Pilanesberg
Set within the crater of an ancient volcano, Pilanesberg Game Reserve is a malaria-free Big 5 safari destination just two hours from Johannesburg. This makes it the perfect choice for a day safari or ...
About Pilanesberg
Set within the crater of an ancient volcano, Pilanesberg Game Reserve is a malaria-free Big 5 safari destination just two hours from Johannesburg. This makes it the perfect choice for a day safari or a short getaway. The reserve's unique alkaline grasslands and volcanic geology support an incredible diversity of wildlife including lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo. Bordered by Sun City resort, Pilanesberg offers the rare combination of world-class game viewing and luxury entertainment.
Top Attractions
Quick Info
Best Time to Visit
May to September for best game viewing. Year-round malaria-free destination.
3 Tour Packages
Curated experiences available
2 Recommended Lodges
Premium accommodation
Licensed & Insured
100% safe & trusted
Where is Pilanesberg?
Pilanesberg Tour Packages
Handcrafted itineraries for unforgettable experiences.
2-Day Pilanesberg Safari
An overnight safari with lodge accommodation, allowing for multiple game drives and a more immersive bush experience.
Johannesburg: Pilanesberg Big 5 Safari + Lunch
Escape Johannesburg for a malaria-free Big 5 safari in Pilanesberg. Enjoy 2 open-vehicle game drives through this stunning volcanic crater reserve, with a hearty lunch included.
Pilanesberg & Sun City Combo
Combine the thrill of a Big 5 safari in Pilanesberg with the entertainment of Sun City resort. Game drive in the morning, leisure time at Sun City in the afternoon.
Premium Safari Lodges
World-class accommodation handpicked by our team. Click any lodge for photos, amenities & booking.
Shepherd's Tree Game Lodge
Set within the malaria-free Pilanesberg National Park — just 2.5 hours from Johannesburg — Shepherd's Tree Game Lodge delivers a 5-star Big Five safari experience without the long drive. The lodge features 8 luxury suites, each with a private plunge pool overlooking the African bush. The award-winning Shepherd's Tree Spa and exceptional cuisine make this a perfect weekend safari escape.
Bakubung Bush Lodge
Located inside the Pilanesberg crater — a malaria-free Big Five reserve just 2 hours from Johannesburg — Bakubung Bush Lodge is the ultimate family-friendly safari destination. The lodge offers 162 comfortable rooms, a waterhole frequented by elephants and hippos, and is the gateway to incredible game viewing without the long drive to Kruger. With Sun City just 10 minutes away, it's perfect for combining safari with entertainment.
Ready to explore Pilanesberg?
Let our team craft the perfect safari experience for you. Every itinerary is fully customisable.