30 Years of Ashanti

For more than 30 years, Ashanti Lodge Gardens was far more than just a backpackers hostel at the foot of Table Mountain — it was a rite of passage for travellers from around the world. What began in 1994 as a bold vision to create affordable, welcoming accommodation in the heart of Cape Town quickly grew into one of South Africa’s most loved and recognised backpacker destinations.

Long before social media, online reviews, and travel influencers, Ashanti Lodge Gardens built its reputation the old-fashioned way — through unforgettable experiences, word of mouth, and the friendships formed around the pool, at the bar, in the dorms, and under Cape Town’s summer skies. Thousands upon thousands of travellers passed through its doors over the decades, many arriving as strangers and leaving as lifelong friends.

Ashanti became known for its unique energy — the perfect mix of laid-back backpacker freedom, local knowledge, warm hospitality, and unforgettable adventure. Guests climbed Table Mountain together after meeting over breakfast, planned overland safaris in the travel office upstairs, shared stories over late-night pizzas and cocktails at Kumasi Café, and discovered Cape Town through the eyes of a place that truly loved the city.

Over the years, Ashanti Lodge Gardens evolved constantly. Rooms were upgraded, sustainability initiatives introduced, gardens landscaped, pools refreshed, Wi-Fi strengthened, and the old Victorian mansion adapted to meet the changing needs of modern travellers — all while holding onto the authentic spirit that made Ashanti special in the first place.

And now, after three incredible decades, the chapter of Ashanti Lodge Gardens has come to an end.

While the famous backpackers may have closed its doors, the story of Ashanti is far from over. The heart, soul, and hospitality that travellers fell in love with continue to live on through Ashanti Gardens Guesthouse, where guests can still experience the same warm welcome, unbeatable location, and relaxed Cape Town atmosphere that defined the Ashanti name for generations.

This page is dedicated to the memories. To the backpackers who became family. To the sunsets, the adventures, the music, the laughter, the stories, and the moments that shaped 30 years of Ashanti history.

If Ashanti Lodge Gardens was ever part of your journey, we’d love for you to share your memories, photos, and stories with us — because Ashanti was never just a place to stay. It was a feeling. 🌍💙