Aerotel Hoedspruit | South Africa's Only Aircraft Hotel | Sleep in a Boeing 737
Sunset view of Aerotel aircraft with Drakensberg mountains in background, showing Boeing 737 tail and entrance stairs
Aerial drone view of Aerotel showing both Boeing 737 and Boeing 727 aircraft surrounded by African bushveld
Pool area and aircraft wing at Aerotel Hoedspruit with views of the Drakensberg mountains
South Africa's Only Aircraft Hotel

Sleep in the Planes That Broke the Internet

A retired presidential jet and a Boeing 737 transformed into luxury cabins — with bushveld views and Drakensberg mountains. Your boarding pass awaits.

Book Your Flight View Cabins
Adults-Only
2 Aircraft
Hoedspruit, Limpopo
From R2,250/passenger
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Boeing 737 transport journey
May 2019: The Boeing 737 arrives in Hoedspruit after a 9-day road journey

Not Just a Hotel.
Aviation History You Can Sleep In.

In 2019, South Africa watched a Boeing 737-200 make an impossible journey. Transported by road across three provinces — footage that went viral and captivated millions. Some thought it was a plane crash. It wasn't. It was a dream becoming reality.

Two years later, a Boeing 727-300 followed. But this was no ordinary aircraft. She had served as a VIP presidential jet, carrying heads of state across Africa. Today, her first-class cabin is your private suite.

"The same seats that once held diplomats now hold couples celebrating anniversaries, aviation enthusiasts ticking off bucket lists, and travellers seeking something impossible to find anywhere else."

Founded by Martin den Dunnen, Aerotel was born from a passion to restore dignity to retired aircraft — and create an experience unlike anything else on Earth.

Your Cabin Awaits

Six cloud-themed cabins aboard our Boeing 737-200, plus exclusive-use of a former presidential Boeing 727. Our crew is standing by for your boarding.

SAL VIP Presidential Boeing 727-300 • 3 Cabins Available

SAL VIP Presidential

Boeing 727-300 • 3 Cabins Available

This Boeing 727 once carried presidents and diplomats across Africa. Now board her exclusively — the entire aircraft is yours. Original cockpit intact for those who want to take the captain's seat.

King Beds En-suite Air-con Free WiFi
R3,250 per passenger / night
Request Boarding
BIL First Class Most Popular

BIL First Class

Boeing 737-200 • Sleeps 12 Sharing in 6 Cabins

Private cabins inside a Boeing 737-200, each designed for two passengers. Wake up at 30,000 feet — or at least, it feels that way — with bushveld stretching to the horizon.

Queen Bed En-suite Air-con Free WiFi
R2,250 per passenger / night
Request Boarding

The In-Flight Experience

Everything you need for the perfect flight to nowhere. Our crew ensures every moment feels first class.

Sky High Dining

South African-inspired tapas served by our stewards. Evening service on the Wing Walk with sundowners as standard.

Tarmac Pool

Our mosaic swimming pool features an aviation compass design. Lounge on the apron deck with Drakensberg views.

Wing Walk

Sundowners served on the actual aircraft wing. The most Instagram-worthy sunset spot in Limpopo.

Cockpit Access

Original cockpits preserved. Sit in the captain's seat, touch the controls, and take all the photos you want.

Watch the Skies

Track live aircraft movements over the Lowveld. Watch flights arriving at Hoedspruit, Kruger, and beyond — all from your grounded Boeing.

Live unfiltered flight data powered by ADS-B Exchange

"We feel that the layout of this plane was done with passion through many small details, we loved it! We sat in the pilot's seat and tested all the controls, took photos as Commander — in short, to do once in a lifetime."

Salsero — Airbnb Guest

"As a passionate traveler, I enjoyed the environment with seats and parts of the plane used for decoration and having a new life. The catering was beautiful and food absolutely delicious. Thank you for your overwhelming hospitality."

