Romantic Cradle of Humankind Accommodation in Beautiful Surroundings
Lethabo Estate in the Cradle of Humankind, Lanseria, is set on the banks of the Crocodile River, centrally positioned very near Lanseria International Airport and a short commute from Pretoria and Johannesburg.
The beautiful Lethabo Estate is a circular economy running off Solar. We have a certified organic vegetable labyrinth garden, we recycle and repurpose and offer you a world-class romantic stay.
Enjoy wraparound views of the nature reserve from the deck overlooking the Crocodile River with our delicious cuisine. Retreat to our private and romantic, lovers hideaways, picnic in style, and in case you need more information on wedding rings – see all you need to know about wedding rings – and set your dream wedding on the lawns in front of the willows on the river bank or conference and party. Read more on wedding venues in Pretoria or wedding venues in Gauteng.
We offer a full range of services and diverse accommodation, designed to suit your specific requirements. Come and revitalise yourself on this unique and beautiful 150-acre estate.
We offer a wide range of activities. Golfers can enjoy three different golf course experiences close by. The Blair Athol Golf course conveniently neighbours Lethabo Estate, Dainfern is south towards the city and Pecanwood Golf Club is north on the Hartebeestpoort Dam. Both are a 15 minute drive.
We offer horse riding nearby in The Cradle of Humankind and Horse Play, a horse whispering life coaching workshop or Equine/Horse Therapy here at Lethabo with our beautiful horses.
Come, revitalise yourself and experience the Joy that is Lethabo.
Book your stay with us or get more info
Latest News…
ORGANIC VEGETABLE GARDENING WORKSHOP – HOW TO OVERCOME “BLACK FINGERED” GARDENING SYNDROME
In lock-down on March 26th 2020, the world changed. As we all sat closeted in our homes, wondering what the future of the world would be, I watched on social media how people amused themselves in their vegetable gardens and the Green Monster of Envy stalked me daily....
THE RIVERSIDE RESTAURANT – WE’VE ADDED SOME GREAT NEW DISHES
Come join us next to the serene Crocodile River for a scrumptous Sunday Lunch. Our cuisine is fashioned from organic produce from local markets and carefully prepared by our Chef. Try our delicious cuisine and remember we cater for vegetarians, Halaal guests, gluten...
SO, WHERE DO THE ANIMALS GO DURING ALL THIS RAIN?
Come join us next to the serene Crocodile River for a scrumptous Sunday Lunch. Our cuisine is fashioned from organic produce from local markets and carefully prepared by our Chef. Try our delicious cuisine and remember we cater for vegetarians, Halaal guests, gluten...
A Lethabo Experience is the ultimate gift
Contact us to find out more about our Gift Vouchers
Mehluli Ncube
17:43 26 Jan 23
Wonderful gem away from the hustle and bustle. Picnic by the river is just a wonderful scene from the movies that one... would enjoy to experience.Menu is just great… simple put, I enjoyed the chicken so much.One thing to add to menu: bottles of water!read more
Monette Joshua
18:18 03 Jan 23
Beautiful venue with stunning views. Perfect for a private, secluded escape.Great for picnics with scenic views of the... Crocodile River. Excellent rooms, service and dining.read more
Nikiel Debipersad
07:17 20 Dec 22
What an awesome place for a romantic get away. Had booked just a picnic on a Sunday morning, and though it was last... minute, Simone was more than accommodating. The table setting alongside the river was a sight to behold and has kept a memory for myself and partner one that we will cherish. Thank you Lethabo Estate for creating such a memory, we do look forward to visiting again in the near futureread more
Naledi Kgotlagomang
13:43 17 Nov 22
This place is amazing.Lovely picnic whilst mesmerised by the river flow. Great place to reflect and enjoy natureThe... food was deliciousFriendly welcome by the manager.read more
Keamogetswe Mametse
15:53 26 Oct 22
My family and I made a booking for December 2 months ago from the very same people yesterday we received an email... stating that our booking is canceled. Reason being “ I’m writing to you with a heavy heart that the estate that I have my Airbnb in has taken a vote on the previous body corporate meeting that it will be banning short term rentals such as Airbnb’s . It leaves me with no choice but to let you know that I’ll be unlisting my property from Airbnb - I will be canceling all reservations I’ve gotten.Please when you make a reservation try not to book at the same estate as those owners will cancel sooner or later”However the very same accommodation is still listing as available but with a different price from what we originally paid for. It’s very disappointing that people are doing this and I wouldn’t recommend booking with these people as they are not honest about why they cancelled our booking.read more
Amor Pienaar
14:08 17 Oct 22
