I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to the Valley of Waves at Sun City and happily give it five stars. The atmosphere is vibrant and relaxing, with a perfect mix of fun, excitement, and a tropical beach feel right in the heart of the resort. The wave pool is absolutely thrilling and makes you feel like you’re by the ocean, while the slides and rides cater for both adrenaline seekers and families. The area is clean, well-maintained, and surrounded by stunning scenery, which makes it a great spot to spend the whole day. Service and facilities were excellent, adding to the overall experience. A must-visit for anyone going to Sun City!

This place is nice and beautifully. You can enjoy the place with kids and family. At Valley of waves you can do a lot of aqua activities such as sliding, tube, lazy river🤗 You can have your snacks. You must go early so you can enjoy until 5pm. I recommend.

From entering Sun City resort we've experienced a warm and kind welcome. Preparing our own food at our unit at the vacation club to going to the valley of the waves, walking through the maze and reach the roof bar with spectacular views and enjoying a lovely sundowner, to playing ten pin bowling and just chilling at the Gary Player Golf club restaurant and enjoying a coffee with blue crane 396 come flipping its wings right in front of us, it was a very memorable time with family and friends here. Most definitely one of my wow moments here. Thank you to all the friendly staff amd to all the bus drivers that took us to and fro and never complaining to drive the same route day in and out. You do deserve an extra star for keeping the good work up.

This place is incredible! Beautifully set up with a real tropical holiday vibe — palm trees, sandy beach, and those amazing waves in the Roaring Lagoon! The slides and lazy river keep the kids busy for hours, while adults can relax and enjoy the atmosphere. A fantastic family day out. Highly recommended!

Valley of Waves was breath taking, as a first timer. The Security and Lifeguards all very friendly and polite. My kids had a blast in the water and sun. It’s very clean and the water is very clean as well. My kids enjoyed the super tubes the line wasn’t long when we were there. Thank you, Vally of Waves, for the experience.

Had my mom's birthday at the Valley of the Waves. The whole family loved the experience and we will carry the memories for a lifetime. It did rain but we were able to wait it out by dining in the EC areas.

Beautiful place to visit. We really enjoyed. Staff were friendly and helpful.

I loved visiting this sanctuary. The staff was so friendly. Ask for a tour guide and they will tell you many interesting facts. You are very close to the crocidles and will see over 100!!! The feeding time is at 4:30 pm. They will show you how the crocidles hunt for food and how they jump out of water !! Definitely stop by here !!

Value for money experience, with friendly and informative staff to guide and teach about the crocodile life. You will get to see the feeding, the young ones and the oldest which is 93 years old today. Learn about their movements, speed in and out of the water and how long can they survive without food in and out of the water.

Before get inside Sun City, we should spend a little bit of time, visiting the Crocodile Sanctuary. We’ll be able to see from the big ones thru the very small. You can even ask to pick one of the little. Ask for Arnold, the oldest and biggest crocodile there.

Please make sure to be there at feeding time. You will learn a lot and see a great personal tour. Please also tip for the great work. :)

It's awesome to see thoos crocs, the second biggest on the planet and so close by. And the guide was giving good information and how he handled the animals. Respect

Ronny is an awesome tour guide, the staff inside the sanctuary are very friendly and helpful. Definitely worth going to the feeding tour to see how the crocs move and interact!

Quite interesting to learn more about the Nile Crocodile, especially Arnold the oldest and Undertaker the charmer🤣

Sun City Is really a city on its own. Love the fact that ones you get there and park your car you will not need it until the time you checkout. These shuttles to even activities outside the resort. The number of fine dining restaurants need to increase feel like these not a lot of variety there. The staff is friendly and even when these thousands of us, they somehow don’t forget the faces. That is one incredible thing I noticed, very unique indeed. The activities are well managed

Staying in the Junior Suite at Sun City Palace was a truly memorable experience. The staff were warm, attentive, and always willing to go the extra mile to make sure everything was perfect. The atmosphere was beautiful and relaxing, with stunning surroundings that made it easy to unwind. Breakfast each morning was delicious, offering a great selection and excellent service to start the day right. However, for the price you pay per night, the room itself could definitely use a bit of an upgrade. While still comfortable, some of the furnishings and finishes feel slightly dated compared to the otherwise luxurious setting. Overall, it was a lovely stay — just a little refresh would make it perfect.

An unforgettable experience at Sun City Resort! Sun City truly lives up to its reputation — it’s the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and luxury. The resort is beautifully maintained with stunning scenery everywhere you look. From the Valley of Waves to the golf courses, restaurants, and entertainment options, there’s something for everyone. The staff are friendly and always willing to help, and everything feels safe and well-organized. Whether you’re going for a weekend getaway or a family holiday, Sun City never disappoints. Highly recommended! 🌴☀️🏖️

We spent 4 nights at Sun City, again Hotel from 2-6 October to celebrate my 60th birthday. The Main hotel has been beautifully upgraded and some other facilities at the Resort. Check-in was done by a friendly and professional gentleman HOWEVER that's were their clientele stopped. We were met with abrupt, unfriendly staff throughout our stay. The cherry on top was the lady at the breakfast area front desk, she was unfriendly and had no manners speaking to visitors. The manual system te record visitors entering the breakfast area are long and tedious which ended up in long ques. Servers in the breakfast area were unfriendly, gave attitude when asked something, to the extend that we made a decision not to ask or engage staff to avoid frustration. We had so many bad experiences that it was a waste of money and my 60th birthday celebration was for below my expectation. Definitely not value for money if the facility is glamorous but service poor and clientele non-existent. We had to withdraw from our 6am game drive as ranger would not leave until all late comers were picked up, we spend time waiting then eventually driving to the palace to collect people, only to find they're not ready and the rest of the group were forced to wait... I can go on and on ... The main hotel had 1 lift working while the hotel was fully booked,

Really great experience for going out for the day . But if you do wanna explore whole of Sun city, u might aswell wanna book in for more than a day or two there to explore more and have fun everywhere around sun city. But the services ... now and then u get them being enthusiastic but most of the times they not . But else still thanks for the services and help u gave here and there a little .

Wonderful four night stay at The Palace. Every member of staff was incredibly helpful. Sampled lots of different food options and no complaints from me. Pool area is stunning.. The only minor gripe I have is the players card system in the casino- it’s impossible to get the card verified in a slot machine within 10 goes! Please sort this out! Thank you so much Sun City- can’t wait to return!

Suncity is great for families, they cater alot for children. Lots of fast food places. But for wine and dine we could not find one . Not sure about the Palace. We stayed at the Cabannas. Nice pool and lake. Over time its changed .

Sun City Is really a city on its own. Love the fact that ones you get there and park your car you will not need it until the time you checkout. These shuttles to even activities outside the resort. The number of fine dining restaurants need to increase feel like these not a lot of variety there. The staff is friendly and even when these thousands of us, they somehow don’t forget the faces. That is one incredible thing I noticed, very unique indeed. The activities are well managed

Staying in the Junior Suite at Sun City Palace was a truly memorable experience. The staff were warm, attentive, and always willing to go the extra mile to make sure everything was perfect. The atmosphere was beautiful and relaxing, with stunning surroundings that made it easy to unwind. Breakfast each morning was delicious, offering a great selection and excellent service to start the day right. However, for the price you pay per night, the room itself could definitely use a bit of an upgrade. While still comfortable, some of the furnishings and finishes feel slightly dated compared to the otherwise luxurious setting. Overall, it was a lovely stay — just a little refresh would make it perfect.

An unforgettable experience at Sun City Resort! Sun City truly lives up to its reputation — it’s the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and luxury. The resort is beautifully maintained with stunning scenery everywhere you look. From the Valley of Waves to the golf courses, restaurants, and entertainment options, there’s something for everyone. The staff are friendly and always willing to help, and everything feels safe and well-organized. Whether you’re going for a weekend getaway or a family holiday, Sun City never disappoints. Highly recommended! 🌴☀️🏖️

We spent 4 nights at Sun City, again Hotel from 2-6 October to celebrate my 60th birthday. The Main hotel has been beautifully upgraded and some other facilities at the Resort. Check-in was done by a friendly and professional gentleman HOWEVER that's were their clientele stopped. We were met with abrupt, unfriendly staff throughout our stay. The cherry on top was the lady at the breakfast area front desk, she was unfriendly and had no manners speaking to visitors. The manual system te record visitors entering the breakfast area are long and tedious which ended up in long ques. Servers in the breakfast area were unfriendly, gave attitude when asked something, to the extend that we made a decision not to ask or engage staff to avoid frustration. We had so many bad experiences that it was a waste of money and my 60th birthday celebration was for below my expectation. Definitely not value for money if the facility is glamorous but service poor and clientele non-existent. We had to withdraw from our 6am game drive as ranger would not leave until all late comers were picked up, we spend time waiting then eventually driving to the palace to collect people, only to find they're not ready and the rest of the group were forced to wait... I can go on and on ... The main hotel had 1 lift working while the hotel was fully booked,

Really great experience for going out for the day . But if you do wanna explore whole of Sun city, u might aswell wanna book in for more than a day or two there to explore more and have fun everywhere around sun city. But the services ... now and then u get them being enthusiastic but most of the times they not . But else still thanks for the services and help u gave here and there a little .

