Explore the majestic Pilanesberg

Situated alongside Sun City Resort, the Pilanesberg National Park is home to the largest collection of animals indegenous to Southern Africa. Known as ‘Big 5 Country’, the park spans 55 hectares of dormant volcanic terrain, and offers uninterrupted game viewing for wildlife enthusiasts and those wanting a slice of the African bush on their Sun City holiday.

The Pilanesberg was officially opened in 1979, which coincided with the launch of Sun City after its founder Sol Kerzner secured the rights to build the resort adjacent to the park. Shortly after opening, over 6 000 species of game were expropriated to the park which today remains one of the largest game resettlement projects in South Africa.

With the chance to see Africa’s Big Five in their natural habitat, the Pilanesberg National Park offers uninterrupted game-viewing with Sun City on your doorstep. Home to over 7 000 animals and 300 bird species, wildlife lovers can view all of the Big 5 (lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo, and leopard) and a myriad game – including zebra, hyena, giraffe, hippo, cheetah, crocodile, antelope, springbok and many other types of Southern African buck.

The Pilanesberg National Park is a haven for bird-watchers who have the chance to view over 300 recorded bird species on their bird-spotting expeditions, and the park offers the choice of self-drive tours or guided safari trips with Mankwe Gametrackers.

Whether you opt for the 5am game drive or the afternoon “sundowner session”, you can explore the magnificent Pilanesberg Game Reserve from the comfort of your own car, or you can schedule a guided safari tour with Mankwe Gametrackers.

Scheduled game drives take place daily in a 25-seater open-game drive vehicle and can be booked at Sun City’s Welcome Centre at least three hours prior to departure.

To add to your safari experience, Mankwe Gametrackers also offer rhino-notching tours, hot air balloon trips, and mountain bike safaris.