The Park Hyatt Returns to Johannesburg: A Boutique Gem Opens Its Doors

In June 2022, it was announced that the Park Hyatt brand would be making a comeback in South Africa through the transformation of an existing property in Johannesburg. At the time, the goal was to open in early 2023. After a delay stretching more than two years, the hotel is finally set to welcome guests in the coming days.

The Winston Hotel Becomes Park Hyatt Johannesburg

The former Winston Hotel in Rosebank, Johannesburg, has now joined Hyatt’s portfolio. Following an extensive renovation, it has been rebranded as the Park Hyatt Johannesburg. The official opening date is July 1, 2025, which appears to be definitive at this stage.

The outside of the Park Hyatt Johannesburg (Source: Hyatt)

Delays in new hotel openings are not unusual, but this one was particularly prolonged. As recently as mid-August 2024, the property was still scheduled to debut on October 15, 2024. The additional eight-month postponement raises questions, especially since most of the work had reportedly been completed well before then.

It’s interesting to see the Park Hyatt name return to Johannesburg. Years ago, there was also a Park Hyatt Johannesburg, which was rebranded as the Hyatt Regency Johannesburg in 2007. Now, the Park Hyatt flag is back, this time on a more intimate, boutique property.

The outside of the Park Hyatt Johannesburg (Source: Hyatt)

The refurbishment was led by Yabu Pushelberg, the design studio behind the Park Hyatt New York, Park Hyatt Shenzhen, and Park Hyatt Bangkok. According to Hyatt, the redesign “revitalises the hotel while celebrating the heritage and craftsmanship of its locale.”

The outside of the Park Hyatt Johannesburg (Source: Hyatt)

Interestingly, the original design renderings shared at the announcement stage looked quite different. Perhaps the vision evolved, budget constraints came into play, or other factors shifted the plans.

Outside restaurant area of the Park Hyatt Johannesburg (Source: Hyatt)

With only 31 rooms, the Park Hyatt Johannesburg is the smallest Park Hyatt in the world in terms of the number of keys. All rooms have king beds and workstations, and there are just two room categories, distinguished mainly by the views, plus four suite types.

The hotel also features a restaurant with a dining room and outdoor terrace, a bar, and event space that accommodates up to 60 guests. While there are plans for a spa, it will not be available at launch and is expected to open later.

Rates & Points Requirements

So, what can guests expect in terms of pricing?

For World of Hyatt members redeeming points, this is a Category 6 property, requiring 21,000–29,000 points per night in a standard room, or 36,000–44,000 points per night in a standard suite. Notably, this was initially planned as a Category 5 hotel, but delays have bumped it up a category.

Park Hyatt Johannesburg sample redemption rates (Source: Hyatt)

Cash rates are predictably high, reflecting the boutique scale and luxury positioning. Nightly rates start around $500. These may adjust as the hotel opens and begins filling rooms.

Park Hyatt Johannesburg sample cash rates (Source: Hyatt)

If booking a cash stay, it’s worth reserving through the Hyatt Privé program for added benefits such as complimentary breakfast, upgrades, and property credits.

How to Best Book the Park Hyatt Johannesburg

The best way to book a stay at the Park Hyatt Johannesburg is to book via Unmatched Voyages Hotels. Booking with Unmatched Voyages Hotels gives you access to premium service and exclusive perks valued at up to $500 per stay. These benefits vary by property and are shared with you by our hotel advisors during your booking process or visible after logging into your account.

Get the VIP treatment when you book with Unmatched Voyages Hotels

My Take on the Park Hyatt Johannesburg

One of the most appealing aspects of this new hotel is its small scale. A 31-room property with unique character feels far more inviting than many of the larger, more anonymous Park Hyatt locations. Being able to earn and redeem Hyatt points at such a boutique property is an added bonus.

Judging by the transformation, this will likely rank among Johannesburg’s top hotels, alongside options like the Saxon Hotel and the Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff Johannesburg.

Conclusion

After more than two years of delays, the Park Hyatt Johannesburg will officially open on July 1, 2025. The former Winston Hotel has been comprehensively renovated and reborn as a refined, boutique Park Hyatt property. With just 31 rooms, it promises an intimate and polished experience for travelers to the city. It’s definitely on the list for a future visit.