Wonderful four night stay at The Palace. Every member of staff was incredibly helpful. Sampled lots of different food options and no complaints from me. Pool area is stunning.. The only minor gripe I have is the players card system in the casino- it’s impossible to get the card verified in a slot machine within 10 goes! Please sort this out! Thank you so much Sun City- can’t wait to return!

Suncity is great for families, they cater alot for children. Lots of fast food places. But for wine and dine we could not find one . Not sure about the Palace. We stayed at the Cabannas. Nice pool and lake. Over time its changed .

We did a Dad’s and kids weekend at MSP and had an absolutely wonderful time. The facilities were great and the walks and swimming experiences were out of this world! We will definitely be back!

Really nice part of the world. If you like camping you will enjoy the rustic living. We went for a weekend but could have stayed a bit longer. Be prepared to do a lot of walking. We experienced some amazing rock pools. There is a small shop but make sure you take enough beers and firewood.

Great accommodation. Great hiking trails (although we got lost 😁😁😁) it was a great adventure. Pool area well maintained and great spot to relax and braai with friends

Unbelievably amazing, very peaceful, very quiet except for the beautiful sounds of nature and an amazing hike, pools and fun.

The hike was very nice, although the route not marked very clearly. We were looking for a cave as is indicated on the map provided but could never determine whether "arrived" at the correct place or not.

Absolutely amazing experience. We luckily only saw one monkey. The trails aren’t difficult to find: they are all to either side of the restaurant. An easy way to find the grotto is to follow the black pipe from the reservoir (it’s quite the hike) And the slide pool is further up from where its trail ends. Hope that helps! Thank you mountain sanctuary for the lovely stay.

Will go back to camp and hike. Beautiful maintained. Thank you

Awesome experience! Extremely educational and nice for kids. The displays are well put together and amazing to look at and to interact with, however my experience was short and quick. But awesome. Place was clean and pleasant.

Due to previous flooding, the caves will reopen to visitors in May 2025. There will be an exciting group guided tour at 1 PM! This place is well worth a visit. Although it's small, the entire guided tour takes about an hour and a half! The origins of humans are well-known for several reasons: 1. Out of Africa Theory • The most widely accepted theory about the origin of modern humans (Homo sapiens) is that humans originated in Africa approximately 200,000 years ago and gradually spread throughout the world. 2. Famous fossil evidence • The Great Rift Valley of East Africa (Ethiopia, Kenya, and Tanzania) and the "Cradle of Humankind" in South Africa both contain numerous famous fossils. ✨For example: • Lucy (3.2 million years ago, Ethiopia) • The display case title, "Skeletal Locomotion," explains how the human skeletal structure gradually adapted to upright gait.

Exciting experience for both young and old. Loved the museum as it's interactive and very informative, you also move at you own pace unlike at the guided side. The boat ride was just an added bonus for me.

Amazing experience, especially for those interested in human origins and archaeology. However, the exhibition space is quite small and the displays are somewhat limited, which might leave visitors wanting more. It's located far from the city, and unfortunately, transport options are lacking, making it less accessible unless you have your own vehicle. Additionally, the site doesn't offer facilities for spending more time after long trip to reach there, which can be inconvenient for families with kids looking to make a full-day trip out of it. Overall, it's a fascinating but brief visit, best suited for those with a keen interest in history and science, and who are prepared for the travel logistics.

Absolutely fun experience! Highly recommend going and taking your children or your partner. The tour guide was great and made us laugh during the entire tour

One of the best museums I've visited. Very informative and enjoyable experience for the whole family and anyone who appreciates our historical backgrounds.

The tour guide Thabang was exceptionally good. The staff there were a helpful and friendly - security guards, cashiers and tour guides. Well done guys!

Sterkfontein Caves is a fascinating experience for almost all ages. There’s quite a bit of walking and stairs, but it’s absolutely worth it — the caves are rich in history and very interesting to explore. The guided tour lasts about 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, and the guides are excellent: knowledgeable, professional, and with just the right touch of humour to keep everyone engaged. The premises are well organised, with plenty of parking and a strong focus on safety. There’s also a small shop for coffee, tea, and snacks, as well as a museum to explore before or after your tour. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, but it’s best to book online in advance, especially over weekends when slots fill quickly. Group sizes are limited, which makes for a more personal and enjoyable experience. Highly recommended for a family outing or anyone interested in South Africa’s incredible natural and archaeological heritage.

I visited the caves today with my Grade 5 robotics group as part of a research project and WOW, we were blown away. The staff and management were fantastic and so accommodating, they went above and beyond to make our experience super special and memorable. I would like to thank Job, Boiki, Thobeka and Andrew for this amazing experience. If I could give you 100 stars I would! Proudly South African! P.S. the tour and facilities are of the highest quality!

A very cool experience walking into the depths of an ancient cave and old limestone mine, with the expertise of a guide. Be mindful there are stretches with uneven grounds and crawl spaces. I really enjoyed the visit with an underground lake, grottos, and bits of nature and history in the Cradle of Humankind.

Tour was a blast. There should be better information regarding cave tour as we had elderly people in the group. Some battled during exit of cave. Be prepared to squat, bend, drag on your bottom, don't go with your party suit as not going to be same color when you're done. Hard hats was a blessing. Also should you be an asthma patient please carry your inhaler. Air and steep inclines are what you look forward to. All in all, great experience.

Amazing tour and experience. Gift was an amazing tour guide with a lot of knowledge and information. Definitely recommend this to anyone l who likes to do unique experiences but bare in mind it would be a 5 in activity rating as there are a lot of stairs and small spaces but definitely going to book the extended tour

Very educational. Requires a bit of crouching and squatting, even a short bear crawl for me during a segment of the tour.. but doable if you have some level of basic fitness. if you are not mobile or flexible dont do it.

The University of Witwatersrand, a Top University in SA, took over the management of this important world heritage site. Since then the displays have improved a lot but still have errors and mistakes (eg. black algae for cyanobacteria, which are prokaryotes and thus not algae, and are blue - green, "cyan" and not black!). Our guide through the cave had no clue what he was talking about, gave hardly any information. No word about the rocks themselves, their age or their important role in Earth history! There are many geological features in and outside the cave that laymen can see and understand easily but he did not point out any of them. When I tried to teach him, he was not interested. A typical behaviour of poorly educated local guides in South Africa. We saw a small rinkhals cobra (scientific name: Hemachatus haemachatus) at the exit of the cave, he insisted on it to be a pofadder! This world's famous place for human history, but also geology, was nearly deserted and on top of it, it had no water, toiletts and coffeeshop, disfunctional!

Didnt go inside the museum. But the information outside is wow. Loved how everything there has a meaning. The trees, the walls, the line, the stones, the water, the paving etc. True artwork. There is this guy who looks like he is not a tour guide but the information he has is too much. He knows everything by head. Wish i could remember his name to recommend him

I have nothing bad to say about this site, it was amazing and all so though out and sentimental. We had a guide who described exactly why each little things happened and there was so much thought into the actual museum itself, definitely should visit!

Heavy stuff, but a good addition to your historic experience if you are visiting the Mandela house, which is very close by. Also, a lot of the markets sit right outside of the memorial and give you a chance to experience a lot of the culture in a walkable safe area.

The museum does an incredible job of telling the story of Hector's life and the significance of the 1976 student uprising. The exhibits are well-curated, and the staff are knowledgeable and passionate. A must-visit for anyone interested in South African history and the struggle for freedom. Highly recommended!

