Tour details
Experience the best of South African wildlife on this immersive Pilanesberg National Park safari, a three-day adventure filled with breathtaking landscapes, thrilling game drives, and luxurious accommodations. Your journey begins with a scenic transfer from Johannesburg to Pilanesberg Safari Park, where you’ll settle into a private safari lodge before heading out on an afternoon game drive. Led by expert guides, you’ll explore the vast Pilanesberg Nature Reserve safari, keeping an eye out for Africa’s legendary Big 5—elephants, lions, rhinos, buffalos, and leopards—as well as an array of other fascinating wildlife. As the sun sets, take in the stunning golden hues of the reserve before returning to the lodge for a delicious dinner and a restful night.
Day two offers an early morning Pilanesberg game reserve safari, the perfect opportunity to witness predators returning from their nighttime hunts. After breakfast, enjoy leisure time at the lodge before setting off on another exciting afternoon game drive, where you’ll visit waterholes and open plains teeming with wildlife. With the magnificent African sunset as your backdrop, capture incredible photos before returning to the lodge for a relaxing evening under the stars.
On the final day, embark on one last early morning Pilanesberg safari, giving you a final chance to spot any elusive animals and soak in the beauty of the African bush at sunrise. After breakfast, bid farewell to the reserve and journey back to Johannesburg, ending your safari with unforgettable memories and spectacular wildlife encounters. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike, this Pilanesberg Nature Reserve safari offers the ultimate blend of luxury, relaxation, and world-class wildlife viewing.
Tour Highlights
- Pilanesberg National Park
- Afternoon and Morning Game Drives
- Big 5 Wildlife Viewing
- Scenic Landscapes
- Luxury Safari Lodge Accommodation
Day 1
Your journey begins with an early morning pick-up from your hotel or Johannesburg Airport. Sit back and enjoy a scenic 2.5-hour drive to Pilanesberg Safari Park, passing through breathtaking landscapes and diverse South African flora and fauna along the way. Upon arrival, check in at your private game lodge—Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge or Tshukudu Bush Lodge—both offering a perfect blend of luxury and adventure in the heart of the wilderness.
In the afternoon, embark on your first Pilanesberg Game Reserve safari at 3:00 p.m., where expert guides will lead you through vast open plains and key waterholes frequented by wildlife. As the sun sets over the African bush, take in the stunning golden hues of the landscape and capture sightings of majestic elephants, powerful lions, and elusive rhinos in their natural habitat. After an exciting day of exploration, return to the lodge for a delightful dinner and a peaceful overnight stay, surrounded by the sounds of the wild.
Overnight: Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge or Tshukudu Bush Lodge
Day 2
Morning Safari
Start your adventure with an early morning Pilanesberg day safari at 5:00 a.m., the prime time to witness predators like lions, leopards, and hyenas returning from their nocturnal hunts. As the sun rises over the vast plains, the park comes alive with activity, offering incredible photo opportunities of the Big 5 and other wildlife. After this exhilarating experience, return to the lodge for a hearty breakfast and some well-deserved leisure time to relax and soak in the tranquil surroundings.
Afternoon Safari
Following a delicious lunch and some downtime at the lodge, prepare for another exciting Pilanesberg day tour with a 3:00 p.m. game drive. As the afternoon unfolds, explore new areas of the park, visit waterholes frequented by elephants and other animals, and take in the breathtaking sunset that transforms the landscape into a golden masterpiece. This is your chance to capture the beauty of the African bush while spotting more wildlife in their natural habitat. After an eventful day, return to the lodge to enjoy a sumptuous dinner and unwind under the starry African sky.
Overnight: Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge or Tshukudu Bush Lodge
Day 3
Begin your last day with an early 5:00 a.m. game drive, your final opportunity to explore the breathtaking wilderness of Pilanesberg. This morning safari offers a chance to spot any elusive wildlife you may have missed, all while witnessing the stunning African sunrise casting golden hues over the landscape. Capture your last moments of this incredible adventure as the park comes to life with the sights and sounds of nature.
After your safari, return to the lodge for a delicious breakfast before checking out. With your camera full of unforgettable memories, bid farewell to the remarkable wildlife and scenery of Pilanesberg. Your journey back to Johannesburg marks the end of this extraordinary safari experience, with drop-off at your hotel or the airport, ensuring a seamless conclusion to your adventure.
Unforgettable 3-Day Pilanesberg Safari with Africa Moja Tours & Safaris
There’s something magical about waking up to the sounds of the African bush—the distant roar of a lion, the rustling of leaves as elephants pass by, and birdsong welcoming the sunrise. You don’t need to travel far to experience it. A 3 day Pilanesberg Safari offers you the thrill of a Big Five adventure just a few hours from Johannesburg. This is not just a safari; it’s a short, luxurious escape into untamed Africa.
