
Starts
Pickup from your Johannesburg hotel
Finishes
Back to Hotel
Stops
2 Locations
Guide
Live Expert Guide
For visitors who want more than a day trip, this 2-day luxury safari at Pilanesberg National Park is the ultimate Johannesburg bush getaway.
**Day 1: Journey into Big Five Country**
Departing Johannesburg, you'll arrive at your **4-star bush lodge** nestled in the Pilanesberg bushveld — where the pool deck overlooks a waterhole frequented by elephants, warthogs, and kudu. Settle in, then head out for an **afternoon game drive** in an open 4x4 vehicle with your expert ranger. The late afternoon light is magical — and it's when big cats start to stir.
As the sun sets, your ranger pulls over at a scenic overlook for a **bush sundowner** — cold drinks and biltong against a backdrop of the African sunset. Return to the lodge for a **gourmet dinner** under the stars — featuring local game meats, South African wines, and traditional dishes with a contemporary twist.
**Day 2: Sunrise Safari & Big Five Tracking**
Wake to birdsong and coffee on your private deck, then embark on an **early morning game drive** — the best time for predator sightings. Pilanesberg's extinct volcanic crater creates a unique ecosystem where different habitats converge, increasing your chances of diverse sightings in a compact area.
After the drive, enjoy a **full English bush breakfast** back at the lodge before checking out and heading to a scenic picnic spot for a final **bushveld brunch** before the drive back to Johannesburg.
This is the most popular overnight safari from Johannesburg — combining the excitement of Big Five game viewing with the comfort of a luxury bush lodge and the magic of sleeping in the wild.
Cinematic Timeline
Hotel pickup 11:00 AM → Drive to Pilanesberg → Arrive lodge & settle in → 3:30 PM sunset game drive in open jeep → Bush sundowner → 7:30 PM gourmet dinner under stars
Hotel pickup 11:00 AM → Drive to Pilanesberg → Arrive lodge & settle in → 3:30 PM sunset game drive in open jeep → Bush sundowner → 7:30 PM gourmet dinner under stars
5:30 AM coffee → Sunrise Big Five game drive → 9:00 AM full bush breakfast at lodge → Check out → Scenic picnic brunch → Drive back → Arrive Johannesburg 2:00 PM
5:30 AM coffee → Sunrise Big Five game drive → 9:00 AM full bush breakfast at lodge → Check out → Scenic picnic brunch → Drive back → Arrive Johannesburg 2:00 PM
2 Experiences · 1h 15m Journey
11:00 AM departure · 12:15 PM return · Every moment accounted for
Route is approximate and may vary based on conditions.
per person
11 people booked this tour in the last 48 hours
Every tour supports local communities, minimises environmental impact, and contributes to conservation.
Our local experts are available 7 days a week to help you plan the perfect itinerary.
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"Absolutely incredible experience! Our guide was so knowledgeable and passionate. The views were breathtaking and the whole day was perfectly organized. Best tour we've ever done in South Africa."
James & Maria
Verified Booking · TripAdvisor
One of 234+ five-star reviews from verified guests
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