From the former president of South Africa, Jacob Zuma to the countries richest man, Yohan Rupert, today we look at the top 33 expensive things owned by South Africa’s Richest men, prepare to have your mind blown by these people who are literally swimming in wealth.
33 – Dubai Home – Jacob Zuma
Thought to have been purchased for Jacob Zuma by the Gupta Brothers, a wealthy Indian business family, this house is located in the emirates hills area of the city and is thought to be worth close to $31 Million dollars.
The home not only sits next door to the residence of former president of Zimbabwe, Robert Mugabe, it is also one of the largest in the area.
The home features 10 bedrooms, 13 bathrooms and the marble foyer has a massive grand double staircase that leads to the upper grand level.
There is 9 reception rooms, an out door swimming pool and BBQ area, with the home having space for some of Jacob Zuma’s eleven cars.
Stay tuned to see another one of Jacob Zuma’s homes that is ten times bigger than this one!
32 – BMW X3 M40i – Cyril Ramaphosa
Powered by a potent engine that delivers strong performance, the X3 M40i typically features a turbocharged inline-six cylinder engine.
Equipped with a range of features aimed at enhancing performance, comfort, and convenience, President Ramaphosa truly travels in style whenever he is in this vehicle.
Features include sport-tuned suspension, upgraded brakes, sport seats, larger wheels, a panoramic sunroof, advanced infotainment system, premium audio system, and driver assistance technologies.
Prices for Ramaphosa’s X3 start from around $56,000 and can go as high as $60,000.
31 – L’Ormarins Estate – Johann Rupert
Located in the Franschhoek area and boasts around nine vineyards with state-of-the-art Terra del Capo cellars, Johann Rupert’s massive L’Ormarins Estate sits near Cape Town.
Boasting a large stud farm, many Racing horses are trained and sold from the estate, while the on-site motoring museum features a wide array of vintage and modern exotic cars from 1898.
One of the most prestigious estates in South Africa, L’Ormarins is said to host two guest houses, yet it is currently unknown if Johann Rupert has ever stayed there.
30 – Val De Vie Estate – Patrice Motsepe
One of the largest, and most expensive estates in the whole of South Africa, Val De Vie Estate became part of the Patrice Motsepe business empire in 2016 with him taking a 20% ownership stake.
Plots of 2,000 meters squared often change hands for $150,000 dollars, and as part of the investment deal, Motsepe acquired the entire first phase of the Pearl Valley development.
The investment also came with a large plot for the development of the Mantis Collection Pearl Valley Hotel, a luxury resort that features its own gold course, apartments and spa.
Other features on the estate include a clubhouse, 34-hectare equestrian farm and the Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course, along with 200 residential plots.
Its understood that Motsepe has purchased a considerable amount of land in and around the site with over $500,000 dollars spent.
29 – Tesla Cybertruck – Elon Musk
Offering a range of up-to 500 miles and seating for six people, the latest in the Tesla range is as controversial as it is breathtaking.
Made of ultra-hard 30x cold-rolled stainless steel and armored glass, this vehicle has all-wheel drive and can tow up to 14,000 pounds.
Cybertruck, with a single-motor, can reach 60 mph in 6.5 seconds and top out at 110 mph while the dual dual-motor Cybertruck can reach 60 mph in 4.5 seconds and achieve a high speed of 120 mph.
Bullet-proof glass comes with all models after 2023 and costs are estimated to come in between $61,000 and $100,000.
28 – Armored BMW 7 Series – Cyril Ramaphosa
A flagship model of the German automaker BMW, the BMW 7 series is known for its luxurious features, advanced technology, and high-performance capabilities.
Cyril Ramaphosa takes this one step further with his luxury sedan being specially reinforced to provide high levels of protection against various threats, including ballistic attacks, explosives, and other security risks.
The armoring process typically involves reinforcing the vehicle’s structure with ballistic-grade materials such as hardened steel, composite armor, and bullet-resistant glass.
