Full Day Pilanesberg Safari Tours from Johannesburg

Pilanesberg Nature Reserve is unique because it is a malaria-free area, meaning you do not need any malaria medication, and you can book and depart on this day tour on short notice. Home to lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and various other African wildlife. Breathtaking scenery will be seen while on the route to the reserve and on safari. On the Safari, you have the option of choosing either a safari in an open jeep (viewing animals from the back of an open safari vehicle) or a safari in a closed minibus vehicle (viewing animals from an enclosed safari vehicle). Several camps and lodges are established around the National Park: Manyane and Bakgatla just outside the park, and lodges like Bakubung and Kwa Maritane just inside the park. On the shorter safari we provide, lunch will normally be enjoyed at either Bakubung or Kwa Maritane Restaurant. At the restaurant, animals can be seen from your table as you consume a very delicious lunch. On the longer safari, lunch will be enjoyed in the center of the park. There are various accommodation options available at the lodges around the nature reserve, and if you travel on the western boundary outside of the park, there is another concession called the Black Rhino Reserve. This concession area also has numerous luxury lodges ( Bakubung Bush Lodge, Ivory Tree Game Lodge ) with packages and open vehicle safaris where you can view African animals in the bush to your heart's content. Rights are reserved in this area, as you will be much more privately accommodated than in the other areas of the park where day visitors drive around. Our Pilanesberg safari tours from Johannesburg are a firm favorite with people wanting a day safari from Johannesburg, so if you are looking for a day tour with game drives that will blow your mind, book our one day safari game drives. Our 24-hour cancellation policy means a stress-free booking and hassle-free holiday for you and your family. The Pilanesberg tour can depart from your chosen accommodation in either Johannesburg, Sandton, or Pretoria. You will be transported safely to the reserve, and all points of interest along the way will be pointed out to you by your guide. Your guide is registered, and all vehicles will have the necessary road transportation permits. 

Frequently asked questions about the Pilanesberg Safari

Can you do a safari from Sun City? 

Yes, you can also depart on a safari from the casino resort.

Which is a better nature reserve, Pilanesberg or Kruger National Park? 

For a shorter time frame or trip in South Africa, this is your best option to spot wildlife, but if you have 3 or 4 days, Kruger will be the better option in terms of wildlife viewing. Both will give you a different safari experience.

What animals will I see in Pilanesberg National Park? 

This reserve is home to the big five, as well as various antelopes. From Blue Wildebeest, Springbok, which you will not find in Kruger Park, Impala (Also known as Macdonalds; ask your guide about this interesting story), Tsessebe, Kudu, Klipspringer, Hartebeest, Zebra, Brown Hyena and the list goes on!)

How far is Pilanesberg from Johannesburg? 

From Sandton to the Manyane Gate, it is about 163 km. From OR Tambo Airport to Manyane Gate, it is about 211 km.

Does Pilanesberg allow day visitors? 

Yes, visitors are allowed on Day Safaris From Johannesburg.

Can you go on a safari from Johannesburg? 

Absolutely! You can definitely go on a safari from Johannesburg. Located in the heart of South Africa, Johannesburg serves as a fantastic gateway to some of the most exciting African safari experiences. Whether you're looking for a thrilling solo adventure or a memorable family trip, there are numerous safari options you can visit. From the world-renowned Kruger National Park to private game reserves, you’ll have the chance to see Africa's Big Five and immerse yourself in the beauty of the South African landscape. An African safari is truly an experience of a lifetime!

What time is pick-up?

  Pick-up is usually at 05:30 AM. Exact pick-up location and final time are confirmed in your booking email.

Where do you pick up from?

 We collect from Johannesburg hotels, guesthouses and agreed meeting points. Enter your pickup address when booking.

What transport is used to the park?

Transport is by minibus or minivan shared with other guests.

Is the tour shared or private?

Standard departures are shared. Private transfers or vehicle upgrades can be arranged on request for an extra charge.

What does the day include?

Return transport, park entry, an experienced guide, open vehicle game drives and a light lunch.

What wildlife might I see?

Pilanesberg hosts the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, rhino) plus giraffe, zebra, hippo, hyena and abundant birdlife. Sightings cannot be guaranteed.

How long is the drive from Johannesburg?

The drive is about 2.5 - 3 hours each way depending on traffic and pickup location.

When are game drives conducted and how long are they?

Game drives take place during the morning and mid-day periods in the park; total wildlife-viewing time is typically 5 hours within the full-day itinerary.

Is food and drink provided?

Light lunch and bottled water are included. Inform us of any dietary requirements when booking.

Can you accommodate dietary requirements?

Yes — please notify us at booking of vegetarian, vegan or allergy needs.

What should I bring and wear?

Neutral layered clothing, sunhat, sunscreen, closed comfortable shoes, binoculars, camera, ID or passport.

Are vehicles wheelchair/stroller accessible?

Minibuses/minivans have steps and limited space; they are not fully wheelchair-accessible. Contact us with specific accessibility needs.

Are restroom stops available?

Yes — restroom stops are made at park facilities or lodges during the day.

What are the safety rules?

Follow your guide’s instructions at all times. Do not exit the vehicle inside the park or feed/approach wildlife.

What is the cancellation policy?

Free cancellation or amendments up to 24 hours before the tour start. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur full or partial charges per booking terms.