We had our Tour Guide Mr Thwala who made our trip so much educational and easy to understand

I came here early Saturday morning. Before the heap of tourist buses arrives. The museum is really good 👍 I spend almost an hour just taking it all in my own time. You can have a guided tour if you want. I didn't feel the need. It's such a huge historical monument. It's also a very planned layout. If you're a wheelchair user, you'll will not have a problem visiting here. It's incredibly accessible with ramps. Also It's walking distance from the Nelson Mandela house, too. People outside are very friendly and I meet Hectors sister Antoinette!! She does guided tours.

This part of Soweto is a must visit. The significance of this piece of history to South Africa can not be underestimated. We were lucky enough to be visiting at the time Hector's sister, represented as the girl in that famous photo behind her. Hector's death was the catalyst for change that took another 30 years, sadly.

Amazing experience for the family. Unexpected engagement with snakes which they kids and I loved. Food at Neck and Deck restaurant was exceptional. I suggest an early arrival, take time out to enjoy all thats on offer. For the first time we actually ran out of time despite arriving at 11am. Highly recommended.

Absolute bliss! Saw wild dogs, lions, cheetah feedings . Loved the experience. Had personal interactions with the giant snakes as well. Kids loved seeing all the animals in their natural habitats. We didnt get to feed sky the giraffe as we were late. We saw rhinos up close and personal. Baby hippos , plenty squirrels and beautiful big cats . Also location is an hour and half from home. A mini Kruger park in our back yard. 😍

Our recent visit to Bothongo Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve was simply magnificent. We kicked off with a hearty breakfast and then departed on a most rewarding game drive with our super knowledgeable and witty ranger, Joseph, who shared many lesser known facts of nature, bird life, predators and every other plains game we came across. We returned to the Neck & Deck restaurant for a simply delicious lunch on the pool side. This experience is no more than an hour away from anywhere in Gauteng and it feels like you are deep in the bush. Food is great and the connection with nature is so precious. I definitely recommend it for team events or to bring the family. Thank you Bothongo team for the truly memorable experience!

It was a wonderful experience, from the very helpful and polite employees to the animals and the reserve, this reserve is excellent. The Wonder cave was so amazing and stunning, and the young guide explained everything so nicely and made the visit even more interesting than it already was. However it's a shame that we can't do the interactions with the cubs anymore 😕. But except from that everything was great.

I only went to the restaurant, giraffe and bird enclosure. We ate a variety of pizzas and they were excellent. Crispy base, delicious toppings. One suggestion, maybe have a selection of chilli sauces to spice them up rather than just Tabasco.

I hosted a Japanese business visitor, who is a first time visitor to South Africa. It was one of his best experiences out of 30 countries that he has been to. This experience was absolutely amazing... thank you to all for the fantastic day.

This was my first ever safari, game reserve visit. It's a scenic location with stunning views and plenty of space (1200 hectares), well organised and a good variety of wildlife.

You are probably here because you are considering this amazing adventure. Please hear me out, BOOK IT! Do it now and fast!😊 I honestly had the best morning of my life. My flight was at 06:15 and it was very cold in Magalies. I was welcomed by an amazing gentlemen by the gate who helped me park my car and directed me where I should go. At reception I was received by two beautiful ladies with a warm cup of coffee and muffins (I chose these amongst other options). They have giant gas heaters and a fire place to keep you warm while you wait for your flight! I highly recommend coming in early to watch the whole set up and the balloon being inflated. Very beautiful to witness. All the staff members will go around checking if we are okay while waiting for our flight. The Captain was super awesome and hilarious. The flight was smooth and absolutely STUNNING! We celebrated with some bubbles and drinks when we landed. Had a delicious breakfast and got our certificates for being brave peeps! See? BOOK THAT FLIGHT ALREADY. It was worth every penny.

Fantastic experience, every moment from arrival to flight to the amazing breakfast was outstanding. Staff are super helpful. Warm yourself around the open fire before takeoff - it's an early start but worth it!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Absolutely unforgettable! Bill Harrop’s Original Balloon Safaris is an experience that words can barely do justice. From the warm welcome at dawn to the breathtaking views over the Magaliesberg, every moment felt magical. The crew was professional, friendly, and made everyone feel completely safe, even those a bit nervous at first. Watching the sunrise from the sky, floating silently over the landscape, was pure peace. The post-flight champagne & breakfast was the perfect touch to end an extraordinary morning. If you’re looking for something truly special, whether for celebration or simply to remind yourself how beautiful life can be, this is it. ✨ A special thank you to Daleen Terblanche who gifted us with this incredible experience. Your generosity and kindness will never be forgotten 💙 Brescia ;

It's one of those experiences that keeps on giving. We came here in winter so when we got here it was still dark. They had little lights hanging on trees that made the place look like a fairyland. So magical. The gentleman who welcomed us at the gate was amazing. He was friendly and helpful. The ladies who served us the morning coffee were so friendly as well. Remarkably trained. I'm so impressed. We got our arrival warm drinks and enjoyed the view. We also got to see them set up the balloons. Once the balloons were set up, to say the sight was magical would be an understatement. I felt like I was dreaming. The flight was the best. A couple got engaged in the air and honestly, I agree. That was a good place to ask for her hand in marriage. The duration of the flight is perfect. We saw the sunrise. The views below were amazing. When we landed we were helped out. And enjoyed a bush-style toast. I thought that was it but we still had a delicious breakfast waiting for us. We set to enjoy a buffet breakfast, got our "bravery certificates" and enjoyed conversations with bees, birds, and the wind adding to the ambiance. 5 stars are rare but this is deserving. I highly recommend, at least once.

What an experience!!! So glad we decided to book this bucket list adventure with Bill Harrops! Everything so well organised, friendly staff, amazing breakfast, after a spectacular balloon ride!!! Loved every minute!!! Couldnt recommend this team more!

Had a amazing day for the birthday of my wife from the booking assisted by a friendly lady ELIZE who was able to assist with even the accommodation on near places,security guy what a friendly gentleman JOHANNES and the ground staff are so amazing,our PILOT Mr Deon with an experience of over 41 year he answered all 3 billion questions we asked and very informative what a flight and obviously the toast of mimosas after the flight it was amazing Thank Bill Harrop's

What a well organized and amazing experience!!! They have great and responsive communication and attention to detail. Highly recommend

Nelson Mandela Square brought back such beautiful memories for me. Walking through it reminded me of twenty years ago when I was dating my husband. We would go to the movies, enjoy a few drinks, and then end the evening with a wonderful meal. Being at the Square gave me that same feeling all over again. The atmosphere is lively yet welcoming, the food and drinks are excellent, and the entire space has a special energy about it. It is not just a place to visit, it is a place where memories are made.

The art work is captivating. The place is inspiring and clean. Don't muss the quotations on the floor as you walk towards the statue. With enjoyable historical timeline on the wall right being the statue.

An expansive, popular, luxurious tourist attraction interconnected with several shopping centres, hotels and many more. Be mindful as you can easily get lost due to it's ginormous size with several exits and entrance points. Personnels around are often friendly and ready to help.

We popped into the square for a quick photo and ended up staying longer than planned. The Madiba statue is bigger than you expect and somehow still feels welcoming—everyone taking turns for pictures, kids laughing, a busker off to one side. We grabbed a table, ordered coffees, and watched the plaza do its thing. As the lights came on the place took on that easy evening glow. Restaurants ring the square, staff were friendly, and it felt relaxed to just sit and chat between snaps. Simple stop, great atmosphere, and the kind of Joburg moment you’re happy to have on your camera roll.

Nelson Mandela Square is a central landmark in Sandton, Johannesburg, named in honor of the freedom fighter. It features a 6-meter bronze statue of Mandela in an open pose — a symbol of hope and hospitality. The square blends European-style architecture with fountains, cafés, and shops, attracting millions of visitors. Opened in 2004, it became the first public monument to Mandela in South Africa and a site for charitable fundraising.

Please to visit Jozi mas visit Nelson Mandela Square Could be one of the best shopping centres in jozi ,The selection of shops, brands, restaurants and speciality shops are mind blowing. Staff friendly and very helpful.

Just a lovely venue to enjoy a night of theatre and intercontinental dining at fine restaurants. Great vibe, ample parking 🅿️. Safe environment.

This is another taxi rank, sometimes you can't pass, you want will wait a little longer taxis making U-turn, reversing., don't care

Dirty

Bus stops needs a shelter from the sun and rain

Very clean place, fast services

It's world class ...

