Game ReserveBig Five
Pilanesberg Game Reserve
South Africa 572 km² (221 mi²) Est. 1979
About Pilanesberg Game Reserve
Set within the crater of an ancient volcano near Sun City, Pilanesberg is one of South Africa's most accessible Big Five reserves. The unique alkaline ring complex creates a dramatic landscape of hills, valleys, and a central lake that supports remarkable biodiversity where Kalahari and lowveld species overlap.
Just two hours from Johannesburg, Pilanesberg offers an excellent self-drive or guided safari experience. The park's proximity to Sun City makes it popular for families combining a safari with resort activities.
0
Safari Tours
4.0
Avg Rating
5/5
Big Five
47
Years Protected
Highlights
- Only 2 hours from Johannesburg - ideal for weekend safaris
- Big Five in a malaria-free volcanic crater setting
- Self-drive option available on good roads
- Can combine with Sun City resort visit
- Unique geological landscape where two biomes overlap
Considerations
- Can be very crowded on weekends and holidays
- Wildlife density lower than Kruger or private reserves
- Some visitors treat it as a drive-through rather than a safari
- Proximity to Sun City can detract from wilderness feel
Wildlife
Big Five Status
🦁
Lion
common
🐆
Leopard
occasional
🐘
Elephant
common
🦬
Buffalo
common
🦏
Rhino
rare
Notable Species
Lion
Common
Leopard
Occasional
Elephant
Common
Cape Buffalo
Common
Black Rhino
Rare
White Rhino
Common
Cheetah
Occasional
Giraffe
Common
Zebra
Common
Hippo
Common
Kudu
Common
Impala
Common
Wild Dog
Rare
Hyena
Common
Crocodile
Common
Common Occasional Rare
Best Time to Visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Peak Season Good Time Less Ideal
Climate Overview
Getting There
Drive 2 hours northwest from Johannesburg via the N4 and R556. Well-signposted from Sun City. No commercial flights; nearest airport is OR Tambo International.
Nearest Airport
OR Tambo International Airport (JNB)
Nearest City
Rustenburg
Drive Time
2 hours