Our Operations Team attended the EALS workshop presented by Lise. The whole experience was amazing. We as a team... strongly recommend any team to attend this workshop. Above that, the food was amazing and the hospitality warm. We can't wait to go back 🙂 Thank you Lethabo Team, you guys are amazing.read more
Chris Barker
17:08 09 Oct 22
This is an awesome spot for a Sunday gourmet picnic for two. 30mins outside of Fourways, set alongside a gorgeous... river, and you can sit at their deck tables, or hire a private thatch room with bed and table setting for two, replete with a full roast chicken 3 (or 5) course lunch. You are left completely alone for the 4-5hr booking, and I think they watch out for kids (a rare sight) wandering too close to your personal space.We do this every anniversary. Today we spotted a 2m monitor lizard on the far bank.read more
Annerita van Zyl
08:47 20 Jul 22
Beautiful hideaway. The river cottage where we stayed is luxurious, equipped with a small kitchenette, showr, bathtub,... separate lounge area, private pool and a fantastic river view. The staff are very friendly and welcoming. Our dinner and breakfast were served at our room next to the river. A variety of options and everything was delicious and beautifully presented.Can definitely recommend this as a romantic breakaway.read more
Pieter Noppe
23:55 16 Jul 22
We stayed at the River Cottage, and what an amzing breakaway, 30 minutes from Johannesburg. Really a great place to... reconnect and just be. Beautiful scenery on the bank of the river.read more
Sinclair Granger
16:43 04 Jul 22
Went there to celebrate My Beautiful wife birthday. The welcome was warm. The food delicious and plentiful.The chalet... is set so you have private space in front of your chalet. Inside is cozy with your own jaccuzzi. A river that runs past your chalet.While you enjoy your meals you are over looking a small waterfall.There are 4 friendly horses and an adorable cat on property. That you may pet. Just great if you are an animal lover.The biggest highlight is the friendly staff. Who bring this whole experience together.Will definitely recommend.So much to say about this great weekend away. Wish we could have stayed longer. Next time we will be going with our Daughters. Loved it.Thank you very much to everyone who made it possible.read more
JP Mongie
09:31 04 Jul 22
You cannot beat Lethabo Estate for a picnic experience like no other. Reasonably priced. Amazing food (big portions... too). And to top it all, fantastic service.read more
Travich
23:10 07 Jun 22
Wow the grounds here were beautiful!!The dinner was incredible. Drinks were also amazing. Hosts were very attentive.... Seriously I highly recommend this place.read more
comedy_ stig
13:49 07 Jun 22
My lady and I went out to enjoy the gourmet picnic at Lethabo, and my word..... what a beautiful experience. The river... at our feet was a sight to behold. The tent set up was comfortable, cozy and romantic. Then the food, one word : blazing. Loved everything about the experience.Side not: Pleaae inform people about the house cat. It's a nice cat but people do need to know. I personally have a fear of cats, its quite intense. But miraculously i wasn't scared of this particular 1, which was weird but really good. If i had had my natural response to all cats then the day would have been completely ruined. So...just a heads up, please.Besides that.... amazing. Worth every cent and the drive. Definitely going back many many many more times.read more
Kerry Olivier
22:55 04 Jun 22
Such a beautiful venue, great service and very friendly staff. I was providing a service for a client at this venue and... the waiters still checked to see if I was ok or if I wanted anything. I appreciated it very much as very few venues consider the crew working at an event.read more
Kyle Jansen van Vuuren
05:09 22 May 22
We went there about two weeks ago and had their private romantic picnic for. It was more than beautiful and the food... was enough to feed 4 people and the scenery was gorgeous. The service was excellent food was top notch and is a romantic setting to pop the question as I did. Will definitely be going back there to explore their spa and accommodation soon.Thank Lethabo for a wonderful time.read more
Natashja and Werner Engelbrecht
11:52 06 Apr 22
Lethabo estates are one of our favourites places to visit, the serenity and peace. One of the most relaxing places to... go, the food is out of this world, the service is 5 star plus. Thank you so much for making our day one of the memorable days of our lives and we cannot wait to share it with our friends and family.read more
Natashja Engelbrecht
11:45 06 Apr 22
I have driven past Lethabo over the years, always said to myself I need to explore it, I am so glad we finally did. We... booked a Picnic by the river, myself and my husband. Photos and videos do not do this place justice (I don't write many reviews) it is like a fairy tale, the food was exceptional and not even to talk about the service, we felt so welcome and relaxed. Really regretted for not booking an over night stay. We will defintely be back and we are looking forward to our next trip. Thank you for making our day super special. This is an unforgettable place.read more
