A magnificent wildlife sanctuary lies not too far from the bustle of Johannesburg and Pretoria - located close enough to drive comfortably in under two hours. The malaria-free Pilanesberg National Park ranks among the largest national parks in southern Africa. It is situated on the eroded remains of an extinct alkaline volcanic crater - one of only three such extensive craters in the world. The Pilanesberg countryside comprises numerous hills and broad open plains and is well stocked with game, which includes the Big Five - and over 360 bird species.