Just over 2 hours away from Johannesburg is the luxurious resort and casino known as Sun City, which is situated in South Africa’s North West Province.
The activities range from surfing and sunbathing to adrenaline-pumping days on quads and waterslides, relaxing game drives, sipping cocktails by the pool, lengthy walks through exotic forests, a round of golf, trying your luck at the roulette table, and partying late into the night. At Sun City, there is something for everyone.
For you to enjoy the resort more, we have compiled some of the best things to do in Sun City.
1. Enjoy yourself at the Valley of Waves
The Valley of the Waves is open to anyone staying overnight at any of the hotels of the Sun City Resort. The Valley of Waves can be described as the most cutting-edge water park in South Africa.
The scene is dominated by a sizable lagoon and a wave generator that can produce waves of 1.8 metres high.
There are five thrilling flume rides in this water park. Swimmers plunge a heart-stopping 17 metres from the appropriately named Temple of Courage down a chute and beneath a bridge before splashing into a pool at the bottom of the slide.
Times: Monday – Sunday, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Cost: Monday – Friday, Adults: R395 per person and Children (3 – 12 years old): R290 per person
Contact: 014 557 3444
2. Take a tour of the Pilanesberg Game Reserve
Pilanesberg National Park, or Pilanesberg Game Reserve, is located in the Bojanala Region, within the North West Province and near Johannesburg. With an area of 550km², it is the fourth largest park in South Africa. In 1979, it became a game reserve after being used as farmland.
Operation Genesis involved the translocation of nearly 6,000 animals. Today, it is a thriving Big Five reserve with over 300 species of birds and 61 species of mammals, including rare ones like the black rhino, sable antelope, and brown hyena.
A few fantastic lodges are inside the park, and Sun City is near the National Park.
Times: Monday – Sunday (March – April), 6:00 am – 6:30 pm; Monday – Sunday (May – September), 6:30 am – 6:00 pm; Monday – Sunday (September – October), 6:00 am – 6:30 pm; Monday – Friday (November – February), 5:30 am – 7:00 pm
Cost: R80 (adults) R110 (For Non-SA Residents) ; R30 (children 0 – 12 years), R40 (senior citizens)
Contact: 014 555 1600
Address: Pilanesberg National Park
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3. Go hot air ballooning over Pilanesberg
Unquestionably, the best way to see the park and its wildlife is from a hot air balloon.
This excursion lasts around 4 hours and starts with an early-morning pick-up from your accommodation, followed by a guided drive to the launch location in the Pilanesberg National Park. After that, you’ll drift peacefully for about an hour above the park.
Upon arrival, sparkling wine is offered as a welcome, followed by a game drive to a private lodge for a full English breakfast. A first flight certificate will be presented to you during breakfast for this memorable experience.
Duration: 1 hour flight, +/- 5 hours in total
Cost: R5000 per person (1 hour flight)
Contact: 014 555 1600
Address: Pilanesberg National Park
4. Feed crocodiles at Kwena Gardens at Sun City
The Kwena crocodile farm is a sizable crocodile sanctuary and a beautiful park. Arnold, one of the most giant captive Nile crocodiles in the world, proudly resides there as well.
Times: Monday – Sunday, 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Cost: R190
Contact: 014 557 5300
5. Try your luck at Sun City Casino
The Sun City Hotel’s on-site casino is open every day of the year. The tables are available for play starting at 13:00 on weekdays and 11:00 on weekends until they close in the wee hours of the following morning. In the casino, business casual attire is preferred.
American roulette, blackjack, stud poker, and punto banco are all fun games to try your luck at.
The concepts behind these games are straightforward and, once grasped, open up new dimensions of excitement and entertainment.
Times: Monday – Sunday, 4:00 am – 12:00 pm
Contact: 014 557 1000
6. Take a dip at the Royal Baths
The Royal Bath is a great place to relax and have a break.
With first-class service on demand, you get the palace experience all the way through to the comfortable pool loungers & warm fluffy towels.
Not to mention the massages on offer whilst your order gets prepared in the kitchen/bar beside the pool.
Times: Monday – Sunday (September – April), 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
Contact: 014 557 1000
7. Go on a Segway tour around Sun City
Have you ever ridden a Segway? Now is your chance to learn how to transfer your weight so your transporter moves smoothly in your desired direction. Go to Sun City and sign up for a session.
Drive around one of the 3 guided tours in Sun City. Discover the stunning Sun City Resort in a unique and exhilarating way with our Segway Tours.
The Multi-Terrain Tour lets you ride the Segway, equipped with higher ground clearance and rugged wheels, offering a thrilling adventure through the Gary Player and Lost City golf courses. Be prepared for a journey that few have the privilege to experience.
