Pilanesberg & Sun City - Everything you need to know before you go!
Recommended duration of stay:
Pilanesberg provides a convenient safari experience closer to Johannesburg, ideal if you’re short on time. While not as expansive as Kruger National Park, it still offers an excellent safari adventure and is located close to Sun City, a popular holiday resort known for its casinos, water parks, and golf courses.
- Pilanesberg only: 2 nights minimum
- Pilanesberg and Sun City: 3 nights minimum
Highlights of Big 5 Wildlife Adventures in Pilanesberg:
1. Unforgettable Safari Game Drives
Experience the thrill of the wild on open safari vehicle game drives led by professional guides. Choose from early morning, sunset, or exhilarating night drives to witness Africa’s iconic wildlife in their natural habitat.
2. Guided Safari Walks with an Expert Ranger
Embark on a guided walking safari with a highly trained and armed ranger, offering a unique and intimate encounter with the African bush and its hidden wonders—perfect for adventurers seeking a deeper connection to nature.
3. Hot Air Balloon Safaris
Experience breathtaking aerial views of the park at sunrise, where adventure meets tranquility—ideal for luxury travelers seeking a romantic escape.
Top attractions at Sun City holiday resort:
1. Sun City Casino
Try your luck at the vibrant casino featuring a wide range of games, lively entertainment, and upscale dining options.
2. Gary Player Golf Course
Challenge yourself on this world-class, championship golf course designed by golfing legend Gary Player, set amid stunning landscapes.
3. The Lost City Adventures
Thrill-seekers can explore underground tunnels, waterfalls, and secret passages in this adventurous maze located within the resort.
4. Valley of Waves
Experience the thrill of South Africa’s premier water park with giant wave pools, twisting slides, and a sandy beach—fun for all ages!
5. Sun City Theatre & Entertainment
Catch dazzling live shows, concerts, and cultural performances in a world-class entertainment venue.
Safari options and accommodation:
Since safari is the main focus of your visit, your accommodation will be located Pilanesberg, providing convenient access for day trips to Sun City.
1. High-end and luxury lodges are located within Pilanesberg. These lodges provide daily early morning and sunset game drives, as well as access to the full range of optional activities listed above.
2. Mid-range Rest Camps within Pilanesberg offer basic, self-catering chalets—a popular choice among local travelers. This accommodation option includes breakfast but no other meals or scheduled safari activities. However, it allows you the flexibility to explore the park on a self-drive safari in an SUV with your guide, as well as access to the full range of optional activities listed above. Rest Camps are equipped with à la carte restaurants and shops stocking basic supplies should you wish to prepare your own meals. If you're interested in this option, please submit a special request via the contact tab.
For more details about the accommodation options, please refer to the accommodation tab.
Transportation and getting around:
You'll have a private guide and vehicle for all transfers to and from the safari lodges, as well as for day trips and excursions such as Sun City. All safari activities will be led by a professional safari guide provided by the lodges. If you'd like to experience a safari the way many locals do, your private guide can also lead self-drive safaris in a comfortable SUV.
Best time of year to visit:
Pilanesberg is a fantastic destination to visit any time of the year, thanks to its consistent wildlife sightings and pleasant weather throughout all seasons. However, the park’s climate and animal behavior vary with the seasons, giving each period its own unique charm. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect in each season:
- Summer (December to February) bring hot temperatures and lush, vibrant green landscapes. While the dense vegetation can make wildlife spotting more challenging, some of our most memorable sightings have occurred during this season. It’s the wet season, characterized by the possibility of brief but intense afternoon thunderstorms. Summer is also a paradise for birdwatchers, as migratory species arrive in large numbers. The presence of newborn antelope and other young animals attracts predators, offering thrilling opportunities for game viewing.
- Winter (June to August) brings mild daytime temperatures, but early mornings can be quite cold—especially on open vehicles—so be sure to dress in warm, layered clothing. This is the dry season, characterized by clear skies and excellent visibility. With sparse vegetation and limited water sources, wildlife is easier to spot as animals tend to congregate around the remaining waterholes.
