Experience South Africa’s Wildlife Close to the City with Africa Moja Tours & Safaris
Looking for the best day safari near Johannesburg without the need for long-distance travel or overnight stays in the bush? The Johannesburg Safari Day Trip – Big Cats & Game Drive is your perfect solution. Expertly organized by Africa Moja Tours & Safaris, this immersive, full-day wildlife adventure takes you to two of Gauteng’s most exciting conservation destinations: the Lion & Safari Park and the Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve, both located within easy reach of Johannesburg, Sandton, and Pretoria.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor to South Africa, a traveler on a layover at OR Tambo International Airport, or a family looking for an educational wildlife experience, this Johannesburg lion safari tour offers unforgettable sightings and authentic encounters — all in just one day.
Unlike traditional safaris that require days of travel to reach remote national parks, this South Africa day safari experience gives you all the thrills of a Big Five-style safari just a short drive from the city. It’s ideal for:
• Travelers on tight schedules
• Families with children
• Corporate groups
• Visitors staying in Sandton, Johannesburg, or Pretoria
• Anyone looking for a convenient Gauteng safari day trip
Lion & Safari Park – Predator Encounters & Giraffe Feeding
Kick off your adventure with a visit to the renowned Lion & Safari Park, located near Lanseria Airport. Here, you’ll enjoy:
• A guided game drive in an open safari vehicle
• Close-up views of white lions, brown lions, cheetahs, wild dogs, hyenas, and more
• The unforgettable chance to hand-feed giraffes — a favorite for kids and photographers
• Optional activities such as lion cub interaction (subject to ethical guidelines and availability)
• Time to browse the curio shop and take photos with panoramic views
Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve – Cradle of Humankind Safari
Continue your journey into the scenic Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for a guided tour through the Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve. Highlights include:
Early Morning (08:00 – 09:15): Hotel Pickup & Scenic TransferYour safari experience begins with a warm welcome from your Africa Moja Tours & Safaris guide, who will collect you from your hotel or accommodation in Sandton, Johannesburg, or surrounding areas in a clean, air-conditioned vehicle.
• Enjoy the scenic drive as you head north out of the city, passing local neighbourhoods, open countryside, and views of the Magaliesberg Mountains.
• During the drive, your guide will share insights into the region’s wildlife, conservation efforts, and the historical importance of the areas you’ll be visiting.
Optional: Pickup from OR Tambo International Airport or Pretoria can be arranged at an additional cost.
OR Tambo International or Hotel or accommodation in Sandton, Johannesburg
07:00am
OR Tambo International or Hotel or accommodation in Sandton, Johannesburg
Not a full Big Five safari, but this Johannesburg safari day trip offers close encounters with big cats, including lions and cheetahs, along with white rhinos, buffalo, and antelope. It’s one of the best South Africa day safari experiences for travelers short on time and wanting to see wildlife near the city.
Both the Lion Park Johannesburg Safari and the Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve Tour are conveniently located within 1 to 1.5 hours from Johannesburg and Sandton. This makes it perfect for a day safari from Sandton or anywhere in Gauteng.
Yes! Africa Moja Tours & Safaris includes door-to-door transport in all our Johannesburg wildlife tour full day packages. We collect from hotels, Airbnbs, and guesthouses in Johannesburg, Sandton, and nearby suburbs.
Absolutely. This is a great safari tour from OR Tambo Airport if you have a long layover.
We’ll pick you up and drop you back in time for your flight, giving you a mini escape into South African wildlife.
Yes. Africa Moja Tours can arrange pick-up from Pretoria at an additional fee. It’s an ideal option for guests based in the capital looking for a quick Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve tour or a wildlife safari from Gauteng.
Yes! This is one of the most family-friendly Gauteng safari day trips available. Kids love the giraffe feeding, lion sightings, and the animal crèche experience. It’s educational, safe, and fun for all ages.
Definitely. The Johannesburg lion safari tour includes up-close sightings of white lions, brown lions, and cheetahs. Both wildlife reserves focus on predator conservation, offering one of the most exciting predator safari tours near Johannesburg.
Yes. We offer group discounts on all safari tours with Africa Moja Tours, whether you’re a family, school group, or corporate team. It’s a cost-effective way to enjoy the best day safari near Johannesburg together.
Lunch is not included in the base package. However, we stop at a restaurant inside the Lion & Safari Park that offers a wide selection of local and international dishes. It’s a great place to relax and discuss your Johannesburg safari day trip highlights.
Predator feeding at the Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve usually takes place at 3:00 PM on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. This makes it a key highlight of your South Africa day safari experience, and your guide will plan the timing to ensure you don’t miss it.
We recommend:
• A camera or phone for capturing wildlife moments
• Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
• Comfortable clothing and walking shoes
• A light jacket (especially during cooler months)
• Some cash or card for lunch, souvenirs, or optional activities
