Pilanesberg Safaris and Tours
Pilanesberg Safaris and Tours
Pilanesberg Safaris and Tours
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As a responsible tour operator, Pilanesberg Safaris and Tours actively boycotts ALL "commercial" predator breeding and wildlife petting facilities, believing wildlife should be wild and this is what we will show you! We are a dynamic, passionate, up-and-coming company specialising in tours and safaris in Pilanesberg National Park since 2007. The proximity of this park to the hub of the Gauteng metropolis makes for an ideal safari and wilderness experience in easy reach for a day or few.
Johannesburg, South Africa
Meets animal welfare guidelines
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
187 reviews
Excellent
154
Very good
30
Average
2
Poor
0
Terrible
1
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Barb C
Toronto, Canada107 contributions
Oct 2019
Our trip planner recommended Pilanesberg rather than Kruger due to it's proximity. Those going to Kruger had to travel most of the day with less time actually on Safari.
The animals were great but expect there could be times you drive for an hour and see no animals ... we are on their schedule after all not ours. Did see a nice variety of animals.
The only downside on our venture was our driver. Continuously asked him to advise us before he moved vehicle as we were up taking photos and he did not. Many of the older people on the safari were stumbling to get back to their seats multiple time after being up taking photos.
The animals were great but expect there could be times you drive for an hour and see no animals ... we are on their schedule after all not ours. Did see a nice variety of animals.
The only downside on our venture was our driver. Continuously asked him to advise us before he moved vehicle as we were up taking photos and he did not. Many of the older people on the safari were stumbling to get back to their seats multiple time after being up taking photos.
Written 30 May 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
bleek99
Las Cruces, NM13 contributions
Jan 2022 • Family
We had a wonderful time at the Pilanesberg park. We arranged the tour just last minute and had with Donald an excellent guide who explained flora and fauna equally well. Due to the season some game is more difficult to spot but this was all balanced out by explaining the other important aspects of the ecosystem.
Overall, all went super smooth from online payment to on time pick up and drop off at our Airbnb.
Overall, all went super smooth from online payment to on time pick up and drop off at our Airbnb.
Written 8 January 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
H K
Glasgow, UK9 contributions
Nov 2022 • Couples
We had an amazing day tour of Pilanesburg National Park with Daryl. He is hugely experienced as a guide and shared a wealth of information with us. We saw an amazing variety of animals and birds. Thanks Daryl for such a wonderful day!
Written 1 November 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Pata G
Roissy-en-France, France47 contributions
Apr 2024 • Business
A wonderful day, unforgettable emotions (two loads of elephants). We saw more animals than we could have hoped for. Our guide, Lethabo, was simply perfect. Kind, interesting, patient, he went out of his way to ensure we saw as many animals as possible. Blankets are available but a little advice: dress warmly.
Written 12 April 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
dcteejay
Washington DC, DC28 contributions
Mar 2015 • Friends
Two of my co-workers and I were in Johannesburg for two weeks to deliver a training and during the middle weekend we decided to go on a safari. Because we had limited time (Friday - Sunday) we chose to go to Pilanesberg National Park, which is about a 2 and 1/2 hour drive from Johannesburg. We were picked up at our hotel in Johannesburg by our guide, Andrew, in his SUV and from that moment for the next two days Andrew did an excellent job as our tour guide. He was very friendly and professional always providing us with information along the way and answering our every question. When we were in the Park he was clear in providing us the history, background and details of every aspect of the park (animals, plants, insects, etc).
The thing I appreciated about taking this tour with Andrew is that he did a wonderful job of explaining with great detail and a knowledge beyond what a typical tour guide might do. He has studied these animals and it shows. You can really see that he cares for the animals and their habitat. Because of his knowledge of the animals and the Park he was able to spot many animals while others autos were driving right by us.
