Top Johannesburg Nature Parks

The Pilanesberg National Park is home to Africa’s Big Five—lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo. On this full-day tour, increase your chance of wildlife sightings with two guided game drives in an open safari vehicle, tuck into a delicious lunch looking out over a popular waterhole, and perhaps spot giraffe, hippos, zebras, and antelope in their natural environment.

Visit the Lion Park outside of Johannesburg without the hassle of renting a car. This tour includes round-trip transportation from your Johannesburg hotel and admission to the Lion Park, where you can explore at your leisure to see more than 85 lions, including the rare white lion, and other animals such as wild dogs, hyenas, and cheetahs. Take a 2-hour safari drive to see the animals.

Get to know South Africa’s biggest city on a full-day tour that covers all the highlights of Johannesburg and Soweto. Take in the views from the Top of Africa, learn about the city’s history as you visit Constitutional Hill and the Apartheid Museum, then follow in the footsteps of Nelson Mandela in Soweto, with a tour of the Nelson Mandela House, Hector Pieterson Museum, and Freedom Square.

Immerse yourself in Johannesburg’s dynamic street art scene by exploring the downtown neighborhood of Maboneng with a guide. This trendy area is known for its murals, art, and diverse galleries—but it can be hard to know the personal stories and inspiration behind the art without insider knowledge. During the tour, see a variety of artwork and find out inspirational local stories, such as how street art is changing perspectives in local community groups.

Johannesburg is known for being a gateway to fantastic wildlife encounters, and this option is perfect for time-tight travelers interested in seeing a variety of animal species in just half a day. Enjoy included hotel pickup and travel to the Safari Lion Park. Animals that reside at the park include rare white lions, brown lions, cheetahs, wild dogs, giraffes, zebra, and antelopes.

Soar over the Cradle of Humankind or the Magaliesberg mountain range on a sunrise hot air balloon flight. Have some refreshments as you watch the balloon being inflated, then set off on a scenic adventure in the sky. Fly over one of the two sites with your experienced pilot, taking in the sweeping views of South Africa below. After the flight, enjoy a full breakfast as you savor newly-minted memories.

If you’ve only got a day to fit in a safari drive, this visit to Pilanesberg Nature Reserve ensures you make the most of it. Begin with an early morning pickup, then head straight to Pilanesberg for a 4x4 safari drive. During the tour, look out for the “Big Five”, take a break for lunch, then take part in an afternoon drive for even more wildlife spotting. Note that park admission is not included.

Explore the beautiful landscape near Muldersdrift on horseback with this small-group guided trail ride. The ride is suitable for riders of all abilities, including beginners and advanced riders. Led by an experienced guide, ride through nearby farms and stop on the way to admire views of Johannesburg, the Magaliesberg, and Cradle of Humankind nearby.

Enjoy an intimate balloon ride on a smaller ballon built for two passengers. Float above the Magaliesberg Mountains for epic views at sunrise, sipping sparkling wine and enjoying commentary from your dedicated guide/pilot. Once you land, enjoy a full English breakfast to round out your experience.