7 day guided safari
7 Day Pilanesberg and Johannesburg Tour
This morning, you will be met at the airport or your nearby hotel by your driver-guide, who will transfer you to the lodge.
Tailor made Priced around your dates, your group and your lodges
Speak to a consultant on +27 81 300 9331, Mon to Sun, 8am to 6pm SAST
At a glance
What this 7 day pilanesberg and johannesburg tour covers
Everything below is fixed in the plan already. The dates, the group size and the lodges stay yours to change.
- Trip length7 days, 6 nights
- Starts atOR Tambo International Airport [JNB]
- Where you sleepGold Reef City Theme Park Hotel, Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge
- MealsHalf Board – Dinner, Bed and Breakfast, Bed and Breakfast
- Best forPilanesberg, Bakubung Bush Lodge or Kwa-Maritane Bush Lodge, Gold Reef City, Soweto, Johannesburg Tour, Pretoria Tour
- Transfers2 included, longest 200.05
- Reference07/05/2026
The route
Where this safari takes you
Drawn from the roads your driver actually takes, not a straight line between two dots.
- OR Tambo International Airport [JNB] to Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge
- Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge to Gold Reef City Theme Park Hotel
- Gold Reef City Theme Park Hotel to OR Tambo International Airport [JNB]
Day by day
Your 7 Day Pilanesberg and Johannesburg Tour, one day at a time
Written by the consultant who planned it. Nothing here is filler, and nothing is a surprise on arrival.
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1
Day 1 Pilanesberg National Park
Pilanesberg National Park
This morning, you will be met at the airport or your nearby hotel by your driver-guide, who will transfer you to the lodge.
If you arrive in time for lunch, you’ll enjoy a meal before checking in at 14:00. After check-in, you’ll have time to freshen up and relax before your evening game drive.
Following the game drive, dinner will be served before you retire for the night.
- Private Transfer from OR Tambo International Airport [JNB] to Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge
- Check-in to Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge
- Evening Evening Game Drive
- Evening Dinner
- Gold Reef City Theme Park Hotel
- Half Board – Dinner, Bed and Breakfast
- No Drinks
- OR Tambo International Airport [JNB] to Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge
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2
Day 2 Pilanesberg National Park
Pilanesberg National Park
This morning, you’ll be gently awakened for your early morning game drive, where the bush comes alive with the sights and sounds of nature at its most active. After your adventure, you’ll return to the lodge for a hearty breakfast, served with warm hospitality.
Following breakfast, enjoy some leisure time, whether it’s relaxing by the pool, lounging in the communal areas, or curling up with a good book as the African sun rises higher.
Later, you’ll head out for your evening game drive, a chance to witness wildlife in the golden glow of sunset.
As the day winds down, you’ll return to the lodge for a sumptuous dinner, followed by a peaceful evening to reflect, unwind, and prepare for another day of discovery
- Morning Early Morning Game Drive
- Morning Breakfast
- Evening Evening Game Drive
- Evening Dinner
- Gold Reef City Theme Park Hotel
- Half Board – Dinner, Bed and Breakfast
- No Drinks
-
3
Day 3 Pilanesberg National Park
Pilanesberg National Park
This morning, you’ll be gently awakened for your early morning game drive, where the bush comes alive with the sights and sounds of nature at its most active. After your adventure, you’ll return to the lodge for a hearty breakfast, served with warm hospitality.
Following breakfast, enjoy some leisure time, whether it’s relaxing by the pool, lounging in the communal areas, or curling up with a good book as the African sun rises higher.
Later, you’ll head out for your evening game drive, a chance to witness wildlife in the golden glow of sunset.
As the day winds down, you’ll return to the lodge for a sumptuous dinner, followed by a peaceful evening to reflect, unwind, and prepare for another day of discovery
- Morning Early Morning Game Drive
- Morning Breakfast
- Evening Evening Game Drive
- Evening Dinner
- Gold Reef City Theme Park Hotel
- Half Board – Dinner, Bed and Breakfast
- No Drinks
-
4
Day 4 Johannesburg
Johannesburg
This Morning
AfterwardsKwa Maritane Bush Lodge
Late Morning
11:00, TransferKwa Maritane Bush LodgeGold Reef City Theme Park Hotel
14:00, ArrivalGold Reef City Theme Park Hotel
Evening
- Morning Early Morning Game Drive
- Morning Breakfast
- Check-out from Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge
- Transfer from Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge to Gold Reef City Theme Park Hotel
- Check-in to Gold Reef City Theme Park Hotel
- Evening Dinner
- Bed and Breakfast
- No Drinks
- Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge to Gold Reef City Theme Park Hotel
-
5
Day 5 Johannesburg
Johannesburg
This Morning You’ll begin the day with a delicious breakfast, setting the tone for an exciting adventure ahead.
