Ivory Tree Lodge

Sun City, North West Province

Star rating

The hotel

This lodge is unique for so many reasons that you’ll begin to forget which one you like the best. For starters, it’s located within one of the world’s largest extinct volcanic complexes and is surrounded by numerous African native animals including: springbok, cheetah, rhino, elephant and lion. The Ivory Tree Lodge has also been upgraded to fully represent contemporary luxury without detracting from the natural environment. A large swimming pool and guest areas are designed to provide relaxation and relief for groups and individuals. Meal times can be enjoyed inside or outside and you’ll be amazed at the fine dining options. Two lounge areas and two bars, one of which serves cocktails, provide the perfect evening location from where to reflect on your day’s adventures in the bush. If you’re looking for further activities, other than a ‘Big Five’ safari, then why not try getting involved with something cultural including interactive drumming sessions.

Amenities

  • Safari
  • Bar
  • Spa
  • Swimming Pool

Where is it

Pilanesberg National Park is located in North West Province, South Africa, to the west of Pretoria and on the outskirts of Sun City. The lodge is set within a gigantic extinct volcanic crater within the Pilanesburg Game Reserve. Transfer time from Johannesburg Airport: approximately 3 hours.

Hotel information

67 rooms and suites boasting indoor and outdoor comfort with earthy colour tones that complement the natural surroundings. All with air conditioning, safe, tea/coffee-making facilities, mini fridge, covered patio, toiletries, hair dryer, en-suite bathroom and outside shower. 

Standard Suites are decorated with African décor and have either 1 king-size bed or twin beds, sleeping maximum 2 adults and 1 child.

Full Board includes: all meals, coffees, snacks, 2 game drives per day and entrance fees.

Luxury Suites feature 1 king-size four poster bed, separate lounge with fireplace and flat screen TV, an an outdoor seating area with a private plunge pool, sleeping maximum 2 adults.

Family Suites consisting of a main suite with 1 king-size bed, second bedroom with twin beds, an outdoor shower and indoor bath, and a separate family lounge with TV and fireplace that opens up onto an outdoor area with a private plunge pool, sleeping maximum 2 adults and 2 children (under 12 years).

Executive Suites offer additional amenities such as a Nespresso machine and flat screen TV, as well as 1 king-size bed and private patio with plunge pool, sleeping maximum 2 adults.

On-site dining facilities serve breakfast, lunch and dinner. Bar. Boma and bush dinners are available*. Swimming pool. Amani Spa*. Reception and curio shop. 2 guided game drives daily. Archery* and Air gun shooting*. Quad biking*. Interactive drumming sessions.

* Denotes local charge.

Please note: mandatory conservation levy of R115 per guest per stay applies, payable locally.

Rating summary

  • Location Image of the Tripadvisor rating
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Traveller rating

  • Excellent (1138)
  • Very good (313)
  • Average (99)
  • Poor (25)
  • Terrible (30)
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Best Bucket List Experience EVER!

Aug 6, 2025 Deborah C

This place will exceed any expectations you may have of a Safari. My top tip - do NOT book one night as it won't be enough!
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Excellent experience

Aug 6, 2025 Shari P

Me and my family enjoyed 3 wonderful days at the Ivory Tree Game Lodge. Everything was fantastic from our arrival to our departure. The service and hospital were 5 star. The food was beautifully presented, plentiful, and delicious. The Boma dinner was an unexpected treat. Our game drives were a joy and the highlight of our experience. Our game… Read more
Me and my family enjoyed 3 wonderful days at the Ivory Tree Game Lodge. Everything was fantastic from our arrival to our departure. The service and hospital were 5 star. The food was beautifully presented, plentiful, and delicious. The Boma dinner was an unexpected treat. Our game drives were a joy and the highlight of our experience. Our game driver, Lee, went above and beyond to make our time in Pilanesburg magical! Lee quickly honed in our interests; he loaned my daughter his personal encyclopedia on birds. She spent all her waking hours studying that book. Lee seemed to know where to go to avoid the crowds, but still provide us with wonderful opportunities to see fantastic wildlife and to be surrounded by a herd of elephants. We all left feeling like we had a new friend in Lee and felt very pampered by the wonderful amenities at Ivory Tree. I would return here again and again if I could. Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Amazing experience, unbelievably friendly staff

Jul 29, 2025 Iztok K

Simply an incredible experience from start to finish. Friendly staff, superb food and amazing safari drives. You will appreciate small jeeps (10 people max but more likely 8 or 6), diverse drives, blankets and even thermos provided for cold mornings. There are some activities offered between the drives, but time flies so relaxing was simply the… Read more
Simply an incredible experience from start to finish. Friendly staff, superb food and amazing safari drives. You will appreciate small jeeps (10 people max but more likely 8 or 6), diverse drives, blankets and even thermos provided for cold mornings. There are some activities offered between the drives, but time flies so relaxing was simply the best option. Read less
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Jul 21, 2025 Wolves147 Wolverhampton, United Kingdom

We stopped at this fantastic Lodge recently on a 3 night break , it has been on our bucket list . What can i say the friendliness and professionalism stand out the moment you arrive especially after a 3 hr taxi from Johannesburg airport. The staff go out of there way to make sure your stay is memorable . The food served is like fine dining always… Read more
We stopped at this fantastic Lodge recently on a 3 night break , it has been on our bucket list . What can i say the friendliness and professionalism stand out the moment you arrive especially after a 3 hr taxi from Johannesburg airport. The staff go out of there way to make sure your stay is memorable . The food served is like fine dining always served with a smile , the room was excellent with the biggest bed we have ever slept in , the room is large with plenty of space for every thing. Now what can i say about the Safaris both morning and evening , highlight of of our holiday to see the animals walk pass your game trucks in there natural habitat. These fun rides could not have happened without our named Ranger Wame , she was so knowledgeable and funny she made the safari welcoming even on cold mornings . Tip take woolly hat and gloves with you . We have already recommended Ivory tree to our family and friends .We would have given it 6 stars if we could . Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Beautiful stay

Jul 16, 2025 James B Lucan, Ireland

I couldn't recommend Ivory Tree Game Lodge enough. Everything was perfect from arrival to departure. Jaftha was our game ranger and was so knowledgeable and helpful. All staff were so friendly. Food was excellent with great vegetarian options including at the boma night. My husband isn't very mobile but they were so helpful in getting him… Read more
I couldn't recommend Ivory Tree Game Lodge enough. Everything was perfect from arrival to departure. Jaftha was our game ranger and was so knowledgeable and helpful. All staff were so friendly. Food was excellent with great vegetarian options including at the boma night. My husband isn't very mobile but they were so helpful in getting him to the lodge without any issues. Would recommend a stay without hesitation and will be back. Read less