On time

Awesome experience

Visited one afternoon, and arrived just in time to see the 3pm bird show (there's also one at 11am). It is short but informative, and one is not sure how much more info one could soak up, but we thought perhaps some information on a vulture (we didn't see any there through - but education on their conservation would be beneficial) and a perhaps the flamingos. Most of the few attendees were children so these big colourful birds would attract some interest. There are well kept enclosures of birdlife and other creatures from all over such as kookaburras and lemurs, tortoises, duikers, frogs (which you don't see much of during the day), python, boa constrictor, swans, ducks etc The main area that you could walk through under shadenet had a bit of a urine whiff but the rest was honestly spotless. There's a playarea for kids near the entrance and the flamingos enclosure, lots of educational signage telling you about the different creatures, so it's great for kids of all ages, and those of us just loving nature. The coffee shop kitchen closes at 4pm but there are cool drinks etc that you can purchase between then and closing time. All in all.. an entertaining few hours in nature...in the middle of the city!!

I am glad we went their with the kids. We all had fun. We found a wide variety of bird species. Clean cages and well looked after environment. It was really a good experience and we would happily go again.

If you want to explore many kinds of birds, then this has gotta be your number 1 spot. All birds are beautiful. The place is quite and calm, allowing you to enjoy every corner of it.

Went with a friend. Had a memorable experience. Good variety of birds and other animals. Great place to take the kids

Lovely venue. Staff very friendly and helpful. Beautiful variety of birds and reptiles. We missed the bird so cannot comment on that, there is a bird show at 11am and 3pm.

A great place. One of my favourite date spots. Good food, really friendly staff, amazing shows and the animals are cared for by really dedicated carers. The lemurs and meerkats are a personal favourite.

Still well maintained. However, food limited and expensive for what you get. Bird aviary kept well, but water needs circulation.

Fantastic day out with the family and a must go place if you visit Johannesburg. The casino is very clean and very well maintained. It has lots to offer including gambling machines, quirky shops, lots of places to eat and drink, a food hall and an arcade centre for the kids, as well as bowling, a theatre and a cinema. We had an excellent day here and have been many times over the years.

Visited twice—once in the afternoon and again at night—and it felt like two sides of the same place. Day: easy parking, bright “streets,” and plenty of space to wander. We found a table for coffee and a late lunch without booking, and there were quiet corners where the kids could “just chill” between the arcade and the bird gardens. Signage made it simple to find bathrooms and venues. Night: busier, “date-night” energy around the theatre and cinema. We’d booked dinner, which helped—queues at the popular spots kicked in after 7pm but kept moving. Staff were upbeat, floors were tidy, and it was an easy walk from dinner to the show without feeling rushed. Bottom line: daytime is “laid-back and family-friendly,” nighttime is “lively with lots of choice.” One roof, many options—just book if you’re going for a prime-time meal.

I enjoyed the whole ambiance here. The white roses, along with the great landscaping, were just amazing. The food was okay, not sure it was because it was a business bouquet but for the ambiance I expected much more from the food side. The rooms are sizable enough and cozy.

Montecasino and hotel offers a complete entertainment and leisure experience in one convenient location. Situated in a beautiful, safe, and vibrant area, it’s easily accessible from major routes and provides ample paid parking, ensuring guests can arrive and leave with ease. The hotel’s layout is simple to navigate, with clear signage and friendly staff always ready to assist. Inside, guests are treated to a world of entertainment — from a bustling casino floor filled with excitement to a variety of restaurants offering local and international cuisine to suit every palate. Beyond the casino, the property features a range of nearby shops, making it ideal for guests who enjoy browsing or indulging in a bit of retail therapy. Families are also well catered for, with a dedicated play area where children can have fun in a safe, supervised environment. For those seeking cultural or evening entertainment, the on-site theatre hosts top-quality shows and live performances throughout the year. Whether you’re visiting for business, a weekend getaway, or a family outing, this casino hotel provides the perfect blend of relaxation, excitement, and convenience — a one-stop destination where everyone can find something to enjoy.

We didn't go to gamble this time but enjoyed the restaurants and their wide choice of cuisines. Since it's opening the authentic design and decor still hasn't gone out of fashion. It's truly a tourist attraction in our mind!!

Wonderful experience for my first visit. It surely felt like i was in another country. I loved it. Everyone was friendly and the casino and areas were very clean.

Beautiful place to pass the time enjoy and get grate food,, you can Walk around with the kids and go bowling as well

What an incredible experience at the Elephant Sanctuary for my partner’s 48th birthday! The majestic, gentle elephants were awe-inspiring—their Jurassic Park-like sounds and agile trunks left us speechless. Temba, our guide, was phenomenal, making the day extra special with his knowledge and care. Everything was impeccably organized, from start to finish. Highly recommend bringing cash to tip the amazing guides! A bucket-list moment we’ll never forget!

This is just such an amazing experience. Richard and james were our elephant guides, you can see they are extremely passionate about elephants and love telling us all about them. We were able to feed, brush, touch and walk with the elephants, plenty of pics for social media.

We had the best time with the best tour guides — they were friendly, knowledgeable, and made the whole experience unforgettable! 🐘✨ This was a big bucket-list tick for us, and it exceeded all expectations. Would highly recommend to anyone looking for an incredible adventure!

We had a late flight back to the UK and decided to visit to fill our day. What a fantastic afternoon we had at both the Elephant and even more so, the Monkey sanctuary. The animals are clearly well looked after and live in as natural an environment as is possible. Definitely worth a visit.

An Unforgettable and Educational Experience! Our visit to the elephant and monkey sanctuary was nothing short of extraordinary and truly deserving of a five-star rating! From the moment we arrived, we were enveloped in an atmosphere of respect, care, and genuine love for these magnificent creatures.What truly made this experience stand out were the incredible guides. Their passion and dedication were evident in every word they spoke. They were not just guides; they were true educators, sharing a wealth of knowledge about elephant behavior, conservation efforts, and the individual stories of the elephants residing at the sanctuary. Their insights were profound, and they answered every question with patience and expertise, making the entire experience deeply enriching and informative. The elephants themselves were clearly well-cared for and thriving in their environment. It was heartwarming to witness their interactions and see them in such a natural and respectful setting. The sanctuary's commitment to ethical practices and the well-being of the elephants was evident throughout our visit.This isn't just a place to see elephants; it's a place to understand them, to connect with them, and to feel inspired by the dedication of those who protect them. We left with full hearts and a renewed appreciation for these gentle giants. Highly, highly recommend this sanctuary for anyone looking for an authentic, educational, and truly moving encounters. Thank you to the entire team, especially our amazing guides, for an unforgettable day!

Came with family for elephant/Monkey sanctuary... Was absolutely brilliant, what a fantastic experience it was . Are tour guides Sam and sunny were fantastic. Really professional an friendly. Highly recommend to others , if your looking for a day you'll never forget then please visit this sanctuary. 10 out of 10 from us 😁👍🙉🐘.

What an amazing experience we had at the Elephant Sanctuary 🐘 🙏👍👌 The staff were very professional and answered all our questions. We were able to feed the elephants, walk with them though the bush, touch them and take photos/ videos with them. My Mom even received a big kiss from the one elephant for her birthday 🎂 There's also a small shop where you can buy some souvenirs and some nice coffee before the excursion takes place☕️ I would definitely recommend anyone that's a big animal lover to visit the place and support such an awesome sanctuary 💜🙏

I can see there are few negative reviews which is surprising. I opted for Package 3 and thoroughly enjoyed it. The lion walking was a once in a lifetime experience which I will forever remember and cherish. Stroking the Cheetah was also mesmeric! Words simply cannot describe what a wonderful and fun time I had. The staff/guides were super helpful and went out of their way to provide an exceptional service. Thank you Ukutula Lodge! 🙏👍🏼🐾

We always love to come here. The place is amazing, great Staff, excellent meals and the experience with the lions is incredible. The hard work they're doing to preserve some of the species is admirable. We highly recommend this unique opportunity to stay so close to some of the predators.

Day Trip: We did the Lion Walk and cheetah interaction. It was great! We did the morning tour and it was midweek so we were only 7 on the tour. This allowed the guides to take their time and we had long interactions with the cats. Gordon, the guide, is an animal nerd!😆- Very knowledgeable and passionate. We took brief breaks during the tour, and we were given drinks and scones. The steak sandwich we had for lunch was filling and tastes great. The owner, Gillian, is very warm And welcoming. Tshego, the hostess, gave us excellent service! She's very loving yet professional. I'm looking forward to staying overnight next time. Highly recommended!

