Pilanesberg National Park

Overview

Situated close to the infamous Sun City resort, Pilanesberg National Park is a treasure trove of over 7 000 animals, with the Big Five, namely lions, rhinos, leopards, buffaloes, and elephants, being among them. 24 species of large mammals, including hippos, giraffes, and zebras, and over 360 bird species call this place home.

What makes Pilanesberg National Park’s geology so unique is the fact that it was formed by a volcanic eruption 1.2 billion years ago. The diverse landscape of grasslands and valleys provides a diverse habitat for all wildlife.

Visitors can enjoy guided game drives or self-drive safaris to view wildlife up close. A unique experience awaits those that want take a hot air balloon ride over the national park, offering memorable moments to cherish. 

Like all other national parks in South Africa, Pilanesberg National Park also implements great conservation strategies that include reintroducing native species and anti-poaching initiatives. A conservation effort for which this park is well-known is Operation Genesis. This ambitious project was launched in 1979 to reinforce the homegrown game population in the area. Besides putting up a game fence, the next plan of action was to introduce 6 000 animals to the area. It was later expanded to where it is today with over 7 000 animals and 360 bird species. 

Various accommodation options are available to visitors, from luxury lodges to chalets and campsites. Being adjacent to Sun City Resort, visitors can experience the best of both worlds with additional entertainment options provided by the resort.