Best land-based casinos in South Africa for 2024
South Africa is home to 38 land-based casinos, each offering something unique. Discover our top recommendations based on game variety, promotions, amenities and entertainment on offer within each SA province in our guide.
Top land-based casinos in SA
Since the enactment of the National Gambling Act 33 of 1996, land-based casinos have been able to operate in South Africa legally. Local casinos allow players to enjoy the social aspects of gambling while playing a variety of high-stake and low-stake games, fromĀ slotsĀ to poker.
Luckily for casino enthusiasts in South Africa, there are plenty of options in all nine provinces. Below, we will delve deeper into these land-based casinos, looking at what amenities are on offer and VIP programmes.
Top 3 Western Cape casinos
Mykonos Casino
Since 2000, Mykonos Casino has welcomed visitors on the West Coast of South Africa in its beautiful Greek-inspired casino within the Club Mykonos resort.Ā
The floor features 320 slots and eight table games (three blackjack tables, four roulette tables and one poker table). Suppose you want to take a break from gambling. In that case, you can enjoy other forms of entertainment, including shows, events, and fine dining experiences. Additionally, the Mykonos Rewards Programme discounts games, entertainment and experiences, ensuring players can enjoy even more value from their visits.
š“ó §ó ¢ó ³ó £ó “ó æ Mykonos Access Road Langebaan, Western Cape, 7357
āļø +27 22 707 6970
š mykonoscasino.co.za
Garden Route Casino
Garden Route Casino opened its doors in 2002 as part of the Garden Route Hotel. The casino offers 380 slot machines and 10 table games. You can also sign up for the Garden Route Rewards Card. This lets you earn points for extra play and save on event tickets, movies, spas and dining, including within the casino's two on-site restaurants.
š“ó §ó ¢ó ³ó £ó “ó æ 1 Pinnacle Point Road, Mossel Bay, 6500
āļø +27 44 606 7777
š gardenroutecasino.co.za
Golden Valley Casino
Golden Valley is an intimate casino that opened in 2006, offering 220 slot machines and six table games. It also features a restaurant and sports bar. You can sign up for the Sun International Most Valued Guests (MVG) rewards programme and use casino points on slots and table games. You can also earn 'Leisure Points' to put towards your hotel room, dining experiences and entertainment.
š“ó §ó ¢ó ³ó £ó “ó æ Between Brandwag and Roux Roads, Worcester, 6880
āļø +27 23 348 7200
š suninternational.com/golden-valley/
Top 3 Northern Cape casinos
Flamingo Casino
Located in Kimberley, Flamingo is a Victorian-age-inspired casino with 250 slots and seven table games. Sun International opened Flamingo in 2002, which features a bar, restaurant, 200-seat conference centre and small retail facility, making it a well-rounded entertainment destination. Players can join the MVG rewards programme for exclusive casino promotions.
š“ó §ó ¢ó ³ó £ó “ó æ N12 Phakamile Mabija Road, Memorial Road Area, Kimberley, 8301
āļø +27 53 830 2600
š suninternational.com/flamingo/
Desert Palace Hotel & Casino
Established in 2005, Desert Palace is a modern casino offering a tranquil and relaxed atmosphere. It provides 169 slots and six table games. Guests can enjoy spa services, an outdoor swimming pool, and the convenience of free WiFi. There is also a VIP room and 60 restaurants, including the Bella Roma restaurant, serving Italian cuisine and brunch.
š“ó §ó ¢ó ³ó £ó “ó æ 1 Olifantshoek Road, Keidebees, Upington, 8801
āļø +27 54 338 4100
š desertpalace.co.za
Oasis Casino
Home to 162 slots, the casino is known for its Oasis Rewards Club with Classic, Silver, Gold, and Diamond tiers. Both beginners and experienced players can enjoy the casino's exciting promotions, entertainment and delicious meals at the Signature Grill restaurant.