These enhancements add significant weight to the vehicle, which necessitates modifications to the suspension, braking system, and sometimes even the engine to maintain performance and handling.
Armored BMW 7 Series vehicles are often customized to meet the specific security needs of their owners, which can vary depending on factors such as the level of protection required.
This can involve the perceived threat level, and any special requirements for features like communication systems, emergency escape options, or additional security measures.
27 – Nathan Kirsh – Tower 42
One of the most famous landmarks in London, Tower 42 was purchased by Nathan Kirsh for around $440 million.
Officially opened in 1981, it is currently is currently the fifth tallest building in London at 183 meters (600 ft) tall.
Originally built to house the National Westminster Bank’s International Division, the building suffered damage during the 1993 IRA bombing.
Today, the building houses Grade-A office space and restaurant facilities and has double-decked lifts, an internal automated “mail train” and automated external window washing system.
26 – Bentley Continental GT – Patrice Motsepe
Needing to move around in both comfort and style, Patrice Motsepe has just what is required to cruise the streets of South Africa in luxury.
The businessman’s Bentley Continental GTC is the epitome of luxury with an average price tag of around $200,000.
The car has a top speed of 205.7 mph, a 0-62 mph speed of 4.1 seconds, and features a powerful 6.0-liter V12 engine.
The latest Continental GT is based on an all-new platform that was developed with Porsche and is both lighter and packed with technology features.
Some of the more interesting features of the Continental GT include Apple Car Play, adaptive cruise control, lane detection, night vision cameras, matrix beam headlights and a 16-channel, 1,550-watt Bang & Olufsen sound system.
Everything in the car is also customizable including the pedals, carpets and even the color of the leather upholstery.
25 – Private Game Reserve – Nicky Oppenheimer
Home to 240 species of birds, 50 species of reptiles and nearly 80 kinds of mammals, the Oppenheimer family’s 111,000-hectare Tswalu Reserve is South Africa’s largest private game park.
Situated in the Kalahari Desert, the reserve also has a small, luxurious eco-lodge called Motse, with nine suites overlooking a water hole and being one of National Geographic’s Unique Lodges of the World.
Since its opening, the park has introduced African wildlife back into their natural habitats, including lions, rare types of antelope, giraffes, buffalo’s, black rhinos and zebras.
24 – Lamborghini Aventador – Jacob Zuma
Thought to be owned by one of Jacob Zuma’s nephew’s, this car has an average price of around $441,000 dollars.
Zuma’s Aventador has a top speed of 217.5 mph and a 0–60 mph speed of around 2.9 seconds, being powered by a 690 bhp V12 3.5 litre engine.
The car has a single-clutch seven-speed semi-automatic transmission and a electronically controlled, all-wheel drive system.
Deliveries of the car began in the first quarter of 2016 and production was limited to 500 units, however the company revealed in 2016 that they had sold over 5,000 Aventadors.
23 – Hawker 4000 Private Jet – Patrice Motsepe
Thought to have cost Patrice Motsepe around $22 million dollars, his Hawker 4000 Private Jet has seen many famous celebrities travel aboard including Raper 50 Cent.
Originally known as the Hawker Horizon, this super-midsize business jet was developed by Hawker Beechcraft and features a top speed of 1,005 km/h.
With a wingspan of 19 meters and a range of 6,075km, Motsepe can not only travel fast, but also in style thanks to the cabin’s luxury interior.
The jet has two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW300 engines, is made using carbon composites and allows for non-stop flights between London and Dubai.
Other features of this amazing aircraft include a heated baggage area, stand-up cabin, built-in restroom and 8-seat configuration.
This jet is one of the cheaper options when flying private and operating costs are low compared to others in its class.
22 – Cattle Farm – Cyril Ramaphosa
Located in the Mpumalanga province of South Africa, near the town of Badplaas, Ntaba Nyoni Estate is a 5,100 hectare farm where Cyril Ramaphosa breeds Ankole and Ankole-cross cattle.
