Ol Pejeta (Kenya) and Pilanesberg (South Africa) are often weighed against each other. This comparison uses seasons, activities and access to help you choose.
| Ol Pejeta | Pilanesberg | |
|---|---|---|
| Country | Kenya | South Africa |
| Type | Private conservancy | National park |
| Approx. area | 360 km² | 550 km² |
| Best time | June to October and December to March | July to September |
| Suggested stay | 2–3 days | 1–3 days |
| Main gateway airport | Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) | O. R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) |
| Big Five | Present | Present |
| Malaria | Low risk: check with a doctor | None |
| Families | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Honeymooners | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Photographers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| First-time visitors | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Budget travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Luxury travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Month by month
| Month | Ol Pejeta | Pilanesberg |
|---|---|---|
| January | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| February | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ some rain |
| March | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| April | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ some rain |
| May | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| June | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| July | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| August | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| September | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| October | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ some rain |
| November | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| December | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ rainy season |
How to choose
Choose Ol Pejeta if
- you are travelling in December to March
- you hope to see chimpanzees and gazelles
Choose Pilanesberg if
- you are travelling in April to May and July to September
- you want hot-air balloon flights
- you hope to see wildebeest, crocodiles, African wild dogs and kudu
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Ol Pejeta or Pilanesberg?
It depends on when you travel and what you want to see. Ol Pejeta is stronger in December to March. Pilanesberg is stronger in April to May and July to September.
When is the best time for each?
Ol Pejeta: June to October and December to March. Pilanesberg: July to September.
Sources: Ol Pejeta Conservancy · Ol Pejeta Conservancy - Wildlife and habitats · Climates to Travel - Nyeri (nearest station) · 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.