Johannesburg: Pilanesberg Safari Game Drive incl Lunch
Johannesburg, South Africa

Johannesburg: Pilanesberg Safari Game Drive incl Lunch

Outty Ranking 64 5.0 · 6 traveler reviews10 hoursFrom $202
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Outty Ranking

64/100

Solid Choice. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 6 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Johannesburg: Pilanesberg Safari Game Drive incl Lunch worth booking?

Johannesburg: Pilanesberg Safari Game Drive incl Lunch is a 10-hour experience in Johannesburg, South Africa, from $202 per person. It scores 64 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 5/5 rating across 6 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
64 / 100
Rating
5/5 (6)
Duration
10 hours
From
$202 per person

This tour offers guests a unique tour experience to the Pilanesberg National Park from Johannesburg. Guests can sit back and relax and take in the sights, whilst in-transit to the National park in a 4x4 SUV. Enjoy a 3-hour Game drive on an open Safari game vehicle with a qualified game ranger, through the beautiful natural National Park to see the wildlife in their natural habitat. The Pilanesberg National Park is the 4th largest park in South Africa offering the opportunity to see the Big 5. After your 3-hour game drive enjoy a buffet lunch at a game lodge overlooking the watering hole. We offer safe reliable transportation and an all inclusive tour, including pick-up and drop-off service, game drive and lunch.

What you get

    About this experience

    This tour offers guests a unique tour experience to the Pilanesberg National Park from Johannesburg. Guests can sit back and relax and take in the sights, whilst in-transit to the National park in a 4x4 SUV. Enjoy a 3-hour Game drive on an open Safari game vehicle with a qualified game ranger, through the beautiful natural National Park to see the wildlife in their natural habitat. The Pilanesberg National Park is the 4th largest park in South Africa offering the opportunity to see the Big 5. After your 3-hour game drive enjoy a buffet lunch at a game lodge overlooking the watering hole. We offer safe reliable transportation and an all inclusive tour, including pick-up and drop-off service, game drive and lunch.

    What's included

    Included

    • Private transportation
    • Lunch
    • Entrance Tickets to the Pilanesberg National Park
    • Bottled water
    • 3-hour game drive on a Safari game drive vehicle
    • In-vehicle air conditioning

    Not included

    • Items of a personal nature
    • Alcoholic beverages
    • All drinks will be for your own account

    What you'll see and do

    1. Sandton

      6am Pick-up: You will be collected from the ‘My Sandton City Stop’ station at the corner of 5th Street and Maude Street, Sandton. Collection time is strictly 6am.

      15 minutes here

    2. Pilanesberg National Park

      9am Arrival: You will be transported via SUV to the Pilanesberg National Park, dependent on traffic conditions the transfer will take approx. 3 hours. You will get a quick leg stretch before entering the Pilanesberg National Park. The game drive will be on an open game drive vehicle in the Reserve.

      180 minutes here

    3. Pilanesberg National Park

      9am - 12pm: You will enjoy a 3-hour game drive of the park, where you will be able to see various wild animals like Elephant, Rhino, Lion, Giraffe and various buck and Zebra. Hopefully you are lucky enough to witness the elusive Leopard or Cheetah on the Game Drive. After the Game Drive, you will make your way back to the main gate and be transported to the lunch venue.

      180 minutes here

    4. 12:30 - 13:30pm: You will enjoy a buffet lunch at the Marula Restaurant at the Bakubung Bush Lodge.

      60 minutes here · Admission included

    5. Sandton

      13:30pm Departure: After lunch you will be transported back to the original collection point in Sandton. Dependent on traffic conditions, the transfer will take approximately 2.5 hours. you will be dropped off approximately 16h00 dependent on traffic conditions.

      150 minutes here

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 15 minutes before departure.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    The Tour ist

    Know before you go

    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

    Photos

    Johannesburg: Pilanesberg Safari Game Drive incl Lunch, photo 2Johannesburg: Pilanesberg Safari Game Drive incl Lunch, photo 3Johannesburg: Pilanesberg Safari Game Drive incl Lunch, photo 4Johannesburg: Pilanesberg Safari Game Drive incl Lunch, photo 5Johannesburg: Pilanesberg Safari Game Drive incl Lunch, photo 6Johannesburg: Pilanesberg Safari Game Drive incl Lunch, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 6 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    Organization

    2 mentions

    Pickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.

    Good for families

    2 mentions

    Reviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.

    Traveler reviews

    6 verified traveler reviews for Johannesburg: Pilanesberg Safari Game Drive incl Lunch. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    6
    4 star
    0
    3 star
    0
    2 star
    0
    1 star
    0
    Sort
    FarAway800237 · August 2026

    Wonderful experience

    Thanks to Stuart for the hassle free organisation of our trip out to Pilanesberg. As visitors with mobility issues we can be a little more difficult to accommodate than the standard traveller but Stuart put our minds at ease when organising the day. On the day everything went perfectly. Picked up and looked after by the ultra friendly and efficient Sandesh who continuously went the extra mile to make sure that everything went smoothly. Highly recommend the Tour ist team

    Response from the operator: Thank you Peter, appreciate the kind review

    via Tripadvisor

    Dreamer02210962410 · March 2025

    Game drive to Pilanesberg

    He was very considerate always on time knew his directions to all destinations, and was a pleasure to be around. His wife cooked muffins in the morning they were delicious did Safari was fantastic. He took pictures with us. We thoroughly enjoyed our holiday. I would recommend him to everyone that comes to South Africa.

