MEET THE FOUNDER
The Brand That Loves You Back
A Very Warm Welcome!
Hey there! I'm Niles—founder, owner, and self-appointed Chief Elephant Wrangler at Urban Elephant. Originally from the UK (where the weather builds character), I made the move to Cape Town back in 2007.
After globe-trotting and seeing the best (and worst) the world has to offer, I knew I'd found something truly special in the Mother City. So, I unpacked my bags, ditched the umbrella, and set out to build something a little different in the world of hospitality.
That's how Urban Elephant was born—a place where luxury meets comfort, where style doesn't break the bank, and where every guest feels like a rockstar (or at the very least, a very well-looked-after human).
I genuinely love meeting new people, hearing their stories, and helping them create incredible memories while they're in Cape Town. I've built Urban Elephant around this idea: personalised, thoughtful service that goes the extra mile (and sometimes the extra bottle of wine).
Every apartment is designed to make you feel at home—but better. Because let's be honest, who wants to do housekeeping at home?
Of course, none of this would be possible without my amazing team. From our superstar Guest Relations Managers to the housekeeping heroes who keep everything spotless, they're the heart of Urban Elephant. They're friendly, professional, and always up for a good laugh—or a restaurant recommendation.
Officially Graded by the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa
OFFICIALLY GRADED
The plaque on the wall, the paperwork to back it up.
Urban Elephant is officially graded as a 4-Star Apartment Hotel by the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa, and a member of Cape Town Tourism. Both certificates are public — view them below.
TGCSA grading certificate
Official 4-star apartment-hotel grading from the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa.
View TGCSA certificate →
- CTT
Cape Town Tourism membership
Member of Cape Town Tourism — the city's official tourism authority.
View CTT membership →
- PPRA
PPRA Registered
Property Practitioners Regulatory Authority — Registration No. 1695928.
Tourism Grading Council of South Africa — Apartment Hotel grading plaque for Urban Elephant
Official master mark
The Urban Elephant Cape Town master lockup, with the four-star TGCSA grading built in.
The Spirit of Zola
Zola's Story
Every story begins somewhere — ours began with a pink elephant named Zola.
When I was six years old, Zola was my constant companion. She brought comfort, calm, and a quiet reminder that standing out could be something beautiful. While I was captivated by Africa's wild animals, it was this small pink elephant that taught me the power of individuality and warmth.
Years later, that simple lesson became the heart and emblem of Urban Elephant — a brand built on care, character, and connection.
Zola now lives on in our emblem. Her name, which means 'peaceful' and 'calm' in Xhosa, reflects the feeling we want every guest to experience.
At Urban Elephant, you're more than a visitor. You're part of a story that celebrates comfort, creativity, and belonging — the same feeling Zola once gave me.
“Hospitality is more than just a job for me—it's my jam.”
Niles
Founder & Chief Elephant Wrangler
Our Values
These principles guide everything we do, from how we design our spaces to how we welcome our guests.
Authentic Hospitality
We believe in genuine connections. Every interaction is an opportunity to share our love for Cape Town and create memorable experiences.
Attention to Detail
From the thread count of our linens to the local coffee in your kitchen, we sweat the small stuff so you can simply enjoy.
Local Expertise
Born and raised in Cape Town, we share insider knowledge that transforms good trips into extraordinary ones.
Sustainable Luxury
Luxury and responsibility can coexist. We're committed to sustainable practices that protect the Cape Town we love.
Ready to Experience Cape Town?
Let us show you our city through local eyes. Browse our 4-star apartments or get in touch to plan your Cape Town stay.