Amazing tour… Walking with lions!! Unbelieveble but real, what an experience!! Great guides. A lot of knowledge and photografic skills. On the road to the lodge we have also seen other wildlife, amazing.

Best thing I can say is the lions that go on the walk are very well trained and the cheetah we interacted with was friendly. Staff is friendly. We went there for the lion walk, cub and cheetah interaction. When we arrived it was sunny, they delayed our day with other things and we ended up doing the walk in the rain and they took terrible videos of us. The guy doing the videos didn’t angle the camera correctly and he kept getting the other group in our vid. They had us go with 6 other people. It was not worth the experience because that was meant to be the highlight and ended up being the worst part. The lion cubs they had for interaction were too big to touch compared to other posts I’ve seen where people are able to actually play with them. They were about 8 months so they were quite rambunctious. This was the 3hr package for R1600 per person.

Overpriced, Misleading, and Underwhelming – A Thoroughly Disappointing Experience At the time of booking, we were told that normal cars could not travel the road to the farm and that a high-clearance vehicle would be required. When I asked about transport options, I was given the contact number of a courier company that could collect and deliver us to the farm. I was quoted R4000 for the round trip from Pretoria — which immediately raised red flags and felt like false representation of the road conditions to sell a transport package. To verify this claim, I drove to the farm the weekend before our booking. While the road was undeniably in poor condition — riddled with countless potholes — I was able to complete the trip in my own car with slow and careful driving. The road was far from ideal, but it was absolutely passable without a high-clearance vehicle. We were clearly misled. We were also told that the Saturday group would consist of 15 people, and since we prefer smaller groups, I booked for a weekday instead. On the day of our visit, my wife and I left work early at 10am to ensure we’d be on time for our 2pm appointment, knowing that late arrival would result in forfeiting our booking and payment. After battling through stop-and-go roadworks and the pothole-ridden tar road, we arrived an hour early. We were ushered to a waiting area and promised fruit juice refreshments — a small but welcome gesture after the long drive. However, after waiting for half an hour, we had to go ask where the juice was. As we took our first sips, we were immediately called to begin the carnivore tour. We had booked Package 3, which combines the Guided Predator Tour (Package 1) and the Lion Enrichment Walk (Package 2). The standalone prices were R750 and R1200 respectively, but we paid R1600 per person for the combined package — supposedly a discounted rate from R1950. The Guided Predator Tour was extremely underwhelming. It featured only five animal species, no cubs, and lasted just 35 minutes, far short of the advertised 2 hours. The guide was excellent and patient, which was one of the few positives, but the experience itself did not justify the cost. The Lion Enrichment Walk, advertised as a relaxed one-hour experience at a leisurely pace, turned out to be a rushed 30-minute walk from 4:20pm to 4:50pm. The guide recited facts in a monotone manner, making the walk feel more like a scripted photo-op than a meaningful wildlife encounter — just enough for tourists to grab some pictures and videos. Don’t expect a small group either; they pack in as many people as possible to clearly maximize income. In total, we received just 1 hour of actual tour time, despite paying for a 3-hour experience. This is a blatant rip-off. Final Opinion: Ukutula Lodge is clearly a tourist trap focused on maximizing revenue at the expense of quality, transparency, and value for money. South Africa has many similar centres that cater to lions and other carnivores — many of which offer far better experiences, ethical practices, and are located at more accessible venues. Ukutula sadly did not live up to its promises. I will not be returning.

booked a tour (walk with the lions + interaction with cubs baby cheetahs). i was not interested in the walking with lions part of the tour and thought of sitting that out. was only there to play with the cubs. after the 1st part of the tour while we were having our coffee break the guide told us that there weren't any cubs. that that part of the tour had to be stopped for some unforeseen circumstances. if they had told me when we were booking the tour i wouldn't have gone. i left feeling dissatisfied. i could've gone with another tour group that could offer what i wanted. I woke up at 5am for the 6am pick up and dropped 2100 rand for nothing. I could have slept in and saved time.

I really enjoyed the ride. Would definitely recommend the open 2 sitter one. As someone who tried both. No obstructed view and it’s not as scary as it looks. There’s a restaurant at the top. You can also do zip lining there at the top.

A must do when in Harties, carts looks clean and well looked after, seamless from parking, ticketing and ride. There are multiple shaded sitting areas that are all non-smoking, with bean bags for those that wants the sun. The are waiters that serves the areas and the area and it's bathrooms are clean too. Really nice overall experience!! There are name boards with information of close by towns, Botswana, mines etc. the walkway (dasie path) is paved and a walk around easy. Skypwark is interesting too. So much to do and taste up there!!!!

The staff that handle getting passengers onto the cable cars are negligent. Not giving proper instructions, for example, notice that the cable car doors close automatically mid way up. The restaurants on the mountain, zero customer service, upon arrival no attendance when we are literally standing in front of the staff, I had to get my own menu on the front desk, follow a waiter around to merely place an order thus in the end giving up and calling it a day. So unprofessional. The 3 stars are for the wonderful welcome from the security, cashier who handled our ticket purchase and the views.

The cable car was fun. The views from the top are amazing. We ate at 360° and the food was good but be warned, there is a long wait for it. We waited an hour for our orders. Leaving took a while as there was a thirty minute queue for the cable car down. I'd recommend arriving and leaving earlier to avoid this.

We did the 2 seater ride and it was awesome. The views are beautiful. I recommend it! The waiting overall was too much. I suggest buying tickets online, we waited about 30-40min for tickets, another 10min to get on the ride. When we got to the restaurant “Asado Grill”, it took us 10min to find a seat, another 15-20min just to place an order, then waited about an hour for food. We initially planned to do the sky park but after all that waiting, we decided otherwise. Even getting the bill took long 😭 We decided to go to the 360 Degrees restaurant for dessert. We were assisted to find a table but not given menus, we waited about 10min and then left before anyone could attend to us. The waiting time for everything really threw us off.

Amazing to be on top of the mountain at Harties. Service is good, and when it's your birthday you get a free ticket. Food is fabulous.

It was a great experience the place is a home away from home and the staff is an awesome team. I loved and enjoyed every minute spent there, will definitely visit again.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A Regal Escape at the Emperor’s Palace My stay at the Emperor’s Palace was nothing short of enchanting — an experience that felt less like a hotel visit and more like a journey into a world of refined elegance and thoughtful luxury. From the moment I arrived, I was greeted with a warmth and grace that instantly set the tone for the entire stay. The architecture and décor were breathtaking — a seamless fusion of opulence and modern sophistication. Every detail, from the grand chandeliers to the intricate wall art, whispered stories of royal splendor. My suite was a sanctuary of comfort: spacious, immaculately kept, and adorned with every amenity one could imagine. The bed was divine, the linens impossibly soft, and the view… simply mesmerising. Service at the D'oreale Emperor’s Palace deserves the highest praise. The staff anticipated every need with an almost intuitive precision — always present, yet never intrusive. Every interaction felt genuine, every gesture thoughtful. It’s rare to find such a perfect balance of professionalism and heartfelt hospitality. The culinary experience was equally unforgettable. Each meal was a symphony of flavours, artfully presented and beautifully paired with exquisite wines. Dining here felt like an occasion in itself — a celebration of taste and artistry. Whether relaxing by the serene courtyard, indulging in a spa treatment, or simply savouring the palace’s tranquil ambiance, I felt completely enveloped in luxury and calm. In every sense, the D'oreale Emperor’s Palace lives up to its name — a true palace where guests are treated like royalty. I left with a full heart, a rejuvenated spirit, and the certainty that I will return. A masterpiece of hospitality — five stars are simply not enough.

This facility is an architectural marvel. The exterior design and the interior 👌 Upon entering, you have access to social amenities that take you there. Casinos 🎰, entertainment joints, gift shops, etc. It's a nice place, especially if you choose to have a date and prefer indoors ambience. Good place for photography.

We saw a production at the theater, and enjoyed dinner afterwards. Emperors is a one stop shop fora variety of entertainment preferences. With all under a single roof, making a selection is easy. The establishment are competing against one other for your patronage resulting is excellent service. The bathrooms are very clean and serviced, and parking is plentiful and safe.