š“ó §ó ¢ó ³ó £ó “ó æ N14 Kuruman, Northern Cape, 8460
āļø +27 53 110 0320
š oasiscasino.co.za/gaming/
Top 3 North West casinos
Rio Casino
Launched initially as Tusk Rio Casino Resort in 2002 and later rebranded as Rio Casino in 2006, this vibrant, carnival-inspired casino offers an exceptional local gambling experience. Visitors can enjoy 274 slots and 12 table games, including blackjack, roulette, and poker tables, and indulge in fine dining at one of three restaurants. At 266,330 square feet, it is one of the largest casinos in the world!
š“ó §ó ¢ó ³ó £ó “ó æ Rio Boulevard, Meiringspark, Klerksdorp, 2571
āļø +27 18 469 9100
š riocasino.co.za
Sun City Casino
Sun City Casino opened in 1979, offering a diverse gaming experience with over 40 table games and hundreds of slots, letting you play for 1c up to R100 in the Salon PrivƩ. Sun MVG cardholders can enjoy exclusive access to VIP gaming and use their leisure points to pay. Beyond gaming, the casino offers five bars and 15 restaurants, so you won't be short on dining options.
š“ó §ó ¢ó ³ó £ó “ó æ R556, Sun City, 0316
āļø +27 14 557 3663
š suninternational.com/sun-city/casino/
Mmabatho Palms Casino
Established in 1977, Mmabatho Palms is the oldest casino in South Africa. It has a reputation for providing warm hospitality and a thrilling casino experience through its 155 slots and nine table games. The VIP programme is free to join and offers members 5% back in 'Leisure Points' for every transaction.
š“ó §ó ¢ó ³ó £ó “ó æ Nelson Mandela Drive, Mmabatho, Mahikeng, North West
āļø +27 18 389 1000
š mmabathopalms.co.za
Top 3 Gauteng casinos
Emerald Resort and Casino
Located on the banks of the Vaal River, Emerald Resort and Casino is a sensational venue featuring bars, restaurants and a range of leisure experiences, including a water park and bowling alley. The casino features 380 slot games and 22 table games, including roulette, blackjack, poker, and baccarat. The VIP programme offers a personalised service and benefits such as complimentary food and beverages as you play in the private gaming room.
š“ó §ó ¢ó ³ó £ó “ó æ 777 Frikkie Meyer Boulevard, Vanderbijlpark, 1900
āļø +27 16 982 8000
š emeraldcasino.co.za/casino
Carnival City Casino
Founded in 1999, Carnival City offers 1,400 slot machines and 36 table games, including roulette, blackjack, baccarat and poker. The Sun MVG VIP programme provides exclusive discounts and birthday rewards. Visitors can also enjoy the Carnival City bar, regular live DJ shows, concerts and events!
š“ó §ó ¢ó ³ó £ó “ó æ Corner Century and Elsburg Road, Brakpan 1540, Gauteng
āļø +27 11 898 7000
š suninternational.com/carnival-city/
Emperors Palace Casino
Sister casino to Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, Emperors Palace first opened in 1998 and offers some of the best gambling in South Africa. It provides an extensive gaming experience with 1,600+ slots and 69 table games, including blackjack, roulette and poker. The complex has four hotels, a world-class spa facility, extensive dining options, and one of Africa's largest cinema complexes.
š“ó §ó ¢ó ³ó £ó “ó æ 64 Jones Road, Kempton Park, Johannesburg, 1620
āļø +27 11 928 1000
š emperorspalace.com
Top 3 Eastern Cape casinos
Hemingways Casino
Situated in East London, Hemingways is an elegant 1920s-themed casino that opened in 2000. It caters to a wide range of players, with 12 table games and over 400 slots, allowing bets from 1c to R25 across the main casino, smoking casino, and the Salon PrivƩ. Visitors can also enjoy over 180 stores in Hemingways Mall, movie theatres and live entertainment.
