The Lost City
An opulent African-inspired resort hotel, offering a luxurious escape with stunning architecture, world-class dining, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
The Lost City
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An opulent African-inspired resort hotel, offering a luxurious escape with stunning architecture, world-class dining, and a vibrant atmosphere.
"A place of incredible beauty! A must see and must experience. Everything is perfect here."
📸 Capture the Grandeur
Don't miss photo ops of the stunning architecture and lush gardens. The resort is incredibly photogenic!
🍽️ Buffet Bliss
The breakfast buffet is legendary! Arrive hungry and ready to explore a vast array of delicious options.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Architecture
Entire Resort
An awe-inspiring African-inspired palace with intricate details and stunning design. A true feast for the eyes.
Crystal Court Breakfast Buffet
Crystal Court Restaurant
An overwhelming and luxurious spread of food options in a breathtaking dining hall. A culinary adventure awaits.
Valley of the Waves
Sun City Resort
Experience thrilling water slides and a wave pool for a fun-filled day of aquatic adventure.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Times
Embrace the Grandeur
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Grandeur
Don't miss photo ops of the stunning architecture and lush gardens. The resort is incredibly photogenic!
🍽️ Buffet Bliss
The breakfast buffet is legendary! Arrive hungry and ready to explore a vast array of delicious options.
👟 Explore on Foot
The resort is expansive. Wear comfortable shoes to fully explore the beautiful grounds and facilities.
💧 Valley of the Waves Fun
Allocate time for the Valley of the Waves for thrilling water slides and a relaxing wave pool experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Grandeur
Don't miss photo ops of the stunning architecture and lush gardens. The resort is incredibly photogenic!
🍽️ Buffet Bliss
The breakfast buffet is legendary! Arrive hungry and ready to explore a vast array of delicious options.
👟 Explore on Foot
The resort is expansive. Wear comfortable shoes to fully explore the beautiful grounds and facilities.
💧 Valley of the Waves Fun
Allocate time for the Valley of the Waves for thrilling water slides and a relaxing wave pool experience.
✨ Royal Treatment
Many guests report feeling like royalty with the exceptional service and luxurious amenities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise The Palace of the Lost City for its breathtaking architecture, luxurious ambiance, and exceptional service, with many highlighting the incredible breakfast buffet and attentive staff. However, some guests note that the sheer size of the resort can sometimes lead to a less personal feel, and occasional maintenance issues or disorganization at peak times can detract from the experience.
"A place of incredible beauty! A must see and must experience. Everything is perfect here. Above all the staff is increíble and their pianist is beyond talented. What an incredible experience! Cannot wait to go back. Thank you Robert for playing so beautifully during our breakfast, you have a special place in our hearts."
Kathy Pellerin
"The Palace of the Lost City is without doubt a very grand and impressive hotel – the scale and design are stunning and it certainly feels like somewhere special to stay. That said, for me it was a little on the impersonal side. Because the hotel is so big, every time we came back from being out we were asked if we were checking in, which got a bit repetitive and made it feel less personal.
The staff did try to help most of the time, and there were some nice touches – we were given a complimentary bottle of prosecco, which was appreciated, and Lesley, who does the foot massages by the pool, was absolutely lovely. She really stood out as one of the highlights of the stay.
On the flip side, there were a few things that could have been better. Our in-room TV still showed the bill of the previous guests, which was a bit odd. Breakfast, while offering lots of choice, felt busy and disorganised, which took away from the overall experience. We were also disappointed to find the famous erupting bridge closed for maintenance, something we weren’t told about in advance.
Overall, it was an okay stay. The hotel is undeniably beautiful and worth seeing once, but for me it lacked that personal touch. I’d probably only return for a single night just to enjoy the grandeur again, or next time look at one of the smaller hotels in Sun City for a more personal and relaxed experience."
Nick Camacho
"One of the most beautiful places that we visited. Lots of attention to detail, all over the complex. Very good and friendly service from all the staff. Incredible rooms, gardens and pool area was wonderful. The breakfast was unique. Oysters and chocolate fountain, was some of the great surprises for breakfast. Such a wide variety of wonderfully presented food. Beautiful dried plant installations around. Soothing piano music add to the relaxed mood."
Lientjie Van Zyl
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Palace of the Lost City is located within Sun City Resort in South Africa. The nearest major airport is O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg. From there, you can rent a car, take a shuttle service, or arrange for private transfer to Sun City, which is approximately a 2-3 hour drive.
While direct public transport to Sun City is limited, various shuttle services operate from Johannesburg and Pretoria. It's often more convenient to arrange transport through your accommodation or a private tour operator.
Sun City Resort is quite large. The Palace of the Lost City offers shuttle services to various points within the resort, making it easy to get around. Many areas are also walkable.
Yes, driving is a popular option. There is ample parking available at the resort. The drive from Johannesburg is scenic and well-maintained.
For GPS navigation, use 'The Palace of the Lost City, Sun City Resort, Rustenburg, South Africa'. This will guide you directly to the resort's entrance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
If you are staying at The Palace of the Lost City, entry is included. Day visitors to Sun City Resort may need to pay an entrance fee, and access to specific attractions like the Valley of the Waves might require separate tickets.