Just from outside there are guards you can tell nothing will go wrong. As you get inside the theme matches every aspect. And the serving of clients. You never get to be on the lookoout for a waiter, they are always on your side just ready to serve you.

Dirty and load. Not much choice in good quality restaurants. Go there if you have to. Old and dated and smells of smoke. Rather go to monte casino. A lot more family friendly. Any restaurant next to or close to including News Caffe needs to be avoided. Lots of drunk patrons , smoking and noise disturbing other restaurant patrons

The place is fantastic, but the jacuzzi is inside the spa and it is ran by a separate company. We came here to relax on the jaccuzzi and found out that it was another charge. We liked that the hotel is connected to the casino, theaters, and restaurants without having to go outside.

Friendly security More than enough parking Variety of shops Maybe a store with snacks will be popular if you're not hungry enough to eat out. We had an amazing meal however, served by an excellent waitress!!

This is a must do while in South Africa ! I enjoyed seeing the cheetahs up close and learning so much about them ! They have so much freedom and space and live a wonderful life ! The cheetah run and game drive feedings are incredible! I had no idea that they had wildebeests, zebras and vultures as well! Nikki was very responsive to emails , and Sam and Winston were the best tour guides! Thank you for such a lovely day !

We truly enjoyed our visit to the Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre! Our guide was very knowledgeable & told us many interesting facts about the animals there, including the cheetahs, & answered our many questions. As frequently travelers, we’ve visited numerous centres & seen many animals. We were MOST impressed as to how healthy & well-fed these animals were…something we’ve not always seen! I give highest marks to this centre & staff for their obvious dedication and care. This centre is definitely worth visiting!

Excellent walking tour. We saw amazing cats of various types and kinds. Truly a special experience and I would highly recommend. Preferably do it in the morning when it is a bit cooler and the animals a little more mobile. Excellent guide Jemima, knowledgeable, friendly, and loves her job. They have several package options including the cheetah run. Look it up on their website as this is their most popular package.

Truly impressive to witness the work done here and the dedito conservation and education. Thank you for this special experience 😊

Incredible. If you have holiday plans that don't include this, you're mad.

Great experience with our two guides! We had a wonderful moment learning about the cheetah. This was amazing 🐆

What an amazing experience. One of the best experiences. Sam was an awesome guide.

What an amazing experience as an adult. Brought back lots of memories of when I visited in primary school. There's obviously lots of changes, sad though. But still glad I could come and experience this as a adult. Very neat, and friendly and helpful staff awaits you.

Driving up, the building sits on its hill like it was made for long horizons. Inside is denser than you expect, with careful displays and quiet side rooms that make you take your time. We climbed to the upper levels, leaned on the rail, and let the city and ridges spread out beneath us. Outside, the grounds are tidy and good for a slow stroll. It is a visit that lands without rushing you along.

Have over the years caught glimpses of the huge edifice of the Voortrekker Monument that is conspicuously visible from almost all directions around the hill on which the granite structure and its huge complex is built. Undertook an impulsive visit to the Schanskop Fort located in the same precinct, and ventured into the Transvaal Voortrekker Museum, adjacent the Complex Reception / Ticket office. Was impressed by the management and maintenance of the cultural complex, and especially the efforts undertaken to preserve and secure the historical artifacts.

Voortrekker Monument takes you back in time. It’s neat, clean and well maintained. Hiking up to the view point and museum was easy.

It was a beautiful and mesmerising experience. Will definitely go for more of these. The venue definitely does not need high heels. Where flats or wedges/kitten heels or just pretty flats if dressing up for the theme (in this case, it was Bridgerton themed and we were encouraged to dress up in the Bridgerton style). The architecture especially inside is beautiful, the ambience is mesmerising as is the stringed orchestra. The commentary is lovely and humourous and the whole experience is wonderful. Leaves one feeling uplifted, inspired and clears mental stress. Extra's I would add to make the experience more special: An opportunity for couples to dance, a themed photobooth and champagne/welcome drinks offered right at the entrance of the venue (at a price) would have been nice extra's. Or ordering from the restaurant and having people come and deliver to you would be nice since we climbed many, many stairs and had things like bags, etc to carry. But overall, beautiful experience.

Went for the Saturday Parkrun, loved the vibe and route, the music and energetic spirit. The gardens are beautiful, cute coffee shops and restaurant based on a school classroom theme, traditional menu based on SA"s favorites like "braaibroodjies" and "melktert" at very reasonable prices. Well worth a visit.

A true testament to many moments in South African history. Beautifully curated. The Pierneef piece is such a masterpiece to behold.

A short 25 minute drive from Pretoria East you'll find a wonderful day outing in the Rietvlei Nature Reserve. At a total cost of R125 for one adult and a kid it is absolutely worth the fee. The staff are friendly, from the moment you enter the gate, to purchasing tickets and entering the Reserve. All were friendly and welcoming. We packed a picnic, our camera and embarked on a self-drive fueled by a bunch of excitement to be out in Nature in search of wildlife. The roads are easily drive able even in a small hatch back vehicle. We stopped at three different bird hides/ lookout points and each were well maintained. We enjoyed a slow meander and eventually ended up at the coffee shop. There is a section that is home to a few Donkeys which the kids love to feed ( bring a bag of carrots, you'll be a favourite) . We enjoyed a coffee and an ice-cream before heading back out to look at more game and birds. We saw a meerkat, lots of Buffalo , zebras, ostriches, and a number of birds. Not much bird variety, but it was midday. After enjoying a good 4.5 hours of driving around we headed back home. There is are restrooms at Reception, by the coffee shop and at the Finfoot hide. All of which were decently maintained and had loo paper. We will most certainly become more regular visitors.

What a pleasant surprise!!! Right on our doorstep and yet I have not frequented the reserve before. It was so easy to get into the reserve, staff were helpful and friendly and it was a day that was really relaxing to view the game and try to spot those elusive cheetahs. Visit the picknic spot, it is so tranquil but get there early if you want a good spot. The old farm house now operating as a restautant needs some tlc. I see how specific little trinkets can produce a steady flow of cash for the reserve from those who want a souvenir.

Close to town but it feels like a small bush day. We rolled the windows down, followed gravel tracks along the water, and sat quietly when the plains opened up. A white rhino sighting turned the whole car into kids for five minutes. Picnic spots are simple and the light is lovely toward evening. You leave dust-coated and happy.

It was a pleasant experience. Innitially we only saw a few animals, like ostridge, a fox, and I think its a Hartebees, but then we found an abundance of animals, especially around the Jakkalsdraai road, that is on your right hand side when you enter the main gate. The Zebras were the best because they are playfull. Also Wildebeest. The scenery is beautiful. It felt as if we were in the bosveld. It was drizzling, but we were still able to go out with raincoats, whereever we were allowed to exit the vehicle. The Lookout stations were topnotch, it was sponsored by "friends of Rietvlei".Unfortunately we couldn't see hippos. . We ordered an omelette at the restaurant/house with memorabillia dated back to the 1900's. I think it's best if you pre- book with the wildlife rangers, they know all the hotspots. I will surely go back again, cause you can braai at the picnic site

We had a wonderful time here. Saw quite a few different animals. Roads are also in good condition for all types of vehicles which is a big plus! We stopped at the coffee shop which served some really great food. Next time we will make use of the lovely braai facilities.

Well maintained and mapped roads. Variety of animals including big game like bufullo, rhinos, hippos. Beautifully kept hides to watch the game. Restaurant on site. Enjoyed the experience.

We were lucky to see so many animals and birds right next to the tarred road. Beautiful reserve. Three hours there are not enough. Remember to take your binoculars and a picnic basket with

It is always wonderful to walk around the zoo. There are plenty of animals to see, there are however some enclosures that does not have any animals in as they are under construction. All animals are well looked after. There is information boards on some of the enclosures, I really wished there was more information boards regarding the animal that is kept in the enclosure. There are enough toilets which are neat and clean. There are big open grass areas where you can have a picnic. There are also benches all over the zoo where you can sit and look at the animals. I did however wait for the shark feeding time and talk, but no one showed up and I left after 15min. Was a bit disappointed as I was looking forward to seeing how the sharks gets feeded. The shops only have basic items like cooldrink, water, ice cream and small packet of chips. The restaurant has a view items on the menu that you can choose from. The parking R30 is very safe as no hawkers are allowed inside the gate. They are transitioning into a cashless environment. Overall I had a great time and it was wonderful to see these amazing creatures up close.

