Located just 10 minutes from Sun City, Pilanesberg National Park is one of South Africa’s top safari destinations, offering luxury travellers a chance to explore the African wilderness in a malaria-free environment. Spanning 55,000 hectares within an ancient volcanic crater, the park is home to the Big Five alongside cheetah, giraffe, zebra, hippo, and over 360 bird species.
Game drives are the most popular way to explore the reserve, typically offered in the early morning and late afternoon when wildlife activity peaks. Guests are taken in open 4×4 safari vehicles with professional guides who interpret the landscape, track animals, and provide expert insights throughout the experience. Drives usually last 3 to 5 hours and can be arranged as shared or private excursions, depending on guest preference.
Most luxury lodges in and around Pilanesberg, including Bakubung Bush Lodge and Kwa Maritane, offer game drives as part of their guest packages. Alternatively, independent safari operators within the park provide professionally guided game drives departing from key gates, including Bakubung and Manyane. A Pilanesberg game drive is an ideal addition to any Sun City stay, offering unforgettable wildlife encounters just a short distance from world-class accommodation and golf.