After Breakfast We’ll take you on a fascinating Gold Tour, where you’ll uncover the rich history of Johannesburg’s mining past and the stories that shaped the city. From there, the journey continues into Soweto, a vibrant township brimming with culture, resilience, and heritage. It’s a chance to experience South Africa’s spirit through its people, landmarks, and living history.
Later in the Day After your tours, you’ll return to the hotel to refresh and unwind. Take some time to relax, perhaps enjoying the amenities or simply resting after a day of exploration.
Evening As the sun sets, gather for a delightful dinner, rounding off the day with good food and warm company.
- Morning Breakfast
- Morning Gold Tour
- Afternoon Soweto Tour
- Afternoon Return to Hotel
- Evening Dinner
- Bed and Breakfast
- No Drinks
-
6
Day 6 Johannesburg
Johannesburg
This Morning You’ll begin the day with a delicious breakfast, enjoyed in a relaxed setting as you prepare for a day of discovery.
After Breakfast We’ll take you on a captivating Full Day Johannesburg and Pretoria City Tour, where history and modern life blend seamlessly. In Johannesburg, you’ll explore the vibrant energy of the city, its landmarks, and cultural highlights. Then, in Pretoria, South Africa’s administrative capital, you’ll be surrounded by stately architecture, tree-lined avenues, and monuments that tell the nation’s story.
Later in the Day After your tours, you’ll return to the hotel to refresh and unwind. Take time to relax, perhaps enjoying the amenities or simply resting after a full day of exploration.
Evening As the day draws to a close, gather for a delightful dinner, savoring good food and reflecting on the experiences of the day.
- Morning Breakfast
- Morning Full Day Johannesburg and Pretoria City Tour
- Evening Return to Hotel
- Evening Dinner
- Bed and Breakfast
- No Drinks
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7
Day 7 Pilanesberg National Park
Pilanesberg National Park
This Morning You’ll begin the day with a delicious breakfast, enjoyed at leisure as you prepare for the journey ahead.
After Breakfast Gather your belongings and check out of the hotel, taking a moment to reflect on the experiences you’ve enjoyed during your stay.
Transfer From there, you’ll be transferred to OR Tambo International Airport, where your onward travels await.
- Morning Breakfast
- Check-out from Gold Reef City Theme Park Hotel
- Transfer from Gold Reef City Theme Park Hotel to OR Tambo International Airport [JNB]
- Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge
- Half Board – Dinner, Bed and Breakfast
- No Drinks
- Gold Reef City Theme Park Hotel to OR Tambo International Airport [JNB]
Want it longer, shorter, or built around different lodges?
Where you will stay
The lodges on this trip
Each one is a property BST books directly, so a room held for you is genuinely held.
Gold Reef City Theme Park Hotel
Gold Reef City Theme Park Hotel in Johannesburg is an authentic portrayal of a turn-of-the-century mining town hotel, is located within Africa’s largest theme park, and offers its guests a glimpse of a bygone era.
Guests enjoy a choice of 75 luxurious en-suite rooms, access to the hotel’s private pools and gardens, and free access to the popular theme park.
A host of family-friendly dining options are available, from Barney’s Restaurant and Bar to several well-known franchise restaurants, all located within the precinct.
Several function rooms and conferencing facilities are available, while Johannesburg’s landmark Gold Reef Casino and Entertainment Complex is adjacent to the hotel. For those who wish to explore Johannesburg, several attractions are within easy reach, Soweto, the Apartheid Museum, the Cradle of Humankind, and many more.
For comfort, and outstanding service, Gold Reef City Theme Park Hotel is the family destination of choice in Johannesburg.
