The 13 Best Protea Hotels by Marriott To Book With Points [For Max Value]

With diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and abundant wildlife, Africa has so much to offer. It’s understandable why tourism is increasing rapidly in many regions.

However, accommodations can be quite expensive, particularly in popular destinations. This is where Protea Hotels by Marriott shines as a budget-friendly Marriott Bonvoy hotel brand. Best of all, Protea Hotels can provide excellent value when redeeming Marriott Bonvoy points.

In this guide, we will look at the Protea Hotels by Marriott brand, how to earn Marriott Bonvoy points, and some of the best-value Protea Hotels that can be booked using points.

Everything You Need To Know About the Protea Hotels by Marriott

Protea Hotels by Marriott is a leading hospitality brand in Africa, with a significant presence across the Sub-Saharan region. Established in 1984, it has become one of the continent’s largest and most recognized hotel chains. Marriott acquired the brand in 2013.

The Protea Hotel chain offers various accommodation options, including luxury hotels, private game lodges, boutique hotels in city centers, seaside resorts, mountain retreats, and apartments catering to business and leisure travelers.

As of 2024, more than 60 Protea Hotels are open in Africa. Most of its properties are in South Africa, where the company was founded and maintains its headquarters.

Protea Hotels are uniquely designed and reflect their locations’ local culture and surroundings. They offer guests a taste of local hospitality while maintaining international standards of quality and comfort. Properties offer modern amenities such as full-service restaurants and bars, conference facilities, free Wi-Fi, fitness centers, swimming pools, thoughtful room designs, and a unique service culture.

Protea Hotels also places a major emphasis on sustainability and its impact on the environment. The hotel chain has implemented various initiatives to reduce energy consumption, conserve water, and manage waste effectively, all while promoting local community development.

Hot Tip:

Stays at Protea Hotels earn 5x points (vs. 10x points for most Marriott Bonvoy brands) and 1 elite night credit for every 2 nights stayed.

Marriott Bonvoy Credit Cards

Protea Hotels is a member of the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program, meaning that you can earn and redeem Marriott Bonvoy points at its hotels.

There are many ways to earn Marriott Bonvoy points; however, the easiest way is with the numerous co-branded Marriott Bonvoy credit cards issued by Chase and American Express.

The 13 Best Protea Hotels To Book With Points

According to our valuations, Marriott Bonvoy points are worth 0.7 cents per point. Although we use this number as a guideline, we have listed properties that routinely exceed this value when redeeming points.

Here’s a list of some of the best Protea Hotels by Marriott properties you can stay at using points.

1. Protea Hotel Luanda (Angola)

Located between Angola’s capital city of Luanda and Talatona, the Protea Hotel Luanda is a prominent hotel in one of the world’s most expensive cities.

With easy access to landmarks like Joaquim Dinis Stadium, Talatona Convention Center, Estadio dos Coqueiros, and the Natural History Museum, guests have plenty of opportunities to explore some of the city’s attractions. Luanda International Airport (LAD) is less than 2 miles from the property.

The property features 84 stylish rooms and suites with modern amenities, a rooftop restaurant, 3 bars, a fitness center, an outdoor swimming pool, a garden, a terrace, and 2 conference rooms. It also offers complimentary on-site parking.

The Protea Hotel Luanda boasts an on-site restaurant, Múcua, which combines Portuguese and Angolan cuisines.

Points Required: From 12,000 per night

Average Cash Rate: ~$235

Average Points Value: 1.96 cents per point

2. Protea Hotel Lusaka Safari Lodge (Zambia)

Located within its own private game reserve of approximately 2,500 acres in Chisamba, the Protea Hotel Lusaka Safari Lodge provides a serene escape surrounded by nature and a unique and immersive experience for guests looking to explore the beauty of Zambia’s wildlife.

Despite its secluded location, the property is only 22 miles from Lusaka’s city center, offering easy access to urban conveniences.

The lodge offers 56 standard rooms, each featuring a private veranda with views of the lake or bush. Room amenities include a fridge and flat-screen satellite TV; some rooms even include a sofa for added comfort.

Guests can access various recreational activities within the lodge’s private game reserve, including game drives and quad bike safaris. Other amenities include an outdoor pool, business meeting rooms, a terrace, and an expansive garden.

