Tour details
Embark on a luxury African adventure with the 4-Day Exclusive Mbazo Safari Lodge Experience, a premier private safari from Johannesburg curated by the trusted experts at Africa Moja Tours & Safaris. Located in the Black Rhino Game Reserve, a private concession within the malaria-free Pilanesberg National Park, this escape blends Big 5 game viewing, luxury accommodation, and immersive bush experiences—all just 2 hours from Johannesburg.
This handcrafted itinerary includes private transfers from your hotel or OR Tambo International Airport, courtesy of Africa Moja Tours, ensuring a stress-free journey from city to safari. Upon arrival at Mbazo Safari Lodge, you’ll enter a world of exclusivity with only five luxurious suites designed for personalized service and ultimate relaxation.
Each eco-luxury suite features a private viewing deck, indoor and outdoor showers, a wood-fired hot tub, and panoramic views over the African bushveld—perfect for couples, honeymooners, or anyone seeking intimate safari accommodation in South Africa.
Throughout your stay, enjoy twice-daily open-vehicle game drives with expert rangers who will guide you through Pilanesberg’s volcanic crater landscapes in search of the Big 5—lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo—as well as giraffe, cheetah, hippo, and over 300 bird species. Optional walking safaris, photographic stops, and sundowner moments elevate your wilderness experience.
Back at the lodge, indulge in gourmet South African cuisine, featuring local flavors and fine wines, served under the stars or in the elegant main lodge. Rejuvenate with spa treatments, cool off in the infinity pool, or stargaze by the boma fire as nocturnal calls echo through the bush.
With Africa Moja Tours & Safaris, all logistics are handled—from round-trip transfers from Johannesburg, lodge bookings, meals, and custom safari planning. Their knowledgeable team ensures a seamless, safe, and enriching luxury safari experience in one of South Africa’s top private game reserves.
Tour Highlights
- Mbazo Safari Lodge
- Pilanesberg National Park
- Big Five Game Drives
- South African Cuisine
- Black Rhino Game Reserve
Day 1: Arrival at Mbazo & First Bushveld Immersion
Morning/Early Afternoon (JNB/Johannesburg Departure & Transfer):
- Your professional Africa Moja Tours & Safaris guide will meet you at OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) upon your arrival, or pick you up from your designated Johannesburg accommodation in a comfortable, air- conditioned vehicle.o Enjoy a scenic road transfer (approximately 2.5 – 3 hours) to Mbazo Safari Lodge, located within the Black Rhino Game Reserve, an exclusive section of the malaria-free Pilanesberg National Park.
Afternoon (Lodge Welcome & Afternoon Game Drive):
- Arrive at the exquisite Mbazo Safari Lodge. You’ll be warmly greeted by the lodge staff, and offered a refreshing welcome drink.
- Check into your luxurious and intimate suite, designed with natural elements and offering stunning views of the surrounding bushveld.
- Enjoy a light lunch.
- Later in the afternoon, embark on your first thrilling game drive in an open 4×4 safari vehicle. Your expert field guide and tracker will lead you through the Black Rhino Game Reserve and into the greater Pilanesberg National Park, searching for the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, buffalo) and other diverse wildlife.
- Stop at a scenic spot for traditional sundowners, watching the African sun dip below the horizon.
Evening (Bush Cuisine & Stargazing):
- Return to the lodge as darkness falls.
- Enjoy a gourmet dinner at Mbazo, often served in the elegant dining area or under the stars in the traditional boma, accompanied by the sounds of the African wilderness. Mbazo is known for its exquisite bush cuisine.
- After dinner, take some time to marvel at the incredible stargazing opportunities under the unpolluted African sky.
Day 2: Deep Bush Immersion & Personalized Experiences
Early Morning (Morning Game Drive & Bush Breakfast):
- Wake before dawn with a warm beverage. Head out on your early morning game drive. This time of day is prime for predator sightings as they are most active. Your guide will track fresh prints and listen for alarm calls.
- You might enjoy a surprise “bush breakfast” out in the reserve, a truly memorable authentic safari experience.
Late Morning (Leisure & Lodge Amenities):
- Return to the lodge for a more formal breakfast if you didn’t have a bush breakfast.
- Spend your mid-morning at leisure. Relax by the infinity swimming pool with panoramic views, perhaps spot animals from the lodge’s main deck overlooking a waterhole, or indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment (optional, extra cost) in the comfort of your suite.
Lunch (Lodge Lunch):
- Enjoy a delicious lunch at the lodge.
Afternoon (Second Game Drive or Guided Bush Walk):
- Option A: Afternoon Game Drive: Embark on another extensive afternoon game drive, exploring different sections of the Black Rhino Reserve and Pilanesberg, increasing your chances of spotting a wider variety of wildlife and unique species.
