Pilanesberg Game Reserve Safari and Sun City Day Trip from Johannesburg
Active
11h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Spot the Big 5 at Pilanesberg Game Reserve then relax at the unique Sun City Resort on a packed day trip from Johannesburg. Combine two very different destinations in one tour for a great way to experience what the region has to offer. Travel from Johannesburg to the Pilanesberg Game Reserve and enjoy a closed-vehicle game drive, seeking out diverse African wildlife in the 572 km² park, which is not only home to most Southern African species but also home to the Big 5, namely lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino and leopard. The reserve is also one of the world’s outstanding geological phenomena: a crater of a long-extinct volcano and the result of eruptions some 1 200 million years ago. Your safari is followed by a guided tour of the famous Sun City Resort, a glitzy and lush entertainment complex bordering the park. You will have time to explore Sun City, which is not only a luxury casino and resort but also a flagship structure associated with times during the Apartheid South Africa.
Available options
Pilanesberg Game Reserve Safari and Sun City Day Trip from Johannesburg
Pickup included
What's included
Professional guide
Closed vehicle game drive
Hotel pickup and drop off
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Tour of Sun City Resort with some free time to explore.
2
Enjoy a closed vehicle game drive in Pilanesburg.
What's not included
Food and drinks, unless specified
Gratuities
Valley of Waves
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.0
26 reviews
5★
13
4★
6
3★
2
2★
4
1★
1
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Sun City is approximately a 3.5 hour drive from Johannesburg
A minimum of 2 people required
Children up to the age of 3 years are required to sit in a car seat. Car seats are subject to availability at the time of booking. Parents are welcome to bring their own car seat
Guests will be notified the day prior of collection time.
Should we receive a booking with no pick up and drop details, guests are requested to contact the office, 48 hours prior to tour departure date. failure to provide us with pick up and drop off details, will result guest not receiving a pick up time and missing the tour and no refund will be provided.
Game Drive in Pilanesburg will be conducted in a closed vehicle.
Cullinan Guided Journeys strictly follow the SA Government approved TBCSA Health and Safety COVID-19 Protocols. Should guests present COVID-19 symptoms, COVID testing and quarantine will be at their own cost. We recommend that you ensure that your guests take adequate personal travel insurance cover before departure from home.
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
