Lion & Safari Park

Nestled in the scenic Magaliesberg mountain range within the Cradle of Humankind UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 600-hectare conservation area offers visitors an authentic African safari experience without the need to travel hours from the city or worry about malaria.

A Wildlife Paradise Close to Home

The Lion & Safari Park is home to an impressive array of African wildlife, including over 80 lions among them the stunning and rare white lions that captured global attention in the acclaimed film "The White Lion." Beyond these majestic big cats, you'll encounter cheetahs, leopards, hyenas, wild dogs, and a variety of antelope species roaming freely across the expansive landscape. One of the park's highlights is the tower of friendly giraffes, offering visitors unforgettable close-up encounters with these gentle giants.

Choose Your Adventure

Whether you prefer the freedom of exploring at your own pace or the expertise of professional guides, the Lion & Safari Park caters to every type of visitor:

Self-Drive Safari

Take control of your adventure by driving your own vehicle through the predator enclosures and game areas. Navigate through lion, cheetah, and wild dog territories, then enjoy an extended game drive to spot antelope, hyenas, zebras, and more. This flexible option allows you to set your own pace and spend as much time as you like observing the animals.

Guided Safari Tours

For those seeking expert knowledge and guaranteed animal sightings, the park offers several guided safari options in modern, open safari vehicles:

• 1-Hour Guided Safari: Perfect for families or those short on time, this tour takes you through the main predator enclosures with opportunities to see lions, wild dogs, cheetahs, and various herbivores.

• 2-Hour Guided Safari: A comprehensive tour covering all predator areas including lions, cheetahs, wild dogs, hyenas, and leopards, with plenty of time for photography and questions.

• 3-Hour Flagship Safari: The ultimate experience, combining the 2-hour tour with a scenic drive through 600 hectares of wilderness, offering the best opportunities for stunning photographs and in-depth wildlife encounters
  
  Special Experiences

• The park offers unique activities that set it apart from other wildlife destinations:

• Sunset Safaris: Available on weekends and public holidays, these evening tours include the spectacular sight of lions being fed at dusk, as the African night comes alive with the sounds of the wild.

• Alex Larenty Tours: Meet world-renowned animal trainer and behaviourist Alex Larenty as he demonstrates his extraordinary relationship with the park's big cats in this exclusive three-hour experience.

• Horse Safaris: Experience the park from horseback on a one-hour guided trail, offering a unique perspective on the wildlife and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Family-Friendly Features

The Lion & Safari Park is an ideal destination for families, with children under 12 entering free when accompanied by a paying adult (one child per adult). After your safari adventure, relax at the Wetlands Restaurant, where you can enjoy a meal surrounded by the park's beautiful natural setting. Kids can safely play in the supervised playground while parents browse the curio shops featuring authentic African arts, crafts, and souvenirs.

Practical Information

Location: Cradle of Humankind, approximately 40 minutes north of Johannesburg and 13km from Lanseria Airport

Operating Hours: Open daily, including public holidays

What to Bring: Comfortable clothing, sun protection, camera with zoom lens, and binoculars for optimal wildlife viewing

Special Note: Entrance to the park and restaurant is free; you only pay for your chosen activity

Family Bonus: Kids under 12 are free on all guided game drives and self-drives (one child per paying adult)

Why Stay in Johannesburg?

While the Lion & Safari Park is easily accessible for a half-day or full-day excursion, staying in Johannesburg gives you the perfect base to combine this wildlife adventure with the city's many other attractions. After an exhilarating morning among Africa's big cats, you can return to comfortable accommodation to relax and plan your next adventure.

The park's proximity to Johannesburg makes it ideal for visitors who want to experience authentic African wildlife without sacrificing the convenience and amenities of staying in the city. Whether you're spending a few days or a few weeks in South Africa, this is an experience that shouldn't be missed.

Making the Most of Your Visit

To maximize your experience, consider booking your tour in advance, especially for weekend visits and special experiences like the sunset safari. Morning visits often provide the best wildlife viewing as animals are more active in cooler temperatures, while sunset tours offer dramatic lighting for photography and the excitement of watching lions being fed.

The park can be combined with other nearby attractions such as the Elephant Sanctuary in Hartbeespoort, Lesedi Cultural Village, or the many activities around Hartbeespoort Dam, making it easy to create a full day of memorable experiences.