WHY YOU’D LOVE IT!
Discover the Big-5 and more at the Pilansberg National Park, a striking landscape made up of one of the world’s largest volcanic complexes. Pilansberg’s spectacular game reserve provides the perfect backdrop to your leisurely Big-Five photo safari. Located inside the eroded crater of the extinct volcano, this is a fantastic opportunity to record tremendous memories of a truly unique South African destination. With everything from lakes, to wildlife and striking vegetation to see, Pilansberg is a glorious photo safari that you won’t want to miss.
Highlights include:
- Pilanesberg National Park safari
- Big 5 and plains game
- Safari Game drives
- Luxury accommodation
OVERVIEW
Itinerary at a glance
◽️ DAY 1-2 | South Africa
Pilanesberg NP
◽️ DAY 3-4 | South Africa
Pilanesberg NP
◽️ DAY 5 | Return
End of safari
MAP
MAP
Visualize your journey!
DAY 0 | Date to be updated
DEPARTURE
Travel
DEPARTURE
Your adventure starts now!
Embark on an African safari and anticipate witnessing breathtaking landscapes, encountering diverse and majestic wildlife in their natural habitats, and immersing yourself in the rich cultural experiences of the continent.
* See your safari itinerary for transfer logistics
DAY 1 -2 | Date to be updated
PILANESBURG
Safari days
📍 Black Rhino Lodge
PILANESBURG NATIONAL PARK
Area Overview
Pilanesberg Game Reserve exists within the transition zone between the dry Kalahari and wetter Lowveld vegetation, commonly referred to as "Bushveld". Unlike any other large park, unique overlaps of mammals, birds and vegetation occur because of this transition zone.
With the opportunity to witness Africa's renowned Big Five in their natural environment. The Pilanesberg Game Reserve is home to a diverse array of wildlife, boasting more than 7,000 animals and 300 different bird species. Enthusiasts can observe all members of the Big Five as well as a wide variety of other creatures, Home to healthy populations of lion, leopard, black and white rhino, elephant and buffalo - Africa's "Big Five". A wide variety of rare and common species exist with endemic species like the nocturnal brown hyaena, the fleet-footed cheetah, the majestic sable, as well as giraffe, zebra, hippo and crocodile.
Pilanesberg is one of the largest volcanic and Alkaline Ring Complexes of its kind in the world. Its rare rock types and structure make it a unique geological feature. The early presence of man can be seen in the numerous Stone and Iron Age sites that are scattered throughout the park.The crater of a long extinct volcano is the setting of Pilanesberg National Park - a fascinating alkaline complex produced by volcanic eruptions some 1300 million years ago. The area is fringed by three concentric ridges or rings of hills - the formation rises from the surrounding plains like a bubble. The structure of the park is termed the "Pilanesberg National Park Alkaline Ring Complex". Ancient, even by geological time scales, this extinct volcano is the most perfect example of an alkaline ring complex. A number of rare (but not necessarily economically important) minerals occur in the park. Pilanesberg has survived ages of erosion and stands high above the surrounding bushveld plains. The early presence of man can be seen in the numerous Stone and Iron Age sites that are scattered throughout the park.
Safari days
Each day on safari in Africa is a magical experience, whether you’re exploring the savanna on foot or in a 4x4 vehicle in search of the Big 5 or taking to the sky in a hot-air balloon to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration. Every single day is steeped in the promise of a unique adventure and cherished memories.
Although each day is unpredictable to a certain extent, based on the time of year or location, there is a general format or schedule that safaris tend to follow, but, as a rule, safaris do follow a familiar rhythm that combines thrilling game viewing with ample time to relax in between—a dream vacation in anyone’s book. One rule of thumb is that there are usually two game drives a day: one in the early morning and one in the late afternoon, when animals are at their most active.
