Pilanesberg National Park lies in North West Province and is managed by North West Parks. Its closeness to Johannesburg makes it a common choice for short safaris or travellers with limited time.
- Country
- South Africa
- Type
- National park
- Approx. area
- 550 km²
- Best time
- July to September
- Suggested stay
- 1–3 days
- Main gateway airport
- O. R. Tambo International Airport (JNB)
- Big Five
- Present
- Malaria
- None
Why go to Pilanesberg
- Malaria-free and close to Johannesburg
- Big Five in a relatively compact area
- Self-drive possible
- Landscape set inside an ancient volcanic crater
- Hot-air balloon flights run by private operators
Best time to visit Pilanesberg
Based on average weather and wildlife seasons, the best period to visit Pilanesberg is July to September.
The dry winter gives clearer viewing, with cold mornings.
Busy on holidays and weekends because of its proximity to Gauteng.
| Month | Temp (°C) | Rain | Experience | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 18–30 | rainy season | ★★★★★ | busy |
| February | 17–30 | some rain | ★★★★★ | quiet |
| March | 15–28 | rainy season | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| April | 12–26 | some rain | ★★★★★ | peak season |
| May | 8–24 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | quiet |
| June | 4–21 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| July | 4–21 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| August | 7–24 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| September | 11–28 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| October | 14–29 | some rain | ★★★★★ | busy |
| November | 16–30 | rainy season | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| December | 17–30 | rainy season | ★★★★★ | peak season |
What you can see
Wildlife you may see in Pilanesberg includes lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, white rhino, black rhino, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, hippos, crocodiles, African wild dogs, hyenas, kudu, eland and birdlife.
Things to do
Getting there
Set in an ancient volcanic crater next to Sun City, reached by car from Johannesburg or Pretoria.
Trips to Pilanesberg
No trips are listed for this destination yet. Send a request and we will check with providers.
Plan by travel style
- Pilanesberg for families
- Pilanesberg for a honeymoon
- Pilanesberg for photographers
- Pilanesberg for a first safari
- Pilanesberg on a budget
- Pilanesberg for luxury travel
Compare with
- Pilanesberg vs Kruger
- Pilanesberg vs Addo
- Pilanesberg vs Madikwe
- Pilanesberg vs Sabi Sand
- Pilanesberg vs Hwange
- Pilanesberg vs South Luangwa
Travelling to Pilanesberg from
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Pilanesberg?
Generally July to September. The dry winter gives clearer viewing, with cold mornings.
How many days do I need in Pilanesberg?
Most visitors spend 1 to 3 days there, not counting travel days.
How do I get to Pilanesberg?
Set in an ancient volcanic crater next to Sun City, reached by car from Johannesburg or Pretoria.
Sources: North West Parks Board · Pilanesberg National Park - travel information · Climates to Travel (1991-2020 normals) - South Africa (Pretoria, Mahikeng)
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.