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South Africa’s luxury hospitality industry has claimed its moment in the global spotlight. At the 2025 edition of The World’s 50 Best Hotels announced at a glittering ceremony in London on 30 October Singita – Kruger National Park was named among the Top 50 hotels in the world, ranking No. 40, and proudly bringing home the inaugural Johnnie Walker Art of Design Award.

This award celebrates how design in hotels goes beyond architecture to create a multi-sensorial experience for visitors, shaping the guest experience and often elevating the expected into the extraordinary.

Only three African hotels were included in this year’s global ranking: Royal Mansour (No.13) and La Mamounia (No.30), both in Marrakech, and Singita – Kruger National Park (No.40) representing South Africa. Singita’s inclusion underscores the continent’s growing reputation for offering world-class hospitality that’s both luxurious and meaningful.

The World’s 50 Best Hotels list celebrates outstanding properties across 22 destinations and six continents, chosen by a panel of more than 800 travel experts from hoteliers and journalists to seasoned travellers. Each vote reflects the best stays experienced worldwide over the past two years, independently audited by Deloitte for transparency.

This year’s No. 1 hotel is Rosewood Hong Kong, which climbed two places from last year to claim the top spot. With its sweeping views of Victoria Harbour, 11 dining venues, and exceptional Asaya wellness facilities, the 65-storey property also earned the title of Best Hotel in Asia.

Rounding out the top three are Four Seasons Bangkok at Chao Phraya River (No.2) and Capella Bangkok (No.3) both solidifying Asia’s dominance with a total of 20 hotels in the ranking. Europe followed with 17, while North America, Africa, Oceania, and South America contributed the remainder.

Alongside the main list, a series of special awards recognised hotels redefining global hospitality.

• Best Boutique Hotel Award: Passalacqua (No.4), Lake Como
• Eco Hotel Award: Desa Potato Head (No.18), Bali
• Nikka Best New Hotel Award: Mandarin Oriental Qianmen (No.14), Beijing
• Most Admired Hotel Group: Four Seasons
• Highest New Entry: Copacabana Palace (No.11), Rio de Janeiro
• Highest Climber: Royal Mansour (No.13), Marrakech

However, it was Singita’s win, the first-ever Johnnie Walker Art of Design Award that resonated most deeply with South Africans. It recognises not just architectural beauty, but a holistic approach to storytelling through space, material, and experience.

With lodges that merge sustainability, style, and soul, Singita continues to set a global benchmark for African luxury. Its Kruger National Park property embodies this ethos, from handcrafted interiors and panoramic bushveld views to its dedication to local artisans and conservation initiatives.

Singita’s recognition on the global stage reaffirms South Africa’s position as a leader in transformative, design-driven hospitality - a destination where wilderness meets world-class sophistication.

For the full list of winners and rankings visit: www.theworlds50best.com/hotels