
1 / 10About this activity
Embark on a full-day open-air safari through Pilanesberg Nature Reserve, a malaria-free wildlife sanctuary near Johannesburg where you can encounter the Big Five in their natural habitat. Small-group tours (max 10 passengers) with expertly trained guides maximize sighting opportunities and immersive experience.
Come and experience the wonders of the Pilanesberg Nature reserve in full day open safari drive . Have the opportunity to view the big 5 (lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo, and leopard), up close and personal.
We collect everyone from there hotels in or Pretoria Johannesburg around 530 to 6 am before we head out on safari.
We have a short stop half way to Pilanesberg for some refreshments . Our open safari experience starts around 9 am and ends around 3 pm . We do have a 1 hour lunch stop at the Pilanesberg Center over looking a small watering hole .
We exit the park around 3 pm and estimated time of arrival back in Johannesburg is approximately 1730 to 18h00. We can have you at the airport but remember to bring your luggage with you .
Sightings in Pilanesberg are amazing . We only use small 10 seater vehicles and our guides are all extremely passionate qualified with extra in-house training
We happy when you happy and our mission is to give you the best pilanesberg experience.
Highlights
- ✓Big Five wildlife viewing (lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo, leopard)
- ✓Open-vehicle safari drives from 9 am to 3 pm
- ✓Lunch with views over a natural watering hole at Pilanesberg Centre
- ✓Small 10-seater vehicles for closer animal encounters
- ✓Hotel pickup and drop-off from Johannesburg/Pretoria
- ✓Passionate, locally-trained guides with in-house expertise
Insider tips
- ★Request a window seat or front position in the vehicle for unobstructed wildlife photography
- ★Bring binoculars and a camera with a good zoom lens; morning light (9–11 am) offers best photography conditions
- ★The watering hole lunch spot is active in afternoon heat—pack patience for potential Big Five activity nearby
- ★Ask your guide about recent track sightings en route; they adjust drive routes daily based on animal movement patterns
Good to know
- •Hotel pickup begins 5:30–6:00 am; confirm your hotel location when booking
- •Midway refreshment stop en route to the reserve; bring cash for optional purchases
- •Malaria-free zone; no antimalarial medication required
- •Wear neutral, layered clothing; mornings are cool, afternoons warm; sunscreen and hat essential
- •Airport drop-off available—bring luggage with you if needed; advise driver in advance
Who it's for
Best time to visit
Year-round destination, though dry season (May–September) offers the best game viewing as animals congregate around water sources. Early morning drives (starting 9 am) provide cooler conditions and more active wildlife.