nolutando nanto
07:00 04 Apr 22
I was looking forward to have a good picnic experience with my girl-friends at the Lethabo Estate. The venue is... beautiful, quite and staff is very welcoming.My disappointment was with the picnic basket( the food was not up to standard and not appetising at all and it was cold). The was cat hair in food.We had to ask for plates and glasses to be refreshed.It was not value for money.I will not go back 🙁read more
Evashan Thavar
19:41 26 Mar 22
Absolutely amazing luxury picnic experience. Beautiful views, attentive staff, delicious meals. Lighting was not the... best towards the evening/night but I would definitely recommend for a romantic experience with your partner.read more
Tess G
09:05 24 Mar 22
Anyone who has ever made a booking to celebrate a special occasion understand the pressure and the angst involved in... making a booking to a venue that you haven't tried before. As one of the few venues that cater for vegetarian / vegan diets (in ways that go beyond serving a greek salad) Lethabo Estate was a clear winner for us. We booked a day visit, starting off with spa treatments and leading into a luxury picnic next to the river. Generally, as catered picnics go, our expectations weren't set very high - but we were blown away by the taste, quality, and sheer number of dishes that were provided. From starters to desserts, all packed and ready in heat-insulating dishes, we enjoyed the most scrumptious meal we have had in a long time. All while watching butterflies flit by and listening to the river.For those who are not sure what to expect:When you arrive you receive a welcome drink, and are asked which refreshments you would like for your picnic. These are supplied to you in a cooler box, along with an ice bucket (if needed) for the sparkling wine / juice. You are then taken to your very own picnic spot, with a set table and everything that you could need right there. Plenty of food, ample drinks, and sun loungers to stretch out on inbetween dishes. You have the place to yourself for the allocated time - with the only downside being that the only loo is a (short) walk back to reception. The staff are friendly, the meals are generous and tasty. Highly recommended.read more
Mia Grobler
16:38 20 Feb 22
Our stay at Lethabo Estates was unforgettable to say the least.We were greeted by Christina, one of the kindest most... friendliest person I have ever met.The ladies at the spa treated us to the best massage we have had up to date. Not only did they manage to fit us in at the last minute, they came to fetch us from our room! The food was incredible and in abundance! A definite must visit for any couple looking for an unforgettable, private and romantic get away!Thank you to the Lethabo Estate team for your professionalism, friendliness and memories.read more
Louré Odendaal
12:25 30 Dec 21
The place is beautiful and the staff was very kind. The reason I'm rating it 3 stars is because the jacuzzi bath, which... was half the reason we picked this place, was leaking and would not fill. So after a great full body massage with oils and a camp fire we could not get cleaned up.read more
Zamadeyi Deogratia Cebisa
15:14 11 Dec 21
What a hidden jem. If you ever looking for somewhere to go, I definitely recommend Lethabo Estate. We went for the... luxury romantic picnic and all I can say is wow. The space was stunning and the food was delicious. We had complete privacy most of the time. It is definitely worth trying.read more
Molebogeng Mabaso
07:41 08 Dec 21
Breathtaking, exquisite, relaxing, rustic, peaceful, scenic, romantic, luxurious…are some of the words that come to... mind when I think of Lethabo Estate. My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed our stay in this beautiful oasis. The service that we received was excellent, as was the selection of gourmet meals and beautifully prepared picnic baskets that were brought up to our cottage. We truly enjoyed our stay and would recommend this Estate for couples who are looking to relax and unwind in a romantic and peaceful environment.read more
Kagiso Phiri
21:38 05 Dec 21
Went there for a picnic package . It was beautifully set by the river . The attention to detail . The food was... delicious and we'll packaged .also very understated is the views driving there .the place is not too far away from civilization but enough to make you feel some form of unplugging from the everyday noise and city sights .The staff are quite friendly . Checking up on us and ensuring we know where everything is .I would recommend going for a morning picnic as during the day more guests arrive.The place was so good that my wife cried when I took her there and said I outdid myself .If you a guy looking for a place to really suprise your partner and you trying to avoid the obvious places .this place is especially for you .you will gain bonus points while also enjoying the trip yourself .read more
Mungos Mungo
16:16 05 Dec 21
Absolutely stunning venue! Gorgeous organic food, just delicious! Vegans in our group were ecstatic.