Even though we were only were in the Park for two days we were able to see 4 out of the 5 African Big-5. We saw many African Elephant, Black Rhino, African Lion and Cape Buffalo. The only one we didn’t see was the African Leopard. In addition to those animals we saw numerous Zebra, Giraffe, Hippopotamus, Crocodile, Wildebeest, Impala, Klipspringer, Waterbuck, Kudu, Springbok, Steenbok, Warthog, Baboon, Hare, Terrapin, and Owl. It was really a treat to see all of these animals in addition to so many birds and plants in this beautiful habitat. Another really cool part of this safari was seeing some of the animals like elephant, lion and zebra with their young. A truly wonderful experience made all that much better by having such an informed and excellent tour guide like Andrew. If you do make your way to Pilanesberg National Park be sure to secure Andrew as your guide. And if I am able to go back one day with my family from the United States I will be sure to look Andrew up to have him as our guide.
The thing I appreciated about taking this tour with Andrew is that he did a wonderful job of explaining with great detail and a knowledge beyond what a typical tour guide might do. He has studied these animals and it shows. You can really see that he cares for the animals and their habitat. Because of his knowledge of the animals and the Park he was able to spot many animals while others autos were driving right by us.
Even though we were only were in the Park for two days we were able to see 4 out of the 5 African Big-5. We saw many African Elephant, Black Rhino, African Lion and Cape Buffalo. The only one we didn’t see was the African Leopard. In addition to those animals we saw numerous Zebra, Giraffe, Hippopotamus, Crocodile, Wildebeest, Impala, Klipspringer, Waterbuck, Kudu, Springbok, Steenbok, Warthog, Baboon, Hare, Terrapin, and Owl. It was really a treat to see all of these animals in addition to so many birds and plants in this beautiful habitat. Another really cool part of this safari was seeing some of the animals like elephant, lion and zebra with their young. A truly wonderful experience made all that much better by having such an informed and excellent tour guide like Andrew. If you do make your way to Pilanesberg National Park be sure to secure Andrew as your guide. And if I am able to go back one day with my family from the United States I will be sure to look Andrew up to have him as our guide.
Written 1 April 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear dcteejay
Thanks for your review.
Andrew certainly does know his stuff when it comes to wildlife and actually, we often refer to him if we are unable to identify even the smallest insect- he's like a walking National Geographic.
We are so pleased that you and your colleaugues had such a great safari in Pilanesberg with us.
We hope you will return and we will be certain to get Andrew to run your tour.
Sincerely
Pilanesberg Safaris and Tours
Written 31 August 2017
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
MrsADS
Atlanta, GA30 contributions
Nov 2011
Our family traveled to South Africa for our teenaged son's Thanksgiving vacation. This meant our time was somewhat limited. We had 9 days to explore the country and wanted to see the sights in both Johannesburg and Cape Town, but also do a safari. We decided that we would tour Pilanesberg National Park to accomplish all three of these goals in our time frame.
Once we settled on Pilanesberg, we were not sure whether we should "self-drive" and simply tour the park on our own or use a tour guide. After much back and forth and research, we decided to use the services offered by Pilanesberg Safaris and Day Tours. Great decision!
Our tour guide Ryan (owner and operator) picked us up from the guest house at which we were staying bright and early. I simply cannot say enough pleasant things about Ryan. He is a veritable wealth of information. Because we'd never traveled to South Africa before, there were so many things we didn't know. On the drive to Pilanesberg, Ryan explained so much about the history, the culture and the people of Johannesburg. It was truly fascinating. Once we arrived, we were even more thrilled with our decision. Ryan pointed out animals that we would have likely missed completely and certainly would have not known anything about. Before that trip, I couldn't have picked an eland (indigenous to Southern Africa) out of a lineup. We were given information on everything from small birds and even insects to the larger animals and the park itself. If you already know what small animal is the closest relative of an elephant or can detect how long it's been since a giraffe has gotten into a scuffle with a lion, you might not need a guide, but we certainly did :)! Also, having a tour guide meant that none of us had to drive and navigate through the park while simultaneously attempting to enjoy the animals. Additionally, Ryan managed to be both helpful and affable, but not at all intrusive.