- Autumn (March to May) and spring (September to November) offer warm days and cool nights, with mild and comfortable temperatures. These seasons are also quieter, with fewer tourists, and spring in particular can provide excellent wildlife sightings as animals congregate around water sources at the end of the dry season.
General Advice:
- Bank cards are widely accepted, so there’s no need to carry large amounts of cash. However, it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand for tipping or when visiting small cultural markets that may not accept cards.
- Tipping is customary and greatly appreciated in the service industry. Safari guides typically receive between R200 and R300 per day, while lodge cleaning staff usually receive around R50 per day.
- Be sure to bring insect and mosquito repellent. Peaceful Sleep and Tabard are effective brands commonly available in South African grocery stores.
- Wear layered clothing. Early mornings on open safari vehicles can be chilly, but temperatures often rise quickly by midday, so it’s important to be able to remove layers as it warms up.
- Be sure to bring a raincoat, especially if you’re visiting during the summer months.
- Wildlife photography can be challenging, so if you have a high-quality camera, be sure to bring it along—plus your binoculars!
- If you’re planning to go on a walking safari, be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes and wear clothing in darker, neutral tones.
- Don’t forget to pack a swimsuit and towel when you visit the Sun City water park.
- If you’re an avid golfer, be sure to bring your clubs—but rentals are also available if needed.
- Be sure to protect your skin—sunscreen and a hat are essential on sunny days.
Brief History:
Pilanesberg, in South Africa’s North West Province, is a vast volcanic crater turned game reserve in the 1970s, named after Tswana chief Pilane and home to diverse wildlife. Nearby, Sun City was developed in the early 1970s as a luxury resort and entertainment complex by Sol Kerzner, featuring casinos, hotels, and recreational facilities. Together, Pilanesberg and Sun City combine natural heritage with modern leisure, making them iconic South African destinations.
Pilanesberg & Sun City - Everything you need to know before you go!
Recommended duration of stay:
Pilanesberg provides a convenient safari experience closer to Johannesburg, ideal if you’re short on time. While not as expansive as Kruger National Park, it still offers an excellent safari adventure and is located close to Sun City, a popular holiday resort known for its casinos, water parks, and golf courses.
- Pilanesberg only: 2 nights minimum
- Pilanesberg and Sun City: 3 nights minimum
Highlights of Big 5 Wildlife Adventures in Pilanesberg:
1. Unforgettable Safari Game Drives
Experience the thrill of the wild on open safari vehicle game drives led by professional guides. Choose from early morning, sunset, or exhilarating night drives to witness Africa’s iconic wildlife in their natural habitat.
2. Guided Safari Walks with an Expert Ranger
Embark on a guided walking safari with a highly trained and armed ranger, offering a unique and intimate encounter with the African bush and its hidden wonders—perfect for adventurers seeking a deeper connection to nature.
3. Hot Air Balloon Safaris
Experience breathtaking aerial views of the park at sunrise, where adventure meets tranquility—ideal for luxury travelers seeking a romantic escape.
Top attractions at Sun City holiday resort:
1. Sun City Casino
Try your luck at the vibrant casino featuring a wide range of games, lively entertainment, and upscale dining options.
2. Gary Player Golf Course
Challenge yourself on this world-class, championship golf course designed by golfing legend Gary Player, set amid stunning landscapes.
3. The Lost City Adventures
Thrill-seekers can explore underground tunnels, waterfalls, and secret passages in this adventurous maze located within the resort.
4. Valley of Waves
Experience the thrill of South Africa’s premier water park with giant wave pools, twisting slides, and a sandy beach—fun for all ages!
5. Sun City Theatre & Entertainment
Catch dazzling live shows, concerts, and cultural performances in a world-class entertainment venue.