The property boasts an on-site restaurant, Mutete Restaurant, which serves international cuisine. The restaurant features an open-sided terrace area which overlooks the gardens. There is also a bar near the restaurant.

Points Required: From 7,000 per night

Average Cash Rate: ~$119

Average Points Value: 1.7 cents per point

Hot Tip:

African safaris are growing in popularity and are more accessible than ever. From the destination to your packing list, there’s much to consider when planning a safari adventure. Here’s our complete guide to African safari adventuring.

3. Protea Hotel Kampala Skyz (Uganda)

Located on top of Naguru Hill, the Protea Hotel Kampala Skyz is a 4-star hotel in the heart of Kampala.

The property is near several Kampala landmarks, including the Uganda Golf Club, Independence Monument, Kampala Railway Station, and Uganda National Museum. Several other sites in Kampala, including The Acacia Mall, Nommo Gallery, and Centenary Park, are a 10-minute drive from the property.

The property features 141 guest rooms. Guests on Club floors have access to the Club Lounge.

The Protea Hotel Kampala Skyz offers several amenities, including a fitness center, an indoor swimming pool with a dedicated bar, a nightclub, a sun terrace, a garden, 2 conference halls, and 13 modern boardrooms fully equipped with the latest technology.

The hotel also offers special perks for guests, such as free bikes to use on hotel grounds, free private parking, and even a doctor on call 24/7.

The on-site restaurant, Chapter 2 Restaurant, serves African, American, and Chinese cuisine. Vegetarian, dairy-free, and halal options can also be requested. The property also has 4 different rooftop bars with stunning panoramic views of Kampala.

Points Required: From 12,500 per night

Average Cash Rate: ~$160

Average Points Value: 1.28 cents per point

4. Protea Hotel Blantyre Ryalls (Malawi)

Situated in the central business district of Blantyre, the Protea Hotel Blantyre Ryalls offers easy access to key financial institutions and corporate offices in the financial hub of Malawi. Additionally, the property is just a 15-minute drive from the city’s international airport.

The hotel boasts spacious and elegant en-suite rooms equipped with modern amenities, including air conditioning, free unlimited Wi-Fi, and satellite TV, making it one of the most technologically advanced hotels in the country. The property also features an outdoor pool, a fully equipped fitness center, and several banquet halls.

The property features 2 main on-site restaurants: 21 Grill on Hannover, a steakhouse serving flame-grilled steak and signature spare ribs dipped in bourbon, and Ryalls, which serves a fusion of local Malawi and international cuisines.

Points Required: From 13,000 per night

Average Cash Rate: ~$160

Average Points Value: 1.23 cents per point

5. Protea Hotel Ndola (Zambia)

Located in Zambia’s industrial capital, the Protea Hotel Ndola offers a convenient and comfortable stay in Ndola. The city is a major center for copper mining, the backbone of Zambia’s economy. Additionally, Ndola’s strategic location along major transportation routes makes it a key transit point for goods.

The property is just a 9-minute walk from Levy Mwanawasa Stadium and has easy access to local attractions, including the nearby Ndola Golf Club, Ndola Mosque, and the Copperbelt Museum.

The hotel boasts modern guest rooms with stylish decor and conveniences such as a mini-refrigerator, coffee maker, and flat-panel TV. 

The hotel offers several amenities, including an outdoor pool and a fitness center. Business travelers can take advantage of the 2 boardrooms and 3 event spaces suitable for conferences and seminars.

The property has 1 on-site restaurant, Protea Hotel Ndola Restaurant, which serves international dishes mixed with locally inspired cuisine.

Points Required: From 15,000 per night

Average Cash Rate: ~$167

Average Points Value: 1.11 cents per point

6. Protea Hotel Johannesburg Wanderers (South Africa)

The 4-star Protea Hotel Johannesburg Wanderers offers a luxury experience in Johannesburg’s northern suburbs. The hotel is opposite the famous Wanderers Golf Club and a short walk from The Wanderers Cricket Stadium.

