The Palace of the Lost City is a five-star luxury hotel located within the Sun City Resort in South Africa. Inspired by a mythical African kingdom, the hotel is renowned for its opulent architecture, lush surroundings, and regal ambiance. Since its opening in 1992, it has become one of the most iconic and extravagant accommodations in the region, offering guests a unique blend of African heritage and modern luxury. The design features intricate mosaics, frescoed ceilings, bronze wildlife sculptures, and flame-topped towers, all contributing to a fantastical atmosphere that evokes the grandeur of a lost civilization.
Location
The hotel is situated in the North West Province of South Africa, nestled within the Sun City Resort and adjacent to the malaria-free Pilanesberg National Park. It lies approximately 150 kilometers northwest of Johannesburg, making it accessible by car in about two and a half hours. The surrounding landscape includes extinct volcanic hills, tropical gardens, and wildlife-rich savannahs, offering guests both natural beauty and proximity to safari experiences. The location is ideal for travelers seeking a combination of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion.
Facilities
The Palace of the Lost City offers a wide array of facilities designed to cater to both leisure and business travelers. These include an Olympic-sized outdoor swimming pool, a fully equipped fitness center, a luxurious spa (The Royal Salon), and a business center with conference and event spaces. Guests can also enjoy access to the Valley of Waves water park, a casino, and a shopping arcade. The hotel provides concierge services, valet parking, and complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property. For families, there are children’s play areas, babysitting services, and a kids’ club.
Rooms
The hotel features a total of 326 rooms and suites, each exquisitely decorated with handcrafted furniture and African-inspired décor. Room categories include Luxury Twin Rooms, Superior Luxury Rooms, Superior Luxury Pool-Facing Rooms, Superior Luxury Family Rooms, Junior Suites, Superior Suites, Royal Suites, King Suites, and the African Suite. Each room is equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning, satellite TV, minibar, safe, and en-suite bathrooms with luxury toiletries. Some suites offer additional features like private dining areas, guest bathrooms, and personal butler service. Smoking and non-smoking rooms are available upon request, and there are also accessible rooms for guests with mobility needs.
Comfort
Comfort is a hallmark of the guest experience at The Palace. Rooms are spacious and elegantly appointed, with plush bedding, ambient lighting, and serene views of the gardens, pool, or surrounding landscape. The hotel’s attention to detail extends to sensory elements such as botanical aromas in the lobby and soothing background music. Guests can enjoy in-room spa treatments, high tea in regal lounges, and personalized service that ensures a restful and indulgent stay. The tranquil environment, combined with world-class hospitality, creates a sanctuary of relaxation and refinement.
Sports/Entertainment
The Palace offers a diverse range of sports and entertainment options. Golf enthusiasts can play on two championship courses designed by Gary Player, including the Lost City Golf Course, which features a crocodile-filled water hazard. Other activities include tennis, squash, mountain biking, trail running, and horseback riding. Guests can also embark on hot-air balloon safaris or guided game drives in the nearby Pilanesberg National Park. For those seeking indoor entertainment, the resort includes a casino, a cinema, and live performances at the Sun City Superbowl. The Valley of Waves water park provides fun for all ages with its wave pool, lazy river, and thrilling slides.
Meals
Dining at The Palace is a culinary journey through local and international flavors. The Crystal Court offers lavish breakfast buffets and elegant high teas, while The Grill Room specializes in premium steaks and fine wines. Plume, the hotel’s Afro-French fusion restaurant, provides a romantic setting and a Champagne Bar. Guests can also enjoy casual meals and cocktails at the Palace Pool Deck or sip cognac in the safari-themed Tusk Bar & Lounge. Special dietary needs are accommodated upon request, and room service is available 24 hours a day.
Payments
The Palace of the Lost City accepts a variety of payment methods to ensure convenience for international guests. Major credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Diners Club are widely accepted. Guests can also pay using debit cards or through secure online booking platforms. Currency exchange services are available at the hotel, and there is an on-site ATM for added convenience. All transactions are processed with high security standards to protect guest information.
