4-Day Pilanesberg Safari to Bakubung Bush Lodge
Experience the wild heart of South Africa on this unforgettable Pilanesberg Safari at the family-friendly Bakubung Bush Lodge. Just a few hours from Johannesburg, this 4-day safari adventure immerses you in the diverse wildlife and unique volcanic landscapes of Pilanesberg National Park. Enjoy expertly guided game drives, exceptional hospitality, and luxury accommodation overlooking a lively waterhole frequented by hippos and other wildlife.
Quick Safari Overview
Perfect for families, couples, and first-time safari-goers, this 4-day Pilanesberg Safari includes round-trip transfers from Johannesburg, open-vehicle game drives in search of the Big 5, and comfortable lodge stays. Bakubung Bush Lodge also offers optional activities such as bush walks, spa treatments, and a Junior Rangers program for kids.
Day 1: Johannesburg to Pilanesberg National Park
Your Pilanesberg Safari begins with a morning pickup from your accommodation in Johannesburg. After a scenic 2–3 hour drive, arrive at Pilanesberg National Park and enjoy your first game viewing experience en route to Bakubung Bush Lodge.
After checking in and enjoying lunch at the lodge, you’ll head out on a late-afternoon game drive with a professional ranger in an open safari vehicle. Keep your eyes peeled for the Big 5 and many other species that thrive in the unique Pilanesberg ecosystem.
- Included Meals: Lunch & Dinner
- Activities: Afternoon Game Drive
- Accommodation: Standard Room at Bakubung Bush Lodge
Day 2: Full Day in Pilanesberg National Park
Start your day with coffee or tea before heading out on a 3-hour sunrise game drive. With over 7,000 animals and 360+ bird species, every drive offers a new wildlife encounter. After breakfast, spend your free time relaxing at the lodge or enjoy optional activities like bush walks or archery.
Later, embark on a second game drive to explore different areas of Pilanesberg National Park. End your day with a delicious dinner under the stars or at the lodge’s restaurant.
- Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
- Activities: Morning and Afternoon Game Drives
- Accommodation: Standard Room at Bakubung Bush Lodge
Day 3: Wildlife & Leisure in Pilanesberg
Rise early for another thrilling morning game drive led by an experienced guide. Learn about animal behavior, tracking techniques, and the park’s rich biodiversity. After breakfast, unwind by the pool, indulge in a spa treatment, or join one of the lodge’s optional excursions.
Later, you’ll enjoy your final sunset game drive, spotting nocturnal creatures as the bush comes alive in the fading light. Enjoy a cozy fireside dinner back at the lodge.
- Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
- Activities: Morning and Afternoon Game Drives
- Accommodation: Standard Room at Bakubung Bush Lodge
Day 4: Final Game Drive and Return to Johannesburg
Wrap up your Pilanesberg Safari with one last early morning game drive before enjoying a hearty breakfast at the lodge. After check-out, your return transfer includes a final pass through the park, offering one last chance to spot wildlife before heading back to Johannesburg in the afternoon.
- Included Meals: Breakfast
- Activities: Morning Game Drive
About Pilanesberg National Park
Pilanesberg National Park is one of South Africa’s premier Big 5 game reserves and the fourth-largest national park in the country. Located in an ancient volcanic crater, the park spans over 55,000 hectares and boasts exceptional biodiversity. The rare transition zone between the Kalahari and Lowveld makes Pilanesberg home to nearly every large mammal found in Southern Africa, including leopards, lions, rhinos, elephants, buffalo, cheetahs, and hyenas.
Bakubung Bush Lodge – Safari Accommodation
Located in the southeast of Pilanesberg, Bakubung Bush Lodge offers panoramic views over a large waterhole. The lodge caters to families and couples alike, with facilities such as a swimming pool, tennis courts, spa, gym, and kids’ playground. Each luxury ensuite room features a private balcony, air-conditioning, and modern amenities for a comfortable stay. On this Pilanesberg Safari, you’ll be accommodated in standard rooms.
Dining on Your Pilanesberg Safari
All meals at Bakubung Bush Lodge are included and feature delicious local and international dishes. Special dietary needs can be catered for with advance notice. Dine in the restaurant or under the stars in the outdoor boma during select evenings.
Safari Transfers
This Pilanesberg Safari includes return transfers in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan. Game drives take place in open-sided or open-topped 4×4 safari vehicles. Pickups and drop-offs are available from your accommodation in Johannesburg or central Pretoria.
- Pickup: Between 05:30 and 07:00
- Drop-off: Around 17:30
Optional Extras
Enhance your Pilanesberg Safari experience with optional activities available at Bakubung Bush Lodge:
- Guided bush walks
- Archery and quad biking
- Spa treatments
- Junior Rangers Program for kids
- Wildlife center & Predator’s World visits
Onward Travel & Pre/Post Safari Lodging
For those with evening flights, we recommend scheduling departures from OR Tambo International Airport after 19:30 for domestic and after 21:00 for international flights. Pre- and post-safari accommodation near the airport is available upon request.
Ready to book your Pilanesberg Safari? Contact us today to reserve your spot on this unforgettable South African wildlife adventure.