Pilanesberg Big Five day safaris from Johannesburg

Pilanesberg National Park sits in the caldera of a volcano that erupted more than 1 200 million years ago, which is why its landscape looks unlike anywhere else in South Africa: concentric rings of hills, open grass plains and rocky outcrops across some 55 000 hectares. All of the Big Five live here, together with cheetah, brown hyena, giraffe, zebra and hundreds of bird species.

Because the park is malaria-free and only about two hours from Johannesburg, it is the natural choice for families, first-time safari-goers and travellers with a single free day between flights or meetings. You get a genuine Big Five experience without committing to a multi-day trip.

We collect you from any address in Johannesburg or Pretoria, run morning and afternoon departures, and break the day with lunch at Bakubung Bush Lodge overlooking the plains before heading back out for the second drive.

What you'll experience

• Open-vehicle game drives

  Game viewing with a registered guide, with the park's ring of hills as a backdrop.

• Malaria-free

  No prophylaxis required, which makes this the safest safari option for children and older travellers.

• Lunch at Bakubung Bush Lodge

  A relaxed midday break at a lodge inside the park, with wildlife often grazing in view.

• Morning or afternoon start

  Choose a sunrise departure or a later start with an afternoon drive when predators become active.

Good to know

• — Duration: 5 to 7 hours door to door (package D4A005).
• — Collection from any accommodation address in Johannesburg or Pretoria.
• — Entrance fees, permits, lunch, bottled water and your guide are included.
• — Bring a hat, sunscreen, a light jacket and a camera with a zoom lens.

Frequently asked questions

Is Pilanesberg good for children?

Yes. It is malaria-free, the drive from Johannesburg is short and the day is paced with a proper lunch break, which makes it far easier with children than a long safari.

Can I do this on a layover?

Often, yes. Tell us your flight times when you request a quote and we will advise honestly whether the day fits.

Morning or afternoon — which is better?

Mornings are cooler with strong early activity; afternoons suit late risers and end with predators becoming active. Both include the lodge lunch.