    Response from the operator: Thank you so much, we had a lot of fun with the group and it was an absolute pleasure hosting the group. We look forward to hosting you in the future. Stuart and Heather

    via Tripadvisor

    433arvindg · March 2025

    Real value for money - amazing safari experience

    Excellent arrangements by Stuart. Went for a 2 day customized safari for me. 1 day drive with him inside the Pilanesburg reserve searching for birds and animals. 2nd day did a 6 hour guided tour. Saw almost all famous animals of Africa. Superb and highly recommended.

    Response from the operator: Thank you Arvind, it was an absolute pleasure hosting you on this 2-day Safari tour to Pilanesberg Nature reserve. You have brought so much to my attention regarding birds that we simply take for granted as everyone is always looking for the lion, cheetah and leopard. Hope to host you and your wife in the near future.

    via Tripadvisor

    Curious15809906044 · June 2024

    Safari and Wine

    Amazing day tour to Pilanesburg Park with Stewart who drove us there safely from Johannesburg. After the safari, we had a buffet lunch in a wonderful restaurant booked by Stewart, he advised us on the wine. We were delighted. I recommend it for the profesionnalism and the service. Great experience.

    Response from the operator: Thank you so much it was an absolute pleasure hosting you on this amazing full day tour to the Pilanesberg Nature Reserve. Looking forward to hosting you again in the near future.

    via Tripadvisor

    MicayleLeigh · September 2023

    The best bush experience

    What a great experience on a hot summers day! We weren’t expecting to see much as it hasn’t been raining too much and assumed that the animals would be hiding in the shade where they could find it, but much to our surprise the animals were up and about enjoying the day just like we did! The tour operator, Stuart, was excellent in spotting animals, which added something extra special to the tour. He also took us to a hide where we got out of the vehicle and we saw an entire herd of elephants grazing! Would definitely recommend as a lovely family day out. What an amazing day.

    Response from the operator: Thank you, glad you enjoyed it

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    10 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $202 to $3,250
    Hotel pickup
    Included for all travelers
    Booked in 30 days
    2
    Verdict
    Solid Choice

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by The Tour ist, who run 4 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 69.1.

    See everything The Tour ist runs

    Why this scores 64

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)90
    Review evidence (18% weight)32
    Booking momentum (14% weight)22
    Value for money (12% weight)58
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)56
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Johannesburg: Pilanesberg Safari Game Drive incl Lunch: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Johannesburg.

    How much does Johannesburg: Pilanesberg Safari Game Drive incl Lunch cost?

    +

    Prices start at $202 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Johannesburg usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Johannesburg: Pilanesberg Safari Game Drive incl Lunch take?

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    Plan for about 10 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Johannesburg is not rushed.

    Is Johannesburg: Pilanesberg Safari Game Drive incl Lunch worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 64 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 6 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Johannesburg, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Johannesburg: Pilanesberg Safari Game Drive incl Lunch?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Johannesburg: Pilanesberg Safari Game Drive incl Lunch suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 10-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Johannesburg: Pilanesberg Safari Game Drive incl Lunch?

    +

    Around 2 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Johannesburg can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Johannesburg and add a light layer if any part of the 10-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Johannesburg: Pilanesberg Safari Game Drive incl Lunch start and how do I get there?

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    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Johannesburg within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Johannesburg?

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    On Outty we rank every Johannesburg experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Soweto and Johannesburg Exclusive Full Day Guided Tour, Ultimate Johannesburg Soweto Experience with Apartheid Museum, Full Day Ultimate Pilanesberg National Park Safari from Johannesburg or Pretoria. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Johannesburg?

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    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Johannesburg?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

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    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Johannesburg: Pilanesberg Safari Game Drive incl Lunch?

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    Included: Private transportation; Lunch; Entrance Tickets to the Pilanesberg National Park; Bottled water; and 3-hour game drive on a Safari game drive vehicle. Not included: Items of a personal nature; Alcoholic beverages; and All drinks will be for your own account. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Johannesburg: Pilanesberg Safari Game Drive incl Lunch include hotel pickup?

    +

    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 3 listed pickup locations in and around Johannesburg. Be ready about 15 minutes before the start time.

    What languages is Johannesburg: Pilanesberg Safari Game Drive incl Lunch offered in?

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    It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Johannesburg: Pilanesberg Safari Game Drive incl Lunch?

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    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Johannesburg: Pilanesberg Safari Game Drive incl Lunch wheelchair or stroller accessible?

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    The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Johannesburg: Pilanesberg Safari Game Drive incl Lunch if the weather is bad?

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    This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.

    What do travelers say about Johannesburg: Pilanesberg Safari Game Drive incl Lunch?

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    Across 6 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include organization, good for families. Pickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

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