Animals in Johannesburg

Johannesburg sits far from the ocean, so the wildlife here is strictly terrestrial, and the main address is Pilanesberg, a park in the crater of an extinct volcano a couple of hours away. Two different runs go there: a nine-hour trip at 126 dollars and a longer one of twelve and a half hours at 270, with more stops and lunch included. Pilanesberg lies in the transition zone between the Kalahari and the lowveld, so the range of species there is unusually wide.

The gentler way in is the Lion and Safari Park: half a day, four hours, 83 dollars. It is the most affordable entry in the selection, usually taken by people with a single free day in the city or those travelling with children. Lions are seen at close range there, and the drive from the centre takes under an hour.

The fourth programme works differently: three hours on an e-bike around Pretoria with stops for wildlife watching, 105 dollars. The motor helps on the climbs, so no special fitness is needed. GetExperience lists 4 animal programmes in Johannesburg, from 83 to 270 dollars. Pages state the duration, the type of vehicle and what the price covers; booking is online with quick confirmation.