Safari Dreams in Pilanesberg National Park

The second leg of our South African journey carried us north to Pilanesberg National Park, where we hoped to experience the country we’d long imagined—vast savannas, roaming wildlife, and golden horizons that stretch endlessly into the bush.

Located in South Africa’s North West Province, Pilanesberg is a malaria-free game reserve nestled within the remnants of an ancient volcanic crater known as the Pilanesberg Alkaline Ring Complex. Sitting at the crossroads of the Kalahari and Lowveld biomes, the park’s unique geography creates remarkable ecological diversity—and supports an impressive range of wildlife.

Home to the legendary **Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo—**the park also shelters cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, hippos, and more than 300 species of birds. Best of all, it’s easily accessible from Johannesburg, making it one of South Africa’s most popular safari destinations.

A Royal Welcome at Ivory Tree Game Lodge

We flew from Cape Town to Johannesburg before embarking on a three-hour drive to our lodge, tucked deep inside the reserve. From the moment we stepped off the bus, we felt like royalty.

Drumming echoed through the air. Cool drinks and hot towels were placed in our hands. Warm smiles greeted us at every turn. It felt cinematic—like the beginning of something magical.

We were whisked by golf cart to our accommodations: traditional-looking grass huts on the outside, five-star sanctuaries on the inside. Think four-poster canopy beds draped with mosquito nets, plush linens, fluffy robes and slippers, and a minibar that went mostly untouched by non-drinkers like us.

The spacious bathrooms featured deep soaking tubs—but the true showstopper was the outdoor shower. At first, we hesitated. Showering outside in the African bush? But once we realized the walls offered complete privacy, nighttime showers beneath star-studded skies quickly became one of our favorite rituals.

Our First Boma Dinner Under the Stars   

That evening, we experienced our first boma dinner—a traditional outdoor African feast held inside a fenced enclosure for safety, illuminated by firelight and alive with drumming, dancing, and storytelling.

Hanging pots reminiscent of another era simmered beside sleek modern buffet displays. The contrast felt intentional—honoring tradition while celebrating contemporary comfort.

While the barbecue offerings thrilled meat lovers, I was once again delighted by the thoughtful vegetarian and vegan options. I sampled pap—a maize-based staple similar to fufu—alongside roasted squash, a three-bean salad, asparagus and tomato mélange, and richly seasoned sauces.

Fresh fruit overflowed from platters, and dessert tables beckoned. The live music transported us straight back to our experience at GOLD Restaurant in Cape Town—joyful, rhythmic, and immersive.

Dawn in the Bush: Game Drives & Big Five Hunts

The highlight of our stay at Ivory Tree Game Lodge was undoubtedly the early-morning game drives.

We rose before sunrise, layered ourselves in every warm item we owned, and tiptoed through the dark toward the main lodge for tea and light refreshments.

Soon we were climbing into open-air safari vehicles, clutching bright lodge-provided blankets while our guide briefed us on safety.

I never expected to need gloves in South Africa—but racing down dirt roads in the icy dawn wind is bone-chilling. That discomfort disappeared the moment we spotted our first animals.

Towering giraffes. Massive elephants. Herds of zebra silhouetted against the horizon.

We were reminded never to exit the vehicle except at designated rest stops—secure enclosures where we could stretch our legs, sip hot drinks, and marvel at what we’d already seen.

After hours of exploring, we returned for indulgent breakfasts: overflowing fruit displays, fresh juices, breads and cereals, plus made-to-order entrées—including dedicated vegan dishes that made every meal effortless.

Spa Days, Sunset Safaris & Fireside Stories

Afternoons offered a choose-your-own-adventure pace. Some guests tried archery or quad biking. Others headed off on excursions to nearby towns.

I opted for bliss at the Amani African Spa, where stress melted away beneath skilled hands and tranquil surroundings. And sometimes—between game drives, meals, and activities—a nap simply felt necessary.

Later, we set out once more into the bush for evening safaris, hoping to tick off another member of the Big Five.

Evenings ended around roaring fires and long dinner tables, trading stories, comparing photos, and marveling at how close we’d come to wildlife that morning.

Though weather conditions canceled our anticipated hot-air balloon safari, we accepted the disappointment with grace—trusting that every experience had offered exactly what it was meant to.

Once again, it was the people who made the journey unforgettable. The staff who welcomed us so warmly soon felt less like employees and more like extended family.

Leaving Ivory Tree was bittersweet—but Johannesburg and Soweto awaited.

And we were ready for whatever South Africa would reveal next. 🌍✨