Valued for their hardiness and ability to thrive in various environmental conditions, the cattle are a breed native to Africa, known for their distinctive large, elongated horns.
Ramaphosa’s involvement in farming, particularly cattle farming, is well-known and he has often spoken about the importance of agriculture in South Africa’s economy.
He has also advocated for land reform initiatives aimed at addressing historical injustices in land ownership, with cattle farming, being a significant aspect of Ramaphosa’s life.
One cow can sell for roughly SR700,000, or the equivalent of around $37,000.
21 – 2007 BMW 750-iL – Patrice Motsepe
Considered to be a fan of BMW cars, Patrice Motsepe actually owns two, but more on his upgraded BMW later in the video.
The 750 il features a twin-turbo, 4-liter V8 engine that has a power output of 445 horsepower.
With a $78,900 dollar starting price, this car is mainly used by Motsepe when he is travelling to and from business meetings and features both a 6-speed shift able automatic transmission and rear wheel drive.
Some of the interior features include seats with adjustable lumbar support, tire pressure monitoring, self-leveling headlights and a whiplash protection system.
On-board entertainment includes AM/FM CD-controller stereo, 10 speaker system with 2 sub-woofers and both an auxiliary audio input and radio data system.
20 – Dubai Flat – Jabob Zuma
Owned by another one of Jacob Zuma’s sons, this large flat is located in the worlds tallest building the Burj Khalifa.
The apartments within the Burj are thought to be some of the most expensive in the area with prices ranging from $1M dollars to over $10 million dollars.
The apartments feature luxury bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchens and balconies that look out over the landscape.
In addition to this, the building itself offers access to a private gym, swimming pool, 24 hour concierge and 24 hour security.
Each apartment comes with access to its own parking space within the building and also has access to the basketball, tennis courts and community park within the complex.
19 – Mamelodi Sundowns – Patrice Motsepe
President of the Confederation of African Football, Patrice Motsepe bought a 51% share in the Mamelodi Sundowns back in 2004, later becoming the sole owner of the club thanks to the purchase of remaining shares.
The team is currently ranked as the richest in South Africa with a net worth of roughly $26.33 million dollars.
The club has produced some of the wealthiest soccer players in the country and have made 4 appearances in the Confederation of African football’s confederation cup and one appearance in the super cup.
They became only the second South African team to be crowned champions of Africa in 2016.
18 – Audi A6 – Jacob Zuma
Coming in at a more reasonable price of around $42,000 dollars, the Audi A6 is a sleek car that gives off the feel of sophistication.
The car has a decent top speed of 128 mph and there is a 0–60 mph speed of around 5.2 seconds.
The interior has been re-defined and includes a 7.0-inch infotainment system as standard with on-board tech including adaptive cruise and automated emergency braking.
There is an 8-speed automatic transmission with manual shifting mode along with a supercharged and inter-cooled V-6 engine.
The car has all-wheel drive and can seat 5 passengers and the car can brake from 70–0 mph in 159 feet.
17 – Bombardier Global 6500 – Nicky Oppenheimer
With a maximum range of 6,600 nautical miles, the Global 6500 can connect major cities like Hong Kong to London or New York to Dubai without refueling.
Oppenheimer’s Global 6500 boasts a spacious cabin designed with passenger comfort in mind and the cabin can be configured in multiple layouts, accommodating up to 17 passengers.
The advanced avionics system, Bombardier Vision flight deck, enhances safety and operational efficiency. This system includes advanced navigation and communication systems, as well as an intuitive interface for pilots.
This jet comes in with a $58 million price tag for the 2024 model.
16 – Pretoria Residence – Cyril Ramaphosa
Situated in the administrative capital of South Africa, Ramaphosa’s Pretoria residence is known as “The New Dawn”.
Serving as the primary residence for the President when conducting official duties in Pretoria, the expansive property is located in the suburb of Bryntirion.
