Madikwe (South Africa) and Pilanesberg (South Africa) are often weighed against each other. This comparison uses seasons, activities and access to help you choose.
| Madikwe | Pilanesberg | |
|---|---|---|
| Country | South Africa | South Africa |
| Type | Reserve | National park |
| Approx. area | 750 km² | 550 km² |
| Best time | July to September | July to September |
| Suggested stay | 2–4 days | 1–3 days |
| Main gateway airport | O. R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) | O. R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) |
| Big Five | Present | Present |
| Malaria | None | None |
| Families | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Honeymooners | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Photographers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| First-time visitors | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Budget travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Luxury travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Month by month
| Month | Madikwe | Pilanesberg |
|---|---|---|
| January | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| February | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ some rain |
| March | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| April | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ some rain |
| May | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| June | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| July | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| August | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| September | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| October | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ some rain |
| November | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| December | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ rainy season |
How to choose
Choose Madikwe if
- you are travelling in March and November to December
Choose Pilanesberg if
- you are travelling in February
- you want hot-air balloon flights and camping
- you hope to see crocodiles
As both are in the same country, many travellers combine them in one trip.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Madikwe or Pilanesberg?
It depends on when you travel and what you want to see. Madikwe is stronger in March and November to December. Pilanesberg is stronger in February.
When is the best time for each?
Madikwe: July to September. Pilanesberg: July to September.
Sources: North West Parks Board · South African Tourism - Madikwe · Climates to Travel (1991-2020 normals) - South Africa (Mahikeng) · 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.