Johannesburg Day Trip Lion Park and Lesedi Cultural Village

Pretoria , South Africa

Johannesburg Day Trip Lion Park and Lesedi Cultural Village

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About this experience

A seamless fusion of wildlife encounters and cultural experiences awaits on this day trip from Johannesburg. Begin with an exhilarating safari at Lion & Safari Park, where you can observe majestic wildlife up close. Then, delve into the rich traditions of South Africa at Lesedi Cultural Village, gaining insights into tribal communities and their heritage. This tour, just 45 minutes to an hour from the city, provides a comprehensive view of the region's natural and cultural wonders.

- Exciting day trip from Johannesburg combining wildlife and culture
- Close-up safari experience at the iconic Lion & Safari Park
- Immersive exploration of South African tribal traditions at Lesedi Village
- Conveniently located within 45 minutes to 1 hour from Johannesburg

Available options

Johannesburg Day Trip Lion Park and Lesedi Cultural Village

Pickup included

What's included

Entrance fee

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

At the Lion & Safari Park, you’ll step into the heart of Africa’s wildlife just outside Johannesburg. Climb aboard an open safari vehicle for a guided game drive and get up close with some of South Africa’s most iconic animals. Look out for prides of majestic lions, graceful giraffes, cheetahs, zebras, wildebeest, hyenas, and a wide variety of antelope species roaming freely in natural habitats.

Your expert ranger will share fascinating insights into each animal, their behaviors, and the park’s conservation efforts, making the experience both exciting and educational. The park is also home to rare species such as wild dogs and white lions, giving you a chance to see animals you might not encounter elsewhere.

Whether it’s the thrill of spotting predators just a few meters away or capturing that perfect wildlife photo, the Lion & Safari Park offers an unforgettable safari experience—perfect for travellers who want the excitement of a game drive without leaving Johannesburg.

At the Lesedi Cultural Village, you’ll journey into the heart of South Africa’s vibrant tribal traditions. On arrival, you’ll be warmly welcomed with music and smiles before exploring traditional homesteads that represent the Zulu, Xhosa, Pedi, Basotho, and Ndebele communities. Each village is brought to life by residents dressed in colorful attire, eager to share stories of their history, customs, and way of life.

Travelers will enjoy captivating drumming, song, and dance performances, followed by an immersive cultural presentation that highlights the unique heritage of each group. You’ll have the chance to interact with locals, ask questions, and gain a deeper understanding of South Africa’s cultural diversity.

The experience is topped off with a delicious buffet lunch featuring authentic African dishes, giving you a taste of local flavors before heading back to Johannesburg with unforgettable memories.

What's not included

Meals

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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