Living in Pretoria might make it seem difficult to get away from it all but a safari experience is your best bet to escape all things urban.

Make a break

Less than two hours outside the city of jacarandas you'll find the Pilanesburg National Park - its tranquil beauty should do for that much needed escape as it completely lacks any city refinement.

The Park is home to virtually every species of mammal, including the ‘Big Five’. They are healthy populations of lion, leopard, black and white rhino, elephant and buffalo. Experience these majestic creatures at their best. If you're a bird lover, the incredible variety of bird species (no less than 300) will have you flapping with delight. Being able to view the vast array of insects, reptiles and amphibians all add to the adventure.

Adventure comes standard...

Besides the animal antics join in on a quad biking adventure trail through the Letsatsing Game Park with experienced guides. Or you could try your hand at the ancient art of archery with the help of modern day equipment. Competent instructors will help you master the technique of shooting a re-curve bow, a powerful crossbow and if you’re up to the challenge, the modern compound bow. For the not-so-experienced there's always clay pigeon shooting.

Special credit for kids

Kids are special in their own right, but even more so at the Pilansberg National Park. A two-day safari designed with them in mind should make for a special holiday. However, if the idea of your young ones out in the wild is too much to handle there is a one-day option. Otherwise keep your safari family friendly and take them along to the cheetah research centre at De Wildt.

Get there on foot!

Yes, there’s going to be walking involved in this excursion. It's the best way to experience the real spirit of the bushveld. You'll be pleased to know the walks are not strenuous but can be four-hours at a stretch, depending on sightings made along the way. Clearly, you need an average fitness level.

Every walk has its own story to tell. The focus is on the wonders of nature and there are many great photo opportunities. Depending on animal trails and weather conditions, the walks can be combined with game drives. Night drives are also an option.

In retrospect, the basic safari is not the most sophisticated holiday experience. Instead it allows you to access the bush, in a very real and vivid way. More often than not the food is braaied as there are no stoves or microwaves, and your showers are cold as there are no modern conveniences…come on now, you are in the wild . But away from the city hustle and bustle, which was the point after all.

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