Sunshine Yum
21:40 20 Nov 21
Second time was even lovelier than the first - had the evening picnic instead of the lunch one. Spent a peaceful and... balmy 4 hours getting totally relaxed. Beautiful sunset on the river and champagne in lantern light with the sounds of the early evening bush coming alive. Great food, everyone enjoyed every dish (2 of us in the group were gluten free and vegan) and there was food left over. Go get you summa this tranquility!read more
Lyle Grever
15:13 14 Nov 21
A word of warning, turn up hungry! Seriously though, what a beautiful setting, combined with amazing service and enough... yummy food to feed you for days, that was our picnic experience. Looking forward to the next visit.read more
ilanka van eeden
12:48 10 Nov 21
There is literally no words to describe how beautiful it is there. You will have to see it for yourself to experience... the fullest of it. The service is excellent. They help you where they can and they are so friendly. Their food is out of this world and it's just an amazing experience in general.read more
Dr Carina Fernandes Chiropractic Zone
01:29 09 Nov 21
Beautiful peaceful experience in an exquisite place... lovley to just get away from the hustle and bustle of jhb ...... the personal touches from the owner and staff make it that much more special... the process of booking all the way through to checking out was super efficient with such friendly staff!!read more
Cornelia Prins
20:45 25 Oct 21
We had a lovely, relaxing weekend at Lethabo Estate. We stayed in the Kingfisher suite which is a secluded, rustic... little cabin at the riverside, with only the sounds of the river, birds and wind in the trees and no other people in sight. We were treated in a friendly, courteous manner and made to feel special by the staff. The restaurant's food is topnotch and the honey roasted chicken served with the picnic is divine. The only thing that would make me think twice about returning is the bed. The mattress and pillows weren't comfortable. We battled to get good sleep and woke up with sore backs. I would also think that a 4 star lodge would at least have a queen size bed in one of their more expensive suites. The bed aside, we really loved our stay there.read more
Neliciwe Mahlangu
03:50 25 Oct 21
Well. I have visited many places. But this one is the most beautiful i have ever visited. I feel like going there again... badly. It's a pristine place, Magical 👌🏿 my partner and I enjoyed every moment, the food very nice I must say the chef is good, thank you for hosting us and definitely we coming back!read more
George Havvas
16:42 25 Sep 21
Perfect for a weekend break, or just a romantic day out. Celebrate your anniversary here with one of their picnic... options and bless your partner with an awesome experience!read more
Tee “Tee”
04:48 06 Sep 21
The picnic and setting was perfect. Just you, your partner and the sound of the waterfall. The food was lovely too,... particularly their honey roasted chicken and the salmon. Friendly, helpful staff as well. We loved every bit of it.read more
Shady_Senpai
12:22 25 Aug 21
Great view, excellent food, nature all around you. Truly the best picnic place I've been to. It was so relaxing I... almost fell asleep right there, just listening to the waterfall. Highly recommended for nature lovers!read more
Aruna Mohan
12:40 11 Aug 21
We had a wonderful intimate wedding at Lethabo Estate. Lise and her team were so helpful in arranging everything and... our day was truly special. It was a truly unique day and exceeded our expectations.read more
Jean Muller
17:08 01 Aug 21
What a very beautiful venue. Staff was friendly. Stunning river and waterfall. Food was great and very tasty and very... well presented. Thank youread more
Marlene Muller
16:02 01 Aug 21
Lovely venue, down to earth and welcoming. From the horses roaming around jauntily to the gracious hostess Lisa and... friendly staff, it was a serene and happy experience. The food was sublime! The view of the river stunning.read more
Chanel Isaacs
14:11 01 Aug 21
The restaurant was mediocre. Service and food needs attention. We waited 30 minutes to be seated as the table was not... set yet. The food was bland and cold. We sent back a chicken curry because it was cold. We ordered tea and that took 20minutes because the waiter got distracted. Some things in the place also need to be attended to.As well as the general service delivery of waiters and manager. The bathrooms also need to be attended to, for hygienic purposes. This was unprofessional and an unpleasant experience.read more
Keneilwe Mafatshe
20:52 20 Jun 21
Beautiful scenery, delicious food, professional staff! We absolutely loved our romantic picnic by the riverside.
