tsala Treetop Lodge. And their excellence doesn’t stop there. These other two properties are just as special.
Gorah Elephant Camp
Gorah Elephant Camp is located inside Addo Elephant National Park. Here you’ll find tented luxury suites. You’ll be able to glimpse waterholes from camp, getting an up-close and personal view of the animals.
You could pair this stay with one at Tsala Treetop Lodge to have the perfect mix of a relaxing treetop hotel with the wildlife of Gorah.
Hunter’s Country House
This luxury retreat in South Africa is located between Knysna and Plettenberg Bay. It’s set amongst lush gardens and feels more like a refined country estate. Picture polished hospitality, dinners with delicious wine, and cozy fireplaces. It’s elegant without flash and intimate without feeling completely remote and out of the way.
All three of these Hunter Hotel properties are beautiful, relaxing, and have excellent service. Any would be an excellent choice for your trip to South Africa. The hardest part is deciding whether you’d prefer a treetop stay, an elephant camp, or a country lodge.
Tsala Treetop Lodge is the perfect stay in South Africa for a mix of pure relaxation and truly memorable activities. Here you’ll have long mornings, private pool dips, wine at sunset on your deck, and incredible meals at the on-site restaurant. Plus, wildlife interactions and adrenaline-pumping thrills. It’s the perfect spot for your next luxury South Africa getaway.
If you love elevated treehouse stays, check out some other ones we’ve covered here.