The residence features extensive grounds, security measures, and facilities necessary to accommodate the President and all his official functions.
Specific details about the interior layout are not publicly available, however, the house is known to provide comfortable and secure accommodation.
Used for various official events, meetings, and engagements, both domestic and international, this prestigious property impress all who visit.
15 – IWC Big Pilot Perpetual Top Gun – Johann Rupert
An exceptional timepiece that stands out in the world of luxury watches, It combines IWC Schaffhausen’s renowned expertise in watchmaking with a design inspired by the elite U.S. Navy Fighter Weapons School, better known as Top Gun.
This complication, a hallmark of haute horology, automatically adjusts for the varying lengths of months and leap years, ensuring the date, day, month, and year are always accurate without needing manual correction until 2100.
The watch is crafted from high-tech materials like black ceramic and titanium, ensuring both durability and lightweight comfort.
The ceramic case is virtually scratch-resistant and maintains its pristine appearance over time and Titanium is used for the case back, known for its robustness and hypoallergenic properties.
The watch also features a textile strap, reminiscent of military gear, enhancing its rugged and utilitarian aesthetic.
The combination of advanced watchmaking technology with a design inspired by aviation and military precision makes this watch a unique statement piece.
Prices for this timepiece come in at around $50,000.
14 – Land Rover Discovery – Jacob Zuma
Belonging to one of Zuma’s wives, this massive Land Rover Discovery was purchased for her by Jacob Zuma and is thought to have cost close to $40,000 dollars.
The discovery has a towing capacity of 1,800 to 2,200 kg, features a 300 bhp 3.0 TDV6 2.7 litre Recon Engine.
The car has a top speed of between 111.8 to 135.5 mph, a 0–60 mph speed of between 6.9 to 8 seconds and a fuel economy of 26–43 mpg.
With regards to technology, the car has an on-board infotainment system and an 825 Watt Surround Sound System with 14 speakers and a dual-channel sub-woofer.
There is rear seat entertainment included and the discovery even has its own on-board WI-FI hot-spot.
13 – Stellenbosch Winery – Patrice Motsepe
It appears that mining is not the only business that Patrice Motsepe has delved into as he has now been revealed as the purchaser of the Hidden Valley in the famed South African wine region of Stellenbosch.
Purchased for more than $5 million dollars, the estate covers over 16 hectares that are planted to Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc.
South Africa is the ninth-biggest wine producer in the world, producing 4% of the world’s wine, so it is easy to see why Motsepe has branched out into this thriving industry.
Experts believe that Motsepe’s investment into the industry will bring many more people to the area through both tourism and business interests.
12 – Audi Q7 – Jacob Zuma
Zuma’s Audi Q7 is one of the flagship’s of the range and with a price range of around $65,000 dollars, the car is the company’s flag ship model, boasting an impressive, muscular exterior.
There is plenty of space for the Zuma family in this car with seats for seven people over three rows, and child seats can be fitted to six of them.
The 770-litre boot can be increased to a staggering 1,955 litre’s by electronically folding down the second row of seats.
Newer versions of the car have some of the best technology around including, Audi Smartphone Interface, MMI Navigation Plus and Audi Connect Safety and Service features.
There is a large heads up display on the dash, Xenon powered headlights and a Bang & Olufsen speaker system that provides great entertaining sound.
Jacob Zuma is also thought to own several other luxury limousine’s some of which have built in Armour.
11 – Tyme Bank – Patrice Motsepe
Previously completely owned by Motsepe’s African Rainbow Capital, this exclusively digital retail bank is based in South Africa and does not have any physical bank branches.
Dubbed, banking in the cloud, the service relies on an Android banking App, Internet Banking site and a partnership with two retail chains.
A national network of self-service kiosks facilitate the account opening process and permission for TymeBank to operate exclusively online was granted on 28 September 2017.