The day long tour pick up and drop off and a complimentary lunch (very tasty) in a lovely lodge on the grounds. The fee was quite reasonable. We were able to capture some beautiful animals and show our son things that theretofore, he'd only seen on television. I would highly recommend Pilanesberg Safaris and Day Tour to anyone traveling to South Africa.
Once we settled on Pilanesberg, we were not sure whether we should "self-drive" and simply tour the park on our own or use a tour guide. After much back and forth and research, we decided to use the services offered by Pilanesberg Safaris and Day Tours. Great decision!
Our tour guide Ryan (owner and operator) picked us up from the guest house at which we were staying bright and early. I simply cannot say enough pleasant things about Ryan. He is a veritable wealth of information. Because we'd never traveled to South Africa before, there were so many things we didn't know. On the drive to Pilanesberg, Ryan explained so much about the history, the culture and the people of Johannesburg. It was truly fascinating. Once we arrived, we were even more thrilled with our decision. Ryan pointed out animals that we would have likely missed completely and certainly would have not known anything about. Before that trip, I couldn't have picked an eland (indigenous to Southern Africa) out of a lineup. We were given information on everything from small birds and even insects to the larger animals and the park itself. If you already know what small animal is the closest relative of an elephant or can detect how long it's been since a giraffe has gotten into a scuffle with a lion, you might not need a guide, but we certainly did :)! Also, having a tour guide meant that none of us had to drive and navigate through the park while simultaneously attempting to enjoy the animals. Additionally, Ryan managed to be both helpful and affable, but not at all intrusive.
The day long tour pick up and drop off and a complimentary lunch (very tasty) in a lovely lodge on the grounds. The fee was quite reasonable. We were able to capture some beautiful animals and show our son things that theretofore, he'd only seen on television. I would highly recommend Pilanesberg Safaris and Day Tour to anyone traveling to South Africa.
Written 2 December 2011
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear MrsADS
Our first review and certainly one we are proud of! Really enjoyed reading it!
It was a great pleasure showing you all the Pilanesberg and thank you so much for your kind words.
We hope that the family is well and we are looking forward to your next visit.
Best wishes
Pilanesberg Safaris and Tours
Written 31 August 2017
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
davefr0mwales
Newport, UK1 contribution
Oct 2015 • Solo
On a one day trip to the park I saw over 20 species of animals and nearly 60 species of birds, including, at one point on a viewing platform near one of the watering holes, having an Elephant and Hippo's behind me and in front of me, a pride of Lions stalked a Warthog, watched by a pair of Black Rhino...stunning.
Ryan, the owner of the company, and my guide for the day, was instrumental in producing this once in a lifetime experience. In an understated and relaxed manner he made sure we were always in the right place, at the right time to observe the right wildlife.
Thank you for an unforgettable experience
Dave from Wales
Ryan, the owner of the company, and my guide for the day, was instrumental in producing this once in a lifetime experience. In an understated and relaxed manner he made sure we were always in the right place, at the right time to observe the right wildlife.
Thank you for an unforgettable experience
Dave from Wales
Written 19 October 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kiwiphil_635
Wellington, New Zealand52 contributions
Apr 2013 • Solo
I booked a trip at the last minute while staying in Johannesburg. The organisation was first class. Willie,our guide, was enthusiastic and knowledgeable. He clearly loves his job. I found out so much from him that I just couldn't have learnt by doing it myself. The lunch was terrific and the tour party was small enough to really be very friendly and easygoing. The animals of course were the highlight - being so close to them was actually rather moving - and Willie and his hospitality made it one of the best one day tourism experiences I can remember. Even if it is a very long day from Johannesburg. The value for money was unbelievable. In a nutshell my advice is - just use this company. They deserve to succeed. Willie is a treasure.
Written 23 April 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Kiwiphil
Thanks for the review and good wishes and hopefully you will return for more Pilanesberg Safaris and Tours.
