WHY YOU’D LOVE IT!
Discover the Big-5 and more at the Pilansberg National Park, a striking landscape made up of one of the world’s largest volcanic complexes. Pilansberg’s spectacular game reserve provides the perfect backdrop to your leisurely Big-Five photo safari. Located inside the eroded crater of the extinct volcano, this is a fantastic opportunity to record tremendous memories of a truly unique South African destination. With everything from lakes, to wildlife and striking vegetation to see, Pilansberg is a glorious photo safari that you won’t want to miss.
Highlights include:
- Pilanesberg National Park safari
- Big 5 and plains game
- Safari Game drives
- Luxury accommodation
MAP
DAILY
Itinerary at a glance
◽️ DAY 1-2 | South Africa
Pilanesberg NP
◽️ DAY 3-4 | South Africa
Pilanesberg NP
◽️ DAY 5 | Return
End of safari
MAP
Visualize your journey!
DAY 0
DEPARTURE
Travel
DEPARTURE
Your adventure starts now!
Embark on an African safari and anticipate breathtaking landscapes, encountering diverse and majestic wildlife in their natural habitats, and immersing yourself in the rich cultural experiences of the continent.
* See your safari itinerary for transfer logistics
DAY 1 -2
PILANESBURG
Safari days
📍 Black Rhino Lodge
PILANESBURG NATIONAL PARK
Area Overview
Pilanesberg Game Reserve exists within the transition zone between the dry Kalahari and wetter Lowveld vegetation, commonly referred to as "Bushveld". Unlike any other large park, unique overlaps of mammals, birds and vegetation occur because of this transition zone.
With the opportunity to witness Africa's renowned Big Five in their natural environment. The Pilanesberg Game Reserve is home to a diverse array of wildlife, boasting more than 7,000 animals and 300 different bird species. Enthusiasts can observe all members of the Big Five as well as a wide variety of other creatures, Home to healthy populations of lion, leopard, black and white rhino, elephant and buffalo - Africa's "Big Five". A wide variety of rare and common species exist with endemic species like the nocturnal brown hyaena, the fleet-footed cheetah, the majestic sable, as well as giraffe, zebra, hippo and crocodile.
Pilanesberg is one of the largest volcanic and Alkaline Ring Complexes of its kind in the world. Its rare rock types and structure make it a unique geological feature. The early presence of man can be seen in the numerous Stone and Iron Age sites that are scattered throughout the park.The crater of a long extinct volcano is the setting of Pilanesberg National Park - a fascinating alkaline complex produced by volcanic eruptions some 1300 million years ago. The area is fringed by three concentric ridges or rings of hills - the formation rises from the surrounding plains like a bubble. The structure of the park is termed the "Pilanesberg National Park Alkaline Ring Complex". Ancient, even by geological time scales, this extinct volcano is the most perfect example of an alkaline ring complex. A number of rare (but not necessarily economically important) minerals occur in the park. Pilanesberg has survived ages of erosion and stands high above the surrounding bushveld plains. The early presence of man can be seen in the numerous Stone and Iron Age sites that are scattered throughout the park.
Safari days
Each day on safari in Africa is a magical experience, whether you’re exploring the savanna on foot or in a 4x4 vehicle in search of the Big 5 or taking to the sky in a hot-air balloon to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration. Every single day is steeped in the promise of a unique adventure and cherished memories.
Although each day is unpredictable to a certain extent, based on the time of year or location, there is a general format or schedule that safaris tend to follow, but, as a rule, safaris do follow a familiar rhythm that combines thrilling game viewing with ample time to relax in between—a dream vacation in anyone’s book. One rule of thumb is that there are usually two game drives a day: one in the early morning and one in the late afternoon, when animals are at their most active.
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BLACK RHINO LODGE
Lodge Overview
Full board, excl. premium drinks.
The lodge is a hidden treasure set amongst the trees of an old Tamboti forest at the foot of an ancient volcanic crater that today comprises one of South Africa’s most exciting Big 5 eco-tourism destinations, the greater Pilanesberg National Park. The lodge & Game Reserve is a private reserve which is incorporated into the 113,693 acres Pilanesberg National Park
Lodge is the ideal location for a luxurious bushveld breakaway. Built between a Tamboti forest, overlooking a busy waterhole, which is a hive of bird and animal activity, and a playground for the elephant. On many occasions, the stillness of the night is broken by the roaring of lions, and the franklins sing the morning wake up call. Once, you are awakened with a hot cup of coffee, your host ranger will take you out on an exceptional game drive, taking you through the reserve, into the unexplored valley of the Pilanesberg, until we reach the 200km network Pilanesberg Park roads. It is from here, accompanied by your personal game ranger, that you will be able explore the malaria free wildlife wonderland and discover the magic of the African bush!
A warm welcome awaits on arrival at the airport! *Please be on the lookout for your driver with your name sign. Baggage assistance followed by a 2hr mins. road transfer to your accommodation.
* Please see your safari itinerary for transfer logistics
FULL BOARD
LODGE
GAME VIEW
DAY 3-4
PILANESBURG
Safari days
📍 ITambuti Lodge
PILANESBURG NATIONAL PARK
Area Overview
Pilanesberg Game Reserve exists within the transition zone between the dry Kalahari and wetter Lowveld vegetation, commonly referred to as "Bushveld". Unlike any other large park, unique overlaps of mammals, birds and vegetation occur because of this transition zone.
With the opportunity to witness Africa's renowned Big Five in their natural environment. The Pilanesberg Game Reserve is home to a diverse array of wildlife, boasting more than 7,000 animals and 300 different bird species. Enthusiasts can observe all members of the Big Five as well as a wide variety of other creatures, Home to healthy populations of lion, leopard, black and white rhino, elephant and buffalo - Africa's "Big Five". A wide variety of rare and common species exist with endemic species like the nocturnal brown hyaena, the fleet-footed cheetah, the majestic sable, as well as giraffe, zebra, hippo and crocodile.
Pilanesberg is one of the largest volcanic and Alkaline Ring Complexes of its kind in the world. Its rare rock types and structure make it a unique geological feature. The early presence of man can be seen in the numerous Stone and Iron Age sites that are scattered throughout the park.The crater of a long extinct volcano is the setting of Pilanesberg National Park - a fascinating alkaline complex produced by volcanic eruptions some 1300 million years ago. The area is fringed by three concentric ridges or rings of hills - the formation rises from the surrounding plains like a bubble. The structure of the park is termed the "Pilanesberg National Park Alkaline Ring Complex". Ancient, even by geological time scales, this extinct volcano is the most perfect example of an alkaline ring complex. A number of rare (but not necessarily economically important) minerals occur in the park. Pilanesberg has survived ages of erosion and stands high above the surrounding bushveld plains. The early presence of man can be seen in the numerous Stone and Iron Age sites that are scattered throughout the park.
Safari days
Each day on safari in Africa is a magical experience, whether you’re exploring the savanna on foot or in a 4x4 vehicle in search of the Big 5 or taking to the sky in a hot-air balloon to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration. Every single day is steeped in the promise of a unique adventure and cherished memories.
Although each day is unpredictable to a certain extent, based on the time of year or location, there is a general format or schedule that safaris tend to follow, but, as a rule, safaris do follow a familiar rhythm that combines thrilling game viewing with ample time to relax in between—a dream vacation in anyone’s book. One rule of thumb is that there are usually two game drives a day: one in the early morning and one in the late afternoon, when animals are at their most active.
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TAMBUTI LODGE
Lodge Overview
Full board, excl. premium drinks.
Pilanesberg National Park exists within the transition zone between the dry Kalahari and wetter Lowveld vegetation, commonly referred to as "Bushveld". Unlike any other large park, unique overlaps of mammals, birds and vegetation occur because of this transition zone. Pilanesberg National Park accommodates virtually every mammal of southern Africa.
Home to almost all of Southern Africa’s big game as well as more than 300 bird species. It offers much more than just game viewing - activities for every taste allow you to have your perfect holiday. Nestled in the basin of an ancient amphitheater divided by riverine woodlands and elephant trails lies an exclusive lodge development site.
Decorated in a range of earthy tones ranging from terra-cottas to deep blues, the rooms have been carefully coordinated to ensure comfortable seating both indoors and out.
ACTIVITIES
Board the specialized game viewing vehicles and stand a chance to see all of Southern Africa’s large mammals on a game drive! Rejuvenate your body and soul at the Amani African Spa; quad biking; join in for some delicious cuisine during an exclusive bush braai or boma dinner; experience African culture with Tswana and Zulu dancing, interactive drumming, an African marimba band and a percussion show.
Safari days in the fourth largest park in South Africa, covering an area of 135,900 acres. The beauty of Pilanesberg is reflected in a large central lake, the Mankwe Dam. Over time, wind and water have carved a spectacular landscape with rocky outcrops, open grasslands, wooded valleys and thickets.
FULL BOARD
LODGE
GAME VIEW
DAY 5
RETURN
DEPARTURE
Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end! Goodbye to the safari life, feeling relaxed, mesmerizing scenery, great food, family time, and romantic memories.
Morning road transfer back to the airport for your outbound flight... dreaming of the trip of a lifetime!
IMPORTANT INFO TO TAKE NOTE OF
Please refer to 👉 FAQ's for all related travel information
- IN & EXCLUDED
- PASSPORTS
- BLANK VISA PAGE REQUIREMENTS
- VISAS
- HEALTH
- CONNECT
- HEALTH
- PACKING LIST
- GRATUITIES
- CONTACT
- TRAVEL INSURANCE
- POWER
- SAFETY
- BAGGAGE
INCLUDED
- Experience of a lifetime
- 24/7 support before & during your safari
- Accommodation
- Road transfers
- Tours & Activities
- Meals & Drinks
- Tour Guide (where applicable)
- Airport & airstrip transfers
- Park fees, levies & taxes (unless otherwise indicated)
- Inter-Africa commercial & light aircraft flights
____________
* As indicated on your detailed safari itinerary
EXCLUDED
- International airfare
- Personal gifts & purchases
- Incidental charges
- Travel insurance
- Conservation fees*
- Visa fees
- Balloon safari* (if applicable)
- Laundry*
- Tips
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* Unless otherwise indicated on your itinerary
Due to constantly changing requirements, it is recommended that travelers contact the appropriate embassy for accurate and up-to-date information & requirements
Please refer to https://travel.state.gov/content/travel.html for updated information on each country.
Passport & Visa requirements are guest’s sole responsibility*
- Expiration date valid at least 6 months past return dates
- Please check the number of blank Visa pages required by each country.Passport MUST have AT LEAST 2-3 blank “VISAS pages” per entry – the word “VISAS” must appear at the top of the page to be considered a “Visas Page” . They must be consecutive and blank back and front. Please note the 6 pages required for NAMIBIA!
- Airlines will refuse board if you do not meet this requirement. Please click to view more info on this link
- Please note special requirements when travelling with a minor(s)
The table below shows the number of blank visa pages required by each country.
- If you plan to visit multiple countries during the same trip, you need to add the requirements for each country together.
- If your passport does not have a sufficient number of blank pages, you will need to replace it before your trip.
- It is no longer possible to add visa pages to a passport. You must apply for a new passport.
Botswana 3 blank pages (3 or more unused pages; one blank page per entry)
Kenya 2
Mozambique 3
Namibia 3
Rwanda 1
South Africa 2 (2 Consecutive blank Visa Pages: South Africa requires travelers to have 2 consecutive completely blank visa pages in their passports upon every arrival in South Africa. YOU WILL BE DENIED ENTRY if you do not have 2 consecutive blank visa pages in your passport. This does not include the endorsement pages.
Tanzania 2
Uganda 1
Zambia 3
Zimbabwe 3
(All visitors to Zimbabwe need to present a valid passport, return transportation ticket, sufficient funds and at least 3 blank visa pages for entry and exit stamps.
How Many Blank Pages Are Required by Each Country?
- Many countries have a specific travel regulation for the number of blank passport pages visitors should have. This is to allow space for visas and visa stamps.
- Before embarking on an international trip, it is important to check your destination’s passport requirements to ensure that you meet them.
- Having a certain number of blank passport pages is a mandatory rule for some territories, along with any necessary travel documents such as an eVisa or Travel Health Certificate.
- Each border authority has its own passport requirements for travelers. The number of compulsory blank pages depends on the individual territory.
- Countries such as the United Kingdom, Canada, and Morocco only require visitors to have 1 blank page to enter.
- Others, for example Germany, India, and South Africa, follow a 2-page regulation.
- Some African destinations need at least 3 blank pages, such as Botswana, Mozambique, and Zambia.
- There are even some territories, including Brunei and Namibia, that demand a minimum of 6 empty passport pages.
- If you fail to meet these requirements, you could be refused permission to board by an airline or refused entry at border control.
What if I am visiting multiple countries?
- If a trip consists of visiting multiple countries, it is necessary to add the requirements of each country together.
- For example, if you are traveling to somewhere that requires 1 page, then continuing to somewhere that requires 2, you will need to have a total of 3 empty passport pages.
Can I Add Passport Pages?
- Most countries do not allow passport holders to add pages. The United States, for example, previously provided this service but no longer do. The same applies for the UK.
- In most cases, it is necessary to apply for a new passport if there are no more blank pages left.
- You can contact your destination’s embassy or consulate if you are unsure about passport page requirements.
👉 Visa
No visa required for USA Citizens for:
- South Africa, Botswana, Namibia & Zambia
Visa required for USA Citizens for:
- Zimbabwe: Buy at port of entry ($ 50 cash US Dollar bills)
- Kenya,Tanzania & Uganda: Applied for online prior to travel!
Visa requirements differ from country to country and, on occasion, are subject to change with no warning.
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USA: US$50
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Britain / UK / Ireland: US$70
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Canadian:US$75
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On arrival please ensure you request the correct visa for your needs
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Always check your visa has been issued for the correct number of days
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Zimbabwe, KAZA UniVisa and Mozambique visas each use a full passport visa page
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Carry the exact amount of cash to pay for your visa as credit card machines may be offline and change is not always available
👉 Health
Prior to traveling to Africa, we highly recommend you visit a medical professional such as your doctor or local travel clinic for advice on what health precautions need to be taken. This visit should take place at least 4-8 weeks prior to departure as it will determine the need for any vaccinations and/or antimalarial medication as well as identifying any other medical precautions.
- Currently no mandatory vaccinations are required when entering Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and South Africa.
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate is required by visitors coming from a country where yellow fever occurs, or if they have been in transit for more than 12 hours at an airport in a country here yellow fever occurs. Applicable to Kenya, Tanzania & Uganda.
- Malaria prophylaxis medication is recommended when traveling to Zimbabwe, Botswana, Zambia, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and in certain areas of South Africa.
Insider Tips
- Take out comprehensive travel insurance to safeguard against the unexpected. Should you fall ill or have an accident when staying in a remote area you may have to be evacuated by air to a private medical facility which is a costly exercise.
- Carry the name and contact details of your doctor together with information pertaining to any medical condition and its treatment.
- If you take prescription medication ensure you carry sufficient to last the duration of your trip, plus a little extra in case of flight delays.
- Prescription medication should be kept in its original container which should be clearly labelled.
- More unusual drugs and ones that contain sedatives should be carried with a medical attestation signed by a physician certifying the traveler requires the medication for a specific medical condition.
- Ask you medical practitioner to recommend items for a basic first aid kit
- In the event your checked bag is lost or delayed we recommend you carry prescription medication including anti-malaria tablets, spare contact lens and essential toiletries in your hand luggage.
- If you travel with a CPAP machine, please advise us well in advance so we can check your chosen safari lodges/camps are able to run a generator throughout the night. Alternatively, you may choose to carry a portable battery pack that can be re-charged daily.
- Please advise us of any special dietary requests in advance of travel.
IMPORTANT: Please install the WHATSAPP app on your phone and set up the account –it is all free! This is the preferred method to stay in contact during your safari, just in case you have a question—you never know!
Once the app is downloaded, please add my contact number: +1 949 400 5262. You should see me listed as "KARI | AfricaPhotoSafaris" and the please send me a quick message just so I know we are connected.
👉 Health
Prior to traveling to Africa, we highly recommend you visit a medical professional such as your doctor or local travel clinic for advice on what health precautions need to be taken. This visit should take place at least 4-8 weeks prior to departure as it will determine the need for any vaccinations and/or antimalarial medication as well as identifying any other medical precautions.
- Currently no mandatory vaccinations are required when entering Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and South Africa.
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate is required by visitors coming from a country where yellow fever occurs, or if they have been in transit for more than 12 hours at an airport in a country here yellow fever occurs. Applicable to Kenya, Tanzania & Uganda.
- Malaria prophylaxis medication is recommended when traveling to Zimbabwe, Botswana, Zambia, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and in certain areas of South Africa.
Insider Tips
- Take out comprehensive travel insurance to safeguard against the unexpected. Should you fall ill or have an accident when staying in a remote area you may have to be evacuated by air to a private medical facility which is a costly exercise.
- Carry the name and contact details of your doctor together with information pertaining to any medical condition and its treatment.
- If you take prescription medication ensure you carry sufficient to last the duration of your trip, plus a little extra in case of flight delays.
- Prescription medication should be kept in its original container which should be clearly labelled.
- More unusual drugs and ones that contain sedatives should be carried with a medical attestation signed by a physician certifying the traveler requires the medication for a specific medical condition.
- Ask you medical practitioner to recommend items for a basic first aid kit
- In the event your checked bag is lost or delayed we recommend you carry prescription medication including anti-malaria tablets, spare contact lens and essential toiletries in your hand luggage.
- If you travel with a CPAP machine, please advise us well in advance so we can check your chosen safari lodges/camps are able to run a generator throughout the night. Alternatively, you may choose to carry a portable battery pack that can be re-charged daily.
- Please advise us of any special dietary requests in advance of travel.
-
In the event your checked bag is lost or delayed we recommend you carry prescription medication including anti-malaria tablets, spare contact lenses, essential toiletries, and a change of underwear in your hand luggage.
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If you take prescription medication ensure you carry sufficient to last your whole trip, plus a little extra in case of delays. Prescription medications should be in their original containers with the doctor’s prescription printed on the container.
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Leave expensive and sentimental pieces of jewellery at home and never carry jewellery in your checked baggage.
IMPORTANT: Please install the WHATSAPP app on your phone and set up the account –it is all free! This is the preferred method to stay in contact during your safari, just in case you have a question—you never know!
Once the app is downloaded, please add my contact number: +1 949 400 5262. You should see me listed as "KARI: AfricaPhotoSafaris" and the please send me a quick message just so I know we are connected.
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Don’t tempt fate by traveling with expensive jewelry, only bring what you need. If its irreplaceable or has sentimental value, then leave it at home. Never carry jewelry in your checked baggage.
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In the unfortunate event your checked baggage is lost or delay we recommend you carry prescription medication, including anti-malaria tablets, essential toiletries, and a change of underwear in your hand luggage.
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Misplacing or losing original travel documents is frustrating and time consuming as it takes time to have them replaced. Always carry a copy of the ID page of your passport, travel itinerary, and travel insurance with you. The best method is to scan these documents and store them electronically. Packing a copy separately from the original documents and leave a copy with a family member or trusted contact are other options.
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It is advisable to secure your luggage with a suitable lock when flying both locally (within South Africa), regionally (to neighboring countries), and internationally.
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Please do not check in any valuables or chronic medication as these should be kept in your carry-on luggage
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Always drive with your doors locked and your windows closed, with handbags/backpacks/parcels, and valuables stored out of sight in the boot/trunk of the car.
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Keep mobile phones, wallets, and cameras well hidden, and avoid wearing expensive jewelry.
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Never leave your luggage unattended (e.g. do not leave handbags under tables, on the backs of chairs, or restroom hooks).
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Separate your cash and credit cards and do not carry all your cash with you.
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Avoid counting cash in the open.
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Be vigilant whenever approaching an automated bank teller machine (ATM). If you feel unsafe, rather return at another time or use an alternate machine.
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Please store any valuables, travel documents (passports/airline tickets/vaccination cards), and additional cash in your camp/lodge/hotel room safe or the property's main safe. Keep your room locked at all times and hand in room keys or cards whenever you leave your hotel.
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