Welcome to Pilanesberg

Discover why Pilanesberg Game Reserve, nestled in South Africa's North West Province near Johannesburg, is a top safari destination for families, adventure seekers, and wildlife enthusiasts worldwide.

Formed from an ancient volcanic crater, this 55,000-hectare reserve with its golden savannas dotted by tree lines, stretches across the horizon.

Its diverse ecosystems support over 7,000 animals including the iconic Big 5 (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, rhino). Pilanesberg offers malaria-free safaris for a worry-free adventure for all visitors.

Hear the roar of lions echoing across the bush or the gentle rustle of wind through acacia trees, Pilanesberg awakens your senses. Whether you're spotting rare brown hyaenas at dusk or soaring in a hot-air balloon over the crater's rim, the reserve delivers unforgettable experiences. Easily accessible from Johannesburg (just a 2-hour drive), it's perfect for short getaways or extended stays.

If you feel ready to experience Pilanesberg's wild wonders, contact us, or request a discounted quotation.

 

 

• • Easy access from Johannesburg
• • Beautiful natural setting
• • Malaria-free
• • Affordable
• • Big 5

Below is a brief description of the types of safari lodges on offer at Pilanesberg. Click here for a complete list of lodges

Hotels in the bush

Bakubung and Kwa Maritane are good 4-star hotels in the bush. Their rates are generally the most affordable and they do not charge children under 12, making it both budget and family friendly.

Catered lodges

These lodges provide fully catered options. They also range in size, from small and intimate to medium sized, sleeping up to 60 guests or more.

Self-catering lodges

These lodges are the most affordable option to travel for a group of guests. You make exclusive use of the lodge and due to you providing your own catering, they are comparatively cheaper.

All lodges emphasise sustainability and support local conservation efforts to protect endangered species like the rhino and cheetah. The lodges work with the local community in order to promote growth and opportunities.

Game drives (safaris)

The main activity on offer. All lodges include game drives, either 1 or 2 a day. This is where you get to go out with a qualified and knowledgeable guide to explore the park.

Bush walks (walking safaris)

An activity where you go for a hike through the bush. Not all lodges offer this activity, so please feel free to contact us for some suggestions.

Hot-air balloon rides

A unique experience gliding quietly over the African bush viewing the park’s wildlife and breathtaking scenery.

Spa treatments

Available at many lodges; however, some do not have spa facilities. Please contact us if you would like some suggestions for lodges with a spa.

Sun City, right next door, offers:

• two golf courses
• the Valley of the Waves waterpark
• a casino
• a variety of curio shops.

Safety

We offer a service, at an additional cost, where a driver will pick you up at the airport or your hotel and drive you to Pilanesberg. All drivers know which areas to avoid and how to minimize risks for travellers.

Pilanesberg is considered a safe destination due to low crime rates and high levels of security in the park.

Electricity

From time to time, electricity in South Africa can be problematic. Currently, electricity supply is stable. Most lodges have generators as a backup, so you may rest assured that when you travel, there won’t be any interruptions due to electricity.

FAQ

Is Pilanesberg malaria-free?
Yes, no need for concern: perfect for families.

How do I book a safari?
Contact us at +27 (0)71 687 2782 or welcome@smilesbookings.co.za for customised packages.

What's the best time to visit?
Year-round, but dry winters (May-August) offer prime wildlife viewing.

Click here for a complete list of questions and answers

Early in the morning, just before the sun greets Pilanesberg, you will be served some early morning refreshments before you go on your morning safari.

During your safari, you will stop for some tea and coffee in the bush, with a light snack. After this break you will continue your search for more animals to view.

When your safari ends, you will be greeted by the welcoming lodge staff and an even more welcoming hardy breakfast.

The rest of your morning is spent at leisure, where you can enjoy the various lodge facilities such as the pool or the spa.

Or, you can always enjoy the timeless classic of indulging in a refreshing "nap".

Lunch is usually served between 12h00 and 14h00. The afternoon is once again spent at leisure until half an hour before your afternoon safari, at which point high tea is usually served.

After this, you go out into the park to explore and see the many wonders that there is to offer in the beautiful Pilanesberg Game Reserve.

Just before sundown, your guide will find a spot for a refreshing sundowner with a light snack. After which your safari will continue.

Once back at the lodge, you will be greeted by friendly faces and dinner. Then it is time to get some rest so you are ready for your next safari in the morning.

Keep an eye out for the rare sightings listed below.

Brown hyaenas have shaggy, long dark coats, distinct cream-colored fur around the neck, pointy ears, short tail and striped legs. They live in clans of extended families of four to six individuals.

Unlike spotted hyaenas, brown hyaenas are born with their eyes closed, and open them after eight days.

They are solitary scavengers and feed on carrion, wild fruits, insects and eggs. They rarely kill small animals. These shy, mainly nocturnal animals may be seen in early mornings and late afternoons.

Cheetahs have tan coloured coats with black spots, small head and ears and distinctive "tear stripes".
They run as fast as 113 km/h (70mph) and use their tails to help them steer and turn.

Unlike other big cats, cheetahs cannot roar. They purr almost like domestic cats.

They hunt mostly during late morning or early evening. Only half of the chases, which last from 20 - 60 seconds, are successful. The cheetah is poorly equipped to defend itself against other large predators. They are vulnerable.

Aardwolves resemble a thin striped hyena, but has a more slender muzzle and black vertical stripes on a yellowish fur coat.
It is a small, shy, nocturnal insect-eating mammal.

Unlike many of its carnivore relatives the aardwolf eats mainly termites but also other insects, larvae, and eggs.

Due to their specific food requirements, they are only found in regions where termites, especially harvester termites, occur. These shy, elusive animals may thus be spotted in Pilanesberg.