The first bank in South Africa to put its core-banking platform in the cloud, 11 million un-banked South Africans were automatically given access to banking services.
Tyme stands for take your money everywhere and in 2019 Ethos Private Equity became a stakeholder in the company with an 8% share.
As of November 28th 2019, the bank has signed up one million customers, increasing that to four million customers by October 2021.
The bank has an estimated net worth of around 74 billion South African Rand.
10 – Nkandla Homestead – Jacob Zuma
By far one of the biggest items on the list, Former President Jacob Zuma owns this massive Nkandla Homestead that was also the seat of his power at the time of his job in government.
The home is by far the most fortified estate in South Africa and is surrounded by high fences and guard towers, with access limited to an underground tunnel and a heavily guarded road entrance.
Upgrades to the estates security are thought to have cost around $20 million dollars alone and it has been reported in international news media that Zuma got in trouble for the re-vamp.
The compound has some interesting features including an amphitheater, its own spring for clean water, 21 different houses for visiting officials and a large swimming pool.
The compound features its own hospital, security headquarters and even a heli-pad.
9 – Mercedes Benz C63 AMG – Cyril Ramaphosa
The third motor in the collection of President Cyril Ramaphosa, his Mercedes Benz C63 AMG is one of the most powerful with aggressive styling, and impressive driving dynamics.
Traditionally, the C63 AMG has been powered by a handcrafted, hand-assembled V8 engine, yet, most recent iterations have featured a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine.
Thanks to its powerful engine, the C63 AMG can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 4 seconds, making it one of the quickest cars in its class.
Features include a more aggressive and sporty exterior design compared to the standard C-Class with unique AMG body styling, larger wheels, and quad exhaust tips.
Ramaphosa’s C63 is thought to cost in the region of $81,000.
8 – Bombardier Global 6000 – Johann Rupert
This premier business jet that epitomizes luxury, performance, and advanced technology this aircraft is designed to meet the demands of discerning business travelers, offering unparalleled comfort and efficiency.
The Global 6000 boasts an impressive range of 6,000 nautical miles, enabling non-stop flights from London to Los Angeles or Tokyo to Dubai.
This long-range capability is powered by its twin Rolls-Royce BR710A2-20 turbofan engines, each delivering 14,750 pounds of thrust.
The aircraft’s high-speed cruise capability allows it to reach speeds of Mach 0.89, ensuring swift travel across continents.
The jet is equipped with cutting-edge connectivity features, making it an ideal airborne office.
The aircraft offers high-speed internet connectivity, enabling seamless video conferencing, streaming, and access to corporate networks.
The cabin management system allows passengers to control lighting, temperature, and entertainment options from their personal devices.
The state-of-the-art entertainment system includes large HD monitors and surround sound, providing an immersive viewing experience.
The Bombardier Global 6000 costs between $34 and $40 million.
7 – Range Rover Sport – Jacob Zuma
Thought to belong to another of Zuma’s wives, yes he has 7 now, the Range Rover Sport is the creme de la creme of the Range Rover line.
The vehicle is thought to cost cost close to $100,000 dollars and features many of the things found in other luxury SUV’s.
Along with a top speed of between 124.9 and 175.8 mph, the sport can go from 0–60 in just 5 seconds thanks to its 5-litre supercharged V8 engine.
Another car with access to some of the best technology around, the newer versions of the sport include rear seat entertainment, media steering wheel, voice recognition technology and a meridian sound system that has 13 speakers.
6 – Cape Wineland Home – Koos Bekker
Set in positively Utopian settings in South Africa’s Cape Winelands, Koos and Karen Bekker’s principal home features a farmhouse dating back to 1777.
The telecoms billionaire’s home features a double marble basin in the bathroom and thick stone walls, a huge refectory table and a chandelier made from a wine-bottle drier in the kitchen.
Floor-to-near-ceiling-high windows also feature, and outside you will find the well-looked after 3.5 hectare gardens and rolling hills, with views as far as the eye can see.