For a more serene option, the Lake Glide Tour takes you through the pristine Gary Player golf course, boasting smooth pathways and awe-inspiring views.
Lastly, the Crocodile Pit Tour offers an exclusive perspective of Sun City Resort.
You will pass through the golf course and float along the Pilanesberg National Park’s edge here, where you might be fortunate enough to spot one or more of the big 5.
Times: Monday – Sunday, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Cost: Multi Terrain Tour (R680), Lake Glide Tour (R420), Crocodile Pit Tour (R475)
Contact: 014 557 4052
8. Visit the Lesedi Village
Within the Cradle of Humankind, a World Heritage Site, in the middle of the African bushveld and between rocky hills, is the Lesedi Cultural Village.
Visit five traditional homesteads where members of the Zulu, Xhosa, Pedi, Basotho, and Ndebele tribes live per their customs. Learn about the exciting cultures and traditions of the people of Africa.
This venue’s unique outdoor atmosphere is complemented by an authentic African ‘braai’ menu, as well as a stocked bar, to ensure any function is a great success.
Times: Monday – Sunday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Cost: R2100 per person
Contact: 071 507 1447
Address: R512, Lanseria
9. Predator World
Guided tours are the perfect way to see those elusive predators you only sometimes have the privilege to spot in the wild. At Predator World, you get a wide variety of packages that you can choose from.
This includes game drives & picnics where you can see the best of African wildlife, and you can get an exclusive view of the cheetah outreach that is available to those daredevils out there who care to get up close and personal with these majestic animals as well as a guided night tour if you want to experience something special.
The tour starts as dusk settles and continues through the zoo as darkness falls. Armed only with your guide and a spotlight, this is a real adrenaline rush.
Times: Monday – Saturday, 8:15 am – 4:30 pm; Sunday, 9:00 am – 1:00 pm
Contact: 014 552 6900
Address: R556 South Village, Sun City
10. Motseng Cultural Village
The Motseng Cultural Village is located in the Sun City Resort, a walking distance of the hotels.
The 8 major tribes of South Africa are the focus of this authentic visual experience of African civilizations and customs, which includes reflections of their respective cultures, traditions, architecture, attire, and regalia.
Motseng helps to preserve the things that make us African and proud, and it provides an opportunity for Africans to show the rest of the world how proud and passionate they are about their culture.
Times: By arrangement
Contact: 018 397 1500
11. Pilanesberg hikes
The Pilanesberg National Park is well positioned in one of the most environmentally diverse regions, sandwiched between the Kalahari and the Lowveld. As a result, it exhibits a stunning array of plants and animals inside its boundaries, including some of Africa’s fiercest carnivores.
It’s a great experience to walk through this amazing place. Smell the fresh bush air, feel the warmth of the African sun on your face, and listen to the sounds of the animals and birds as they relax, eat, and tend to their young in their natural home.
Visitors are escorted on guided hikes through this natural wonderland by skilled, seasoned guides familiar with the local flora and fauna. The pathways are clearly defined and were made to let visitors view the wildlife from a secure distance and be friendly to the animals.
Distance: 7 – 8 km
Time: 4-hour hike
Cost: R990 per person
Contact: 014 555 1600
12. Play a round at the Lost City Golf Course
Take advantage of this renowned Golf course that South African golfer Gary Player designed.
The Palace of the Lost City is only a short distance from this magnificent par-72 cart course, which features a cutting-edge clubhouse.
It includes amenities like a driving range and a fully stocked golf pro shop, and the 13th hole has a water hazard with 20 real Nile crocodiles.
Times: Monday – Sunday (Tee-off Times between September – April), 8:00 am – 12:00 pm; Monday – Sunday (Tee-off Times between May – August), 8:00 am – 12:30 pm.
Cost: Prices start from R300 for both children and adults.
Contact: 014 557 1245
13. Drumming lessons at Sun City
In a quiet, creative setting, discover the tricks to playing the Djembe Drum and take in the engaging rhythm of Africa.
In the traditional African approach, feel the benefits of this experience when you relieve tension, boost your mood, improve clarity and attention, and foster cooperation.
Contact: 014 552 5020
Place: Gametrackers BOP (Pty) Ltd, Welcome Centre, Sun City
Things to do at Sun City with the kids
There are so many fun things to do in Sun City! You’ll be able to keep your kids delighted with various adventurous activities.
There’s no shortage when it comes time for your child’s next vacation.
14. Breakout Games at Sun City
The exciting new Breakout game at Sun City is the perfect family-friendly activity.
Put your thinking cap on and unleash your inner Sherlock Holmes with this fun mystery-solving activity.
