Set in an exclusive-use concession area within the celebrated Pilanesberg National Park, Shepherd’s Tree Game Lodge is a stunning safari destination offering romantic, secluded suites for honeymooners as well as fantastic family suites with child-minding services. Encircled by a ring of volcanic hills, the lodge commands magnificent views of the surrounding landscape. Like the rest of the Pilanesberg, the lodge is malaria-free, which makes for a carefree wilderness holiday.

Sheperd’s Tree offers a creative menu of activities, including drumming workshops and specialist talks, along with superb game viewing in safari vehicles or on guided nature walks. The savannah grasslands boast both black and white rhinos along with majestic sable antelope and buffalo. Elephants move soundlessly in the shade of lush woodland thickets, while lions, cheetahs and spotted hyenas are commonly seen. Sightings of rare predators, like leopards and wild dogs, are not infrequent. The child-friendly safari programme gives youngsters a safe and fun wilderness experience while allowing Mum and Dad some grown-up rest time.

Located within a three-hour drive from Johannesburg's O R Tambo International Airport and next door to Sun City, Shepherd’s Tree is perfect for travellers wanting to combine the casino, golf course and glossy entertainment of South Africa's premier resort with an authentic Big 5 safari.

Highlights

• Malaria-free Big 5 game viewing
• Resident black & white rhino
• Award-winning Amani Spa
• Romantic, secluded chalets
• Game drives & nature walks
• Stunning infinity pool & cocktail bar
• Next door to Sun City Resort
• Family-friendly & kid’s programme

Activities

• GAME DRIVES
• GUIDED WALKS
• QUAD-BIKING
• GUIDED WALKING SAFARIS
• SUNDOWNERS

An absolute favourite in Pilanesberg National Park, bringing modern designs and luxury to the bush, perfectly suited to both honeymooners and families with young children.

Rooms

Standard Room

Commanding breathtaking views of the valley below, elegant furnishings and stylish Afro-chic décor make each of the 13 Family Suites a haven of abundant serenity. Two en suite master bedrooms with king-sized beds and a shared lounge and patio make these rooms perfect for families and groups of friends. Shepherd Tree's four opulent Executive Suites offer romantic seclusion and lavish finishes -perfect for couples.

Warm, earthy tones and rich textures echo the surrounding African landscape and add to the peaceful ambience of the suites. The unpretentious en suite bathrooms have beautiful oval baths with superb views over the Pilanesberg. The Executive Suites also offer glorious indoor steam rooms and double outdoor showers.

Facilities

From exhilarating game drives in search of the Big 5 to indulgent pampering at the award-winning Amani Spa, Shepherd’s Tree delivers everything you expect from a luxury safari lodge and more.

Designed to blend into the natural environment, the 13 Family Suites and four secluded Executive Suites command captivating views of the valley below. A spectacular rim-flow pool provides a cool respite from the hot African sun, while the comfortable lounge and bar area offer perfectly relaxing vistas and ice-cold drinks.

Take sensory satisfaction to a new level at the deluxe spa and wellness centre. The lodge has three treatment rooms with two specially designed for couples. Shepherd’s Tree offers child minding and junior ranger programmes to ensure parents with young children can relax and have a holiday too. Join a drumming workshop or attend a talk from a local wildlife expert – there is something for everyone. For adventurers, quad biking, air-gun shooting and archery may be enjoyed at Shepherd Tree's sister lodge nearby, while the concierge will arrange transfers and activities at neighbouring Sun City, including golf on the championship course.

Despite offering such a rich list of activities, this lodge was built for relaxation. Watch Verreaux’s eagles soar high above the rocky terrain as you toast the setting sun in the stylish cocktail bar, or watch an unforgettable Tswana and Zulu traditional dance performed around a blazing fire.

Dining

Delectable Pan-African cuisine is prepared by expert chefs in the lodge’s gourmet restaurant and served indoors or under starry skies by the light of a crackling fire. The outdoor boma is the perfect place to enjoy a nightcap after your meal and share campfire tales with your fellow travellers.