5 – Bishopscourt Mansion – Patrice Motsepe
Located in the ultra-prestigious area of Bishopscourt, Patrice Motsepe owns this amazing, state-of-the-art mansion which cost him around $750,000 dollars.
This incredible home features two separate wings, with the residential wing and staff wing separate from each other.
Featuring six bedrooms, each with their own dressing room, the mansion also has access to a music room, home cinema and large wine cellar.
The dining room can accommodate twenty four people while outside, Motsepe has access to a swimming pool, tennis court and ten-bay garage.
Other rooms inside this amazing property include a billiard room, home gym and a special area where each car can be washed separate from the garage.
The property covers 12,000 meters squared and is thought to be the primary residence of Motsepe when he is in Cape Town.
4 – Elon Musk – Space X
Officially known as Space Exploration Technologies Corp, Musk’s SpaceX has revolutionized the aerospace industry with its innovative approach to space travel and exploration.
Founded by Elon Musk in 2002, the company’s mission is to reduce the cost of space travel and make it possible for humans to live on other planets.
One of SpaceX’s most significant accomplishments is the development of the Falcon 1, Falcon 9, and Falcon Heavy rockets.
The Falcon 9 is notable for its re-usability, a game-changing feature that significantly reduces the cost of space missions. By recovering and reusing the first stage of the rocket, SpaceX has made space travel more economical and sustainable.
Another groundbreaking achievement by SpaceX is the Dragon spacecraft, which has been used to transport cargo to the International Space Station since 2012.
The company is developing the Star-ship spacecraft, a fully reusable rocket system designed for long-duration space missions including to Mars and the Moon.
The company has inspired a new wave of interest and investment in the aerospace sector and has a current estimated valuation of $200 billion.
3 – Patek Philippe Complication Watch – Jacob Zuma
With a price tag of close to $45,000 dollars, the Patek Philippe Complication is the sort of watch you would expect to see on a high ranking official such as Jacob Zuma.
This watch features an Polished 18kt white gold case, Silvered “opaline” dial and Polished white gold dauphin shaped hands.
The watch features its own built in calendar with the Day & Month windows displayed beneath the 12 o’clock position.
The watch is Scratch Resistant and has water resistance of up to 100 feet with automatic movement and fixed bezel.
2 – Johann Rupert – Panerai Luminor
The Luminor line traces its roots back to the 1940s and 1950s when Panerai created watches for the Italian Navy.
The name “Luminor” comes from the luminous material used on the dials, which was developed to enhance visibility underwater.
The Luminor is known for its distinctive cushion-shaped case, which is both bold and robust and one of the most recognizable features of the Luminor is the patented crown-protection lever bridge.
Many Luminor models feature a sandwich dial construction, where the luminescent material is placed between two layers, providing exceptional legibility.
Panerai Luminor has achieved a cult-like following among watch enthusiasts and collectors and its unique design and storied history contribute to its appeal.
Prices for Rupert’s Panerai Luminor range from $7000 to $27,000
1 – Boeing Business Jet – Cyril Ramaphosa
One of the most luxurious and private planes in the Boeing family, President Cyril Ramaphosa’s state 737 takes the epitome of travel to a whole new level.
This jet features three times the normal living space of a standard private jet and can fly for 15-hours, non-stop, around the world, covering Up to 6,600 nautical miles or 12,220km.
With multiple lounges, private rooms and walk-by isles, the jet can carry upwards of 19-passengers and features relaxing couches and in-flight entertainment systems.
The plane comes with its own private bedroom with king-sized bed and a private bathroom with marble sink.
With ultra fuel-efficient engines, on-board Wi-Fi and a cockpit with one of the most advanced capabilities in the world, Ramaphosa is in safe hands when flying on this plane.
Boeing business jets come with an estimated retail value of around $71 million in today’s markets, however it is understood that the South African Government acquired theirs for $41 million.
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