In short: Aerotel in Hoedspruit is South Africa's only aircraft hotel. Couples sleep in one of six private cabins inside a real Boeing 737, with a queen bed and en-suite shower and breakfast included. For a honeymoon or big anniversary, the former presidential Boeing 727 can be yours alone, with dinner served on board.
Why Couples Choose a Boeing
Most romantic getaways near Kruger look alike: a thatched chalet, a plunge pool and a game drive. Aerotel gives you a story to tell. You sleep in the cabin of a Boeing 737-200 that was driven across three provinces to reach the bushveld. The original cockpit is open to guests, so you can take your photo in the captain's seat. The Drakensberg turns gold outside the window at sunset.
- Private cabins for two with a queen bed, en-suite shower, air conditioning, WiFi and a smart TV
- Sundowners on the wing: the Sky Bar serves drinks on the actual aircraft wing, with gin-tail happy hour from 16:00 to 18:00
- Breakfast included, served at The Runway with views of the aircraft and the bush
For Honeymoons and Big Anniversaries: the Presidential Jet
SAL, our Boeing 727-300, once flew heads of state across Africa. Today it is booked by one party at a time. It has king-size beds, a private lounge and deck, the original cockpit, and dinner served on board by our crew. It is the most private way to stay at Aerotel. Read more about the history of SAL, or check your dates in our booking system for the live exclusive-use rate.
Things to Do Together in Hoedspruit
- Hot air balloon at sunrise: float over the Hoedspruit bushveld with a local balloon operator. Our concierge can book it.
- Horse-riding safari: ride among plains game on a guided trail.
- Blyde Dam boat trip: a quiet cruise at the foot of the canyon, about 40 minutes from Aerotel.
- The Panorama Route: Three Rondavels, God's Window and a pancake lunch in Graskop. See our day guide and 2026 fees.
- A day in Kruger: Orpen Gate is about an hour away. Our Kruger day-trip guide has gate times and fees.
- Dinner at The Runway: tapas, steaks and South African wine, or a fire-lit evening at the boma. See the menu.
A Two-Night Plan for Couples
Day 1: Check in from 14:00, explore the cockpit, have sundowners on the wing, then dinner at The Runway.
Day 2: A sunrise balloon flight or an early start in Kruger, a slow afternoon by the mosaic pool, then sunset from the Sky Deck.
Day 3: Breakfast and a last coffee in the cockpit. Check out by 10:00.
Breakfast is included every morning, and the live rate for your dates shows when you check availability.
Good to Know
- A 50% deposit confirms your booking. The balance is due 42 days before arrival.
- Aerotel is a licensed property, so please don't bring your own drinks.
- The aircraft are reached by steps, so they are not wheelchair accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Aerotel good for couples?
Yes. The Boeing 737 cabins are private and built for two, with a queen bed and en-suite shower, and one couple can book the SAL Presidential 727 for complete privacy.
How much is a romantic night at Aerotel?
Rates change with the season and demand, so the live price for your dates always shows in our booking system. Breakfast is included.
Is Aerotel good for a honeymoon?
Yes. Many couples choose the 737 cabins, and for full privacy the SAL Presidential 727 is booked by one party only, with dinner served on board.
How far is Aerotel from Kruger?
About 64 km from Kruger National Park's Orpen Gate, roughly an hour's drive.
