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In the North West province of South Africa, on the site of an extinct volcano and nestled between the Pilanesberg Mountains, lies the internationally recognized Sun City holiday resort and leisure hub.
Sun City was built in 1979 by Sol Kerzner in the then homeland of Bophuthatswana as a recreational resort for activities such as gambling and international concerts, which were banned in South Africa during the apartheid era. After apartheid ended, Bophuthatswana was reabsorbed into South Africa on 27 April 1994 and has since become a bustling tourist destination for locals and tourists from abroad alike.
Sun City has always attracted many visitors, but the addition of the Palace of the Lost City elevated the resort to even greater acclaim.
Having visited the resort myself, it has always reminded me somewhat of the Umaid Bhawan Palace and the Amber Fort in Jaipur, India—the latter used as inspiration for the fictional Pankot Palace in the famous movie Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom—but with an African touch. The opulent palace evokes a sense of grandeur with colossal columns, African sculptures, magnificent towers and domes, lush gardens, and unique pools fit for a mythical African king.
The Palace Hotel spares no expense and offers guests a five-star luxury stay, with African styled interiors and exteriors. Adults can relax and unwind in The Royal Baths, a secluded pool area, or enjoy family-friendly activities like The Maze of the Lost City—the biggest maze in the Southern Hemisphere, designed with an archaeological site theme.
The Bridge of Time, guarded by elephant statues, ushers guests into The Valley of Waves water park via a theatrical walkway that rumbles and emits smoke every hour. The water park is considered a highlight of the resort, with its main attraction being a giant pool that generates waves in a setting reminiscent of a tropical beach in a lost jungle. The park also features various high-speed water slides, The Lazy River (a tube river ride), and much more fun under the African sun. There is also plenty of adventure to be found in the surrounding forest at the Spider Web Sway Bridge, as well as a hidden cave and waterfall.
Although The Palace of the Lost City remains a highlight, the main recreational facility, including accommodation, is much larger and offers even more activities and attractions.
Known as Sun Central, this is where most of the nighttime entertainment occurs, featuring a world-renowned casino, cinemas, restaurants, and gaming arcades. In addition, many daytime pursuits can be enjoyed, such as quad biking, zip-lining, horseback riding, and water sports at a man-made lake, including jet skiing, parasailing, tubing, and paddle boating.
Sun City is cradled in the Pilanesberg Mountains, part of the Pilanesberg Alkaline Ring Complex—a geological phenomenon created by ancient volcanic activity. The resort is built within the crater of an extinct volcano, enhancing its theme of ancient events and African fables.
Apart from the Palace Hotel, there are other levels of accommodation available to visitors, each with its own unique setting. The Cascades Hotel features luxurious rooms against the backdrop of tropical gardens and cascading waterfalls. The Cabanas provide a more budget-friendly and family-friendly option, offering a cozy stay close to the main attractions of the complex. The Soho Hotel is ideal for guests seeking direct access to nightclubs and other evening entertainment, while those looking for peace and tranquility may prefer The Bush Bungalows, nestled on the outskirts of the resort, immersed in nature and wildlife.
Sun City is a resort that never stops giving, and tourists to the area will discover a wealth of unique experiences, most notably the Pilanesberg National Park, which is just a stone’s throw away from the recreational plaza. While the 550 km² park may not be as expansive as the Kruger National Park, it is malaria-free, family-friendly, and is home to all of ‘The Big Five’—lion, buffalo, elephant, rhino, and leopard—as well as cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, and hyenas.
All the popular safari activities can be experienced at Pilanesberg National Park, such as safari game drives, walking safaris, hot air balloon safaris, and photographic hides. Birding enthusiasts will be pleased to know that the area hosts over 360 bird species.
The Pilanesberg National Park also boasts some fine lodges at various levels. For those seeking an opulent touch, Bakubung Bush Lodge, Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge, and Royal Madikwe Game Reserve are all worthy considerations. Meanwhile, Manyane Resort offers a self-catering, rustic experience that is budget-conscious. Black Rhino Game Lodge (situated on a private concession) and The Pilanesberg Tented Camp offer intimate wildlife interaction in tranquil surroundings.
Sun City is home to two world-renowned golf courses, which have been played by some of the best golfers associated with 'The Gentleman's Game.'
The unique Lost City Golf Course, set in a lush jungle dotted with palm trees and large scenic lakes, continues the dramatic African fantasy of the resort. The course offers spectacular views of The Lost Palace, interesting water hazards, and the famous Crocodile Hole, which features a lake populated by Nile Crocodiles. Interact with nature and wildlife as you enjoy a round of golf.
The Gary Player Golf Course was designed by Gary Player, one of South Africa's most famous golfers. The 18-hole, par-72 course is surrounded by the Pilanesberg Mountains, creating a breathtaking backdrop of scenic views and wildlife during your game. This Championship Course has been used for international golfing events.
While the Pilanesberg Mountains surround Sun City, the Magaliesberg Mountains—with their rugged cliffs, scenery, and outdoor activities—lie approximately 40–60 km (25–37 miles) southeast of the complex.
If you are looking for more wildlife interaction without traveling too far, a visit to Predator World is recommended. The sanctuary is on-site within the Sun City complex, and guests will be able to view and interact with cheetahs, leopards, and other predators. The Elephant Sanctuary, Bush Babies Monkey Sanctuary, Hartbeespoort Snake & Animal Park and De Wildt Cheetah and Wildlife Centre are a little further, located 98 km (61 miles) away, also offer unforgettable animal encounters.
Guided tours to cultural villages at Sun City, such as those of the Batswana communities, will add a touch of culture to your trip and immerse you in an African atmosphere with vibrant performances, local arts, and crafts.
A multitude of other attractions can be found near the Hartebeespoort Dam, with a few notable mentions including Chameleon Village—an arts and crafts market, Van Gaalen Kaasmakerij (Cheese Farm), and the Hartbeespoort Aerial Cableway, which showcases panoramic views of the Magaliesberg.
For those who are planning to explore South Africa further, Madikwe Game Reserve (130 km / 81 miles), Marakele National Park (150 km / 93 miles), and Waterberg Biosphere Reserve (200 km / 124 miles) are relatively close to Sun City and offer even richer and more diverse safari options.
