Houghton Estate Holidays from AU$2,444

I recently stayed at this property while visiting Pilanesberg and Sun City, and overall, it was a decent experience. The location is the standout feature—just 12-15 minutes from the Bakubung Gate of Pilanesberg National Park and the Sun City entrance. This made it very convenient for early morning game drives and exploring the nearby attractions. The property itself is definitely showing its age. While it is kept as clean as possible given its dated infrastructure, it’s clear that some updates would go a long way in enhancing the guest experience. Additionally, the hospitality service was slower than expected, which could be frustrating at times. That said, if you’re looking for a clean and budget-friendly option close to the area’s main attractions, this place does the job. Just be prepared to overlook its age and exercise a bit of patience with the service.

Staff were fantastic giraffes and a range if other african animals came to the Chalet great acrivities at affordable prices. Best value fir money we found in Africa..

Wow, where to start. For background info, my wife and lived for 3 years in Kenya and have visited numerous luxury lodges and been on various types of game drives. THIS lodge was without doubt the most impressive we have ever visited and the whole staff were incredibly friendly. The food was exceptional and especially in the evening had a dinner party vibe. We went at the end of August (their winter) but most days the weather was 28-30 degrees and we saw the big five. The park was plenty big enough to explore for 3 days and we would have loved to say longer. The price includes alcoholic drinks. We had a room with a hot tub and a great view of the water hole which had Elephants as well as numerous types of deer. It was so picturesque! The park is advertised as malaria-free but actually it is pretty much insect free. When we lived in Kenya, sitting out in the evening could be a battle involving repellent and netting. In THIS lodge you could sit out in the evening without being pestered at all, it was so relaxing. The game drives were definitely the highlight for us though. We were in a 4x4 jeep in small groups of between 4 to 8 and the driver was so knowledgeable and friendly and made them all great fun. We had toilet stops in the park. Early morning game drives involved coffee and a cake. Then in the afternoon we had a sundowner and then a night game drive each time too. Fantastic stay. We will definitely be back. This lodge is superb at every level. This was a dream holiday.

One word would do it... 'WOW'. Top 3 of the perfect places I've visited. Tranquil, elegant and the most marvelous staff available. The safari guides are knowledgeable, fun and work together to allow all guest to experience viewing the game animals once discovered on the range. Totally recommended.

We cried when we left (in a good way). The game drives provided as part of the stay were out of this world. So amazing. The perfect way to celebrate my daughter’s 21st. The management were super helpful and bent over backwards for my two kids who both have special needs. Would definitely go again but I don’t think my bank balance would cope! Once in a lifetime trip. October was the perfect month to visit. Rangers highly knowledgeable and you get allocated the same one each game drive so you can build a relationship with them. You won’t regret it if you book with Shepherds Tree x