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BLACK RHINO LODGE
Lodge Overview
The lodge is a hidden treasure set amongst the trees of an old Tamboti forest at the foot of an ancient volcanic crater that today comprises one of South Africa’s most exciting Big 5 eco-tourism destinations, the greater Pilanesberg National Park. The lodge & Game Reserve is a private reserve which is incorporated into the 113,693 acres Pilanesberg National Park
Lodge is the ideal location for a luxurious bushveld breakaway. Built between a Tamboti forest, overlooking a busy waterhole, which is a hive of bird and animal activity, and a playground for the elephant. On many occasions, the stillness of the night is broken by the roaring of lions, and the franklins sing the morning wake up call. Once, you are awakened with a hot cup of coffee, your host ranger will take you out on an exceptional game drive, taking you through the reserve, into the unexplored valley of the Pilanesberg, until we reach the 200km network Pilanesberg Park roads. It is from here, accompanied by your personal game ranger, that you will be able explore the malaria free wildlife wonderland and discover the magic of the African bush!
A warm welcome awaits on arrival at the airport! *Please be on the lookout for your driver with your name sign. Baggage assistance followed by a 2hr mins. road transfer to your accommodation.
* Please see your safari itinerary for transfer logistics
FULL BOARD
LODGE
GAME VIEW
DAY 3-4 | Date to be updated
PILANESBURG
Safari days
📍 Ivory Tree Lodge
PILANESBURG NATIONAL PARK
Area Overview
Pilanesberg Game Reserve exists within the transition zone between the dry Kalahari and wetter Lowveld vegetation, commonly referred to as "Bushveld". Unlike any other large park, unique overlaps of mammals, birds and vegetation occur because of this transition zone.
With the opportunity to witness Africa's renowned Big Five in their natural environment. The Pilanesberg Game Reserve is home to a diverse array of wildlife, boasting more than 7,000 animals and 300 different bird species. Enthusiasts can observe all members of the Big Five as well as a wide variety of other creatures, Home to healthy populations of lion, leopard, black and white rhino, elephant and buffalo - Africa's "Big Five". A wide variety of rare and common species exist with endemic species like the nocturnal brown hyaena, the fleet-footed cheetah, the majestic sable, as well as giraffe, zebra, hippo and crocodile.
Pilanesberg is one of the largest volcanic and Alkaline Ring Complexes of its kind in the world. Its rare rock types and structure make it a unique geological feature. The early presence of man can be seen in the numerous Stone and Iron Age sites that are scattered throughout the park.The crater of a long extinct volcano is the setting of Pilanesberg National Park - a fascinating alkaline complex produced by volcanic eruptions some 1300 million years ago. The area is fringed by three concentric ridges or rings of hills - the formation rises from the surrounding plains like a bubble. The structure of the park is termed the "Pilanesberg National Park Alkaline Ring Complex". Ancient, even by geological time scales, this extinct volcano is the most perfect example of an alkaline ring complex. A number of rare (but not necessarily economically important) minerals occur in the park. Pilanesberg has survived ages of erosion and stands high above the surrounding bushveld plains. The early presence of man can be seen in the numerous Stone and Iron Age sites that are scattered throughout the park.
Safari days
Each day on safari in Africa is a magical experience, whether you’re exploring the savanna on foot or in a 4x4 vehicle in search of the Big 5 or taking to the sky in a hot-air balloon to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration. Every single day is steeped in the promise of a unique adventure and cherished memories.
Although each day is unpredictable to a certain extent, based on the time of year or location, there is a general format or schedule that safaris tend to follow, but, as a rule, safaris do follow a familiar rhythm that combines thrilling game viewing with ample time to relax in between—a dream vacation in anyone’s book. One rule of thumb is that there are usually two game drives a day: one in the early morning and one in the late afternoon, when animals are at their most active.
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IVORY TREE LODGE
Lodge Overview
Safari days
Pilanesberg National Park exists within the transition zone between the dry Kalahari and wetter Lowveld vegetation, commonly referred to as "Bushveld". Unlike any other large park, unique overlaps of mammals, birds and vegetation occur because of this transition zone. Pilanesberg National Park accommodates virtually every mammal of southern Africa.
Home to almost all of Southern Africa’s big game as well as more than 300 bird species. It offers much more than just game viewing - activities for every taste allow you to have your perfect holiday. Nestled in the basin of an ancient amphitheater divided by riverine woodlands and elephant trails lies an exclusive lodge development site.