š“ó §ó ¢ó ³ó £ó “ó æ Corner of Western Avenue and Two Rivers Drive, East London, Eastern Cape
āļø +27 43 707 7777
š hemingways.co.za
Boardwalk Casino
Boardwalk Casino opened in 2000 as Port Elizabeth's first legal casino. The gambling location operates 24/7 and caters to a range of players with over 800 slots, some of which let you play from just 2c. There are also 20 table games, including American roulette, blackjack and poker. Members can enjoy exclusive rewards with the Sun MVG VIP programme and amenities like the multimedia musical fountain, the Supersports Arena hosting comedies and music acts, and the Boardwalk Mall.
š“ó §ó ¢ó ³ó £ó “ó æ Beach Road, Summerstrand, Gqeberha, 6019
āļø +27 41 507 7777
š suninternational.com/boardwalk/
Wild Coast Sun Casino
Established in 1981, Wild Coast Sun is one of South Africa's oldest and most popular casinos. It offers 547 coinless slot machines and 19 table games with bets ranging from R10 to R5,000. The Sun MVG card allows members to earn and redeem points and use them across all Sun International properties. The stunning resort features one of South Africa's top golf courses, plenty of restaurants and bars, and resides on one of the country's most pristine beaches.
š“ó §ó ¢ó ³ó £ó “ó æ Main Bizana Road, Port Edward, 4295
āļø +27 39 305 9111
š suninternational.com/wild-coast-sun/casino/
Top 3 Limpopo casinos
Meropa Casino
In the heart of the Limpopo province, Meropa offers a Moroccan-style fiesta of fun. Established in 2006, the casino offers 394 slots and 15 table games, including roulette, blackjack, baccarat and poker. Sun International MVG cardholders can access the Kiba PrivĆØ for exclusive play. The casino also offers romantic dinner venues and regular promotions that enhance the gaming experience.
š“ó §ó ¢ó ³ó £ó “ó æ Plot 59, Sterkloop, Roodepoort Road, 0700, Polokwane, Limpopo
āļø +27 15 290 5400
š suninternational.com/meropa/
Khoroni Hotel Casino
Located in a luxurious garden setting in Thohoyandou, Khoroni Hotel Casino is a 24/7 gaming destination with 150 slots and eight table games with exciting side bets alongside the main games. The Peermont Winners Circle VIP programme includes members' benefits, rewards and exclusive discounts. The casino features amenities like the Moo Bar, CSpa Wellness, Malingani restaurant, and a conference and event venue.Ā
š“ó §ó ¢ó ³ó £ó “ó æ Mphephu Street, Thohoyandou, 0950
āļø +27 15 962 4600
š khoroni.co.za
Thaba Moshate Casino
Established in 2015, Thaba Moshate Casino offers a modern gaming experience. It boasts 160 slots and 11 table games, and the Peermont Winners Circle VIP programme allows members to earn points and enjoy discounts on shows, entertainment, dining, and more. The casino includes a Salon PrivƩ, dining options, and entertainment at the Molecule Showbar.
š“ó §ó ¢ó ³ó £ó “ó æ R555 Steelpoort Road, Burgersfort, Limpopo, 1150
āļø +27 13 045 0450
š thabamoshate.co.za
Top 3 Free State casinos
Goldfields Casino
Goldfields Casino is one of the most exciting and inviting entertainment destinations in South Africa, offering popular restaurants, live performances and regular events. The casino opened in 2003 and provides 250 slots and nine table games. Members can earn points and progress through three status levels with the Goldfields rewards card.
š“ó §ó ¢ó ³ó £ó “ó æ Corner Stateway and Buiten Street, Welkom, Free State, 9460
āļø +27 57 391 5708
š goldfieldscasino.co.za
Windmill Casino
Established in 2005, Windmill Casino is one of the biggest entertainment venues in the Free State. It offers 350 slots and 13 table games, and supports the Sun MVG Loyalty Programme, which players can register for online or at the casino. Windmill Casino features some of Bloemfontein's favourite restaurants and offers meeting venues that accommodate up to 200 people. The casino created two millionaires in 2021 and has paid out over R70 million in jackpots!
