Pilanesberg Game Reserve, South Africa

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The Pilanesberg Game Reserve in South Africa's North West province is accessible and its malaria-free. Just 15 km (9 miles) from Sun City and an easy 2-hour drive from Johannesburg and Pretoria, Pilanesberg is ideal for families not wanting to travel to a remote game park. But don't let the proximity to one of the world's most unique resorts or its malaria-free status dissuade you, wildlife viewing in Pilanesberg is first rate and it includes the African Big Five (lion, elephant, rhinoceros, buffalo, leopard). And the scenery is breathtaking. Situated in the remnants of a long extinct alkaline volcanic crater and surrounded by three rings of hills, the reserve's 55 000 hectares unfold over 200 km (124 miles) of well-groomed roads. Whether you explore the game park on a self-drive African safari, hire a guide or take in the view from the back of an elephant or high above in a hot air balloon, a wildlife safari in Pilanesberg is sure to give you an adrenaline rush. Don't forget to pack binoculars, camera and plenty of film for the kids!

Pilanesberg Game Reserve Photo Gallery
Pilanesberg Game Reserve Photo Gallery
Pilanesberg Game Reserve Photo Gallery
Pilanesberg Game Reserve Photo Gallery
 
Getting there
 
Pilanesberg National Park, in South Africa's North West Province, is an easy two-hour drive north from Johannesburg and Pretoria and a short drive from Sun City. From Johannesburg and Pretoria, take the N4 to the R565. A shuttle service between Johannesburg and Pretoria and nearby Sun City operates several times daily. Most major car rental companies operate from the O.R. Tambo International Airport (formerly Johannesburg International Airport). Charter flights service the Pilanesberg International Airport.
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Car Rentals
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Shuttle Service
Go2Africa.com
Airport Information
ACSA
Getting around
 
Two hundred kilometers of well-groomed roads provide visitors to Pilanesberg with ample room to roam. Both self-drive and guided safaris are available in Pilanesberg. Jeep, balloon, elephant and walking safaris must be booked in advance. Transportation to and from the reserve or launch site can be booked through the outfitter or your hotel.
Map of Pilanesberg Game Reserve
CyberCapeTown.com
When to travel
 
While the weather in Pilanesberg is pleasant year-round, rain showers are likely from November to February. The average daytime temperature is 31° centigrade between September and April and 22° centigrade from May to August. The average nighttime temperature is significantly cooler both in summer and winter.
Travel health & child safety
 
Pilanesberg is situated in the malaria free North West Province. In South Africa, malaria is a risk in some coastal areas as well as the provinces bordering Mozambique.
Malaria Risk Map
Malaria in Southern Africa
Opening hours
 
The reserve gates are open daily from 5:30 - 19:00 from November to February, 6:00 - 18:30 in March, April, September, and October, and 6:30 - 18:00 from May to September.
Fees
 
An admission fee is charged.
Pilanesberg Tariffs
Pilanesberg Game Reserve
Contact details
 
To contact Gametrackers dial +27 (0)14 552 1561 or send an email to suncity@gametrac.co.za. To contact Airtrack Adventures dial +27 (0)14 552 1552. To contact Mankwe Safaris dial +27 (0)15 555 7056 or send an email to mankwesafari@mweb.co.za.
Things to keep in mind
 
The minimum age varies. Check the guide or adventure travel company's policy before you book a wildlife safari.

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