Pilanesberg National Park is situated close to the proximity of major cities such as Johannesburg and it is best for day trips. Pilanesberg national park is one of Southern Africa’s fascinating game reserves which is casted between the Kalahari and Lowveld.
Pilanesberg National Park is the fourth largest national park in South Africa covering over 550 square kilometers. The park bears the name of a Tswana chief known as “Pilane.” The northern section of Pilanesberg National Park was initially the property of the Bakgatla-ba-Kgafela tribe, commonly referred to as the Bakgatla tribe. The southern section of the park used to consist of farms owned by local farmers in the 1860s, who played a key role in the development of the Mankwe Dam within the reserve.
The Government acquired these farms in the southern part of the park during the 1960s under the apartheid regime. The Bakubung tribe chose to establish their home on this land, having arrived from the nearby town of Ventersdorp. This land was subsequently allocated to Bophuthatswana, an area designated for members of a particular ethnicity- “Bophuthatswana” translates to the gathering of the Tswana people.
The moment had arrived for the reintroduction of wildlife into the region and the transformation of Pilanesberg into a game reserve.
Chief Tsidmane Pilane of the Bakgatla tribe consented to the incorporation of a mountainous area under their ownership into the new reserve. Families relocated to a new town east of the reserve as part of an agreement with the tribal authority.
The above stages have emerged into present-day Pilanesberg Game Reserve. During that period, Sun International secured a lease on the neighboring farm and constructed one of South Africa’s largest entertainment complexes, Sun City. The creation of Pilanesberg National Park remains one of the most intricate and ambitious projects of its type globally.
Attractions in Pilanesberg national park
There is a lot to see in Pilanesberg National Park. Some of the Fauna and flora to see in the park include the following,
Birds
Pilanesberg National Park is a natural habitat for over 300 bird species which acts as birders haven for bird watchers in Southern Africa. Such crimson-breasted shrike, southern pied babbler, shaft-tailed whydah and violet-eared waxbill also Grassland species include the enormous kori bustard and bizarre secretary bird.
Wildlife
Pilanesberg National Park is a home to over 7000 animals of these they include the Big 5 such as Lions, Elephants, Rhinos, Buffaloes and Leopards.
Other wildlife to sight includes zebra, hyena, giraffe, hippo, cheetah, crocodile, antelope, springbok and many more.
Activities to do visit Pilanesberg national park
Game Drives
Pilanesberg national park has professional rangers that provide unforgettable game drives since they have the overall basic knowledge and passion of the park. Game Drives are usually conducted for over 3 to 6 hours.
Hot Air Balloon Safaris
Pilanesberg Hot Air Balloon Safaris is strongly acknowledged. Discover the pinnacle of game viewing experiences with hot air balloon safaris where one floats effortless with the birds of prey on a sunrise flight.
Local Village visits
Visiting Moruleng village while in the Pilanesberg area offers a valuable opportunity to gain insight into the local community. The tour is conducted by the local Bakgatla-Ba-Kgafela tribe, who are the original inhabitants of the Pilanesberg area.
Quad Biking
Exploring Pilanesberg National Park on a quad bike with a guide is truly an unforgettable experience. In this activity, you will come across various wildlife such as sable, wildebeest, warthogs, and many others. Eye protection and a helmet will be supplied for your safety.
Archery
This ancient sport is now more within reach than you might think! You are guided on how to operate the equipment, focus, and hit the target.
Mountain Biking
This 9.7 km course offers opportunities to observe wildlife, including impala, giraffe, zebra, kudu, nyala, along with the smaller animals and birds that inhabit this region.
Best Time to visit Pilanesberg national park
The best period to explore the Pilanesberg is from mid-July to mid-October, which encompasses late winter, spring, and early summer. During the winter months, animals require more time to feed due to the reduced availability of nutrition.
The mating season, beginning in late February, is truly a sight to behold. Starting in January, navigating through the thick bush becomes a challenging endeavor. During winter, the days are bright and mild. The evenings are often quite chilly in contrast. During the winter, certain sections of the park must undergo burning. A controlled fire is recognized as essential for effective veld management.
The winter months, nonetheless, present an excellent opportunity to observe some lions. They pay less attention to tourists and cars than they might during other seasons. Although they may not pay much attention, remain in your vehicle at all times.
The animals have adapted to the presence of vehicles, but stepping out of the car can present a danger to them. Avoid hooting at the animals, as this may startle them and cause them to flee. This will undermine your opportunity to capture a photo. This will instill fear in them and trigger an attack.
Getting to Pilanesberg national park
Pilanesberg National Park is just a two-hour drive from Johannesburg and Pretoria. Pilanesberg National Park can be reached from Sun City through the Sun Vacation Club gate or the Kwa Maritane gate, located 7km from Sun City Resort.
Accommodations in Pilanesberg national park
Black Rhino Game Lodge
Black Rhino Game Lodge is the highly recommended lodge in the Black Rhino Game Reserve located near Pilanesberg.
Ivory Tree Game Lodge
Ivory Tree Game Lodge stands out as a favored destination close to the Pilanesberg Game Reserve. The suites boast luxurious designs complemented by exquisite finishes.
Shepherd’s Tree Game Lodge
Shepherd’s Tree Game Lodge is a luxurious boutique lodge that comes highly recommended. Experience both comfort and style during your bush safari in Pilanesberg.
Luxurious Private Lodge
Lush Private Lodge is a modern retreat, designed with the surrounding nature in mind. It is a tree that offers refuge from the wind, much like a shepherd’s care for their flock.
Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge
Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge features a hide at the waterhole that is linked to the lodge by a tunnel. Take pleasure in the two swimming pools.
Tambuti Game Lodge
Tambuti Game Lodge stands out as a premier private and exclusive lodge within the Black Rhino Game Reserve. Situated close proximity to Pilanesberg National Park.