The M1 Freeway is just a 4-minute drive away from the hotel, allowing easy access to business districts and shopping centers, including Rosebank Mall, Melrose Arch Precinct, and Sandton City/Nelson Mandela Square. OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) is also easily accessible via the M1 Freeway.

The property features an outdoor pool with sundeck, bowling greens, and padel courts. Guests can access the in-house gym for free or use the nearby Planet Fitness facilities (for a fee). The property also provides a complimentary shuttle for areas within a 5-kilometer radius of the hotel.

The hotel has 1 on-site restaurant that serves international buffet-style breakfasts and à la carte lunches and dinners. It also provides a curated wine list. The on-site 24-hour Deli Bar is also an option for quick bites.

Points Required: From 9,000 per night

Average Cash Rate: ~$98

Average Points Value: 1.09 cents per point

7. Protea Hotel Stellenbosch and Conference Center (South Africa)

The Protea Hotel Stellenbosch and Conference Centre is in the charming historic town of Stellenbosch, South Africa, roughly 20 miles from Cape Town International Airport (CPT). The property is a short distance from many attractions, including Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch Town Centre, Blaauwklippen Vineyard, and the world-famous Cape Winelands.

The apartment-style accommodations have fully equipped kitchens, which are ideal for extended South African stays. Many rooms provide panoramic views of the nearby mountain range, and others look toward the De Zalze Golf Estate.

Guests can enjoy the 2 swimming pools, a beach volleyball court, and a beauty clinic. The hotel also has over 11,000 square feet of flexible space, including a venue accommodating up to 400 guests.

The hotel boasts 2 on-site restaurants: Cultivar Restaurant, which offers a range of local and international cuisines, and Die Wingerd Restaurant, which serves burgers, light bites, and pizzas.

Points Required: ~11,000 per night

Average Cash Rate: ~$118

Average Points Value: 1.07 cents per point

8. Protea Hotel Dar es Salaam Oyster Bay (Tanzania)

Situated just 2.2 miles from the city center and a 30-minute drive from the Dar es Salaam International Airport (DAR), the Protea Hotel Dar es Salaam Oyster Bay offers convenience in one of the city’s nicest areas.

The hotel is an excellent option for those wanting long-term accommodation or those seeking more spacious and well-equipped lodging options than a typical hotel room.

The property boasts studios, 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom suites and lofts. Some rooms offer a balcony with a pool or garden view. Each apartment is fully serviced and fitted with air conditioning, a 32-inch TV with satellite channels, and a kitchenette with all expected and necessary utensils.

The hotel features an outdoor swimming pool, garden, and fitness center.

The on-site restaurant, The Club Room Restaurant, is a fine dining restaurant serving global cuisine. The property also features The Asylum, a shisha bar and café serving various drinks and light meals.

Points Required: From 11,000 per night

Average Cash Rate: ~$115

Average Points Value: 1.04 cents per point

9. Protea Hotel Johannesburg Balalaika Sandton (South Africa)

Located in Johannesburg’s suburb of Sandton, the Protea Hotel Johannesburg Balalaika Sandton offers luxury and convenience in a country-style hotel with a heritage experience.

The property is near some of Johannesburg’s most important landmarks, including Nelson Mandela Square and Sandton Convention Center.

The property is 350 meters from Gautrain Station, which runs trains to O.R. Tambo International Airport. Alternatively, the hotel offers a free luxury shuttle service to and from Sandton City and Nelson Mandela Square, which also has a direct link to the airport.

The hotel boasts 2 swimming pools set within gardens and a modern fitness center. Business travelers can also utilize the property’s 8 conference and meeting rooms, which can accommodate up to 300 guests.

The property features 2 gourmet restaurants: The Conservatory, which serves English cuisine, and Bull Run Restaurant, famed for its prime cuts of exquisite South African beef. It also offers an extensive selection of the finest wines. Other food and beverage options include Lords Bar, Coffee on Twenty, and Destination Lounge.

Points Required: From 9,000 per night

Average Cash Rate: ~$86

Average Points Value: 0.96 cents per point

10. Protea Hotel Clarens (South Africa)

Nestled in the foothills of the Maluti Mountains, the 4-star Protea Hotel Clarens is ideally located in the picturesque town of Clarens, Eastern Free State. The property is near the Golden Gate National Park and the Kingdom of Lesotho, and the staff can assist in arranging ski tours and hot balloon rides.

