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Pilanesberg National Park

South Africa, Africa

Pilanesberg National Park is a vast wildlife reserve that boasts a stunning landscape formed by a volcanic crater. It is home to the Big Five—lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros—along with a variety of other wildlife. Visitors can enjoy self-drive safaris, guided game drives, and hot air balloon rides. The park's proximity to Sun City, a luxury resort, adds to its appeal, making it a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation in South Africa.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

Nature Reserve

Vibe

Active

Airport

Pilanesberg

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit

8 Best Things to Do in Pilanesberg National Park

1. Go on a safari drive

Experience thrilling game drives to see Africa's Big Five.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

3 hrs

2. Hot air balloon ride

Soar above the park for breathtaking aerial views.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Booking required

2 hrs

3. Visit the Pilanesberg Centre

Learn about wildlife conservation through engaging exhibits.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

4. Bird watching

Spot diverse bird species in their natural habitat.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

5. Self-drive safaris

Explore the park at your own pace in a vehicle.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

4 hrs

6. Visit Sun City Resort

Combine adventure with luxury at this nearby resort.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

4 hrs

7. Photography excursions

Capture stunning landscapes and wildlife moments.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

3 hrs

8. Night drives

Experience nocturnal wildlife on guided night drives.

Available all year

Adults only

Booking required

3 hrs

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

5 (#38 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Rand

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Zulu

(20-50% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Bobotie

Spiced minced meat baked with egg. (National dish)

Biltong

Cured, dried meat, often beef or game.

Braai/Shisa Nyama

Barbecued meat, often served with sides.

Bunny Chow

Curry in a hollowed-out bread loaf.

Potjiekos

Slow-cooked stew in a cast-iron pot.

Phrases to learn

English

Zulu

Hello

Sawubona

(Sah-woo-boh-nah)

Yes/No

Yebo / Cha

(Yeh-boh / Chah)

Thank you

Ngiyabonga

(Ngee-ah-bon-gah)

Excuse me

Uxolo

(Oo-ksoh-loh)

How much?

Malini?

(Mah-lee-nee)