Shepherd's Tree Game Lodge

Sun City, North West Province

Star rating

Standard Suite
2-Bedroom Villa
Family Suite
Executive Suite
Executive Suite
Boma
Two Bedroom Villa
Two Bedroom Villa
Standard Suite
2-Bedroom Villa
Family Suite
Executive Suite
Executive Suite
Boma
Two Bedroom Villa
Two Bedroom Villa

The hotel

Delivering a safari experience in a nutshell, this laid-back lodge is ideal for families, first-timers, and those wanting to add a 'Big Five' adventure to a stay in nearby Sun City. Set in the Pilanesberg Game Reserve, just a few hours from Jo'burg, you'll get all the game viewing, boma dinners, and photogenic bushveld scenery you'd hope from a safari stay, with the reserve home to the 'Big Five' and two game-drives included each day of your stay. In a malaria-free spot, Shepherd's Tree Game Lodge is the ideal initiation into the great African safari.

Amenities

  • Safari
  • Restaurant
  • Spa
  • Swimming Pool

Where is it

A 2 hour and 30 minute drive from Johannesburg, the lodge overlooks the south-western portion of the Pilanesberg Game Reserve.

Hotel information

Choice of rooms and suites. All with air-conditoning, tea/coffee-making facilities, mini-bar and safe. Standard Suites have a main bedroom with 1 king-size bed, or twin beds, an outdoor shower and also features an en-suite bathroom with a patio overlooking the Pilanesberg Game Reserve. Sleeping maximum 2 adults. 

Full Board includes: all buffet-style meals and twice daily game-drives.

Executive Suites have a main bedroom with 1 king-size bed, a double outdoor shower, and en-suite with indoor steam shower. Suites also enjoy a lounge area with sleeper sofa and a flat-screen TV that leads out onto a patio overlooking the Pilanesberg Game Reserve, with a private heated pool. Sleeping maximum 2 adults and 1 child. 

Family Suites consist or two connecting suites that open into a shared lounge with sleeper sofa and flat screen TV, sleeping maximum 6 people.

A private 2-bedroom villa is also available, each bedroom has 1 king-size bed, an en-suite bathroom, and outdoor shower. The villa offers a lounge area that leads out onto a patio with a private plunge pool. Sleeping maximum 4 adults. 

Restaurant and outdoor dining venue (boma). Casual lounge and bar area. Rim-flow swimming pool. Amani Spa*. 2 daily game-drives. Bush walks. Specialised talks about the Pilanesberg environment and the African bush. Curio shop.

* Denotes local charge.

Rating summary

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Traveller rating

  • Excellent (1015)
  • Very good (115)
  • Average (47)
  • Poor (15)
  • Terrible (19)
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Paradise in the Bush

Aug 27, 2025 Traveler-Joburg Johannesburg, South Africa

Having just come back from 4 nights, its clear why they were voted best Game Lodge in Africa 2025. The service levels are outstanding, the staff make whatever you want happen... The food is amazing with each course being picture worthy.
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Absolutely joyful and stunning.

Aug 25, 2025 Jo A

This lodge is high end but what makes it special are the team of people working in the lodge, from the general manager Prenisha to Katlego and Nombolulu, and Chef John, who deserves a Michelin star, and all those behind the scenes, the beautiful African stories that housekeeping left on our beds every evening, and all the kindness, joy and… Read more
This lodge is high end but what makes it special are the team of people working in the lodge, from the general manager Prenisha to Katlego and Nombolulu, and Chef John, who deserves a Michelin star, and all those behind the scenes, the beautiful African stories that housekeeping left on our beds every evening, and all the kindness, joy and laughter we experienced. We would especially like to say how inspirational Thabo, our Field guide was on our game drives, his expertise and ability to find lions having their breakfast was truly impressive, but even if we hadn't seen a single animal, Thabo is an incredibly special guide, and I will always be grateful to his recommendation of having Amarula in my hot chocolate, tea and coffee. Thank you to everyone, both front facing and behind the scenes for a most delightful experience. My only concern with writing this review is that the next time I try and book, I won't be able to get in because the team and the lodge itself, Shepherds Tree is so very perfect. Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Experience of a lifetime

Aug 21, 2025 davidjdarlington Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom

Our stay at Shepherds Tree Game Lodge was, without a doubt, a perfect 11/10. From the moment we arrived, we were blown away by every aspect of this incredible lodge. The accommodation is simply breathtaking. Our suite was a true sanctuary, with luxurious furnishings, a stunning view, and every comfort we could possibly need. It was the perfect… Read more
Our stay at Shepherds Tree Game Lodge was, without a doubt, a perfect 11/10. From the moment we arrived, we were blown away by every aspect of this incredible lodge. The accommodation is simply breathtaking. Our suite was a true sanctuary, with luxurious furnishings, a stunning view, and every comfort we could possibly need. It was the perfect place to relax between game drives and truly immerse ourselves in the peaceful bush environment. The food was a first-class experience in itself. Each meal was a culinary masterpiece, beautifully presented and absolutely delicious. The chefs went above and beyond to cater to our every need, and dining in such a spectacular setting made every meal feel special. However, the real highlight of our trip was our guide. Their knowledge, passion, and enthusiasm were infectious. Thanks to their expertise, we were incredibly lucky to see all of the Big Five! Beyond the sightings, we learned so much about the animals' habitats and behaviors. Our guide's ability to share this knowledge in such an engaging way made the experience so much more meaningful. We couldn't have asked for a more perfect safari. Shepherds Tree Game Lodge truly exceeded our expectations, and we are already dreaming of our next visit. If you want a safari experience that is second to none, look no further. Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Perfect Safari stay

Aug 20, 2025 Wildehouse Nottingham, United Kingdom

We had an amazing time here, from the twice daily safaris to the excellent cuisine, lodges and every helpful staff.
Image of the Tripadvisor rating AMAZING EXPERIENCE

Aug 19, 2025 906lisawood Centurion, South Africa

From our arrival to our departure we were treated like royalty. The staff were all very welcoming and helpful. The food was not only delicious but also beautifully presented with a wide variety to choose from. Our game driver was very informative and did his best to ensure we saw so many animals. The rooms were really luxurious and comfortable. … Read more
From our arrival to our departure we were treated like royalty. The staff were all very welcoming and helpful. The food was not only delicious but also beautifully presented with a wide variety to choose from. Our game driver was very informative and did his best to ensure we saw so many animals. The rooms were really luxurious and comfortable. Absolutely stunning. Read less