Pilanesberg National Park South Africa

SOUTH AFRICAN SAFARIS AND THE PILANESBERG NATIONAL PARK

The Pilanesberg National Park is commonly referred to as the ‘Pilanesberg Alkaline Ring Complex’ because it is bordered by ‘3 rings of hills’ (slightly raised), making it a remarkable safari attraction. This South African National Park contains the highest number of minerals in the world proving that the Pilanesberg National Park is the most outstanding geological phenomena around... This game reserve is also one of the largest parks in South Africa and is located in a 1200 million year old volcano crater.

The Pilanesberg National Park covers over 55 000 hectares and combines two vegetation zones, the dry Kalahari and wetter Lowveld vegetation. At the heart of the park is Lake Mankwe, which is found in the centre of this alkaline ring complex and reflects the whole beauty of the Pilanesberg Park. There is a 10 year plan to join the Pilanesberg National Park and the Madikwe Game Reserve with a connecting corridor - adding another incredible element to a South African safari of this region in the future...

Besides the amazing and unique scenery, the Pilanesberg National Park provides habitats for a huge amount of wildlife and birdlife! After its opening in 1979, the largest game resettlement project in the history of South Africa: operation "Genesis" was launched to rehabilitate the Pilanesberg land, relocating over 6 000 animals from other South African parks into this Pilanesberg area.

This National Park is home to Africa's "Big Five" (lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant and rhino) as well as giraffe, hippo, crocodile, springbok, zebra, hyena and many more. The endemic species in the Pilanesberg area are, the nocturnal brown hyena, the fleet-footed cheetah and the majestic sable to mention just a few. Bird-lovers are smitten by the possible sightings of over 300 bird species – 80 species of these birds are endemic to this area!

There is an aviary and a self-guided trail to learn about all the animals you may see in the Pilanesberg National Park. You can go for game viewing by foot or by car on the nearly 200 kilometres of excellent roads; we do recommend using 4x4 safari vehicles as the road, in some places, needs the extra effort!

The best time to visit Pilanesberg National Park for game viewing is in the dry cool winter period between May and August. Accommodation is readily available ranging from up-market lodges to caravans and camping facilities.

The Pilanesberg National Park is found close to the entertainment complex Sun City and many of the local and overseas visitors make their way to this great South African National Park where they can experience real African wilderness. The Pilanesberg National Park is located in the North West Province and is controlled by the North West Parks and Tourism Board.

Have a look at our South African safaris that include the Pilanesberg National Park below. There are also other South African attractions beneath that you might want to visit on your South African Safari.