It was a good experience. R100 adults & R70 kids. When we attended, there was an ongoing event and a big crowd. There was ample parking and plenty of security looking after the cars. The Zoo staff were friendly and there were no queues, we went on a Sunday. We had a good day overall. The Zoo is huge, there are golf carts for use to drive around should you prefer. I think because of the event, the cleanliness was an issue. We saw a few animals. There is also an aquarium and farm animals.

"I recently visited the Pretoria Zoo and had an amazing time! The zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, including majestic lions, monkeys, and birds. We also enjoyed the snack bars and fish exhibits. The layout is well-designed, making it easy to navigate and see all the exhibits. My niece and nephew had a blast and are already asking when they can come back!"

A Forgotten Gem! What a wonderful experience, truly a trip down memory lane! The place is spotless, the staff are incredibly friendly and welcoming, and all the animals are clearly well cared for and in great condition. It’s rare to find somewhere that feels both nostalgic and so well maintained. A hidden treasure worth re-rediscovering! Ps take a picnic basket and cooler box with!

Although I’m typically not a fan of zoos, the Pretoria zoo was a day well spent. It is clear that the wellbeing of the animals is being prioritized as they all appear healthy and are active and animated. Most have large enclosures that replicate their natural environment (and most appear to have company or “friends” with very few lone animals). Considering the circumstances, it’s understandable that the zoo does not have many refreshment options, and the infrastructure is a little worn (some peeling paint, and apparent age of some of the structures). The staff are incredibly friendly and helpful, the bathrooms are clean, and the zoo is well kept. The natural landscape of the zoo is stunning and the river flowing through the zoo is a sight to behold. There’s a lovely path behind the lion enclosures that take you to lookout points that show the Pretoria skyline and a good view of the Lion and Tiger enclosures. We went in spring so we were lucky enough to see quite a few baby animals. I hope they receive the support needed to restore the zoo! They are clearly doing the best they can with the unfortunate circumstances they’ve been dealt.

I recently visited the National Zoological Gardens in Pretoria and was thoroughly impressed! The zoo is home to a stunning array of animals, from majestic lions and giraffes to adorable penguins and playful monkeys. The gardens are beautifully maintained, with plenty of shade and picnic areas to relax. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, and the various shows and exhibits add an extra layer of fun to the visit. A must-visit attraction for animal lovers and families alike!

My main concerns are that some animals’ living conditions seem rather poor and not well maintained to reflect their natural habitats. In addition, the open sewage and pollution flowing through the Apies River greatly detract from the zoo experience, especially for picnickers, as it produces an unpleasant odour, and some aquatic animals, such as ducks, could become affected by the waste. The glass panels, especially in the reptile section, had a few smudges that spoiled the experience of taking good photos. Another downside was that some of the main exhibit animals, like the elephants were unavailable, the aquarium closed quite early, and the cable car was not operational. Despite these setbacks, I still believe the zoo offers a fun and educational experience, providing an opportunity to learn about a wide variety of animal species. My highlights from the visit came from a few animals, some absolutely melted my heart, while others made me fear for my very life. I was especially curious about the Ground Hornbill and how it behaved in my presence. It carried what appeared to be dead chicks, which left me wondering whether they kill their young, show remorse, or perhaps do it as a way of getting treats. I couldn’t quite tell, and it was unfortunate that there wasn’t a stall selling any of their favourite goodies. The Grey Crowned Crane was another fascinating encounter. It was jumping about as though it was challenging me to a fight or boasting about its size, or maybe even trying to court me, I couldn’t be sure! Still, I thoroughly enjoyed watching its dancing rituals. The Palm Cockatoo truly melted my heart with the sounds it made, like a small child who knew nothing but love. The penguins were absolutely delightful, so lively and full of character that they could easily hold their own against the best choirs around. They’re definitely a must-see exhibit. The camel was so lovely; it came over and posed for a few photos, even letting me pet it and take some close-up shots. The lemurs were just as charming, so playful that I found myself playing peek-a-boo with them. The reptile section, however, wasn’t really my favourite. I tried to steel myself as I walked past each snake, until I came across a massive python, that nearly made me drop my phone! The African Wild Dogs also gave me quite a fright; their fencing didn’t seem as high as the lions’, and for a moment I genuinely felt they might leap out and hunt me down. I can’t complain, as the ticket price was half the usual cost. Even though some animals stayed in their sheds because of the extreme heat, I still look forward to returning with my children for another fun and slightly scary educational experience. Next time, I hope to visit the aquarium and take a ride on the golf cart as well.

🏛️ Iconic seat of the South African government, overlooking Pretoria 🌄 Set within beautifully landscaped gardens with panoramic city views 🗿 Features the Nelson Mandela statue — 9 metres tall with arms raised in triumph 💣 Two Long Tom guns and a war memorial mark the site’s military heritage 🧺 Ideal for walks and picnics in the peaceful terraced gardens 🚗 Ample parking, clean toilets, and visible security on site ☕ No visible café or shop, but plenty of open green space for visitors Full Review The Union Buildings are one of South Africa’s most recognisable landmarks — a magnificent architectural complex set high on a hillside overlooking Pretoria. Designed by Sir Herbert Baker and completed in 1913, the twin-winged sandstone buildings form a powerful symbol of national unity and democracy. The grounds are beautifully maintained, with lush lawns, tiered gardens, and wide terraces offering sweeping vistas across Pretoria. It’s an ideal spot to stroll, relax, or simply take in the grandeur of the setting. Two historic Long Tom guns frame a war memorial positioned between them, paying tribute to those who served in earlier conflicts. Across the gardens, the commanding Nelson Mandela statue — standing 9 metres tall with outstretched arms — overlooks the capital, symbolising peace and reconciliation. Security is reassuringly visible, and there’s ample parking as well as clean public toilets. While I didn’t spot any cafés or shops, many visitors were enjoying picnics on the lawns beneath the buildings, making good use of the open space and sunshine. It’s hard to think of a more impressive or immaculately kept location in Pretoria — a place that combines architectural splendour, historical weight, and peaceful surroundings in perfect balance. Absolutely worth a visit.

Love that it's well maintained and looks like if visitors came we wont be ashamed.

The Union Building is impressively clean and well-maintained. Security is very noticeable, with police officers always present, which makes visitors feel safe. The garden is beautifully kept, vibrant, and colorful, providing a great backdrop for photos. I loved seeing the statue of Mandela and interesting historical items like the cannon around the grounds. It’s a popular spot for families coming to take photos and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Definitely worth a visit!

Well kept clean safe environment with historical monuments of our country

The Union Buildings in Pretoria are South Africa’s most iconic landmark, set high on Hill with beautiful terraced gardens and panoramic views of the city. they’re home to the President’s offices. Visitors can stroll through the gardens, view memorials, and admire the impressive statue of Nelson Mandela at the forefront.

In the heart of Pretoria. The is one of the country's historic monuments that still serve a unique purpose in country's politics. Free entrance grants you the opportunity to experience the nostalgic peice of South Africa's diverse heritage. Cool place to visit for a picnic, or social media pics. 😉

Beautiful location, with a view over the cbd of Pretoria.

Afsaal is a gem within Dinokeng and should be visited by all. Everything about this camping area is tops. From spotless sparkling ablation facilities to the playground and pool with a lapa for bigger groups and very friendly owners and staff

One of the best all round wedding venues I’ve been to. The game was incredible to see and as surprised considering how close to Pretoria it is. The venue itself ( the chapel, groomsmen’s room, reception area, different quarters) was also perfect and we had an all round amazing experience!

It was my first time visiting, and I was so surprised at how nice this reserve is. There is nice scenery, lots of animals to see, lodges, restaurants and the roads are quite well kept. Dinokeng is a great day out especially if you live in Johannesburg and surrounds.

Dinokeng is lovely, really peaceful. The air is clean and its a greate breakaway from the city. The only down side is that some drivers are unfortunately inconsiderate, speeding on dirt roads in the dark with brights on. Dinokeng needs to better monitor speeding.

An exciting journey through the jungles watching many animals in its own natural habitat spreading through 22000 hectares of land reserve which is a no man’s land otherwise. Entries are restricted through pre booking and very controlled to maintain natural serenity. A life time experience not many country offer these days.