The Palace of the Lost City hotel itself is open 24/7 for guests. However, specific facilities like restaurants, the spa, and the Valley of the Waves have their own operating hours, which can vary. It's best to check the official Sun City website for the most current times.
Yes, day visitors can access parts of Sun City Resort, including some of the public areas and attractions. However, access to hotel rooms and exclusive guest facilities is reserved for hotel guests.
Sun City Resort offers various packages and day passes that may include access to multiple attractions. For specific attractions like the Valley of the Waves, separate tickets are usually required.
It's highly recommended to book your stay well in advance, especially during peak seasons, holidays, and weekends, to secure your preferred dates and room types.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
The opulent architecture of the hotel itself is a major draw. Don't miss the breathtaking Crystal Court breakfast buffet, the lush gardens, and the vibrant Valley of the Waves water park. +1
Sun City Resort offers a wide range of activities including water sports at the Valley of the Waves, golf, game drives, zip-lining, and various entertainment options. The Palace itself has a spa and beautiful pools.
Absolutely! The resort is very family-friendly, with activities suitable for all ages, including the Valley of the Waves, mini-golf, and kid-friendly entertainment.
During the day, casual resort wear is acceptable. For dinner at the finer dining restaurants, smart casual attire is recommended. Some venues might have specific dress codes.
Guests often rave about the live piano music during breakfast and the exceptional service. The grandeur of the hotel itself provides a unique, luxurious experience. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Palace offers several dining venues, including the renowned Crystal Court for its lavish breakfast buffet, and The Grill Room for fine dining. There are also bars and lounges for drinks and lighter fare.
Yes, the breakfast buffet at Crystal Court is a highlight for many visitors, offering an extensive variety of high-quality food in a stunning setting. It's often described as an overwhelming but delightful experience.
Most restaurants at The Palace and within Sun City Resort are accustomed to catering to various dietary needs. It's advisable to inform your server about any specific requirements, and they will do their best to accommodate.
Dining at The Palace can range from moderate for casual meals and drinks to high-end for fine dining experiences. The breakfast buffet is a significant indulgence.
It is highly recommended to make dinner reservations, especially for the more formal restaurants like The Grill Room, to ensure you get a table, particularly during busy periods.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire resort is a photographer's dream! Key spots include the grand entrance, the opulent interiors of the hotel, the lush gardens, the poolside areas, and the iconic architecture.
Yes, you are generally welcome to take photos of the public areas of the hotel. However, always be respectful of other guests' privacy and any specific 'no photography' signs in certain areas.
While general photography is allowed, professional photoshoots might require special permits. Always check with hotel management if you plan on extensive professional photography.
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for exterior shots. Mid-day can be harsh, but the interiors are well-lit and offer great opportunities.
Drone usage is typically restricted at resorts and public areas due to privacy and safety regulations. It's best to check with Sun City Resort management directly regarding drone policies.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking family suites or adjoining rooms for comfort. The resort also offers various kid-focused activities and entertainment options throughout the year. The overall atmosphere is one of fun and adventure, making it an ideal getaway for families looking to create lasting memories.
💖 Couples and Romantic Getaways
Consider booking a suite upgrade for an extra special touch. The resort's grand ambiance and attentive service contribute to a feeling of exclusivity and pampering, perfect for celebrating anniversaries or simply enjoying quality time together.
✈️ Day-Trippers
Be aware that access to certain exclusive areas of The Palace hotel might be limited for day visitors. It's advisable to check the resort's day visitor fees and opening hours for specific attractions in advance to plan your visit effectively.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvel
Key architectural elements include the Grand Entrance, the Crystal Court with its stunning stained-glass ceiling, and the Valley of the Waves, which is designed to look like a natural jungle landscape. The use of natural materials, water features, and exotic flora throughout the resort enhances its unique and captivating aesthetic. It's a place where every corner offers a new visual delight.
Many guests describe the architecture as 'jaw-dropping' and a significant part of the overall experience. It's not just a hotel; it's a destination in itself, offering a visual spectacle that is both grand and meticulously crafted. The design successfully blends opulence with a sense of adventure, making it a memorable stay for all visitors.
Culinary Delights at The Palace
For evening dining, The Grill Room is a popular choice, known for its exquisite steaks, fresh prawns, and decadent desserts. Other venues within the resort offer a variety of cuisines and atmospheres, from casual bars to more intimate settings. The resort prides itself on using fresh, high-quality ingredients to create memorable culinary experiences.
While the dining is generally praised for its quality and variety, some reviews mention that the breakfast buffet can feel busy and a bit disorganized during peak times. However, the overall consensus is that the food offerings are a significant highlight of a stay at The Palace.
Activities and Entertainment
For those seeking relaxation, the resort boasts beautiful swimming pools, a luxurious day spa offering a range of treatments, and meticulously maintained gardens perfect for leisurely strolls. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy world-class golf courses, while adventure seekers can opt for activities like zip-lining and quad biking.
Sun City also hosts various entertainment events, from live music to shows. The resort's shuttle service makes it easy to explore these different attractions, ensuring guests can make the most of their stay.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit