PILANESBERG SAFARI

SEE THE BIG 5

5 DAYS

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

OVERVIEW

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

MAP

Visualize your journey!

DAY 0  |  Date to be updated

YOUR SAFARI STARTS NOW!

📍 Depart home

DEPARTURE

Your adventure starts now!

Embark on an African safari and anticipate witnessing 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 | Date to be updated

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.

READ MORE DETAILS!

5.30 am: Time for a Wake-Up Call
6 am– 9 am Morning Game Drive
9 am- 11 am Return to Camp for Breakfast or Brunch
11 am –1 pm Relaxation: Read, Nap, Swim, Walk or Spa
1 pm – 2 pm Lunchtime
2 pm – 3:30 pm Relaxation: Read, Nap, Swim, Walk or Spa
3.30 pm: High Tea
4 pm –7 pm Afternoon Game Drive
7: 30 pm Dinner Time
9 pm Turn in for Bedtime
 

 

BLACK RHINO LODGE

Lodge  Overview

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 | Date to be updated

PILANESBURG

Safari days

📍 Ivory Tree 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.

READ MORE DETAILS!

5.30 am: Time for a Wake-Up Call
6 am– 9 am Morning Game Drive
9 am- 11 am Return to Camp for Breakfast or Brunch
11 am –1 pm Relaxation: Read, Nap, Swim, Walk or Spa
1 pm – 2 pm Lunchtime
2 pm – 3:30 pm Relaxation: Read, Nap, Swim, Walk or Spa
3.30 pm: High Tea
4 pm –7 pm Afternoon Game Drive
7: 30 pm Dinner Time
9 pm Turn in for Bedtime
 

 

 IVORY TREE LODGE

Lodge  Overview

Safari days

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 13  |  Dates to be updated

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!

SAFARI COST

Click button below to DOWNLOAD the PDF

USD $2,320 / pps*

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*pps=per person sharing

Minimum of 2 pax traveling

SAFARI DATES & DETAILS

Click button below to DOWNLOAD the PDF

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* Always check the document date and refer to the latest version

TRAVEL INFO

  • Health & Vaccines, Visas & Passports, Connectivity, Power adaptors, Travel insurance, Credit Cards, Tipping guide,Packing list and more

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

____________

* Unless otherwise indicated on your itinerary

PAPERWORK

PASSPORTS

  • Email or Whatsapp a clear color copy of your passport
  • Expiration date valid at least 6 months past return dates
  • Please check the number of blank Visa pages required by each country

CONTRACT

  • Download the Safari Contract
  • Take a picture with your phone of the first & last page and email back
  • A signed APPENDIX C / Indemnity is required for each person going on the safari.  Click here to print more copies if needed)

GUEST INFORMATION