Pilanesberg -South Africa

Hi Erna. We did not stay at the Kwa Maritane but instead at the Bakgatla Resort right outside the entrance to Pilanesberg National Park. It was a nice Chalet with 2 rooms and a kitchen. I understand the Kwa Maritane is a supposed to be more luxurious and expensive so it should be great. We drove up from Jo'burg... it took about 3 or so hours I guess and was not a bad drive at all. I guess that is subjective depending on where you are used to driving. It is not as easy as driving in the States but so much better than someplace like Central America (Costa Rica) or East Africa (Kenya). Tips I would share on Pilanseberg are be prepared to get up early and got to the water blinds. Also plan several different excursions into the park. We spent 3 days (many hours) driving through the park and it was not enough. In addition to Pilanesberg, you MUST make time to go to the Lion Park north of Jo'burg (http://www.lion-park.com Tele: +27 11 460 1814) and the Lesedi Cultural Village (http://www.lesedi.com). These BOTH are not an option. At the Lion Park you get to play with, or in my case get clawed/bitten by, baby lions.. (wouldn't trade the scar on my hand or the hole in my shoe for anything) and at the Lesedi Cultural Village you get the opportunity to learn about and see the different tribes and villages found in South Africa. There is also a large feast at the end of the Lesedi experience where you get to taste many traditional delicacies of Africa like crocodile, ostrich, etc.. It is a wonderful meal. I hope all of this helps you plan your trip! I wish I was going with you but we will be going to East Africa next year. Enjoy! Reply to this

The Pilanesberg National Park is malaria-free and is one of the largest parks in South Africa. It is located about 2 hours drive away from Johannesburg, on the eroded remains of an extinct alkaline volcanic crater, one of only three such extensive craters in the world. The Pilanesberg countryside comprises of hills and broad open plains, it is well stocked with game which include the Big five. The best way is to hire a car or ask the Kwa Maritane hotel to send a car.

I stayed at the Kwa Maritane, a awesome place to experience excellent game sightings is by using the lodges 130 m underground tunnel, leading to a "Hide", providing close encounters with the game. The easiest and cheapest way to book a African Safari is through
Johannesburg Safari Direct, they have the largest amount of game lodges on offer in Southern Africa. Reply to this