An ancient volcanic crater provides the setting for Bakubung Bush Lodge in the Pilanesberg National Park. Encompassing two natural biomes – the edge of the Kalahari Desert and sub-tropical woodland – this reserve enjoys unusually high bio-diversity and contains nearly all the different types of large mammals in Southern Africa. Well known for its heavyweight species such as elephant, rhino, lion, and buffalo, Pilanesberg is where you can also see desert creatures such as brown hyena and oryx as well as rare predators like cheetah and wild dog. The merging of desert and woodland provides a haven for a huge cross-section of game, making for exciting game viewing.

Accessible from Johannesburg within an easy 3-hour drive, the malaria-free nature of Pilanesberg means it is a popular choice for families with children. Bakubung Bush Lodge offers appropriate accommodations, activities, and facilities for youngsters of all ages, including a fun and informative Junior Rangers program. There are day and night game drives and walking safaris on offer as well as the chance to laze by the swimming pool or enjoy a game of volleyball or action cricket. Couples and honeymooners are also well provided for with large, luxurious suites and a professional spa on site.

The perfect destination for a first-time safari or for those with limited time in South Africa, Pilanesberg has an unbeatable trump card: it is located right next door to South Africa’s biggest and boldest entertainment resort – Sun City. Complete with championship golf courses, landscaped gardens, boutiques, a casino, and a wave pool with a sandy beach, Sun City prides itself on offering a holiday experience for everyone.

Highlights

• Malaria-free Big 5 game viewing in Pilanesberg National Park
• High bio-diversity plus rare and unusual animals thanks to the merging of two distinct biomes
• Family-friendly with great kids' activities like a Junior Rangers' program
• All rooms are air-conditioned and en suite, with large spaces for honeymooners
• Swimming pool, hillside spa, complimentary Wi-Fi in rooms and two flood-lit tennis courts

Activities

• BIRD WATCHING
• GAME DRIVES
• HOT AIR BALLOONING
• TENNIS
• GUIDED WALKS
• VOLLEYBALL

Rooms

Luxury Room

Bakubung Bush Lodge also offers Luxury King Rooms and Executive Suites, similarly styled and equipped as the Standard Rooms but with more living space thanks to their additional lounge area, complete with a couch and superior tea-and-coffee facilities.

Facilities

Bakubung Bush Lodge is one of the most generously equipped accommodations in the park. There is a restaurant and several bars as well as an Internet lounge. It also has a swimming pool and sunbathing area with loungers and shade umbrellas. A fully equipped spa with treatment rooms and professional therapists is set on a hillside overlooking the lodge.

Families with children will appreciate the lodge’s child-oriented facilities. There is a playground and a Junior Ranger program through which children learn about and interact with the natural environment under the care of experienced rangers. A volleyball court, two flood-lit tennis courts, and a bag full of family favorites like table tennis, darts, and action cricket provide opportunities to enjoy sport while on holiday.

Dining

The Bakubung Restaurant serves a hearty breakfast buffet before offering lunch and dinner in a similar buffet style or a la carte – be sure to try the lodge’s signature dish: prawn risotto with spicy Américaine sauce and parmesan shavings. A convenient terrace menu is available for most of the day if you miss out on a regular meal or feel like a snack.

Meals are served indoors in the restaurant at individual tables and room service is also available. Twice a week, dinner is available at the lodge’s boma - an outdoor eating area located in the bush away from camp and lit by a campfire and lanterns.