Aa'Qtansisi Guest House

This old Karoo home, circa 1856, has been created into a small boutique-type accommodation centrally situated in Graaff-Reinet, the jewel of the Karoo Our guesthouse, named Aa'Qtansisi, is derived from the authentic original Khoisan language, meaning "We welcome You. Family-friendly accommodation - children welcome

Area Info

Surrounded by the Camdeboo National Park, Graaff-Reinet, the heart of the Great Karoo Place of Thirst is a boundless and mysterious area covered by vast sheep and game farms, where broad plains roll away to distant koppies and multilayered mountains that seem to touch the indigo sky

Listen to the silence, breathe in the aged earth and the Karoo bossies (which conjure up the taste of Karoo lamb!), and gaze at a startlingly clear horizon that seems drawn at the other end of the earth

Our clear night skies are studded with countless stars and huge bright planets; even other galaxies are visible with the naked eye, offering some of the best star gazing in the world

Fossils of some of the earliest forms of one-celled life have been discovered here, indicating that life has existed in this region for three billion years. The richness of pre-dinosaur fossils in this region is world-renowned

Graaff-Reinet, the fourth oldest town in South Africa, is recognized as the home of magnificent examples of Cape Dutch architecture, and over 220 heritage sites (more than any other town in South Africa!). The past is preserved in four extraordinary museums which hold collections of photographic memorabilia, firearms, artworks and fossils, tracing the story of the Karoo - and the town - from pre-history right up to the present day

We invite you to experience the magic of this area and discover eccentric little hamlets, sprawling farmsteads and the historical town of Graaff-Reinet, populated by warm and welcoming people who love to share their stories and legends

Units and Rooms

Zanzibari (Double Room)

Guests: 2

A taste of the exotic island of Zanzibar! This room boasts a XL King-size 4 poster mahogany bed, enveloped in a mosquito net.& saddlebags. Fully equiped with en-suite old style bathroom, Aircons, TV, coffee-station, hairdryer & toiletries.

Moroccan (Double Room)

Guests: 2

Step into colourful Marrakesh This room features Moroccan lanterns, carved kist & arched doors, mosaics & a Queen-size canopied bed The bathroom is in true Moroccan style and is equipped with a corner bath, shower, aircon, coffee and hairdryer.

Classic Twin

Guests: 2

A classic singles room, featuring traditional barley twist oak furniture. The en-suite bathroom is equipped with a shower, fully equipped with aircon, TV, coffee station and toiletries. This room has its own entrance from a safe parking area.

French Room (Twin)

Guests: 2

A tranquil room, hosting extra large single beds, with a distinct French flavour. The beautiful wheelchair-friendly en-suite bathroom has a shower and a Victorian-style bath. This room has a private entrance. Extra bed can be set up on request

Four Poster French (Double)

Guests: 2

A reminder of the medieval period of the French Huguenots. This Queen -size four-poster cast iron bed, is dressed in blue & white. The bathroom has a bath and a shower. The room also boasts a private entrance. Extra bed can be set up on request

Slave Quarters Family suite

Guests: 4

A Luxurious Family Unit drawing inspiration from antique elegance and slave quarters alike. It has one double bed and two single beds, with a bathroom, bathtub and toilet. 3rd Extra bed can be setup on request

Gypsy Room

Guests: 2

This enchanted Gypsy quarter conjures up magical & musical memories. The bed is draped with extravagant bejewelled fabrics transported by nomadic travellers from India. An extra bed can be setup on request

Karoo Room

Guests: 2

Step into this bedroom en-suite; filled with unique Karoo Keepsakes; and memories from yesteryear. Oil lamps, shuttered headboard, hat box, & enamelware It will take you back in time; into the charming grand old Karoo lifestyle