Aerotel Hoedspruit

South Africa's Only Aircraft Hotel. Sleep inside a real Boeing in the bushveld of the Greater Kruger, just outside Hoedspruit.

Aerotel is an aviation-themed boutique hotel with nine rooms across two retired jets. The Boeing 737-200 holds six cloud-themed cabins, each for two guests, with a queen bed, en-suite bathroom, air-conditioning and free WiFi. The former presidential Boeing 727 is the VIP suite: three king-bed cabins booked as one private aircraft for up to six guests, with dinner included. The original cockpits are still in place, so take the captain's seat.

Your rate includes a hot and cold breakfast, WiFi, and teas and coffees. Drinks and other meals are extra. The Runway Restaurant & Bar on site serves breakfast 07:00-10:00, lunch 12:00-14:00, and sundowners and dinner 16:00-20:00, with drinks on the aircraft wing at sunset. Cool off in the mosaic pool, and relax knowing there is backup power on site.

Children of all ages are welcome. One child under 4 shares with parents free (one per room), children aged 4 to 11 have their own room at half price, and from age 12 guests pay the adult rate. Aerotel is a fully licensed establishment, so guests may not bring their own drinks or cooler boxes.

Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport (HDS) is about 20 minutes away, and the Aerotel team can arrange transfers. Check-in 14:00-20:00, check-out by 10:00.