Status: Permanently closed. Naledi Sun Hotel and Casino in Thaba Nchu, Free State, is no longer operating. Sun International announced on 16 April 2020 that the property would not reopen after South Africa’s COVID-19 lockdown. The company subsequently reported that it had surrendered Naledi Sun’s casino licence.
This page is preserved as a historical record, not a current casino recommendation. If you are looking for an operating venue, start with our Free State Casinos guide.
What Happened To Naledi Sun?
Naledi Sun opened in 1989 and served Thaba Nchu, east of Bloemfontein. After years of financial losses, Sun International decided to close the resort permanently in 2020. Its statement also named the Carousel resort in North West as a closure.
Because the property closed, old descriptions of slot machines, membership cards, restaurants, opening hours and room prices no longer apply. Please do not travel to Naledi Sun expecting a functioning casino, hotel or restaurant.
Naledi Sun At A Glance
| Former location | 3 Bridge Street, Thaba Nchu, Free State |
|---|---|
| Former operator | Sun International |
| Opened | 1989 |
| Closure announced | 16 April 2020 |
| Current casino status | Permanently closed; licence surrendered |
What Was Naledi Sun Like?
The former resort combined a casino with a small hotel, a restaurant and meeting facilities. Historical descriptions mention a gaming floor with slot machines, a smoking section and an on-site restaurant. These details describe the property before its closure and should not be interpreted as services available today.
Naledi Sun was distinct from the older Thaba’Nchu Sun and Black Mountain resort references that also appear in historical travel directories. For background, see our Thaba’Nchu Sun historical listing.
Which Free State Casinos Can Visitors Consider Instead?
For a current visit, consider the following established Free State venues. They are in different towns, so check the journey before you travel:
- Windmill Casino in Bloemfontein is an operating Sun International property just off the N1, with gaming, dining and conferencing.
- Frontier Inn and Casino in Bethlehem is a Peermont venue with a hotel and restaurants.
- Goldfields Casino in Welkom is another operating venue listed in the provincial casino overview.
None of these properties is in Thaba Nchu itself. Confirm current hours, access requirements and hotel availability with the chosen operator before travelling.
Naledi Sun Questions
Is Naledi Sun Still Open?
No. Sun International explicitly announced that Naledi Sun would remain permanently closed in April 2020.
Can I Still Book A Room At Naledi Sun?
Do not rely on old Naledi Sun hotel listings. The former resort’s services were discontinued following its closure.
Are There Other Casinos In The Free State?
Yes. Windmill in Bloemfontein, Frontier Inn in Bethlehem and Goldfields in Welkom are identified in the provincial overview. See the current Free State directory for locations.
Casino gambling is for adults aged 18 and over. Never treat gambling as a way to pay for travel or living expenses. If you choose to play elsewhere, set a fixed spending limit in advance.
Sources And Last Review
Reviewed 8 November 2026. This historical page relies on Sun International’s closure announcement and its corporate reporting.