Located in the crater of an extinct volcano, Pilanesberg is South Africa's third largest national park and offers fantastic (malaria-free) viewing of the 'Big Five' (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo), as well as an extensive range of other species which formerly occurred naturally in the region, like baboon, giraffe, hippo, zebra, crocodile, sable, cheetah, springbok, warthogs and many more.
In a nutshell
The 50,000-hectare landscape is rugged and diverse, with well-watered valleys and ancient crater walls providing a wide range of habitats for game animals. Pilanesberg National Park also boasts a man-made lake - Mankwe, which is a great place to spot hippo, crocodile and some of the 300 plus species of birds which make their home here. Bird lovers will also enjoy the extensive walk-through aviary at Manyane Gate - here there's a 'vulture restaurant' which was created to help save the endangered cape vulture from extinction.
Sightseeing ideas
- Go on elephant-back safaris.
- Look out for the 'Big Five'.
- Visit the Manyani Gate aviary.
Getting there
The best way to access Pilanesberg National Park is by car from Johannesburg. Alternatively, take private transfers from the airport.