Pilansberg National Park

For many years I had been under the impression that visiting the Game Reserves anywhere north of the Cape in South Africa would necessitate taking anti-malaria tablets for young children. How wrong I was! The Pilansberg Game Reserve is just two and a half hours' drive north from Johannesburg; it is in a malaria free zone and makes a brilliant introduction to safaris.

The first lodge we visited was the Ivory Tree; located close to one of the park gates, it means their game drive vehicles are amongst the first into the reserve in a morning and the last ones to leave after sunset. The Ivory Tree accommodates sixty guests in comfortably spacious rooms, complete with outdoor showers. There is a free-form swimming pool surrounded by a sunbathing terrace and gardens, as well as a bar and restaurant serving buffet style meals in this family-friendly property.

After an early morning wake up call, coffee and cookies are served in the lobby before departing on the morning game drive. As well as the ‘Big 5’, Pilansberg is home to a wide variety of wildlife including jackals, hippo, zebra, impala and kudu. The park itself sits in the crater of a volcano that erupted millions of years ago leaving it encircled by a dramatic mountain range. After a few hours in the park it's back to the hotel for a nap or light brunch. At around 4.30pm it's time to venture into the park again for the evening game drive, this time the jeep is stocked with your favourite tipple to enjoy from the viewing area as the sun sets. Early morning and evening are the best times to see the big cats as they avoid the heat of the day.

Our second night at Pilansberg was spent at Shepherds Tree Lodge, set up on a hillside with just 15 rooms; this hotel would appeal more to those looking for peace and tranquillity. The rooms have a contemporary yet homely feel with outdoor showers and amazing views. This is a great hotel for honeymooners with a relaxing atmosphere and friendly staff.

Pilansberg is open to the public and many vehicles can enter the park each day. By staying at Ivory Tree and Shepherd Tree you are in the hands of qualified game rangers where you'll have more chance of wildlife sightings, and you also get the benefit of their knowledge and experience. You also have a head start on the day visitors to the park.

I absolutely loved Pilansberg and would be delighted to share more information about the area with you. Please give me a call if you would like to discuss this magical destination in more detail, and how it can be incorporated into an itinerary that is perfect for you.