Decorated in a range of earthy tones ranging from terra-cottas to deep blues, the rooms have been carefully coordinated to ensure comfortable seating both indoors and out.
ACTIVITIES
Board the specialized game viewing vehicles and stand a chance to see all of Southern Africa’s large mammals on a game drive! Rejuvenate your body and soul at the Amani African Spa; quad biking; join in for some delicious cuisine during an exclusive bush braai or boma dinner; experience African culture with Tswana and Zulu dancing, interactive drumming, an African marimba band and a percussion show.
Safari days in the fourth largest park in South Africa, covering an area of 135,900 acres. The beauty of Pilanesberg is reflected in a large central lake, the Mankwe Dam. Over time, wind and water have carved a spectacular landscape with rocky outcrops, open grasslands, wooded valleys and thickets.
FULL BOARD
LODGE
GAME VIEW
DAY 13 | Dates to be updated
RETURN
DEPARTURE
Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end! Goodbye to the safari life, feeling relaxed, mesmerizing scenery, great food, family time, and romantic memories.
Morning road transfer back to the airport for your outbound flight... dreaming of the trip of a lifetime!
TRAVEL INFO
◽️ Preparing for your trip
PREPARING FOR YOUR
SAFARI
Pre-Travel Information
Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the return date of your arrangements and have a minimum of three blank visa pages excluding endorsement pages. Travellng with minors - in addition to having a valid passport and valid visa (if applicable), children under the age of 18, traveling through Botswana’s borders, must be in possession of a certified copy of their unabridged birth certificate (one that shows the particulars of a minor and those of both parents). A child under the age of 18 traveling to Botswana and/or South Africa with just one parent must carry an affidavit signed by the other parent consenting to such travel. Failure to produce the necessary documentation may result in travelers being turned away at port of entry. Insider Tips Zimbabwe and Mozambique visas each use up a full passport page. If you are visiting both countries we recommend a minimum of four blank pages. Post Covid passport renewals are taking much longer than in the past so don’t leave applying for a new passport until the last moment as there iust a chance you won’t receive it in time to travel. Keeping your passport safe is key as there is nothing worse than having to spend precious holiday time replacing it. Make at least two copies of the ID page of your passport, visa (if obtained in advance of travel), Covid-19 vaccine passport, travel itinerary, travel insurance, credit cards and any other travel documentation. One copy can be an image scan and the other a hard copy which you can give to a family member, business associate or close friend for safekeeping When it comes to health risks and medical precautions, Machaba Blue is only able to offer limited advice as outlined below. Those with underlying chronic conditions should ideally seek medical advice prior to planning their journey. Prior to traveling to Africa, we highly recommend you visit a medical professional such as your GP or local travel clinic for advice on what health precautions need to be taken. This visit should take place at least 4-8 weeks prior to departure as it will determine the need for any vaccinations and/or antimalarial medication as well as identifying any other medical precautions. Currently no mandatory vaccinations are required when entering Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and South Africa. Please check if this is still the case when visiting your GP or travel clinic. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required by visitors coming from a country where yellow fever occurs, or if they have been in transit for more than 12 hours at an airport in a country here yellow fever occurs. Malaria is present throughout southern Africa and in certain areas of South Africa. Insider Tips INCLUDED ____________ * As indicated on your detailed safari itinerary EXCLUDED ____________ * Unless otherwise indicated on your itineraryPASSPORTS
HEALTH
VISAS
GRATUITIES
PACKING LIST
BAGGAGE
TRAVEL INSURANCE
SAFETY GUIDELINES
INCLUDED & EXCLUDED
PAPERWORK
PASSPORTS
- Email or Whatsapp a clear color copy of your passport
- Expiration date valid at least 6 months past return dates
- Please check the number of blank Visa pages required by each country
CONTRACT
- Download the Safari Contract
- Take a picture with your phone of the first & last page and email back
- Include APPENDIX C / Indemnity for each person going on the safari
GUEST INFORMATION
- Download the Guest Information sheet
- Fill out for each person going on the safari and email back
