Wilderness at its Best: Pilanesberg

Experience the ultimate African safari adventure at Pilanesberg National Park. Located in the heart of an extinct volcanic crater, this stunning wildlife sanctuary is home to over 7,000 animals. Enjoy game drives through rugged landscapes, marvel at the beautiful flora and fauna, and discover the rich cultural heritage of the surrounding region. With a range of exciting activities, Pilanesberg offers an unforgettable safari experience that's sure to leave you breathless

Did you know

The 55 000 hectare Pilanesberg Park opened in 1979 in one of the largest game resettlement projects in the history of South Africa.

Location

The Pilanesberg National Park is located north of Rustenburg in the North West Province of South Africa. The area lies in the root zone of an extinct volcano.

Famous For

Pilanesberg National Park is famous for its stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife, including the Big Five. It offers visitors an unforgettable African safari experience.

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How to Get There

Getting to Pilanesberg National Park is relatively easy, with several transportation options available. The park is located about two hours drive from Johannesburg and Pretoria, making it a popular day trip destination for visitors to these cities. If you're driving, the park is accessible via the R556 highway, which runs from Sun City to Rustenburg. The park has several entrances, with the main gate located at the Sun City Resort. It's recommended to drive a high-clearance vehicle.

For those without a car, there are several shuttle services and tours available that offer transportation to and from the park. Many of these tours include guided game drives, making them an ideal way to experience the park's wildlife and scenery. Alternatively, you can also fly to Pilanesberg's nearby airports, such as Lanseria International Airport or O.R Tambo International Airport, and rent a car or arrange for transportation to the park.

Wildlife

At Pilanesberg national park, you can spot leopards, lions, Cape Buffaloes, Cheetahs, Zebras, Giraffes, hippos, hyenas, crocodiles and the Cape Wild dog. In addition, impala, kudu, and antelopes are also seen over the plains.

Birdlife

Pilanesberg National Park is a bird watcher's paradise, with over 300 species of birds to observe. Visitors can spot everything from raptors and waterfowl to colourful songbirds and migratory species.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Pilanesberg National Park depends on what you want to experience. The park is open year-round, but the best time to see wildlife is during the dry winter months from May to September. During this time, the vegetation is sparse, making it easier to spot animals as they congregate around water sources. The summer months from October to April bring hot temperatures and occasional rain, but this is also the time when the park is at its most beautiful.

Home for the Big Five

The Park is home to the Big Five game animals, including lions, leopards, elephants, rhinoceros, and buffalos, making it one of the top wildlife destinations in South Africa.

Top Activities

Pilanesberg National Park offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy. One of the most popular activities is game drives, which offer the opportunity to see a variety of wildlife, including the Big Five. Guided bush walks provide a more intimate experience, allowing visitors to explore the park on foot. For a unique perspective, visitors can take a hot air balloon ride over the park. Other activities include bird watching, sunset drives, and visiting the nearby Sun City Resort.

Pro Tip

When visiting Pilanesberg National Park, it's recommended to bring binoculars, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Book game drives and accommodation in advance, and follow park rules to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

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Every day, Africa's landscapes and wildlife gift us with exceptional beauty and wonder. Through sustainable safari practices and conservation initiatives, we strive to protect and preserve these treasures for generation to come.

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