Tour details
Discover the ultimate African wilderness experience on a 3-day safari getaway from Johannesburg to Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge, organized by the trusted experts at Africa Moja Tours & Safaris. Nestled within the breathtaking Pilanesberg National Park, a malaria-free game reserve located just a 2-hour drive from Johannesburg, this safari offers the perfect combination of convenience, luxury, and wildlife adventure.
Your journey begins with a scenic transfer from Johannesburg, provided by Africa Moja Tours, renowned for their reliable service and knowledgeable local guides.
Upon arrival at Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge, you’ll be welcomed into a world where modern comfort meets untamed nature. This family-friendly lodge features air- conditioned rooms, a spa, a swimming pool, and an underground wildlife hide that lets you observe animals up close — day or night.
Over the course of three unforgettable days, you’ll explore Pilanesberg’s rich biodiversity on multiple guided game drives in open safari vehicles, led by professional rangers. With a bit of luck, you’ll spot the Big 5 — lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo — along with over 300 species of birds and a wide variety of plains game including giraffes, zebras, and antelopes. Each day includes morning and afternoon game drives, giving you the best chances to witness Africa’s wildlife in their natural habitat.
Evenings are spent enjoying delicious South African cuisine at the lodge’s restaurant or boma, under the starlit African sky. Whether you’re a first-time visitor to South Africa or a seasoned safari enthusiast, this 3-day Pilanesberg safari is designed to deliver an authentic, safe, and unforgettable bush experience without the need for long-distance travel or malaria medication.
With Africa Moja Tours & Safaris, every detail is taken care of — from round-trip transfers and park fees to lodge bookings and game drive scheduling. All you have to do is relax and enjoy the wild beauty of Pilanesberg.
Tour Highlights
- Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge
- Pilanesberg National Park
- Big Five Game Drives
- South African Cuisine
Day 1: Journey to the Bush & First Safari Thrills
Morning (09:00 AM – 11:30 AM): Johannesburg Departure & Scenic Transfer
- Your Africa Moja Tours & Safaris professional guide will pick you up from your Sandton, Johannesburg accommodation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.
- Enjoy a scenic road transfer (approximately 2.5 hours) to Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge, located within the malaria-free Pilanesberg National Park. The drive offers a glimpse of the changing South African landscape.
Late Morning (11:30 AM – 12:30 PM): Arrival & Check-in
- Arrive at the beautiful Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge. You’ll be welcomed by the friendly staff.
- Check into your comfortable room or chalet, offering views of the bush. Enjoy a welcome drink and a brief orientation.
Lunch (12:30 PM – 01:30 PM): Lodge Lunch
- Enjoy a delicious lunch at the lodge’s main restaurant, often offering a buffet with a variety of local and international dishes, overlooking the stunning Pilanesberg landscape.
Afternoon (02:00 PM – 05:00 PM): Afternoon Game Drive
- After settling in, meet your expert safari ranger for your first exhilarating afternoon game drive in an open 4×4 safari vehicle.
- This is your initial opportunity to spot the renowned Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, buffalo) along with a diverse array of wildlife and bird species.
- As the sun begins to set, your guide will typically stop for a traditional sundowner drink in the bush, a quintessential African safari experience.
Evening (07:00 PM onwards): Dinner & Stargazing
- Return to the lodge for a refreshing moment before dinner.
- Enjoy a sumptuous dinner at the Kwa Lefikeng Restaurant
- Depending on the day of the week, you might experience a special themed buffet or an authentic bush boma dinner under the stars (Kwa Maritane often has Boma dinners on Wednesdays and Saturdays).
- After dinner, enjoy the tranquillity of the bush and perhaps some stargazing under the clear African sky.
Day 2: Immersive Wildlife & Lodge Delights
Early Morning (05:30 AM – 08:30 AM): Morning Game Drive
- Wake up before sunrise for coffee or tea before heading out on your early morning game drive. This is often the best time for predator sightings as they are most active during the cooler hours.
- Your ranger will focus on tracking fresh prints and listening for alarm calls, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife photography of the majestic animals in their natural habitat.
Late Morning (08:30 AM – 09:30 AM): Breakfast
- Return to the lodge for a hearty breakfast.
Lunch (12:30 PM – 01:30 PM): Lodge Lunch
- Enjoy another delicious lunch at the lodge.
