Explore Pilanesberg National Park

Do you know that you can go in search of the Big 5 a mere hour or three from Johannesburg and the OR Tambo International Airport? That is possible at Pilanesberg National Park, in the Northwest Province.

What is more, this is but one feature that distinguishes Pilanesberg Game Reserve from the other national parks.

It is the fourth largest park in South Africa, with 550 square kilometres in total area. The park is located in the crater of a volcano that last erupted around 1,300 million years ago. There is evidence that humans inhabited a good number of the Stone Age and Iron Age sites located in the area around the reserve.

Pilanesberg safaris will introduce you to the terrain around Mankwe Dam that contains some of the most breath-taking landscapes, the ideal location to observe a large number of different animal species like water bucks, wildebeest, zebras, and impalas.

A bird hideout located fairly near to the edge of the river is ideal for birdwatchers to see kingfishers, fish eagles, and cormorants to name but a few of about 360 different bird species found in the park.

Since 1979 over 7 000 animals were rehomed to the park in Operation Genesis. Alongside the 188 kilometres of new roads that were constructed as a part of the initiative, a game fence measuring 110 kilometres in length was also constructed.

Some other compelling reasons to go to Pilanesberg include:

• Its attractive options for lodging – Because of the wide variety of possibilities available, visitors to Pilanesberg may select a place to stay that is perfectly suited to their preferences. Regardless of whether you prefer “roughing it” in a safari tent in the middle of the African bush or savouring a glass of good wine in a large bubble bath while gazing out the window of your luxury lodge, Pilanesberg can accommodate you.
• Ecological richness – The Park is located in a transition zone between the arid environment of the Kalahari and the lush flora of the Lowveld. This rich transitional zone draws an extraordinary diversity of game animals, as well as flora and wildlife, many of which do not often coexist in the same area. The Big Five, the wild dog, the Roan, the Tsessebe, and the Sable antelope, as well as more than hundreds of bird species, may all be found in this region of southern Africa.
• Abundant animal life – Your chances of seeing the “Big 5” in their native habitat are significantly increased because of  the park’s modest size and unusually diverse ecosystem, both of which contribute to its status as a biodiverse area. Pilanesberg gives you the freedom to pick your own adventure, whether its  a relaxing safari trip or a spontaneous weekend getaway.
• Its history – The Pilanesberg National Park was established in the caldera of an extinct volcano that was produced as a result of magma that overflowed. The terrain and rock formations  witnessed now are the permanent traces of this beautiful event.
• A photographers’ paradise – In one of Pilanesberg’s many well-hidden photographic places, you can completely submerge yourself. These well-constructed spots are hidden around the park and offer a pleasant area to wait for the ideal photo opportunity. A once-in-a-lifetime chance to see birds and other creatures in their native environment while keeping a safe distance from them.

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