Tarja — Airbnb Guest

"Absolutely unique experience! The attention to detail in converting these aircraft into accommodation is incredible. The staff made us feel like VIPs from check-in to check-out."

Michael R. — TripAdvisor

"A bucket list experience that exceeded all expectations. Waking up in an actual Boeing 737, having breakfast with views of the bushveld — pure magic. Will definitely return!"

Sarah K. — Google Reviews

"The Presidential jet was beyond anything we imagined. Having the entire aircraft to ourselves, complete with cockpit access and dinner served on board — unforgettable anniversary celebration."

James & Linda — Direct Booking

Day Visitors Welcome

You don't have to stay overnight to experience Aerotel. Book a day visit for tours, sundowners, or special events.

  • Aircraft Tours
    Guided walkthrough of both Boeing aircraft with our knowledgeable crew.
  • Sky Bar Sundowners
    South African wines, MCC, craft gintails, and our signature tapas menu.
  • Wing Walk Experience
    Drinks and photos on the actual aircraft wing — the ultimate sunset spot.
  • Special Events
    Food & wine days, sunset sessions, and private functions on the Wing Walk.
Enquire About Day Visits
Day visits at Aerotel

From the Flight Deck

Stories, guides, and insider knowledge from our crew. Discover Hoedspruit, learn about our aircraft, and plan your perfect escape.

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10 Best Restaurants in Hoedspruit (2026 Local Guide)

Hoedspruit punches far above its weight at the dinner table. For a Lowveld town of fewer than 10,000 residents, the gateway to the Greater Kruger serves up everything from tapas on an actual Boeing wi

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Airplane Hotels: 6 Real Aircraft You Can Sleep In (2026) Aviation

Airplane Hotels: 6 Real Aircraft You Can Sleep In (2026)

An airplane hotel is a real, retired aircraft converted into accommodation you can sleep in. Fewer than a dozen genuine examples exist worldwide, which makes them among the rarest stays on Earth — rar

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Inside SAL: The Presidential Jet You Can Sleep In Aviation

Inside SAL: The Presidential Jet You Can Sleep In

SAL is a Boeing 727-300 that spent over a decade carrying heads of state across Africa as a VIP presidential jet. Today she stands in the bushveld at Aerotel in Hoedspruit, South Africa — the only pla

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Panorama Route from Hoedspruit: Complete Day Guide (2026) Hoedspruit Guide

Panorama Route from Hoedspruit: Complete Day Guide (2026)

The Panorama Route — the escarpment drive past the Blyde River Canyon, God's Window, Bourke's Luck Potholes, and a string of waterfalls — is the best full-day trip you can take from Hoedspruit. The ca

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How a Boeing 737 Was Driven Across South Africa Aviation

How a Boeing 737 Was Driven Across South Africa

In May 2019, motorists across three South African provinces looked up from the road and saw something that made no sense: a full-size Boeing 737 travelling down the highway on the back of a truck. Som

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21 Things to Do in Hoedspruit (2026): The Local List Hoedspruit Guide

21 Things to Do in Hoedspruit (2026): The Local List

Hoedspruit is the working heart of the Greater Kruger — a Lowveld town in Limpopo where Kruger National Park's Orpen Gate sits 64 km east, the Blyde River Canyon rises 60 km west, and the northern Dra

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Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about staying at South Africa's only aircraft hotel.

What are the check-in and check-out times?

Check-in is from 14:00 (2pm) until 20:00 (8pm). Check-out is by 10:00 (10am). Please inform us of your estimated arrival time when booking. Late check-in can be arranged with prior notice. Early check-in or late check-out may be available on request, subject to availability.

Is breakfast included in the rate?

Yes, a delicious full breakfast is included in all accommodation rates. Choose from continental and hot breakfast options, served in our on-site restaurant with views of the aircraft and bushveld. Dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice. The Boeing 727 Presidential rate also includes dinner.

Is parking available?

