Pilanesberg (South Africa) and Sabi Sand (South Africa) are often weighed against each other. This comparison uses seasons, activities and access to help you choose.
| Pilanesberg | Sabi Sand | |
|---|---|---|
| Country | South Africa | South Africa |
| Type | National park | Private conservancy |
| Approx. area | 550 km² | 650 km² |
| Best time | July to September | June to September |
| Suggested stay | 1–3 days | 3–4 days |
| Main gateway airport | O. R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) | Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMI) |
| Big Five | Present | Present |
| Malaria | None | Low risk: check with a doctor |
| Families | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Honeymooners | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Photographers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| First-time visitors | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Budget travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Luxury travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Month by month
| Month | Pilanesberg | Sabi Sand |
|---|---|---|
| January | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| February | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| March | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ some rain |
| 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 | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ some rain |
| December | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
How to choose
Choose Pilanesberg if
- you are travelling in February
- you want hot-air balloon flights and camping
- you hope to see black rhino and eland
Choose Sabi Sand if
- you are travelling in March, June and November
As both are in the same country, many travellers combine them in one trip.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Pilanesberg or Sabi Sand?
It depends on when you travel and what you want to see. Pilanesberg is stronger in February. Sabi Sand is stronger in March, June and November.
When is the best time for each?
Pilanesberg: July to September. Sabi Sand: June to September.
Sources: North West Parks Board · Pilanesberg National Park - travel information · Climates to Travel (1991-2020 normals) - South Africa (Pretoria, Mahikeng) · Sabi Sand Game Reserve site · Wikipedia - Sabi Sand Game Reserve · Climates to Travel (1991-2020 normals) - Skukuza
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.