- Option B: Guided Bush Walk: For a different perspective and deeper connection with nature, opt for a guided bush walk with an armed ranger (subject to availability and age restrictions – check Mbazo’s child policy if applicable). Learn about tracking, smaller creatures, local flora, and the intricate ecosystem of the bushveld.
Evening (Private Dining Option & Night Sounds):
- Return to the lodge for a sundowner drink.
- Tonight, you might opt for a private dinner on your suite’s veranda, for a romantic and exclusive experience (subject to arrangement).
- Enjoy the serene sounds of the African night from your luxurious surroundings.
Day 3: Further Exploration & Wildlife Wonders
Early Morning (Final Morning Game Drive):
- Your last full day begins with a final early morning game drive. This is your opportunity to seek out any elusive animals you haven’t yet seen or simply spend more time with your favorite sightings.
Lunch (Lodge Lunch):
- Return to the lodge for a delicious lunch.
Afternoon (Leisure & Photography Review):
- Enjoy a relaxed afternoon. Perhaps revisit the main lodge area, download and review your wildlife photography, or simply enjoy the tranquility and comfort of your suite. Mbazo’s intimate setting is perfect for true relaxation.
Evening (Farewell Dinner & Storytelling):
- Tonight, enjoy a memorable farewell dinner at the lodge. Share your favorite safari stories and reflect on the incredible wildlife experiences you’ve had. The personalized service at Mbazo ensures a warm and intimate conclusion to your stay.
Day 4: Last Moments & Departure
Morning (Leisurely Breakfast & Departure Preparation):
- Enjoy a final, leisurely breakfast at Mbazo Safari Lodge.
- Complete your check-out procedures.
Late Morning (Transfer to JNB/Johannesburg):
- Your Africa Moja Tours & Safaris guide will pick you up from Mbazo Safari Lodge for your comfortable road transfer back to OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) for your departure, or to your designated Johannesburg accommodation.
- Depart with cherished memories of your luxurious and wild Mbazo Safari Lodge adventure.
FAQs – 4-Day Exclusive Mbazo Safari Lodge Safari with Africa Moja Tours & Safaris
Mbazo Safari Lodge is situated in the Black Rhino Game Reserve, a private concession in the Pilanesberg National Park, North West Province, South Africa.
It’s approximately 2 to 2.5 hours’ drive from Johannesburg, and transfers are provided by Africa Moja Tours & Safaris.
Yes. Pilanesberg Game Reserve is a malaria-free area, making it ideal for couples, families, and international visitors who prefer safaris without anti-malaria medication.
The standard Mbazo safari package with Africa Moja Tours includes:
• Round-trip Johannesburg to Pilanesberg transfers
• 3 nights’ accommodation at Mbazo Safari Lodge
• All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
• Twice-daily guided game drives
• Optional bush walks or sundowners
• Park fees and conservation levies
Additional options such as spa treatments, alcoholic beverages, and gratuities are excluded unless specified.
This area offers Big 5 game viewing—lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo— as well as giraffes, cheetahs, hyenas, hippos, zebras, jackals, warthogs, and over 300 bird species. Private game drives often yield exceptional sightings due to the limited number of vehicles on the reserve.
Mbazo Safari Lodge is a boutique luxury lodge with only five suites, offering a personalized and intimate safari experience. It features eco-luxury design, wood-fired hot tubs, organic architecture, and exceptional culinary offerings—making it one of the most exclusive lodges in the region.
Yes, complimentary Wi-Fi is available in guest suites and common areas, though speeds may vary depending on weather and location.
Absolutely. This is one of the top romantic safari getaways near Johannesburg.
With private suites, spa services, stargazing decks, and secluded bush dining, it’s ideal for honeymoons, anniversaries, or luxury romantic escapes.
Yes, two guided game drives per day are included in your stay. Drives are led by professional rangers in open safari vehicles, allowing for excellent wildlife viewing and photo opportunities.
Yes. Mbazo Safari Lodge offers guided bush walks led by qualified armed rangers.
These walking safaris in Pilanesberg offer a unique opportunity to learn about tracks, plants, and animal behavior up close.
• Neutral, lightweight clothing (and warmer layers for mornings)
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brim hat
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Insect repellent (malaria-free, but bugs still exist)
• Camera and binoculars
• Swimwear and personal toiletries
• Small daypack
Mbazo primarily caters to adult guests and couples seeking a quiet, exclusive experience. It may not be suitable for young children, but Africa Moja Tours offers alternative family-friendly safari packages in Pilanesberg.
Booking is easy via the Africa Moja Tours & Safaris website, email, or phone.
Their team will assist with itinerary planning, accommodation, transfers, and any additional add-ons like spa treatments or private dinners.
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IncludedRound-trip Johannesburg to Pilanesberg transfers3 nights’ accommodation at Mbazo Safari LodgeAll meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)Twice-daily guided game drivesOptional bush walks or sundownersPark fees and conservation levies
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Not Includedspa treatmentsalcoholic beveragesgratuities