š“ó §ó ¢ó ³ó £ó “ó æ Jan Pierewiet Avenue and N1 Highway, Pellissier, 9332, Bloemfontein, Free State
āļø +27 51 410 2000
š suninternational.com/windmill/
Frontier Inn and Casino
Frontier Inn and Casino opened in 2003 and is the only legal casino in Bethlehem. It is home to 152 slots and six table games, and the Winners Circle VIP programme offers rewards across four tiers. Players can use their Winners Circle card at various resorts, including Emperor's Palace and Rio Casino. The casino is open 24/7 and offers regular promotions and lively entertainment, including weekly game shows.
š“ó §ó ¢ó ³ó £ó “ó æ Johan Blignaut Drive, Bethlehem, 9700
āļø +27 58 307 6000
š frontierinn.co.za
Top 3 Mpumalanga casinos
The Ridge
Part of the Highveld Mall, The Ridge has been a leading venue for entertainment and gaming since 2002. Visitors can enjoy live shows, events, movies and dining options. It provides a dynamic and inclusive atmosphere with bets ranging from 2c to R25. The Ridge offers 436 slots and 19 table games, including The Ridge Raise 'Em Poker. Furthermore, the Ridge Rewards Programme has rewarding benefits that enhance the gaming experience.
š“ó §ó ¢ó ³ó £ó “ó æ Corner of the N4 Highway and Mandela Street, Emalahleni, Mpumalanga
āļø +27 13 655 9300
š theridge.co.za
Graceland Casino
At Graceland Casino, visitors can explore the standard casino, the Horseshoe Casino and Rockefeller's PrivƩ and indulge in 276 slots and 16 table games. Established in 1997 as South Africa's first licensed casino, the gambling location offers a luxurious experience with various amenities, including golf, entertainment, spa facilities, and dining options. The Peermont Winners Circle VIP programme is easy to sign up for and even comes with a convenient app.
š“ó §ó ¢ó ³ó £ó “ó æ 1 eMbalenhle Road, Secunda, Mpumalanga, 2302
āļø +27 17 620 1000
š graceland.co.za
Emnotweni Casino
Opened in 1997, Emnotweni boasts a vibrant entertainment experience, with over 365 slots and 16 table games. The casino supports a rewards programme, which includes Gold, Platinum and Black tiers, providing discounts on restaurants, entertainment and accommodation. Plenty of exciting promotions present opportunities to win cash prizes, casino free-play, and even brand-new cars.
š“ó §ó ¢ó ³ó £ó “ó æ Government Boulevard Riverside Park, Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, 1200
āļø +27 13 757 4300
š emnotweni.co.za
Top 3 KwaZulu-Natal casinos
Blackrock Casino
At Blackrock, the 12,000-square-foot gaming space lets you enjoy a dynamic gaming experience. The casino is home to 300 slots, allowing low-stake bets from 2c to R25. There are also 10 table games, including old-favourites roulette, blackjack and poker. The Tsogo Sun Gaming Blackrock Rewards Programme features Gold, Platinum and Black levels, delivering benefits such as discounts on dining and entertainment.
š“ó §ó ¢ó ³ó £ó “ó æ 100 Allen Street, Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal
āļø +27 34 328 1777
š blackrockcasino.co.za
Suncoast Casino
Suncoast Casino is situated on Suncoast Beach, offering South Africa's second-largest selection of games, with over 1,800 slots and 71 table games. Established in 2000, Suncoast is Durban's most loved entertainment venue, with plenty of amenities, including a spa, 22 dining options and a Salon PrivƩ with ocean views for the ultimate luxury gaming experience. The Suncoast Rewards Card programme offers exclusive benefits, including free parking for Platinum and Black cardholders.
