Less than three hours from Johannesburg, Pilanesberg National Park is one of Africa’s most accessible safari destinations.. Here are five of the best safaris:
(Photo: pilanesbergnationalpark.org)
Leaning out of the back of a camouflaged pick-up truck as an elephant saunters by on its way to a drinking hole, it can be hard to imagine the hustle and bustle of South Africa’s biggest city is only 2.5 hours drive away. This is what makes Pilanesberg National Park such a wonder – situated in an ancient volcanic crater between the Kalahari and the Lowveld it is the fourth largest park in South Africa but also the most accessible and within easy reach of Johannesburg. With an area of 550km², Pilanesberg National Park has more than 7 000 animals and 360 bird species – including the Big Five, that is lions, leopards, elephants, African buffalo, and rhinoceroses – and can be enjoyed in anything from a single-day tour to a five-day safari. Few other safari experiences in Africa can be had so easily. If you are planning to visit Pilanesberg National Park, here are the five best safaris to consider:
3-Day Pilanesberg Wildlife Resort Safari
Not everyone can dedicate five days to a safari and this tour strikes a really good balance as a budget option that also dedicates a lot of time to game watching. At three days long (you’ll only get a day and a half animal spotting from that though) there is a good chance to see the Big Five and not spend your entire South Africa holiday trying to do it. Leaving Johannesburg in the morning you’ll be hitting Pilanesberg National Park late afternoon on the first day for a tour in an open top 4×4 followed by dinner at the mid-range Manyane Resort, which has chalets nestled among lush Bushveld woodland. The next day features two game drives to spot animals and get that all-important Instagram snap. It’s a great package for anyone wanting more than a fleeting visit and what really stands out is the attention to detail and helpfulness from operator Safari With Us – they are top rated for a reason. From €462.
Book at safaribookings.com
1-Day Pilanesberg Safari Full Day
Speaking of fleeting visits, if you are only in Johannesburg for a short time there are a few options to see Pilanesberg National Park in just one day. Fear not, though – this is not some budget package that cuts corners, small tour operator Nhlalala Travel and its knowledgeable, friendly guides really try to make it as much of a memorable experience as any other safari. Also, there’s a good chance you’ll end up in a small group, so the experience can feel like much more of a private experience than some of the bigger packages – no bad thing. From €145.
Book at safaribookings.com
4-Day Shepherd’s Tree Fully Inclusive 5 Star-Safari
(Photo: facebook.com)
At the other end of the scale is this four-day luxury safari to Shepherd’s Tree Game Lodge, located on a private concession in a remote corner of the reserve. If anyone told you safaris were about dossing down in a tent and eating a stew even the hyenas would turn their noses up at, then they were wrong. Shepherd’s Tree Game Lodge wouldn’t look out of place in the LA hills, with a spa, swimming pool and all the five star trimmings. Then you catch a glance of a silhouette of one of the Big Five walking by in the surrounding grass and realise that this is something really special. It may be a bit too opulent, and at times a little uneasy with its natural surroundings, but as a way to combine safari and a bit of luxury it takes some beating. From €918.
Book at safaribookings.com
3-Day Black Rhino All Inclusive Safari Package
A three-day safari with a bit more luxury, this tour is extremely well organised and has great accommodation. The Black Rhino Game Lodge features suites that are both elegant and tastefully in tune with the natural environment, with all mod cons thrown in. There is a really nice opportunity to see the animals at sunrise on the second day, with the 4×4 setting off early doors straight after coffee. The rest of the day can be spent lounging by the pool before a second late afternoon game drive. If you’re looking for something that’s not too budget and not too fancy, look no further than this tour. From €599.
Book at safaribookings.com
2-Day Luxury 5 Star Pilanesberg Safari
If you are short on time but not on money, then this two dayer includes an afternoon and early morning safari, as well as luxury accommodation at the exclusive and secluded five star Shepherd’s Tree Game Lodge. As an added bonus the morning game drive normally includes a stop at a watering hole for coffee with the crocodiles (at a safe distance of course). It’s a really straightforward tour and a great way to take a first step into safari life without making too many compromises. If there is time, stops can be made during the transfers too at attractions on route, including the Elephant Sanctuary, Cheetah Centre, Sun City and Cradle of Humankind. The only letdown is the price – it’s not that far off the price for a four dayer at the same accommodation. From €725.
Book at safaribookings.com