Sun City & Pilanesberg Game Reserve (Closed Vehicle)
Active
9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Visit the fourth largest game reserve in South Africa, spanning over 50’000 hectares on mixed terrain ranging from low lying bushveld to savannah to the mountains of the Pilanesberg, hence the name. An exciting variety of animals are available including the Big 5, and the reserve is the closest wildlife area to Johannesburg that offers the Big 5 in their natural habitat. The park is malaria-free and lies right within the same extinct volcanic crater as Sun City.
Available options
Sun City & Pilanesberg Game Reserve (Closed Vehicle)
Pickup included
What's included
Bottled water
Professional guide
Driver/guide
Hotel/port pickup and drop-off
Detailed itinerary
1
Pilanesberg National Park, is the fourth largest park in South Africa. The volcano crater in which the park is situated erupted 1300 million years ago. Pilanesberg was originally owned by 3 of the local tribes. Many of the Stone Age and Iron Age sites around the reserve show proof of the presence of man.
Over 7 000 Animals
In 1979, Operation Genesis was launched. Operation Genesis was designed to reinforce the homegrown game population in the area. As part of the initiative, 110 kilometres of the game fence was put up, as well as the 188 kilometres of roads that were established. Another plan of action put into place involved 6000 animals being introduced to the area. In the years that followed, Operation Genesis has been expanded on. Today, there are over 7 000 animals, 360 bird species, and more than 200 kilometres of roads.
*Travel time from Johannesburg to Pilanesberg will be around 2 to 2 and a half hours.
2
Stop 2
History was made in 1979 when Sun City was opened in the North West to become the best holiday resort in South Africa, and for good reason.
Home to the Valley of Waves and sprawled along the border of the Pilanesberg National Park, Sun City Resort enjoys the fine distinction of being the only surf-and-safari destination within a two-hour drive of landlocked Johannesburg. Whether you’re looking for a romantic stay with your partner, a fun weekend getaway with friends or a North West holiday with the whole family, Sun City Resort has it all.
*Travel time from Sun City back to Johannesburg will be around 2 to 2 and a half hours
What's not included
Gratuities
Food and drinks
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
0
2★
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1★
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Important notes
Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.
About Pretoria
Pretoria, known as the Jacaranda City for its beautiful purple-blossomed trees, is the administrative capital of South Africa. It offers a blend of historical significance, cultural richness, and natural beauty, making it a unique destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Union Buildings
The Union Buildings are the official seat of the South African government and a significant historical landmark. The buildings are an excellent example of Edwardian Baroque architecture.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Pretoria National Botanical Garden
This botanical garden is home to a diverse range of indigenous plants and offers beautiful walking trails, picnic spots, and a variety of wildlife.
Nature
2-3 hours
R50 for adults, R25 for children
Voortrekker Monument
This monumental structure commemorates the Voortrekkers who left the Cape Colony in the 19th century. The monument offers a museum and a tower with panoramic views of Pretoria.
Historical
1-2 hours
R30 for adults, R15 for children
Melrose House
Melrose House is a historic home that served as the headquarters of the British military during the Second Anglo-Boer War. Today, it houses a museum and a tea garden.
Historical
1 hour
R50 for adults, R25 for children
Pretoria Zoo
The Pretoria Zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, including rare and endangered species. The zoo offers educational programs and conservation initiatives.
Nature
2-3 hours
R120 for adults, R60 for children
Must-Try Local Dishes
Braai
Braai is a traditional South African barbecue, featuring grilled meats such as boerewors (sausage), lamb chops, and steak.
Dinner
Contains meat, can be adapted for various dietary preferences
Bobotie
Bobotie is a sweet and spicy minced meat dish topped with an egg-based custard. It is often served with yellow rice and chutney.
Dinner
Contains meat and eggs, can be made with alternative ingredients for vegetarians
Bunny Chow
Bunny Chow is a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, typically made with chicken, beef, or beans.
Lunch
Contains meat, can be made with vegetarian or vegan fillings
Melktert
Melktert is a traditional South African milk tart, featuring a sweet pastry crust filled with a creamy, custard-like filling.
Dessert
Contains dairy and eggs, can be made with alternative ingredients for dietary restrictions
Popular Activities
Hiking
Water sports
Game drives
Picnicking
Tea at Melrose House
Visiting botanical gardens
Museum visits
Historical site tours
Best Time to Visit
Spring (September to November) and Autumn (March to May)
Spring and autumn offer mild weather, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city is also less crowded during these seasons.
15°C to 30°C
59°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Afrikaans, English, Northern Sotho
- Widely spoken: English, Afrikaans
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
South African Rand (ZAR)
Time Zone
GMT+2
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution
Pretoria is generally safe for travelers, but it is important to exercise caution, especially in certain areas and at night. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone at night, and keep valuables secure.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings
- • Avoid walking alone at night
- • Keep valuables secure
Getting there
By air
- OR Tambo International Airport • 45 km from city center
- Lanzeria Airport • 30 km from city center
By train
Pretoria Station
By bus
Park Station, Pretoria Station
Getting around
Public transport
The PBS offers an affordable and reliable way to get around the city. Buses are frequent and cover most major areas.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
Pretoria Central
Hatfield
Menlo Park
Sunnyside
Day trips
Cullinan Diamond Mine
40 km from Pretoria • Half day to full day
The Cullinan Diamond Mine is famous for being the source of the world's largest diamond, the Cullinan Diamond. Visitors can take a guided tour of the mine and learn about its history and the diamond mining process.
Hartebeestpoort Dam
60 km from Pretoria • Full day
Hartebeestpoort Dam is a popular destination for water sports, fishing, and hiking. The dam is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and offers a variety of outdoor activities.
Pilanesberg National Park
150 km from Pretoria • Full day to overnight
Pilanesberg National Park is a malaria-free game reserve offering excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. The park is home to the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and buffalo) and a variety of other animals.
Festivals
Pretoria Jazz Festival • September
Aardklop National Arts Festival • October
Pretoria Open-Air Arts Festival • November
Pro tips
- Visit the Pretoria National Botanical Garden in the spring for the best blooms
- Explore the city's cultural and historical sites, such as the Union Buildings and the Voortrekker Monument
- Experience a traditional South African braai (barbecue) at a local restaurant or with a host family
- Take a day trip to the Cullinan Diamond Mine or Pilanesberg National Park for a unique and memorable experience
- Attend a local festival or event, such as the Pretoria Jazz Festival or the Aardklop National Arts Festival
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
