Pilanesberg for photographers

Pilanesberg works for photographers with some planning.

Suitability: ★★★★★

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.

Why Pilanesberg for photographers?

• Chances to photograph lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants and white rhino.
• The best light is in the first hour after sunrise and the last before sunset.

What awaits you in 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

Wildlife you may encounter: lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, white rhino, black rhino, buffalo and giraffes.

Suggested time on the ground: 1 to 3 days. Set in an ancient volcanic crater next to Sun City, reached by car from Johannesburg or Pretoria.

Activities that fit

game drives, night drives, hot-air balloon flights and birdwatching.

When to go

The best period overall is July to September.

The dry winter gives clearer viewing, with cold mornings.

Other destinations for photographers

• Okavango Delta Botswana
• Masai Mara Kenya
• Merzouga Morocco
• Mana Pools Zimbabwe
• Ngorongoro Tanzania
• Tarangire Tanzania

Full Pilanesberg guideBest safaris for photographers

No trips are listed for this destination yet. Send a request and we will check with providers.

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.