The property offers 70 luxurious rooms with selected rooms offering stunning mountain views. The hotel boasts an outdoor pool, a terrace, and several high-end meeting room facilities.

The hotel features 1 on-site restaurant, The Jewel, which serves cuisine from all around the world.

Points Required: From 9,500 per night

Average Cash Rate: ~$89

Average Points Value: 0.93 cents per point

11. Protea Hotel Cape Town Tyger Valley (South Africa)

The 3-star Protea Hotel Cape Town Tyger Valley offers a relaxing setting with incredible views of Table Mountain.

The hotel is a 15-minute drive from Cape Town’s city center and Cape Town International Airport. The Tyger Valley Business Center is a few minutes from the property.

Hotel amenities include an outdoor swimming pool, a bar, and a sundeck. The hotel also has 3 versatile spaces that can be used for events and private functions. The spaces can be arranged into separate rooms or combined into 1 large space, accommodating up to 120 guests.

The property has 1 on-site restaurant, Point Of View Bar & Restaurant, which serves international cuisine and offers incredible scenic views of Cape Town, overlooking Table Mountain. The restaurant also features a large fireplace, providing an intimate experience.

Points Required: From 7,000 per night

Average Cash Rate: ~$65

Average Points Value: 0.93 cents per point

12. Protea Hotel Polokwane Ranch Resort (South Africa)

The 4-star Protea Hotel Polokwane Ranch Resort offers a unique safari experience situated on a private game reserve just 16 miles south of Polokwane, the capital city of Limpopo Province.

The resort offers 150 rooms, including 22-bedroom self-catering units. It features a long list of amenities, including a golf clubhouse, a tennis court, 4 swimming pools surrounded by landscaped gardens, a poolside bar, a kids’ area, a fitness center, and a tented bush camp.

The hotel offers its own game drives spread across 2,500 acres, horseback safaris, and golf. On the game drives, you can see various animals, including antelope, hyenas, giraffes, zebra, wildebeest, buffalos, lions, and over 200 species of birds. The hotel can also arrange safaris and game viewing.

The property boasts 2 on-site restaurants: Basil’s Fine Dining Restaurant, which offers international cuisine, and The Buttery Family Restaurant, which serves an international buffet. The Golf Club House also has Old Joe’s Bar and Lounge, which serves snack meals and cocktails near the golf course.

Points Required: From 9,000 per night

Average Cash Rate: ~$82

Average Points Value: 0.91 cents per point

13. Protea Hotel Gaborone Masa Square (Botswana)

The Protea Hotel Gaborone Masa Square offers a luxurious and convenient stay in the central business district of Gaborone, Botswana.

Situated in Masa Square, the hotel captures the essence of Botswana’s elegance. It is near many shopping and entertainment venues, and the famous Masa Center is within walking distance of the property.

The hotel boasts 152 stylish guest rooms and 30 long-stay self-catering apartments. Hotel amenities include an outdoor rooftop pool, a bar, a fitness center, a sun terrace, and a conference center.

The property features 2 dining options: Don Carlos Restaurant, which specializes in Mediterranean-styled cuisine, and Carlitos Cafe, which serves brewed coffee sourced specifically from renowned coffee bean regions throughout Africa.

Points Required: From 13,000 per night

Average Cash Rate: ~$114

Average Points Value: 0.88 cents per point

Bottom Line:

While not providing the most outsized value for Marriott Bonvoy points, Protea is otherwise a solid redemption, especially for Africa, where it’s not always easy to redeem points for a hotel.

Final Thoughts

If you don’t travel to Africa much, it’s entirely possible that you’re not familiar with the Protea Hotels by Marriott brand. Protea Hotels by Marriott is one of Marriott’s mid-tier hotel brands with properties scattered across the African continent.

While Protea Hotels may not be a typical premium redemption, its properties can provide an excellent use of Marriott Bonvoy points. Best of all, the hotel chain offers various accommodation options, including luxury hotels, mountain retreats, and even private game lodges.

With more than 60 locations in 10 African countries, consider staying at a Protea Hotel to see a different side of Marriott.