š“ó §ó ¢ó ³ó £ó “ó æ Suncoast Boulevard Marine Parade, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, 4056
āļø +27 31 328 3000
š suncoastcasino.co.za
Sibaya Casino
At Sibaya, players can enjoy 1,213 slots and 50 table games. Sibaya Casino is part of the Sun International brand portfolio, so players enjoy the Sun MVG Loyalty Programme and its benefits. Youāll also find a range of on-site amenities, including concerts and theatrical productions at the Izulu Theatre, and plenty of bars and restaurants.
š“ó §ó ¢ó ³ó £ó “ó æ 1 Sibaya Drive, Umhlanga Rocks, Durban, 4320
āļø +27 31 580 5000
š suninternational.com/sibaya/
Gambling laws & regulations in South Africa
Until 1996, South African law prohibited all forms of gambling except for betting on horse races. The enactment of the National Gambling Act in 1996 marked a turning point for the nation, allowing each of the nine provinces to oversee and regulate gambling activities.
These changes also allowed for the development and operation of land-based local casinos, significantly contributing to the country's economy.Ā
While no regulations have been passed to support online gambling, you can still access offshore, licensed online casinos in South Africa. You should use platforms approved by reputable international authorities like theĀ Malta Gaming Authority (MGA).Ā Players often favour online gambling due to the range ofĀ casino bonusesĀ and the convenience of playing from home.Ā
South African authorities do not consider the money you win while gambling as income. Therefore, gambling winnings are exempt from taxes.Ā
SA gambling market quick facts
š¤ SA gambling regulator | National Gambling Board |
š° Casino games available | Slots, blackjack, baccarat, craps, poker, roulette, keno, bingo, live casino, lottery |
š² Payment methods available | Bitcoin, Payz, EasyEFT, Instant bank transfer, Mastercard, Neteller, Skrill, Visa |
š No. of land-based casinos | 38 |
š SA legal gambling age | 18+ |
Land-based casinos vs. online casinos
Today, players can enjoy their favouriteĀ real money casino gamesĀ in the hustle and bustle of a land-based casino or from the comfort of their homes. Each option has its advantages and disadvantages. Ultimately, it comes down to your personal preferences. To determine which is best for you, we've listed the pros and cons of playing at land-based casinos below:Ā
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
ā Exciting and sociable atmosphere | ā Travel time and distance |
ā Cash out winnings immediately | ā Operating hours |
ā Live entertainment | ā Noisy and busy, potential queues |
ā VIP services | āFree games arenāt available |
ā Strong security measures |
Responsible gambling
Whether you play at a land-based or an online casino, it's important to gamble responsibly. We want to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable gaming experience and conduct thorough research to ensure we only collaborate with licensed operators that promote fair play and player wellbeing.Ā
If you or someone you know needs some guidance or support, the best responsible gaming agencies in South Africa can help you out:
The South African Responsible Gambling Foundation (SARGF): +27 11 026 7323
National Responsible Gambling Programme (NRGP) Toll-Free Line: 0800 006 008
Land-based casino FAQs
Yes, you can gamble legally in South Africa. Land-based casinos, sports betting and the National Lottery are among the legal forms of gambling available nationwide.
You must be 18 years or older to gamble at land-based casinos in South Africa. You may need to present a valid ID to verify your age before entering a gambling location.
You can choose from a wide selection of casino games at South African casinos, including slot machines, table games like blackjack, roulette and poker, craps, and more.
The bonuses available at land-based casinos typically differ from those online. You may encounter loyalty schemes, competitions, slot tournaments, or table game promotions like cash prizes.
There are 38 land-based casinos across South Africa. The most popular land-based casinos are in major cities like Johannesburg, Cape Town and Port Elizabeth.
No, gambling winnings are not considered income for income tax purposes as of May 2012. Therefore, you won't have to pay tax on money you win at an SA casino.