Africa Moja Tours ensures a seamless journey, and your base for this adventure, the renowned Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge, provides comfort, elegance, and a true connection to the wild.
Why Pilanesberg for a 3-Day Safari?
Close to Johannesburg, Worlds Away from City Life
Pilanesberg National Park is ideally situated just 2.5 hours from Johannesburg and Pretoria. Unlike Kruger, which often requires flights or long drives, Pilanesberg is perfect for travellers who want a short safari near Johannesburg that still delivers big on wildlife and scenery.
Malaria-Free & Family-Friendly
One of the park’s major draws is its malaria-free status, making it a safe option for families, seniors, and first-time safari-goers.
Rich Wildlife & Scenic Beauty
Pilanesberg is home to over 7,000 animals, including the Big Five (lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo, and rhino), as well as cheetahs, hippos, giraffes, antelope species, and an astonishing variety of birds. The park’s diverse ecosystem, formed within the crater of an ancient volcano, creates a dramatic and photogenic backdrop for every game drive.
Your 3-Day Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & First Encounter with the Wild
• Pickup by Africa Moja Tours from Johannesburg or Pretoria in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle
• Scenic transfer to Pilanesberg with en-route commentary about the region and the park
• Check-in at Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge
• Enjoy a light lunch on the deck overlooking the bush
• Afternoon game drive led by a certified guide—keep your eyes peeled for elephants, lions, and possibly a leopard lurking near the waterholes
• Return to the lodge for a delicious dinner and unwind around the fireplace or at the bar
Optional: Night safari available on request for a chance to spot nocturnal creatures like hyenas or owls
Day 2: Deep Dive into the Wilderness
• Early morning game drive—a golden opportunity to witness the predators’ movements and herds gathering at waterholes
• Return for a hearty breakfast buffet
• Leisure time: unwind at the spa, cool off in the swimming pool, or walk through the underground tunnel leading to a hidden wildlife viewing hide
• After lunch, join an afternoon game drive exploring new parts of the park with chances to spot elusive wildlife like cheetahs or rhinos
• Dinner in the boma (weather permitting), enjoying traditional South African cuisine under the stars
Day 3: Final Safari Moments & Departure
• Optional sunrise game drive for those wanting one last immersion into the bush
• Return for breakfast and pack up with amazing stories and photos to take home
• Depart with Africa Moja Tours, arriving in Johannesburg or Pretoria by early afternoon
Accommodation Highlight: Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge
Set on the edge of Pilanesberg National Park, Kwa Maritane—meaning “Place of the Rock”—blends luxury and wilderness with impeccable style. Whether you’re sipping wine on your balcony or watching elephants gather at the waterhole, every moment feels intimate and extraordinary.
Lodge Features:
• Luxury rooms with en-suite bathrooms, air-conditioning, and private patios or balconies
• Viewing hide connected via underground tunnel, offering up-close, safe wildlife experiences
• On-site spa and wellness center
• Outdoor swimming pool, bush boma, and restaurant with panoramic views
• Family rooms and kids’ activities available
Whether you’re a couple on a romantic escape or a family seeking adventure, Kwa Maritane offers the perfect base.
Why Travel with Africa Moja Tours?
As a leading South African tour operator, Africa Moja Tours specializes in custom safari experiences and guided tours that prioritize comfort, convenience, and conservation. When you book your 3 day Pilanesberg safari with them, you’re guaranteed:
• Private or group tour options
• Professional, friendly guides
• Reliable door-to-door transport
• 24/7 support during your journey
• Optional add-ons to Sun City, Cradle of Humankind, or cultural villages
Their experience and dedication ensure that every part of your trip flows smoothly—from booking to game drives to your return journey.
Packing Tips for Your Safari
• Neutral-colored clothing for blending into the bush
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat
• Camera with zoom lens or binoculars
• A light jacket for early morning and evening drives
• Closed shoes for walking safaris or optional bush walks
Best Time to Visit Pilanesberg
Pilanesberg is a year round safari destination, but each season offers a unique experience:
• May–September (Dry Season): Excellent game viewing; animals congregate at waterholes
• October–April (Wet Season): Lush landscapes, migratory birds, and baby animals abound
Book Your Pilanesberg Safari Today
A 3 day Pilanesberg Safari is more than a short break—it’s an immersive journey into South Africa’s rich biodiversity and natural wonder. With luxury accommodation at Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge and the expertise of Africa Moja Tours, your safari adventure will be seamless, safe, and spectacular.
Ready to explore? Contact Africa Moja Tours now and secure your spot in the wild.
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IncludedPick-ups and drop-offs2x Afternoon Game Drives2x Morning Game DrivesDinner, Breakfast, and LunchGuideOvernight Accommodation at Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge or Tshukudu Bush Lodge
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Not IncludedExtrasDrinks and Alcoholic DrinksGratuities
