Pilanesberg Game Reserve Holidays

Dawn and dusk ‘Big 5’ game drives to find lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, buffalo, wild dog, cheetah, and more are the number one reason to visit Pilanesberg, but there’s much more to do while you’re here. Walking safaris get you much closer to the plants and smaller creatures which complete the park’s ecosystem. Specialist birding and photography safaris let you focus on the things which interest you most.

For something different, jump on a quad bike and explore hidden reaches behind an expert guide. Immerse yourself in indigenous culture with interactive African drum workshops or archery lessons in the wilderness. Relax between game viewing in pools, spas, or on tennis courts. Enjoy traditional Boma cookouts under the star-filled sky. Or, for truly special moments, soar across the volcanic landscape on an early morning balloon ride.

An African safari is an incredible family experience but not always the most practical trip for young children. Just two and a half hours by road from Johannesburg, Pilanesberg National Park is an easy-to-get-to wildlife reserve which caters fantastically for families of every age. No long distances, no light aircraft flights, and completely malaria-free. Junior ranger packages and safe bush walks for kids mean even those too young for a game drive can experience South Africa’s natural wilderness.

Family-focused lodges offer swimming pools, mini-golf, archery, trampolines, and playgrounds. Kids clubs and babysitting services allow parents to enjoy the full safari experience knowing their little ones are in safe hands. Want more? Sun City is a complete family resort with waterparks, nightly entertainment, and accommodation for every need and budget, right at the edge of the park.

Dozens of lodges circle the extinct Pilanesberg volcano, including the huge Sun City Resort, and each has its own attractions. Stay in hotel-style comfort with endless facilities at Kwa Maritane, soothe away your days in the Amani Spa or your private plunge pool at Shepherds Tree, or find a romantic escape in the Tshukudu Bush Lodge, where only adults and teenagers are permitted.

Choose extra exclusivity in the private Black Rhino Reserve where only guests of Tambuti, Thutlwa, Lush, Buffalo Thorn, Nkala, Mbazo, and the Black Rhino Game Lodge are permitted to enter. Bring the family to a child-friendly lodge at Ivory Tree, Bakubung, Manyane, or Bakgatla. Whatever you’re looking for, our Travel Specialists will find the perfect lodge for you

Pilanesberg National Park is a year-round destination but two distinct seasons offer different experiences to visitors. If you’re travelling to view wildlife, the dry winter from May to September is the best time. Less rainfall means vegetation is thinner and water sources more scarce making most animals easier to spot. Fewer crowds also create a more exclusive experience for people who visit in these months.

Mornings and evenings can be cool, but this is easily solved with layers. Wet season runs from October to April and brings renewed life to the park’s blossoms alongside newborn mammals and the arrival of migratory birds. This time of year is hot with temperatures regularly rising over 30°C and occasionally passing 35°C. Holiday time in South Africa also means the park is much busier, particularly in the peak months of December and January.