Safari options and accommodation:
Since safari is the main focus of your visit, your accommodation will be located Pilanesberg, providing convenient access for day trips to Sun City.
1. High-end and luxury lodges are located within Pilanesberg. These lodges provide daily early morning and sunset game drives, as well as access to the full range of optional activities listed above.
2. Mid-range Rest Camps within Pilanesberg offer basic, self-catering chalets—a popular choice among local travelers. This accommodation option includes breakfast but no other meals or scheduled safari activities. However, it allows you the flexibility to explore the park on a self-drive safari in an SUV with your guide, as well as access to the full range of optional activities listed above. Rest Camps are equipped with à la carte restaurants and shops stocking basic supplies should you wish to prepare your own meals. If you're interested in this option, please submit a special request via the contact tab.
For more details about the accommodation options, please refer to the accommodation tab.
Transportation and getting around:
You'll have a private guide and vehicle for all transfers to and from the safari lodges, as well as for day trips and excursions such as Sun City. All safari activities will be led by a professional safari guide provided by the lodges. If you'd like to experience a safari the way many locals do, your private guide can also lead self-drive safaris in a comfortable SUV.
Best time of year to visit:
Pilanesberg is a fantastic destination to visit any time of the year, thanks to its consistent wildlife sightings and pleasant weather throughout all seasons. However, the park’s climate and animal behavior vary with the seasons, giving each period its own unique charm. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect in each season:
- Summer (December to February) bring hot temperatures and lush, vibrant green landscapes. While the dense vegetation can make wildlife spotting more challenging, some of our most memorable sightings have occurred during this season. It’s the wet season, characterized by the possibility of brief but intense afternoon thunderstorms. Summer is also a paradise for birdwatchers, as migratory species arrive in large numbers. The presence of newborn antelope and other young animals attracts predators, offering thrilling opportunities for game viewing.
- Winter (June to August) brings mild daytime temperatures, but early mornings can be quite cold—especially on open vehicles—so be sure to dress in warm, layered clothing. This is the dry season, characterized by clear skies and excellent visibility. With sparse vegetation and limited water sources, wildlife is easier to spot as animals tend to congregate around the remaining waterholes.
- Autumn (March to May) and spring (September to November) offer warm days and cool nights, with mild and comfortable temperatures. These seasons are also quieter, with fewer tourists, and spring in particular can provide excellent wildlife sightings as animals congregate around water sources at the end of the dry season.
General Advice:
- Bank cards are widely accepted, so there’s no need to carry large amounts of cash. However, it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand for tipping or when visiting small cultural markets that may not accept cards.
- Tipping is customary and greatly appreciated in the service industry. Safari guides typically receive between R200 and R300 per day, while lodge cleaning staff usually receive around R50 per day.
- Be sure to bring insect and mosquito repellent. Peaceful Sleep and Tabard are effective brands commonly available in South African grocery stores.
- Wear layered clothing. Early mornings on open safari vehicles can be chilly, but temperatures often rise quickly by midday, so it’s important to be able to remove layers as it warms up.
- Be sure to bring a raincoat, especially if you’re visiting during the summer months.
- Wildlife photography can be challenging, so if you have a high-quality camera, be sure to bring it along—plus your binoculars!
- If you’re planning to go on a walking safari, be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes and wear clothing in darker, neutral tones.
- Don’t forget to pack a swimsuit and towel when you visit the Sun City water park.
- If you’re an avid golfer, be sure to bring your clubs—but rentals are also available if needed.
- Be sure to protect your skin—sunscreen and a hat are essential on sunny days.
Brief History:
Pilanesberg, in South Africa’s North West Province, is a vast volcanic crater turned game reserve in the 1970s, named after Tswana chief Pilane and home to diverse wildlife. Nearby, Sun City was developed in the early 1970s as a luxury resort and entertainment complex by Sol Kerzner, featuring casinos, hotels, and recreational facilities. Together, Pilanesberg and Sun City combine natural heritage with modern leisure, making them iconic South African destinations.