Sun City and Pilansberg Game Reserve
In my mind South Africa really lives up to its name of 'the Rainbow Nation' – not only due to its many different types of people but its diversity of scenery, leading it to be described as a 'world in one country'. The country features traditional African savannah and wildlife; Indian Ocean beaches; magnificent mountain ranges; first world cities or awesome deserts. There is no end to the breathtaking scenery and smiling faces.
Just a short drive from Johannesubrg, deep in the rugged bushveld, in the heart of an ancient volcano, lies the unique resort of Sun City. The resort is a complex of hotels, casinos and golf courses and it is often described as South Africa's version of Las Vegas. There is room for over 2000 guests in four world-class hotels including the opulent Palace of the Lost City. The Lost City, complete with the 'Shrine of the Sacred Monkey', ruins of old temples, ancient carvings, grottos is an illusion of some idyllic ancient civilisation rediscovered. The Palace of the Lost City is undoubtedly one of the architectural wonders of Africa.
The Sun City Resort Complex is one of the world's largest adult entertainment centres, essentially a luxury theme park. In addition to numerous restaurants, shops, casinos, theatres and entertainment complexes there is also the famous Valley of the Waves. The Valley of the Waves at the Lost City offers a gigantic man-made pool, man-made beach, palm trees, water slides and a machine that generates real waves. All hundreds of kilometres from the nearest ocean! A vast entertainment area provides for floor shows, slot machines, gaming tables - all on the edge of Pilansberg National Park. Sun City is well-known on the international golf circuit for the Nedbank 2 Million Dollar Golf Challenge at the Gary Player Golf Course.
Next door to Sun City is the Pilansberg Game Reserve supporting over 7 000 head of game, including the 'Big Five' and 350 bird species. The reserve is just two hours from Johannesburg. The Pilansberg mountains exist as a result of an enormous volcano eruption millions of years ago – leaving behind the beautiful undulating hills that stretch as far as the eye can see. The reserve was formed with the purchase and repair of cattle farms between 1969 and 1970. Then Operation Genesis began, bringing in nearly 6 000 animals of 19 different species. This game translocation became the largest in the world until later Operation Phoenix, in sister park Madikwe, trans-located 10 000 animals.
Pilansberg National Park has a network of good roads and large animal populations which usually ensures great game viewing. There is a wide range of accommodation available in and around the park.