Today we depart Cape Town for Pilanesberg National Park, through rolling landscapes and quaint villages on the scenic journey northwest to the remarkable Pilanesberg National Park, a breathtaking haven for wildlife enthusiasts.

Nestled within an ancient volcanic crater, Pilanesberg National Park boasts a unique mix of lush vegetation and open plains, creating a sanctuary for diverse wildlife. This malaria-free national park is one of South Africa’s premier safari destinations and is home to the infamous Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, rhinoceros, and buffalo—as well as an abundance of other wildlife, including cheetah, zebra, and over 300 bird species. The park's distinct geological formations and dramatic terrain provide a stunning backdrop for your safari experience.

Our home for the next two nights will be the magnificent Shepherd’s Tree Game Lodge. Set amidst tranquil bushland, the Shepherd's Tree Game Lodge offers elegantly appointed accommodations, carefully designed to immerse you in the surrounding wilderness.

In the late afternoon, we’ll embark on our first game drive led by our experienced rangers. As the sun dips below the horizon, the African bush comes alive with wildlife activity!

We’ll return to the lodge for our dinner together at the boma under a star-studded sky, savoring gourmet cuisine and exchanging stories of the day's adventures.

Overnight at Shepherd's Tree Game Lodge.
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This morning, wake up to the gentle calls of birds as the sun begins to rise over the magnificent landscape. Start your day with a light breakfast before meeting our expert ranger for an early morning game drive through the captivating Pilanesberg National Park.

Pilanesberg's diverse terrain of open grasslands, wooded valleys, and rocky outcrops provides abundant opportunities to view the Big Five. The park is home to countless fascinating species, such as graceful giraffes browsing from tall acacia trees, playful warthogs, and herds of zebra grazing alongside impalas. Bird enthusiasts will be delighted by the chance to spot vibrant species such as the lilac-breasted roller, African fish eagle, and Kori bustard—the largest flying bird native to Africa.

We return to the lodge for lunch and leisure - perhaps choosing to indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment, take a refreshing dip in the pool overlooking the bushveld, or choose an optional adventurous activity such as quad biking or hot air balloon experience. Alternatively, simply relax, soaking in the tranquil sounds of nature.

Early evening, we venture out – the golden hour transforms the landscape, casting warm hues over the savanna and stirring nocturnal wildlife. Our expert rangers will provide fascinating insights into animal behavior and the intricate symbiotic relationships between flora and fauna. Together, we’ll pause at a scenic lookout for sundowners, where we’ll enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime toast to the beauty of the wild as the horizon glows in hues of orange and pink.

Back at the lodge, we’ll savor a gourmet dinner under the vast starlit sky, sharing tales of wildlife encounters with fellow guests, celebrating the wonder of the day. As you retire for the night, the sounds of the wild continue to lull you to sleep—reminding us that we are part of this timeless, beautiful wilderness.

Overnight at Shepherd's Tree Game Lodge.
(B,L,D)