Yes, free secure private parking is available on-site for all guests. The property is located within the gated Zandspruit Bush and Aero Estate with 24-hour security surveillance. No reservation needed for parking — simply drive in and park near your aircraft accommodation.

Are children allowed at Aerotel?

The Boeing 737 First Class cabins are adults-only (no guests under 12 years). However, the Boeing 727 Presidential aircraft welcomes children of all ages and is perfect for family stays. Children's rates apply, and the exclusive-use format gives families privacy and flexibility during their stay.

Are pets allowed?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed at Aerotel. This policy ensures the comfort and safety of all guests and maintains the pristine condition of our unique aircraft accommodation. We recommend arranging pet care before your visit to the Lowveld region.

Is Aerotel wheelchair accessible?

Please be aware that Aerotel is not wheelchair accessible. Due to the nature of aircraft accommodation, the cabins feature aircraft stairs and compact spaces that cannot accommodate wheelchairs or mobility aids. Guests with mobility concerns should contact us to discuss their specific needs before booking.

What is the cancellation policy?

Cancellation fees apply as follows: 50% charge if cancelled more than 60 days before arrival, 75% if cancelled 45-60 days before arrival, and 100% if cancelled within 30 days or no-show. A 50% deposit secures your booking, with full payment required 6 weeks before arrival.

Is WiFi available?

Yes, complimentary high-speed WiFi is available throughout the property, including in all cabins and common areas. Stay connected while enjoying your unique aircraft experience. The connection is suitable for streaming, video calls, and remote work if needed during your bushveld escape.

Is there a swimming pool?

Yes, Aerotel features a beautiful outdoor swimming pool surrounded by sun loungers and garden areas, available year-round. The pool area offers stunning views of the aircraft and bushveld landscape — perfect for cooling off after a Kruger safari or simply relaxing during your stay.

Can I visit without staying overnight?

Yes! Aerotel welcomes day visitors for aircraft tours, sundowner drinks, and tapas on the Wing Walk deck overlooking the bushveld. Experience our Sky Bar and enjoy South African wines, MCC, and craft gintails. Advance booking is recommended to ensure availability, especially during peak seasons.

Can you arrange game drives or tours?

Yes, our concierge team can arrange Kruger National Park safaris, Panorama Route tours, hot air balloon flights, horse riding safaris, and visits to Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre. We partner with experienced local operators for Big 5 game drives and guided excursions. Book in advance for best availability.

Is smoking allowed?

Aerotel is a non-smoking property. Smoking is not permitted inside the aircraft cabins or indoor areas. Designated outdoor smoking areas are available. This policy protects the historic aircraft interiors and ensures a pleasant environment for all guests during their unique aviation experience.

Still have questions? Our crew is happy to help.

WhatsApp Us  |  Email Us

How to Find Us

Aerotel is located within the Zandspruit Bush & Aero Estate, Hoedspruit — the gateway to Kruger National Park and the Panorama Route.

Address1406 Zandspruit Boulevard, R527
Hoedspruit, Limpopo, South Africa
By AirHoedspruit Airport (HDS) — 20 min drive
Flights from JHB & CPT via Airlink
By RoadJohannesburg — 450km (5-6 hours)
Pretoria — 400km (4-5 hours)
NearbyKruger National Park — 45 min
Blyde River Canyon — 1 hour
7-Day Forecast
Fri
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28° 12°
Sat
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30° 12°
Sun
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31° 12°
Mon
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29° 13°
Tue
☁️
24° 15°
Wed
☀️
27° 13°
Thu
☀️
30° 14°

Ready for Boarding?

Check availability and book your flight to nowhere. Click below to select your cabin and dates.

Prefer to speak to our Ground Crew directly?

Phone: +27-87-655-6737
WhatsApp: ++27782756605
Email: reservations@aerotel.co.za

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All partnerships subject to our Creator Partnership Terms & Conditions

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