The crater of a long extinct volcano is the setting of Pilanesberg National Park - a fascinating alkaline complex produced by volcanic eruptions some 1300 million years ago. Pilanesberg is one of the largest volcanic complexes of its kind in the world. Its rare rock types and structure make it a unique geological feature.The area is fringed by three concentric ridges or rings of hills - the formation rises from the surrounding plains like a bubble. The structure of the park is termed the "Pilanesberg National Park Alkaline Ring Complex".Ancient, even by geological time scales, this extinct volcano is the most perfect example of an alkaline ring complex. A number of rare (but not necessarily economically important) minerals occur in the park. Pilanesberg National Park rates high amongst the world's outstanding geological phenomena.

Pilanesberg has survived ages of erosion and stands high above the surrounding bushveld plains. The early presence of man can be seen in the numerous Stone and Iron Age sites that are scattered throughout the park. The park exists within the transition zone between the dry Kalahari and wetter Lowveld vegetation, commonly referred to as "Bushveld". Unlike any other large park, unique overlaps of mammals, birds and vegetation occur because of this transition zone. Springbok, brown hyena, the red eyed bulbul, and camel thorn trees usually found in arid areas are found cohabitation with moist-area-limited impala, black eyed bulbul and Cape chestnut trees. The colourful hues, varied habitats and panoramas will delight and entertain photographers and visitors. The very topography makes the area a feast for the eye. Here are syenite koppies, thickly forested ravines, typical bushveld and also rolling grasslands and lightly wooded areas.

Off the centre of the park is Thabayadiotso, "the Proud Mountain". The Park ranks among the largest of the national parks in South Africa (it is in fact the fourth largest park) and covers an area of 55 000 hectare. The beauty of Pilanesberg is reflected in a large central lake, the Mankwe Dam. Over time, wind and water have carved a spectacular landscape with rocky outcrops, open grasslands, wooded valleys and thickets. The creation of the Pilanesberg National Park is considered one of the most ambitious programmes of its kind to be undertaken anywhere in the world. The Operation Genesis, which involved the game-fencing of the reserve and the reintroduction of long-vanished species, began during the late 70's. Today, Pilanesberg National Park accommodates virtually every mammal of southern Africa. Also home to the Big Five.

Activities

Airtrackers balloon safaris
Elephant back safaris
Outdoor adventure center
Gametrackers - Game drives

For the 4 hour hiking trails, visitors will depart early in the morning driving deep into the park with an experienced guide. Here visitors will get close to nature. A minimum 4 people in a group and children under 12 years of age are not allowed.
Game drives take place at sunrise, in the afternoon or at night. Game viewing vehicles depart late afternoon and take visitors on an African adventure through 55 000 hectares of the Pilanesberg Nature Reserve, home of Africa's Big Five. Journey visitors will most probably encounter Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Buffalo and other animals, too. The experienced game rangers will welcome any questions you might have regarding the wildlife, birds and plants.

After the game drives visitors will be transported to the boma where sundowners can be enjoyed followed by dinner under the star studded African sky and surrounded by the sounds of the bush. To enhance the African atmosphere, a tribal dance group can be arranged to perform at the boma.

Bird watching is excellent at the reserve, over 300 bird species have been recorded at Pilanesberg. Bird lovers can view birds flapping their wings and flying high in the blue sky for hours. There is a self-guided trail in the walking area at Manyane Complex in the east that offers environmental education while enjoying game viewing. Also at Manyane is a walk-in aviary with over 80 species of indigenous birds.

Location

Pilanesberg National Park is set on 50 000 hectares and is located in the North West Province of South Africa, just 150 km north west of the Gauteng metropolis and 60 km north of Rustenburg...