Afternoon (02:00 PM – 05:00 PM): Bush Walk or Additional Activities
- Option A: Guided Bush Walk: For a different perspective, embark on a guided bush walk with an armed ranger (usually for guests 16 years and older, check lodge policy for specifics). This allows you to focus on the smaller creatures, tracks, plants, and the intricate details of the bushveld ecosystem, offering a deeper understanding of conservation.
- Option B: Leisure & Spa: If a bush walk isn’t for you, indulge in a relaxing treatment at the Kwa Maritane Spa, enjoy the lodge’s other facilities like the tennis courts or mini-golf, or simply relax and read a book.
Evening (07:00 PM onwards): Farewell Dinner
- Enjoy your farewell dinner at the lodge, reflecting on the incredible wildlife encounters and the serene beauty of the Pilanesberg.
Day 3: Final Bush Moments & Departure
Early Morning (05:30 AM – 08:30 AM): Final Morning Game Drive
- One last opportunity to soak in the sights and sounds of the African bush. Your final early morning game drive allows for those last-minute wildlife sightings or simply appreciating the tranquil atmosphere.
Late Morning (08:30 AM – 09:30 AM): Breakfast & Check-out
- Return to the lodge for your final breakfast.
- Complete your check-out procedures.
Late Morning/Afternoon (09:30 AM onwards): Transfer to Johannesburg
- Your Africa Moja Tours & Safaris guide will pick you up from Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge for your comfortable road transfer back to your accommodation in Sandton, Johannesburg (or OR Tambo International Airport if you have an onward flight).
- Depart with incredible memories of your malaria-free safari in Pilanesberg National Park.
FAQs – 3-Day Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge Safari from Johannesburg with Africa Moja Tours & Safaris
Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge is located within Pilanesberg National Park, just 2 to 2.5 hours’ drive from Johannesburg, making it a perfect weekend safari getaway. Africa Moja Tours & Safaris provides comfortable round-trip Johannesburg to Pilanesberg safari transfers.
Yes, Pilanesberg Game Reserve is one of South Africa’s premier malaria-free safari destinations, ideal for travelers seeking a safe African wildlife experience without needing anti-malaria medication.
This Big 5 safari offers excellent opportunities to see lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo, along with giraffes, zebras, hippos, cheetahs, and over 300 bird species. Game drives in Pilanesberg National Park are conducted by expert rangers in open safari vehicles.
Africa Moja Tours typically includes the following in the 3-day Pilanesberg safari from Johannesburg:
• Return transfers
• 2 nights’ accommodation at Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge
• Daily meals (half board or full board options)
• Multiple guided game drives
• All Pilanesberg park entry fees
Yes, the Kwa Maritane safari package includes open-vehicle game drives led by certified guides. Most packages feature two game drives per day, one at dawn and another in the late afternoon.
Guests stay in luxury lodge rooms or family suites with modern amenities. Kwa Maritane offers features like air-conditioning, satellite TV, and private patios, plus access to a spa, swimming pool, underground wildlife hide, and dining areas with bush views.
Yes, Kwa Maritane is a child-friendly safari lodge. It offers a safe lodge spaces, family rooms, and kid-friendly meals. It’s an ideal family safari near Johannesburg.
For this short safari from Johannesburg, pack:
• Light, neutral safari clothing
• Warm layers for chilly mornings
• Hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent
• Binoculars and a camera
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Swimwear (for the lodge pool)
Yes, Kwa Maritane Lodge can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and halal dietary requirements if notified in advance. Africa Moja Tours will help communicate your needs during booking.
Yes, complimentary Wi-Fi is available in rooms and common areas at the lodge, though speeds may vary. The lodge encourages you to relax and immerse yourself in the natural African bush environment.
While not required, travel insurance for your Pilanesberg safari is strongly recommended. It covers trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and other unforeseen events during your stay.
Booking is easy via the Africa Moja Tours & Safaris website, by phone, or email.
Their team provides secure payment options, flexible safari packages, and assistance with custom travel itineraries.
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IncludedReturn transfers2 nights’ accommodation at Kwa Maritane Bush LodgeDaily meals (half board or full board options)Multiple guided game drivesAll Pilanesberg park entry fees
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Not IncludedGratuatiesDrinks and Alcohol