All the best
Pilanesberg Safaris and Tours
Written 31 August 2017
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
rztravels
Rowland Heights, CA83 contributions
Jul 2019 • Business
We are on a safari tours and some times its very hard to spot the Big 5 very quickly but I was the lucky one that I spotted a Big Leopard in the jungle and he was ready for his hunting or his prey. We saw every movement by our own eyes. It was very good scene and such a beautiful big cat. WOW
Written 29 July 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Greg W
Grapeland, TX853 contributions
Nov 2018
I visited Joberg and I didn't have enough time to visit Kruger. Pilanesberg didn't disappoint and I would recommend visiting this National Reserve to everyone. The roads to and from Pilanesberg are paved, it is super safe, and tour guides are very helpful, you will see all the wild animals you could ever want.
Written 22 November 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
How many people are usually on the day tour? Is it really busy? What is the transport? Jeep? Bus? Van?
Written 11 September 2019
8 people in total, we all had plenty of space in an open top for 9 people.
Written 15 November 2019
albella1020
St. Gallen, Switzerland
Hello, is a family with a two year old welcome to go on a one day safari tour? If so, do you have car seats available for pick up from hotel?
Written 3 November 2018
I think the hotel can give the best anser. Otherwise it is posible to visit the park with your own car, otherwise the driving is very smooth and only on hard ways. It is possible to keep the child on your legs and arms.
Nice visit!
Written 4 November 2018
Buenas tardes. En enero voy a estar con un amigo por Johannesburgo y teníamos ganas de ir un día a pilanesberg a hacer un safari. Quería saber cuanto costaba y si tienen guías en español! Saludos
Written 30 October 2018
Hola! Yo también voy en enero, calculo que el 12 haría el safari a Pilanesberg. Salgo desde Buenos Aires, cualquier info que tengas te voy a agradecer que me la compartas. Mi correo es josantacruz hotmail com
Written 11 November 2018
Bonjour je voulais savoir si nous pouvons faire le safari avec notre petite de 4 ans.
Merci
Written 21 July 2018
Hi Cyldric
Travelling witha 4 year old will ot be a problem.
Hope to hear from and assist you further!
Written 23 July 2018
Hola quería cotización para 5 adultos desde el 30/11 al 1/12 instalados en Pilanesberg con safari y todo incluido en categoría económica gracias
Written 11 July 2018
Hola _esthercapelolado
Porfavor contactarnos por nuestra pagina web porque no podermos mandar itinerarios por TripAdvisor messneger.
Muchos gracias
Written 23 July 2018
Hola estoy viajando el 8 de julio a johannesburgo y me gustaria realizar el 10 de Julio un safari en pilanesberg.Podrian darme un presupuesto? Somos 2 personas.
Written 7 July 2018
Hola Magdalena
Gracias por tu mensage. Tenermos desponibilidad por el 10 y si puedes mandarnos un email o whatsapp podermos mandar los itinerarios y precios.
Attentamente
Pilanesberg Safaris y Tours
Written 7 July 2018
Do you have availability for tomorrow? We are a coupple lokking for a one day tour.
Thanks in advance
Written 22 June 2018
Hi there. Sadly we didn't receive this message till later. Emails or phone calls would be the best method to make a last minute booking.
Written 25 June 2018
hii there, we will be there in November for 3 days safari what do you suggest
Written 30 May 2018
Hi there, thanks for the question. We offer a number of three day itineraries that can be found on our website. Hope that that assists and look forward to hearing from you.
Written 30 May 2018
Olá! Pretendo me hospedar 03 dias em algum hotel próximo ao Pilanesberg National Park. Como chegar do aeroporto de Joanesburgo aos hotéis em Pilanesberg? Alguém pode me informar se existem empresas que fazem tranfer para os hotéis próximos ao parque??
Written 9 May 2018
Hi - Was looking for a contact email or number for this? Looking to take a 2 night safari in two weeks (13-15 April) and looking for a good operator. Zach
Written 28 March 2018
There's a "contact us" page at the pilanesbergsafaris website.
Because the boss is one of the guides, he can be a bit slow to answer. No peeking at cell phones when you're stalking elephants. Try email then follow-up with phone in a day or so if you don't get a response. That's pretty short notice.
Written 28 March 2018
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*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.