Pilanesberg Luxury Safari & Sun City
Five-Star Bush Lodges Beside Africa's Legendary Resort
Overview
This four-day journey pairs the malaria-free Big Five of Pilanesberg with its two most luxurious lodges — the Balinese-inspired Ivory Tree Game Lodge and the intimate, exclusive Tshukudu Bush Lodge, perched on a hilltop above its own waterhole. Just over two hours from Johannesburg and beside the Sun City resort, it delivers a genuinely five-star safari with none of the long travel or malaria concerns of the far north.
Days are built around twice-daily game drives in the ancient volcanic crater, with private plunge pools, spa treatments and fine dining between them. Tshukudu's clifftop suites are reached by funicular and look out over a floodlit waterhole, while Ivory Tree brings polished comfort and a superb spa. It is the most indulgent way to experience Pilanesberg, and pairs effortlessly with a night or two at Sun City.
Who It's For
Ideal for couples, honeymooners and discerning first-time safari-goers who want a luxurious, malaria-free Big Five safari close to Johannesburg, with the option to add Sun City's resort attractions.
Package Highlights
Ivory Tree Game Lodge
Balinese-inspired luxury suites with a superb spa
Tshukudu Hilltop Suites
Clifftop chalets reached by funicular above a floodlit waterhole
Malaria-Free Big Five
All five iconic species with no medication required
Volcanic Crater Game Drives
Twice-daily drives through Pilanesberg's dramatic landscape
Spa & Plunge Pools
Relaxation between drives in true five-star comfort
Sun City on the Doorstep
Add golf, the casino and the Valley of Waves waterpark
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Transfer from Johannesburg and settle into your suite at Ivory Tree Game Lodge, a Balinese-inspired retreat on the park's northern edge. After lunch and time by the pool, head out on your first afternoon game drive into the crater as the light turns golden.
🏨 Accommodation: Ivory Tree Game Lodge
🍽️ Meals: Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner
Your Route
Tap a marker to see each stop on your journey.
Featured Lodges & Accommodation
Ivory Tree Game Lodge
📍 Pilanesberg National Park
A polished, Balinese-inspired lodge on the park's northern boundary, with elegant suites, a fine-dining restaurant and one of Pilanesberg's best spas.
From $420 per person per night
Tshukudu Bush Lodge
📍 Pilanesberg National Park
Intimate clifftop chalets reached by a funicular, each with a fireplace and private deck overlooking a floodlit waterhole. One of the most romantic addresses in the park.
From $480 per person per night
Pricing & Options
All prices per person sharing. Customize any tier to your preferences.
Exclusive
(~$1,400/night)
Private vehicle and guide, exclusive touches, all-inclusive
Get QuoteWhat's Included & Excluded
✓ Included
- ✓ 3 nights luxury in-park lodge accommodation
- ✓ All meals and teas
- ✓ Twice-daily game drives in open 4x4 vehicles
- ✓ Park conservation fees
- ✓ Road transfers from Johannesburg
- ✓ Laundry and Wi-Fi
- ✓ One spa treatment (luxury tier and above)
✗ Excluded
- ✗ Flights
- ✗ Travel insurance
- ✗ Premium beverages and champagne
- ✗ Sun City activities and entrance
- ✗ Private vehicle upgrade (unless selected)
- ✗ Gratuities (guidelines provided)
- ✗ Personal expenses
Photo Gallery
Best Time to Travel
Game viewing is rewarding all year, but the cool, dry months of May to September deliver Pilanesberg's finest Big Five sightings as wildlife gathers at the water.
Why Choose This Package
Pilanesberg's Most Luxurious Lodges
Ivory Tree's Balinese elegance and Tshukudu's romantic clifftop chalets are the finest addresses in the park.
Luxury, Malaria-Free, Near Joburg
Five-star comfort and Big Five game viewing with no malaria risk, just over two hours from the city.
Bush and Resort in One Trip
Combine world-class game drives with the golf, spa and entertainment of neighbouring Sun City.
Ideal for Couples
Private decks, floodlit waterholes, spa treatments and candlelit dinners make this a romantic escape.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Experience the Pilanesberg Luxury Safari & Sun City?
From $2,200 per person | 4 Days / 3 Nights
⚡ Limited availability for peak season 2026 — book early to secure your dates