Niketa Cross
10:47 14 Jun 21
Leon and I would like to thank you so much for all the assistance in making our day PERFECT. We wish to thank the staff... for their professionalism and working behind the scenes to ensure that our guests were catered to with a 10 star treatment not even 5 stars. The venue is beautiful, yes, but the staff and management of the Lethabo Estate add that extra personal touch. The wedding was by far the best experience of our lives and thank you to Lise & Monique for making it that way.We will definitely see you again soon.Love and light to you allNiketa&Leonread more
Martin G Britz
12:03 06 Jun 21
Absolutely stunning.. best romantic picnic spot ever !! Staff go out of their way to assist and make it awesome..... although not wheelchair friendly Lisa went out of her way roping in the help of Mike to get me safely down the embankment to the picnic spot.. The food was excellent and I highly recommend it... Perfect spot ... 10/10 😎👊👊👊read more
Sharon Mangold
11:46 30 May 21
What an incredible place. The picnic was out of this world. Kept feeling surprised that there were no angels... serenading us!!read more
Tshauambea Ndou
07:52 30 May 21
This place was beyond amazing, definitely exceeded all my expectations. The hosts are all kind and accommodating.... Definitely worth the visitread more
Gail Compton
07:01 22 Apr 21
We stayed at the Kingfisher river lodge for the weekend of the 9th to 11th of April. Thank you, Lise for a most amazing... romantic weekend and special celebration. You and your staff made it extra special and we enjoyed every minute in our secluded spot next to the tranquil river. The supper and breakfast were delicious and our own private picnic at our lodge was unbelievable. I can recommend Lethabo River Estate for their exceptional service and attention to detail. Many thanks.read more
Kalnisha Bhikha
17:18 10 Apr 21
Most beautiful romantic picnic getaway.. exceeded our expectations. Such a peaceful, scenic spot with delicious food.... Well worth it and very friendly accommodating staff. A must to add to your bucket list in Gauteng!read more
Nirmal Fakir
14:48 28 Mar 21
Amazing service and lovely scenery for a quiet special moment with your partner! Catering for vegetarians was excellent... and not just the peas and carrots from a side order 😜👍🏽... Despite the bad weather the team went out of their way to ensure we were comfortable... Highly recommended (10/01/2021)read more
Cristen St John
12:07 11 Feb 21
My husband and i went here for a riverside picnic. The experience was wonderful. The staff were professional and... friendly. The food wasn't bad. I will note that the hay in the boma had mold growing underneath it, granted it's a result of all the rain over the course of the past few weeks, however this was something that I feel should have been dealt with prior to our visit.read more
Ntokozo Sokhulu
09:16 02 Jan 21
Tranquility at it's best. Forgot we were in gauteng for a bit. The peace and quiet one gets at the Estate is... remarkable. A sumptuous breakfast complemented by the beautiful scenery. Lisa and Monique always ensure that your needs as a guest are catered to. Definitely will be going back again soon.read more
Absolutely Magnificent Stay
If I could rate Lethabo Estate I 100% would. The staff were polite and extremely helpful. Lize was absolutely amazing and went completely out of her way to make sure our wedding and stay was 5*. The venue and setting just speaks for itself. I would recommend Lethabo for years to come. We will most definitely be back