- 24-hour Security
- Activity Desk
- Bar
- Conference Centre
- Gym (nearby)
- Laundry Service (Available)
- Pool
- Restaurant
Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge
Located in the Pilanesberg National Park, on the slopes of a 2-billion-year-old volcano, is home to Africa’s big five. Relax by the pool, head out for a late afternoon game drive and then enjoy dinner in our wonderful restaurant. On Wednesdays and Saturdays enjoy our bush boma, under the African stars.
Kwa Maritane, or “Place of the Rock” offers unparalleled comfort, in a malaria free area, less than two hours from Johannesburg.
Unwind at Kwa Maritane Spa to rejuvenate your mind, body and soul in the peaceful setting of the bushveld. Indulge with treatments such as Thabayadiotso, our signature treatment, or pamper yourself with a pedicure while watching the game on the plains.
- Accept Credit Cards
- Activity Desk
- Air conditioner
- Bar
- Business Centre
- Communal Dining
- Conference Centre
- Gym on property
Check in 16:00, check out 10:00
The fine print, up front
What the price covers
Stated plainly, so the quote you receive holds no surprises.
Included
- Accommodation
- Dinner and Breakfast ( Half Board )
- Morning and Evening Game Drives
- Conservation Fee
- Administration Fees
- Private Road Transfer to and from the lodge
Not included
- Additional Accommodations
- beverages
- Visa
- Tipping
- Flights
- Personal souvenirs
Booking terms and conditions
Children can only be accommodated in a Standard Family Room at Bakubung and a Family/Executive Room at Kwa Maritane, if sharing with one or two adults. Dinner, Bed and Breakfast rate – Children aged 12 years and younger (maximum two children per room) will be accommodated free of charge on a dinner, bed and breakfast basis, including one game drive, if sharing with one or two adults. A park entrance fee will apply to children 12 years and younger. Children aged 13-17 years will be accommodated free of charge on a room only basis and will be charged extra per child per day for breakfast, dinner, and one game drive, if sharing with one or two adults. Full Board rate – Children aged 12 years and younger (maximum two children per room) will be accommodated free of charge on a full board basis inclusive of dinner, bed, breakfast, lunch, and two game drives per day, if sharing with one or two adults. Children aged 13-17 years will be accommodated free of charge on a room only basis and will be charged extra per child per day for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and two game drives, if sharing with one or two adults.
In pictures
What the 7 day pilanesberg and johannesburg tour looks like
Photographs from the lodges and reserves on this trip, not a stock library.
Good to know
Travelling in South Africa
One of the most culturally and geographically diverse places on earth, South Africa, fondly known by locals as the ‘Rainbow Nation’, boasts 11 official languages, and its inhabitants are influenced by a fascinating mix of cultures. Discover the gourmet restaurants, impressive art scene, vibrant nightlife, and beautiful beaches of Cape Town. Enjoy a local braai (barbecue) in the Soweto township, browse the bustling Indian markets in Durban, or sample some of the world’s finest wines at the myriad wine estates dotting the Cape Winelands. Some historical attractions to explore include the Zululand battlefields of KwaZulu-Natal, the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg, and Robben Island, just off the coast of Cape Town. Above all else, its untamed wilderness is astonishing: wildlife roams freely across massive unfenced game reserves such as the world-famous Kruger National Park.
Money
Currency
Local currency: South African Rand
Symbol: R
ISO code: ZAR
Subunit: Cent (1/100 of a Rand)
Banknotes: R10, R20, R50, R100, R200
Coins: 10c, 20c, 50c, R1, R2, R5
Banking
Card Transactions: Widely accepted
ATMs: Yes
Mastercard: Yes
Visa: Yes
American Express: Yes, limited.
Diner’s club: Yes, limited.
Banking Hours:
Weekdays: 09:00 to 15:30
Weekend: Saturdays: 08:30 to 11:00
Public Holidays: Closed
Foreign exchange services: Yes, available at major banks, airports, and authorised bureaux de change
Power
Plug Type: M, N
Voltage (V): 230 V
Frequency (Hz): 50 Hz
*A travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances.
