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Introduction
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.
Tour Overview
Day Safari Near Johannesburg Big Cats Game Drive by Africa Moja Tours & Safaris offers an exciting wildlife experience just a short drive from Johannesburg. This full-day tour includes guided game drives with opportunities to see lions, cheetahs, leopards, and other African wildlife in a natural reserve setting—perfect for travellers looking to combine a safari adventure with convenience.
Tour Highlights
- Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve
- Safari Day Trip
- Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve
Why Choose This Day Safari?
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
What You’ll Experience
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:
- Sightings of white rhinos, buffalo, black wildebeest, eland, sable, and ostrich
- The opportunity to witness the thrilling predator feeding session (on scheduled days)
- A visit to the animal crèche (seasonal) to see baby animals and learn about conservation
- Time to explore the reptile park or relax in the reserve’s natural surrounds
Detailed Itinerary
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.
Itinerary
- Morning Safari (09:30 – 11:30): Lion & Safari Park Adventure
- Arrive at the famous Lion & Safari Park, located near Lanseria Airport, one of the most accessible wildlife reserves close to Johannesburg.
- What to Expect:
- Embark on a 2-hour guided safari drive in an open-sided vehicle with a professional wildlife ranger.
- Spot lions, including rare white lions, cheetahs, African wild dogs, hyenas, giraffes, wildebeest, impalas, springbok, kudu, and more.
- Learn about the animals’ behavior, hunting styles, and conservation stories directly from your experienced guide.
- Early Afternoon (12:00 – 13:30): Short Transfer to Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve and Lunch
- After lunch, you’ll take a short, scenic 30-minute drive through the rolling hills of the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Your guide will point out fascinating facts about the region, known not only for wildlife but also for archaeological discoveries that trace human origins back millions of years.
- Mid-Afternoon (14:00 – 16:00): Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve Exploration
- This portion of your safari day is focused on larger animals, conservation, and predator behavior.
- Activities Include:
- Guided Drive (Game Viewing): Explore the reserve in your vehicle (driven by your guide) with stops to observe white rhinos, black rhinos, Cape buffalo, and various species of plains game like eland, sable antelope, zebra, blesbok, and ostriches.
- Predator Feeding Experience (Available on specific days, usually around 3:00 PM): Witness an intense and awe-inspiring feeding of lions, cheetahs, and African wild dogs as they demonstrate their natural hunting instincts in a controlled environment.
- Visit the Animal Crèche (seasonal): Learn about the breeding and rehabilitation of young animals, often including baby warthogs, antelope, and occasionally big cats.
- Reptile Park (Optional): A great stop for reptile enthusiasts, home to various snakes, crocodiles, and tortoise’s native to Southern Africa.
- Late Afternoon (16:15 – 17:30): Return Transfer to Johannesburg
- After a full day of unforgettable wildlife experiences, your Africa Moja Tours & Safaris guide will drive you back to your hotel or drop-off point in Johannesburg or Sandton.
Frequently Asked Questions
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
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DepartureJohannesburg Hotels and Accommodation
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Departure Time8.00 am
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Return Time17.00
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IncludedProfessional guided safari tours at Lion & Safari Park and Rhino & Lion Nature ReservePickup and drop-off from Johannesburg, Sandton, and nearby accommodationsTransportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle throughout the dayEntrance fees and permits for both Lion Park Johannesburg Safari and Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve TourSafari drives in open or closed vehicles for wildlife viewing and photographyGiraffe feeding experience at Lion & Safari Park or Rhino and LionPredator feeding viewing at Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve (subject to schedule)Bottled water during the tourExpert commentary and assistance from trained Africa Moja Tours & Safaris guidesAssistance with lunch arrangements at the Rhino & Lion Neck and Deck restaurant (meal not included)All applicable taxes and park fee
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Not IncludedMeals and drinks (lunch is at your own expense)Gratuities/tips for guides and drivers (optional but appreciated)Any additional transfers outside Johannesburg, Sandton, or Pretoria (extra charges may apply)Souvenirs or personal shopping expenses
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Tours and Safaris
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