Dinokeng Game Reserve is an absolute gem – the perfect getaway if you’re craving wildlife and nature without driving too far from Gauteng. We spotted hyenas, giraffes, buffalo, White and Black rhino , Hippos and a lot of buck (from a safe distance, of course!). The self-drive route is well marked, and there’s a good mix of open savannah and thick bushveld. What makes it special is how close you feel to the wild – no overcrowding, just you, your car, and the animals. There are some lovely picnic spots and lodges scattered throughout the park if you want to spend a night or two. Highly recommend bringing binoculars, packing snacks, and taking your time. It’s a real African bush experience that’s surprisingly accessible. Will definitely be back!

The reserve, and the rangers and hosts are absolutely amazing. It's pristine and beautiful, and there are many stunning animals to see.

Had an very interesting tour of the mine, however, expect to see way less than you might think…

We visited Cullinan for work and decided to skip the mine tour since it was too hot, and children under six weren’t allowed. Instead, we explored the restaurants near the entrance, though most were unexpectedly closed, with only a few open. As a keepsake, we took a photo near the most unusually creative street lamp—definitely a unique highlight of our visit!

It's a quiet place. There are a lot of property development. They could do with better bigger roads. Shops are far from the mine.

Great place to visit maybe even stay at , good people and service at the mine

Need to refresh at the Hotel - I'm so impresed with the place - can't wait to see what the mine has to offer

The entrance is good and people are adhering covid19 rules

It's a nice place and well organised

When we came driving in to the temple area it felt as if we were in a different country. This was a fantastic experience. We felt so at peace walking through the gardens and the temple.

The most amazing and beautiful temple. A place filled with so much of peace, tranquility and power. We drove up to Gauteng just for me to visit this beautiful temple. It was definitely an amazing experience. We visited on a Friday. It was nice and quite. The energy and vibration of this temple was definitely something out of this world. It felt as if I was in a different country. Everything about this temple was breathtaking. I look forward to trying their meditation someday. Ps, entrance is free.

Peaceful from the second you walk through the gate. The scale and detail are impressive—fluted columns, bright roofs, calm courtyards—and the main hall has a stillness that makes you whisper without thinking about it. Volunteers were warm and happy to answer simple questions about the artwork and rituals. We took our time wandering the grounds and ended with a tea and snack at the little café. It’s not a long drive, and it feels like a proper mental reset. Dress modestly, move slowly, and enjoy how the city noise drops away.

I went on the mediation retreat. It was great value for money. I would have liked the temple tour to be given at the beginning of the retreat as it helps put things into perspective, but overall, I learnt a lot and really enjoyed it I would recommend

Highly recommended venue to visit for any family who love to explore and discover culture rich sites. We happened to visit on a relatively quiet day. Observed the guidelines required and enjoyed the experience of the environment. They do have an events calendar where the public are invited to attend. Only one piece of advice: Respect their rules and dress code.

What a beautiful temple! It's so peaceful and serene. The monks are friendly and it's looked after so well. All the artwork, statues and even the architecture is kept clean and in excellent condition. I've attended one of it's Chinese New Year Festivals and it was a spectacular event. There were lots of celebrations and lots of stalls with food and merchandise to be bought and it was just overall a fun experience. I'd definitely recommend it and I'll definitely be returning again.

Really good place to find peace of mind. Little bit outside but its worth for a long drive. Special in Chinese new year. You will see different cultures and people all together celebrating it. Different architecture and culture is specifically agenda to visit this place. Visit is needed if you want to experience this for sure.

We did the Lion Walk and Interaction. This was one of the best activities we did during our entire trip! We learned so much about lions and the conservation work that is being done by Colin’s to help their species. It was incredible to learn about their breeding process and the positive impact they’ve been able to make on the lion population. We got to walk with 9 month old cubs and hold 3-4 month old cubs. They were so adorable. We also got to interact with the serval cats and see some of the older lions as well. 10/10 recommend this activity!

My husband and I had the most incredible getaway at Colin's Horseback Africa & Wildlife Education Programs. From the moment we arrived, the staff made us feel so welcome, everyone was friendly, inviting, and genuinely passionate about what they do. You can see how much care goes into everything, especially the animals. Their horses are beautifully looked after, and the conservation work they do is truly inspiring. The horseback safari was an unforgettable experience — peaceful, well-guided, and such a special way to connect with nature and wildlife. We stayed at Meerkat Manor, which was cosy and had everything you could need, and ewe nded our evenings relaxing in the woodfire hot tub under the stars. It’s one of those rare places that fills your heart and makes you want to come back again. Highly recommend it to anyone who loves animals, nature, and warm hospitality.

With my wife, we did the wildlife éducations tour and it was really great. We had the opportunity to walk with lions aged of 6 months. Then we saw the Serval. After we did go to the lion's cub enclosure to have a moment with them, it was awesome. But before all of this, they explained to us why this sanctuary exist and why it needs to be there. So not only it is a really Nice place and aventure, but also educational of lions.

Horses were friendly and easy to ride. However upon entering the premises you drive past a small cage-like area with lion cubs which did not seem large enough for the conservation purposes the organisation claimed. We also saw a very thin male adult lion and female lion in a similar sized pen. It was said these were for breeding purposes and conservation but was very questionable and very upsetting for many in our group.

Lovely stay and experience. If you are looking for a genuine bush experience with people who truly care about the animals in their care, you’re in for a treat. The staff are so friendly and knowledgeable, happy to answer any questions and they obviously love what they do. The lodge is relaxed, comfortable and clean. It’s not five star luxury, and if that’s what you’re looking for, this isn’t the place for you. But if you want a relaxing break from the city with tasty food and welcoming people, then you won’t be disappointed. I also felt very comfortable as a solo female traveller which was important to me.

I had the absolute pleasure of staying at Collin’s for 4 nights. During this time we did two horse riding safari trail rides- we saw a big variety of antelope, zebras, giraffe and even 3 jackals! The horse riding was superb with beautiful trails across lots of different terrain. Their horses are really special. They also gave us a tour of their ethical lion sanctuary with adult and lion cubs. Also, very cool cervils! With educational component, we learned about both these Cats. There are also amazing hikes including a beautiful hike to a pristine waterfall. The staff couldn’t be better- super friendly, super-helpful, we made some lovely connections. While we were there- they were expanding their rock climbing opportunities- so if that’s something that would interest you, there’s that too. We stayed in the lodge which was comfortable and cozy (with a great fireplace). There are also camping facilities that looked nice. Highly recommend! Angelique

An unforgettable experience!! The most encouraging line that you hear just before the lions are brought out to meet you is that they have not eaten in last 24hrs and are hungry If you love lions, you want to understand them, feel them and get to walk with them then this is the place. It was evident to see and understand the lion behaviour when you look them in the eye or try to walk in front of the male lion you would see the dominance in the young male lion, I was nudged by him to walk behind him and while walking he let me then hold its tail and walk. I got to hold a snake as well 😅 The reason why they have not eaten is that they are lazy … I realised later hahaha ! The whole atmosphere is so nice if you’re a wild life lover.

What an absolute adventure!! Don't know who enjoyed it more, the kids or adults... We loved the addition of the penguins and flamingos, they are gorgeous! The facilities are neat and well looked after. The new enclosures looks like they are going to be stunning. I would just suggest to enhance the experience at the reception. A warm welcome and perhaps an offering of a map or guide would add that extra touch. We will return to bring the entire family!!

Such tiny cages no mental stimulation provided to animals. The sub adult white tigers in one cage are in terrible condition. Too many animals being kept in small cages. They can reduce the amount of animals and rather upgrade the cages. Also any place that provides tiger and lion cub petting is usually not very ethical. Terrible conditions. All about money.

Nice and relaxing place to visit,take your walking shoes,there is a lot to see.You can interact with tiger and lion cubs, or just walk around. Entrance is R200 per person and interaction with the cubs R100 per person. There is a restaurant with place to sit and eat.

We loved that place! Clean cages for monkeys and the other side just in a progress of development.. big variety of animals.

What a fun and beautiful experience. There is a cafe, restaurant and all sorts of animals (more have been added since the last time we were there). We even saw the feeding at 15:30 and that was such a cool experience!

Monkeys were all active. The tiger was massive! The flamingoes were a special treat. So fun to walk at my own pace and choose the order I wanted to see things.

Open 365 days, very near and calming. If you need a weekend retreat this is the perfect place. They also have a lodge nearby so you don't have to leave same day. One can enjoy the beauty of nature and the lovelt animals they have without worrying about heading back to their destinations. Absolutely love the place. If you're an animal lover you're in for a treat for the animal interactions they have.