SOUTH AFRICA
South Africa's standouts.
A shortlist of the 10 pilanesberg nature reserve tours most worth booking in South Africa, with what each one is like on the day, who runs it, and what it costs.
3-hour open-vehicle game drive from Sun City to Pilanesberg’s volcanic crater. Big Five chances with a registered guide.
“very good guide, provided detailed information about animals. Free snacks and beverages.”
Glide over Pilanesberg savanna in a hot air balloon, hunt for Big Five from above, then enjoy transfers and a full English breakfast.
“Well organised, cheerful and skilful staff, ensuring that we got an unforgettable experience. Amazing views - even the landing was exciting!”
Shared 3-hour Big Five game drive from Sun City to Pilanesberg in an open vehicle, with a certified guide and small group.
“Excellent guide, very knowledgeable and good communication. Efficient transfer to and from hotel. Love the smaller group size. Highly recommend”
12-hour Pilanesberg safari from Johannesburg with open-jeep game drives, lunch, and big-cat odds in a malaria-free park.
“Nosso transporte feito pelo sr. Jason foi tranquilo e pontual, ida e vinda. Muito atencioso e solícito. Nosso tour pelo parque foi muito legal, não vimos os Big Five, apenas w deles, mas vimos muitos outros animais. E o mais divertido foi a briga de girafas e os elefantes invadindo a rua, passando ao lado…”
Full-day Big 5 safari in malaria-free Pilanesberg from Sun City with open vehicles, expert guide, lunch, and round-trip transport.
“Alles swehr gut organisiert”
3-day Pilanesberg camping from Johannesburg with closed and open safaris, Tlou tented camp stays, and strong Big 5 chances.
“Everything good and well planned… People very careful about you”
3-hour open-vehicle Big Five drive in malaria-free Pilanesberg, small-group guide, and easy Sun City or Manyane pick-up.
“Ambiente molto bello, gli animali si vedono spesso a fatica perché le macchine non si avvicinano. Troppe macchine che si riuniscono velocemente quando viene comunicato qualcosa di interessante”
Full-day Pilanesberg safari from Johannesburg with a small group, Big Five game drive, guided wildlife spotting, lunch break, and transfers.
“It could be of more hours with break of water or light lunch. We were provided with poor quality rain bags and no water even was given! Will never recommend”
A 10-hour Pilanesberg Big Five safari from Johannesburg with an open 4x4 drive, expert ranger spotting, and a light lunch in the park.
“Le guide du parc fait vraiment son maximum pour trouver les fameux big five. 4/5 sur la journée, certains ne font pas mieux à Kruger donc satisfaits de notre journée Repas du midi médiocre et très long dans le parc. 1h30 perdue au grand désarroi de notre guide.”
Spend 12 hours with guides at Pilanesberg National Park for Big Five sightings, two game drives, and a crater safari near Joburg.
“Our trip to Pilanesberg Park was an unforgettable experience, and we owe so much of it to our incredible guide, Emmanuel. From start to finish, Emmanuel made the day extraordinary with his deep knowledge of South Africa’s history and culture, his exceptional driving skills, and his constant helpfulness. We were incredibly lucky on our safari!…”
