The Pilanesberg Full Day Game Drive is an exhilarating safari adventure that takes visitors from Johannesburg into the stunning Pilanesberg National Park. Priced from $303.58 per person, the 10-hour tour includes roundtrip transportation, a 5-hour guided drive, and the chance to spot the Big Five in diverse landscapes. With early morning departures and a maximum of 15 participants, this personalized experience promises unforgettable wildlife encounters. Whether you’re a seasoned safari-goer or a first-time explorer, this captivating tour has something to pique everyone’s interest.
Key Points
- A full-day game drive tour from Johannesburg/Pretoria to Pilanesberg National Park, spanning 10 hours and priced from $303.58 per person.
- The tour includes roundtrip transportation, a 5-hour guided safari drive, and entrance fees, with the opportunity to encounter the Big Five and other wildlife.
- Reservations can be made without upfront payment, and a full refund is available for cancellations made 24 hours in advance.
- The tour departs early morning at 6 am, with a 2.5-hour travel time to the park and another 2.5 hours for the return trip.
- Pilanesberg National Park is a 55,000-hectare reserve known for its diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife, including the Big Five.
Overview of the Pilanesberg Full Day Game Drive
The Pilanesberg Full Day Game Drive offers an immersive safari experience, taking visitors from Johannesburg or Pretoria on a 10-hour adventure to explore the diverse wildlife and landscapes of Pilanesberg National Park.
Set out on a 10-hour safari adventure to Pilanesberg National Park and learn about its diverse wildlife and landscapes.
Priced from $303.58 per person, the tour includes roundtrip transportation, a guided 5-hour safari drive, and all entrance fees.
Visitors can expect to encounter the iconic Big Five as well as a variety of other African wildlife in their natural habitat.
With a small group size and the option for a German-speaking guide, the tour provides an intimate and personalized safari experience.
Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Pilanesberg Nature Reserve
Pricing and Booking Details
This full-day game drive from Johannesburg or Pretoria into Pilanesberg National Park costs from $303.58 per person.
The 10-hour tour includes transportation, a guided safari drive, entrance fees, lunch, and drinks. Travelers can reserve their spot without upfront payment and receive a full refund if they cancel 24 hours in advance.
Pickup and drop-off services are available from hotels, airports, or specified addresses in Johannesburg and Pretoria.
The tour operates in small groups, with a maximum of 15 participants, and an English and German-speaking guide (German guide not always available).
Itinerary and Transportation
Departing early in the morning at 6 am from Johannesburg or Pretoria, the journey to Pilanesberg National Park takes approximately 2.5 hours.
Upon arrival, guests embark on a 5-hour guided safari drive within the park, exploring its diverse landscapes and wildlife.
Guests embark on a 5-hour guided safari drive within Pilanesberg National Park, exploring its diverse landscapes and wildlife.
The return trip to Johannesburg or Pretoria takes another 2.5 hours.
Pickup options include hotel, airport, or a specified address, and drop-off is available at Johannesburg or Pretoria.
The tour provides transportation, an experienced guide, lunch, and all necessary entrance fees, ensuring a seamless and immersive experience for participants.
Exploring Pilanesberg National Park
As guests embark on the guided safari drive within Pilanesberg National Park, they can expect to encounter a diverse array of African wildlife in its natural habitat.
Spanning 55,000 hectares, this fourth-largest park in South Africa is home to the coveted Big Five – lions, leopards, rhinoceros, elephants, and buffalo.
The park’s varied vegetation, encompassing dry Kalahari and Lowveld landscapes, provides a rich environment for an abundance of species.
Participants can look forward to spotting not only the Big Five, but also giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and a myriad of bird life during the 5-hour safari experience.
More Great Tours NearbyEncountering African Wildlife
During the guided safari drive through Pilanesberg National Park, visitors can expect to encounter a captivating array of African wildlife in their natural habitats.
From the majestic Big Five – lions, leopards, rhinoceros, elephants, and buffalo – to diverse species like cheetahs, zebras, giraffes, and various antelope, the park is home to an impressive biodiversity.
Travelers may spot these animals grazing, hunting, or engaging in their natural behaviors, providing an immersive wildlife experience.
The small group size ensures an intimate and personalized safari, allowing guests to fully appreciate the wonders of the African bush.
Safari Drive Highlights
Visitors can expect a thrilling safari drive through Pilanesberg National Park, where they’ll have the opportunity to encounter an array of remarkable African wildlife. The park’s diverse ecosystem is home to the renowned Big Five – lions, leopards, rhinoceroses, elephants, and buffaloes – as well as cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, and more. During the 5-hour guided tour, participants may witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitats, from grazing in the grasslands to drinking at watering holes. The safari experience promises unforgettable moments and cherished memories to last a lifetime.
| Wildlife | Chances of Sighting |
| — | — |
| Lions | High |
| Leopards | Moderate |
| Rhinoceroses | High |
| Elephants | High |
| Buffaloes | High |
| Cheetahs | Low |
| Giraffes | High |
| Zebras | High |
What to Expect on the Tour
The day typically begins with an early morning departure from Johannesburg or Pretoria, allowing travelers to reach Pilanesberg National Park in about 2.5 hours.
Once in the park, guests embark on a guided 5-hour safari drive, exploring the diverse landscapes and searching for the iconic Big Five animals – lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffalo.
The experienced guide provides insightful commentary, sharing their knowledge of the park’s flora and fauna.
Lunch is included, and the tour returns to the city in the afternoon, arriving around 4:30 pm.
Small group sizes ensure an intimate and personalized experience.
Important Recommendations
A few important recommendations to keep in mind for this Pilanesberg full day game drive.
Bring a sun hat, camera, and binoculars to fully enjoy spotting wildlife in their natural habitat. Staying hydrated is crucial, so pack plenty of water.
This tour may not be suitable for individuals with heart problems, so those with such conditions should consult their physician before booking.
The group size is limited to 15 participants, ensuring a personalized safari experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Request a Custom Pick-Up Location?
Yes, you can request a custom pick-up location. The operator offers pickup options from your hotel, the airport, or any other specified address in Johannesburg or Pretoria.
Is the Safari Drive Suitable for Children?
The safari drive may not be suitable for young children. While families are welcome, the long duration and exposure to wild animals could be challenging for smaller kids. Parents should consider their child’s age and tolerance before booking.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
There’s no option to extend the tour duration directly. However, visitors can book additional activities in Pilanesberg National Park or explore the nearby Sun City resort to lengthen their experience.
What Types of Wildlife Can I Expect to See?
Visitors can expect to see a wide variety of wildlife, including the iconic "Big Five" (lions, leopards, rhinoceros, elephants, and Cape buffalo) as well as other species like antelope, zebra, and a diverse array of birdlife during the game drive.
Are There Any Restrictions or Special Requirements?
The tour isn’t suitable for those with heart problems. Participants should bring sun hats, cameras, water, and binoculars. Group size is limited to 15 people, and guides are available in English and German (when available).
The Sum Up
The Pilanesberg Full Day Game Drive provides an exhilarating safari experience, allowing visitors to explore the stunning landscapes of Pilanesberg National Park and encounter a diverse range of African wildlife, including the iconic Big Five. With roundtrip transportation, all-inclusive pricing, and a personalized small-group setting, this tour offers an unforgettable opportunity to take in the natural wonders of South Africa.
You can check availability for your dates here: