From Pretoria, two standout national parks offer excellent safari experiences. Pilanesberg Nature Reserve, just 2 hours away, delivers rewarding day trips packed with wildlife viewing. Further out, Kruger National Park (5 hours east) remains South Africa’s premier safari destination – worth every minute of the journey for its multi-day adventures.
We especially love Pilanesberg’s full-day tours for their efficiency and value – you’ll often spot four of the “Big Five” in a single outing. At Kruger, the 3-day camping safaris provide an unbeatable immersion in the African bush.
Most tours include meals, transport from Pretoria, and knowledgeable guides, starting at €200 per person with flexible booking terms. Let’s explore these remarkable safari options and their highlights.
Key Points
- Pilanesberg Nature Reserve offers a full-day wildlife experience with hotel transfers, park fees, lunch, and bottled water, starting at €208.70 per person.
- Kruger National Park provides a 3-day safari from Johannesburg, starting from $721.92 per person, with encounters of the “Big Five” and diverse wildlife.
- Tours include meals, gratuities, conservation fees, daily game drives, unlimited bottled water, and Wi-Fi during transportation, with flexible itinerary options.
- Prices range from $656.43 per person for general tours to $1,197.54 per person for the 5-Day Ultimate Kruger tour, with a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours.
- Pickup is available from Pretoria or Johannesburg, with transportation options ranging from 15-seat minibuses to 4-seat sedans, and a meet-and-greet service at the airport.
Pilanesberg Nature Reserve
Located just a two-hour drive from Pretoria, the Pilanesberg Nature Reserve is a premier wildlife destination in South Africa.
Recommended by 100% of travelers, this reserve offers a full-day experience to maximize wildlife sightings. Visitors can spot the “Big Five” – lions, leopards, zebras, and elephants – while traveling in an open game viewer vehicle for excellent photography opportunities.
The tour includes round-trip hotel transfers, national park fees, lunch, and bottled water. With a minimum of 2 people and a maximum of 13 per booking, this experience is priced from €208.70 per person and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
Read our full review: Pilanesberg Nature Reserve Review
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2 Days Pilanesberg National Park Luxury Safari
This 2-day luxury safari at Pilanesberg National Park offers travelers an immersive wildlife experience.
The package includes early morning and sunset game drives, providing opportunities to spot the Big Five animals in their natural habitat. Guests can opt for open safari vehicles or private luxury cars to explore the 55,000-hectare park, which features diverse vegetation types.
The itinerary includes pickup and drop-off, park entrance fees, transportation, and a tour guide.
Travelers should bring essentials like a camera, binoculars, and personal medication, while adhering to park regulations.
With an overall rating of 5/5, this safari promises an unforgettable adventure in South Africa’s Pilanesberg National Park.
Read our full review: 2 Days Pilanesberg National Park Luxury Safari Review
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Pilanesberg National Park Full-Day Tour From Johannesburg
Travelers eager to experience the diverse wildlife of Pilanesberg National Park can embark on a full-day tour from Johannesburg, Centurion, or Pretoria.
The tour provides an ideal option for those short on time but keen to witness the Big Five and over 300 bird species. Guests enjoy a guided game drive in a closed, air-conditioned minibus or SUV, with the chance to spot cheetah, wild dog, and sable antelope.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transport, a guide, bottled water, and a light lunch within the park.
With a maximum of 9 travelers, this intimate experience has earned an overall rating of 4.8 based on 5 reviews.
Read our full review: Pilanesberg National Park Full-Day Tour From Johannesburg Review
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From Johannesburg: Kruger National Park 3-Day Safari
For those seeking an immersive Kruger National Park experience, the 3-day safari from Johannesburg offers a comprehensive wildlife adventure. Priced from $721.92 per person, this tour includes private or small group options, live tour guides, and the flexibility of free cancellation and reserve now/pay later.
Highlights include encountering the Big Five, observing diverse wildlife, and staying at the Tembo Guest Lodge. With 5-8 hours of daily game drives, travelers can expect to see elephants, giraffes, antelopes, and more against the stunning backdrop of Schoemans Kloof farmlands.
While malaria precautions are advised, this safari provides an unparalleled opportunity to explore one of Africa’s premier national parks.
Read our full review: From Johannesburg: Kruger National Park 3-Day Safari Review
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Big 5 Kruger National Park 2 Days Safari From Johannesburg
Exploring Kruger National Park’s vast wilderness is a bucket-list experience for many travelers. The “Big 5 Kruger National Park 2 Days Safari from Johannesburg” offers an opportunity to spot Africa’s iconic animals – lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffalo.
This 2-day tour includes two guided game drives at prime viewing times and an overnight stay in Hazyview. Travelers can expect knowledgeable guides, hassle-free transportation from Johannesburg, and the chance to see the Big Five.
However, some reviews mention basic accommodations and limited meal options. Priced from $683.84 per person, this safari provides a compact yet immersive introduction to Kruger’s extraordinary wildlife.
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Kruger National Park 3 Day Safari Fr Johannesburg & Pretoria
Seeking an immersive wildlife encounter in Kruger National Park? The 3-day safari package from Johannesburg and Pretoria offers just that.
For €1,020.65, you’ll explore the park in open game vehicles, with a high chance of spotting the Big 5. The package includes dinner, bed, and breakfast at Kruger Adventure Lodge, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Depart from Johannesburg at 8 am for the 5-hour journey, then embark on three safaris – a sunset drive, a full-day expedition, and a morning safari.
With an 80% success rate in Big 5 sightings, this tour promises an unforgettable wildlife experience in one of Africa’s premier national parks.
Read our full review: Kruger National Park 3 Day Safari Fr Johannesburg & Pretoria Review
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Pilanesberg National Park Day Tour From Pretoria, Every SATURDAY
This Pilanesberg National Park day tour from Pretoria, offered every Saturday, provides an excellent opportunity to explore the diverse flora and fauna of this malaria-free game reserve.
Focusing on the Big Five, the tour includes round-trip transportation, lunch, and entrance fees. With a maximum of 12 travelers, this tour offers a more intimate experience compared to Kruger National Park.
Highlights include close encounters with elephants, rhinos, giraffes, and zebras, though some travelers noted missing big cats.
Priced from $120.08 per person, this tour’s seamless logistics, knowledgeable guides, and varied wildlife sightings make it a great choice for time-conscious travelers.
Read our full review: Pilanesberg National Park Day Tour From Pretoria, Every SATURDAY Review
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Johannesburg: 3 Hour Pilanesberg National Park Game Drive
For those looking to experience the diverse wildlife of Pilanesberg National Park, the 3-Hour Pilanesberg National Park Game Drive from Johannesburg provides an excellent opportunity.
Priced at €148.22 per person, this 8-hour tour includes a 2.5-hour van ride to the park, 3 hours of guided wildlife viewing in an open safari vehicle, and a 2.5-hour return journey.
Highlights include spotting the Big Five and other species, with a professional English-speaking guide providing insights into the park’s wildlife and history.
The tour includes bottled water, air-conditioned transportation, park entry, and lunch.
Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes, bring a hat and camera, and follow the no-smoking policy.
Read our full review: Johannesburg: 3 Hour Pilanesberg National Park Game Drive Review
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Safari in the Kruger National Park – 4 Days-All Inclusive & Private
Travelers yearning for an immersive safari experience can embark on a 4-day all-inclusive private tour of Kruger National Park from Pretoria, South Africa.
Priced from €1,708.88 per person, the tour includes entrance and conservation fees, all meals, snacks, beverages, and gratuities. Guests are picked up from any hotel or guest house in or around Johannesburg and the tour departs at 5:00 AM.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but stroller accessible, and a closed vehicle is used for children under 6. Vegetarian options are available.
With 5-star reviews, this private safari promises an unforgettable wildlife encounter in one of Africa’s premier national parks.
Read our full review: Safari in the Kruger National Park – 4 Days-All Inclusive & Private Review
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Kruger National Park 4 Day Safari Fr Johannesburg & Pretoria
Visitors seeking an immersive safari adventure can embark on a 4-day all-inclusive Kruger National Park tour from Johannesburg and Pretoria.
Priced at $1,331.55 per person, the safari includes a live English-speaking guide, pickup service, and wheelchair accessibility. Guests will explore the park in open game vehicles, with an 80% success rate of spotting the Big 5 animals.
The tour also includes a Hazyview and township visit, as well as accommodation, dinner, and breakfast at Kruger Adventure Lodge.
With its commitment to wildlife preservation and glowing reviews, this safari offers an unparalleled wildlife experience.
Read our full review: Kruger National Park 4 Day Safari Fr Johannesburg & Pretoria Review
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3 Day Kruger National Park End With Panaroma
Although the previous 4-day Kruger National Park safari offered an immersive experience, the 3-day tour ending with a panorama provides a more focused adventure.
This private tour includes hotel pickup, entrance fees, meals, and gratuities, ensuring a seamless experience. The tour is wheelchair accessible, with stroller and infant seat options available, allowing most travelers to participate.
Guests can expect a perfect 5.0-star rating based on 3 reviews. The tour is priced at $656.43 per person, with free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option.
Pickup starts at 7 AM, with various locations available, making it convenient for those near public transportation.
Read our full review: 3 Day Kruger National Park End With Panaroma Review
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5 Day Ultimate Kruger National Park Budget Accommodation
The 5-Day Ultimate Kruger National Park Budget Accommodation immerses guests in the heart of South Africa’s premier wildlife haven.
This private tour offers exceptional value, with accommodations, meals, and conservation fees included. Guests can expect daily game drives led by qualified safari guides, along with unlimited bottled water and Wi-Fi on the transportation.
The tour departs from Pretoria or Johannesburg, with flexible pickup options. The itinerary is wheelchair accessible, and most travelers can participate.
Rates start from $1,197.54 per person, with a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
This budget-friendly Kruger adventure delivers an unforgettable wildlife experience.
Read our full review: 5 Day Ultimate Kruger National Park Budget Accommodation Review
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Daily Pilanesberg National Park Private Shuttle Services
Travelers seeking a hassle-free way to explore Pilanesberg National Park can take advantage of the Daily Pilanesberg National Park Private Shuttle Services.
Offering quick and easy one-way airport transfers from Johannesburg to Sun City, the service boasts a 90% traveler recommendation.
With flexible itinerary customization, options include a 15-seat minibus for groups or a 4-seat sedan for private parties.
Passengers can expect a meet-and-greet service at the airport, along with bottled water and child seats upon request.
The service is known for its attentive and friendly drivers, ensuring a comfortable and engaging experience.
With free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option, this shuttle service provides a convenient way to explore the park.
Read our full review: Daily Pilanesberg National Park Private Shuttle Services Review
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Full-Day Pilanesberg National Park Safari From Johannesburg and Pretoria
Setting out on a full-day Pilanesberg National Park safari from Johannesburg or Pretoria offers travelers a chance to enjoy the captivating wildlife and landscapes of this premier South African destination.
For $156.49 per person, this private tour includes round-trip transportation, an experienced guide, entrance fees, and water.
Accessibility is excellent, with the tour being wheelchair and stroller-friendly, and service animals allowed.
While the tour’s overall rating is 4.7/5, one review noted an issue with the lunch inclusion advertised. However, the host has acknowledged the feedback and pledged to clarify the tour details.
With a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation, this safari is a convenient and reliable way to explore Pilanesberg National Park.
Read our full review: Full-Day Pilanesberg National Park Safari From Johannesburg and Pretoria Review
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Sum Up
Pretoria is an excellent base to explore the best national park tours in the region. The Pilanesberg Nature Reserve and Kruger National Park offer diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. Visitors can choose from a range of tour options, from budget-friendly day trips to multi-day luxury safaris. With convenient transportation and knowledgeable guides, these tours provide an unforgettable experience to see Africa’s iconic animals in their natural habitats.