South Africa has many picturesque places to stay, but few offer guests encounters with curious alpacas, fluffy Highland cows, or friendly donkeys waiting by the fence.
As travelers increasingly seek a more relaxed and meaningful vacation, accommodation with permanent animal populations in South Africa has become one of the country's most valuable tourism trends. These places are not zoos or commercial attractions, but working farms, historic wineries, and rural retreats where animals are an integral part of daily life, lending a special character to the landscape and creating unforgettable moments for guests of all ages.
Seven Farms with Animals in South Africa
If you are attracted to the Highland cow, Finbos Guest Farm in Wolseley is one of the few places in South Africa where you can meet them in person. Located beneath the majestic mountains of Witzenberg, this working farm boasts a growing family of animals, including Highland cows, alpacas, donkeys, horses, sheep, and goats. Encounters happen naturally as guests explore the grounds, lending the experience authenticity and tranquility.
In addition to the animals, visitors can enjoy walking trails, mountain biking, farm ponds, and nearby wineries, making it an ideal rural getaway for families, photographers, and anyone looking to slow down the pace of life.
Boschendal Wine Estate, established in 1685, is one of South Africa's oldest wineries and a pioneer of regenerative agriculture in the Cape Winelands. While the estate is known for its wine and award-winning hospitality, its inhabitants also play a vital role in the daily operations. Angora goats, free-roaming chickens, horses, and cattle breeds are part of the estate's farming philosophy, while gardens, orchards, and open pastures give guests insight into a thriving working farm.
Beautifully restored cottages scattered across the estate allow visitors to immerse themselves in rural life without sacrificing comfort, making Boschendal an excellent choice for those who value both luxury and authenticity.
Sanctuaries and Other Farms
Farm Sanctuary SA offers a unique experience among those listed. Instead of a traditional working farm, this peaceful sanctuary provides lifelong care for rescued cows, pigs, sheep, goats, donkeys, chickens, ducks, and other farm animals that were abandoned, mistreated, or neglected. Guests can stay on the premises and join sanctuary tours to meet each resident, learning about ethical animal care and humane farming practices. Every visit directly supports the sanctuary's ongoing rescue work, making it one of the most meaningful accommodation options in South Africa.
Bartolomeus Clip Farmhouse, located in the Elandsberg reserve, is a historic wheat and sheep farm that has hosted guests for generations, continuing to function as a working farm and conservation area. Local horses, sheep, and cattle are part of the estate's agricultural heritage, and organized safaris introduce visitors to the local wildlife inhabiting the surrounding reserve. Elegant accommodation, exceptional cuisine, and panoramic views of the Swartland complete an experience that feels both sophisticated and deeply connected to the landscape.
Orange Grove Guest Farm and Vineyard, situated near the Langeberg mountains, combines vineyard stays with authentic farm life. Local horses, cattle, sheep, and chickens share the grounds with vineyards, orchards, and mountain trails, creating an atmosphere that encourages guests to enjoy time outdoors. Days can be spent exploring hiking and biking routes, cooling off in natural stone pools, or simply enjoying the slow rhythm of life on a working farm.
Glen Oaks Farm, surrounded by vineyards and hills in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, offers boutique accommodation with an irresistible animal attraction. The farm's friendly alpacas have become favorites among guests, often appearing during leisurely walks around the property. Combined with warm rural hospitality and easy access to the region's renowned wineries and coastal attractions, Glen Oaks offers a memorable trip balancing relaxation and novelty.
Oakhorst Farm Cottages in Wilderness, owned by one family for generations, invites guests to experience everyday rural life alongside horses, cattle, sheep, and other animals. Children can help feed the animals, walk through open fields, and discover the simple joys of country living, while adults enjoy hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and magnificent views of the Garden Route.
Reasons for Choosing Animal Farms
Farm stays have long been part of South Africa's tourism history, but modern travelers are seeking more than just a rural retreat. They are increasingly aiming for slower, more meaningful experiences that connect them with nature and country life. This is where local animals come into play. Whether it's meeting alpacas, Highland cows, horses, or rescued farm animals, these encounters add a memorable layer to the trip, prompting guests to slow down and experience the landscape in a more authentic way.
The best accommodation doesn't just provide a place to sleep; it creates lasting memories. Whether you wake up to the sound of horses near your cottage, meet rescued animals, or watch Highland cows grazing against the backdrop of mountains, these places offer an opportunity to slow down and reconnect with nature. When planning your next outdoor getaway, choose accommodation where local animals are as much a part of the experience as the landscape itself.