Health
www.sherpa.com
Safety
www.sherpa.com
Weather
Annual rainfall: Varies widely, Cape Town (winter rainfall, 515 mm), Johannesburg (summer rainfall, 713 mm)
Average temperature: Varies, Cape Town 17°C, Johannesburg 15.5°C
Summer:
Average highs: 28°C (Cape Town), 26°C (Johannesburg)
Average lows: 16°C (Cape Town), 15°C (Johannesburg)
Winter:
Average highs: 18°C (Cape Town), 17°C (Johannesburg)
Average lows: 8°C (Cape Town), 4°C (Johannesburg)
Best time to visit:
The best time to visit South Africa is from May to September for wildlife viewing, as animals are more concentrated around water sources. For beach holidays, mid-December to March is ideal, especially in Cape Town.
Getting around
Air:
Main airlines: South African Airways
International Airports:O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB, Johannesburg), Cape Town International Airport (CPT, Cape Town), King Shaka International Airport (DUR, Durban), Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP, Nelspruit/near Kruger National Park), Port Elizabeth International Airport (PLZ, Port Elizabeth), East London Airport (ELS, East London, limited international flights), Lanseria International Airport (HLA, Johannesburg)
Domestic Airports: Numerous across the country
Road:
Driving on the: Left
Tar roads: Yes, well-maintained in most areas
Gravel roads: Yes, especially in rural areas
Valid International Driver’s License needed: Yes
Car hire available: Yes
Taxis: Yes
E-hailing services: Yes
Bus:
Inter-city bus services: Yes
Local city bus networks: Yes, in most large cities
Rail:
Railway system: Yes in Cape Town, Durban and Johannesburg as well as long distnace luxury options like the Blue Train
Subway System: No
Water:
Ferries: Limited, mainly in coastal cities
Water taxis: No
Leisure cruises: Yes, especially from Cape Town and Durban
What to wear
Spring and Summer
Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes
Lightweight warm clothes: No
Winter and Autumn
Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended
Heavyweight clothing and boots: Yes
General
Umbrella and raincoat: Yes, during the rainy seasons
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: In winter, particularly in high-altitude areas
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes
Hat, sunglasses, and sunblock: Essential
Walking shoes: Yes
Casual: Yes
Smart-casual attire: Yes
Staying connected
Internet cafes: Yes, mainly in urban areas
Accommodation options: Yes, with good connectivity
Restaurants: Yes, in major cities
Cafes: Yes
Shopping malls: Yes
Public parks: Yes, in major cities
Libraries: Yes
Questions
Before you book the 7 day pilanesberg and johannesburg tour
The things travellers ask most, answered from this itinerary rather than in general.
How long is the 7 Day Pilanesberg and Johannesburg Tour?
It runs 7 days and 6 nights, covering Pilanesberg National Park, Johannesburg. Dates are flexible and the trip can be lengthened or shortened around your flights.
Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at OR Tambo International Airport [JNB]. BST Tours handles the transfers in between, so you are met on arrival and driven the whole way.
Where will I stay?
Gold Reef City Theme Park Hotel for 3 nights. Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge.
What is included in the price?
Accommodation. Dinner and Breakfast ( Half Board ). Morning and Evening Game Drives. Conservation Fee. Administration Fees. Private Road Transfer to and from the lodge.
What is not included?
Additional Accommodations. beverages. Visa. Tipping. Flights. Personal souvenirs.
What do I need to enter South Africa?
www.sherpa.com
Are there any health precautions?
www.sherpa.com
When is the best time to travel?
Annual rainfall: Varies widely, Cape Town (winter rainfall, 515 mm), Johannesburg (summer rainfall, 713 mm) Average temperature: Varies, Cape Town 17°C, Johannesburg 15.5°C Summer: Average highs: 28°C (Cape Town), 26°C (Johannesburg) Average lows: 16°C (Cape Town), 15°C (Johannesburg) Winter: Average highs: 18°C (Cape
How do I book?
Send your dates and the number of travellers through the enquiry form and BST Tours will come back with availability and a firm quote. Nothing is charged until you confirm.
Next step
Tell us your dates and we will hold the lodges
Send the dates you have in mind and how many are travelling. You will get availability, a firm price and any changes you want made, from a person rather than a form letter.
info@bst-tours.com · Mon to Sun, 8am to 6pm SAST
Also worth reading: Pilanesberg safari tours, safari photo gallery, about BST Tours.