Lion Park | Johannesburg

Lion & Safari Park – A Premier Wildlife Experience in Johannesburg

The Lion & Safari Park is one of the most popular wildlife attractions near Johannesburg, offering visitors a chance to see lions, cheetahs, wild dogs, giraffes, zebras, and other African wildlife up close. Located just an hour’s drive from Johannesburg and Pretoria, the park provides an immersive safari experience without requiring a long journey to national parks like Kruger National Park.

1. Overview of Lion & Safari Park

Location: Situated in Broederstroom, North West Province, near the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Size: Covers around 600 hectares of natural bushveld.

Founded: Originally established as the Lion Park in 1966, it was later expanded and rebranded as the Lion & Safari Park to include a wider variety of animals and safari experiences.

Type of Experience: A mix of self-drive safaris, guided game drives, animal interactions, and walking experiences.

2. Wildlife at the Park

The Lion & Safari Park is home to a diverse range of animals, including:

Big Cats

Lions – The park is famous for its large pride of lions, including rare white lions.

Cheetahs – Visitors can see these fast and agile predators in specially designated enclosures.

Leopards – Although more elusive, leopards are also part of the park’s attractions.

Caracals – Smaller, yet powerful wild cats known for their distinctive tufted ears.

Other Wildlife

African Wild Dogs – A critically endangered species with unique spotted coats.

Hyenas – Often misunderstood scavengers, known for their strong bite and social behavior.

Giraffes – Visitors can feed and interact with these gentle giants.

Zebras, Wildebeests, and Antelopes – Several species roam the park, including impalas, kudus, and springboks.

3. Safari and Activities

Visitors to the Lion & Safari Park can choose from a variety of safari experiences and activities:

A. Self-Drive Safari

Visitors can drive their own vehicles through the park’s predator enclosures and open plains.

The self-drive route allows guests to see lions, cheetahs, and other animals at their own pace.

The park provides a digital map for guidance.

B. Guided Safari Tours

For those who prefer a professional guide, there are several guided game drive options:

Mini Safari (1 hour) – A short but exciting drive focusing on lions, cheetahs, and hyenas.

1.5-Hour Safari – Covers a broader range of wildlife, including antelopes, wild dogs, and zebras.

3-Hour Safari – A more immersive experience with stops for photography and animal observation.

C. Predator Feeding Tour

Visitors can watch lions and wild dogs being fed.

Rangers provide insights into the animals’ hunting behavior and conservation efforts.

D. Walking Experiences and Animal Interactions

Giraffe Feeding – Visitors can hand-feed giraffes at designated platforms.

Cheetah Walk – A guided walk with cheetahs, providing a close encounter with these magnificent cats.

Hyena Interaction – A unique chance to safely interact with one of Africa’s top predators.

E. Night Safari

Conducted in the evening for those interested in nocturnal wildlife activity.

Lions and hyenas are more active at night, creating a completely different safari experience.

4. Facilities and Attractions

A. Restaurants and Food Options

The Wetlands Restaurant – A popular on-site restaurant offering South African cuisine and spectacular views of the park.

Picnic Areas – Visitors can bring their own food and enjoy a meal in designated picnic spots.

B. Shopping and Souvenirs

The park has an extensive curio shop selling African crafts, souvenirs, and wildlife-themed clothing.

C. Kid-Friendly Activities

The park offers safe, family-friendly attractions, including a children’s play area.

5. Conservation and Ethical Concerns

The Lion & Safari Park supports wildlife conservation efforts and aims to educate visitors about the importance of protecting African predators.

Unlike older lion parks, the new facility no longer promotes cub petting, which is considered harmful to conservation efforts.

The park is actively involved in anti-poaching initiatives and works with organizations to protect endangered species.

6. How to Get There

Distance: About 45 minutes from Johannesburg and 30 minutes from Pretoria.

Transport Options:

Self-drive (most common).

Shuttle services from major hotels in Johannesburg and Sandton.

Tour operators offer full-day packages combining the park with other attractions like the Cradle of Humankind.

7. Best Time to Visit

Morning Safaris (8 AM – 11 AM): Animals are more active and visible.

Evening Safaris (5 PM – 8 PM): A great time to see lions during their peak activity hours.

Summer (October – March): Lush landscapes and warm weather.

Winter (May – August): Animals are easier to spot due to the dry season and less vegetation.

8. Ticket Prices and Booking

Entrance fees vary depending on the safari package selected.

Discounted rates are often available for families, groups, and online bookings.

Bookings can be made via the park’s official website or through local tour operators.

9. Nearby Attractions

If you're visiting the Lion & Safari Park, consider exploring nearby sites:

Cradle of Humankind – A UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing early human fossils.

Hartbeespoort Dam – A scenic area with boat rides, markets, and adventure sports.

Magaliesberg Mountains – Great for hiking and outdoor activities.

10. Conclusion

The Lion & Safari Park is a must-visit attraction for anyone in Johannesburg looking for a wildlife experience close to the city. Whether you're interested in safaris, animal interactions, or conservation education, the park offers a safe, ethical, and exciting way to encounter Africa’s iconic wildlife. It is an excellent destination for families, couples, photographers, and nature lovers alike.