It’s ideal for family outings, birthday celebrations, and other events and is age-appropriate. While 2-person teams may get the job done, four or more people are needed for the whole experience.
15. With Jump Park, soar to new heights.
Jump Park is a fun outdoor trampoline activity at Sun City’s Vacation Club. All vacation club members and hotel guests can use this latest addition.
Reservations are required; however, once made, you may have a great day leaping and scaling new heights.
16. Magic Company
Look no further than The Magic Company if your family is driven and motivated by gaming fun.
This exhilarating entertainment facility is located in Sun Central and offers a variety of activities for everyone to enjoy. You can even try your hand at 10-pin bowling!
17. Head to the Movies
Your one-stop shop for all of your viewing entertainment is Sun Movies. Because, let’s face it, without some good ol’ movie time, no relaxing vacation or holiday excursion is complete.
All you need to do is book your tickets, gather your snacks, and sit in for some quality movie time in one of their 2 comfortable theatres showing the latest Hollywood blockbusters.
18. Kamp Kwena Camp
Kamp Kwena is the best option for parents who want to give their children a chance to experience what camping should be like.
Here, kids can participate in various activities, be under supervised childcare, and, most importantly, engage in educational programs.
Kamp Kwena, which is situated at the Resort’s Cabanas, provides both indoor and outdoor activities. Children aged 1 to 12 are welcome at Kamp Kwena; adults must accompany those under 4.
19. Mini Golf
A fantastic 18-hole mini golf course is available within Sun City’s Waterworld. While there, please take advantage of the equally exciting Waterworld itself.
20. Enjoy mini quad biking
Sun City also offers fun small quad biking activities for adventurous families. Kids ages 8 to 12 can try their driving prowess on the exciting mini quad riding track.
21. Ride the Stimela Train
The Stimela Train in Sun City is the perfect option for an enjoyable pastime. Join the train with the kids and let them have an unforgettable railroad experience.
The train ride around Waterworld Lake is undoubtedly the ideal family adventure.
22. Vortex Virtual Lounge
The Vortex Virtual Lounge offers an engaging and dynamic option for older children and teenagers who are more tech-savvy.
Here, you can play the newest 4D games while immersing yourself in an augmented reality and entertainment environment.
23. Find yourself through The Maze
The Maze of the Lost City, which recreates an ancient world of discovery, is the most giant permanent maze in the Southern Hemisphere and a lot of fun for the family.
The Maze might be the best activity at Sun City so far, with stunning views of the resort and a guarantee of genuine adventure.
Places to eat out at Sun City
Whatever grabs your culinary fancy, you’ll find a restaurant at Sun City dishing it up.
From upscale dining to family-friendly eateries, fast-food joints, and themed cocktail bars, there is something for everyone.
In Sun City, you seldom go hungry. Sun Central’s food court provides budget-friendly options. If you stay in one of the hotels as a paying guest, you can choose from more exotic options.
24. Cabanas Pool Bar at Sun City
This is a favourite spot for hotel residents. It is open daily and offers delectable light meals and mouthwatering cocktails to visitors relaxing by the beautiful pool.
Opening times: Monday – Sunday, 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
Contact: 014 557 1580
Address: Sun City Resort, R556, Sun City
25. Crystal Court
Experience world-class cuisine in a refined ambience with stunning vistas at Sun City’s prestigious Crystal Court restaurant.
This dining establishment offers more than just a quick meal; indulge in a lavish breakfast spread or savour an opulent dinner featuring a diverse selection of international dishes.
It’s important to note that access to Crystal Court is reserved exclusively for guests of The Palace of the Lost City hotel, adding an extra layer of exclusivity to this extraordinary culinary destination.
Opening times: Monday – Sunday (Breakfast times, 6:30 am – 11:00 am); Friday – Saturday (Dinner times, 6:30 pm – 10:00 pm)
Contact: 014 557 4307
26. Luma Bar & Lounge at Cascades Hotel
Nestled on the terrace of the hotel’s main floor, the Luma Bar and Lounge offers a delightful culinary experience.
With a menu featuring delectable burgers, quality coffee, and attentive service, it caters to those seeking a casual dining option. This establishment is an ideal setting for patrons to savour light snacks and cocktails in a serene ambience.
As the sun dips below the rolling hills, guests can unwind with whiskey or a crafted cocktail, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and indulgence.
Opening times: Monday – Sunday, 6:00 am – 11:00 pm
Contact: 014 557 5150
Address: R556, Sun City
27. Sun Terrace
Sun Terrace at Sun City provides a scenic dining experience with a stunning view, offering guests a delightful continental breakfast buffet.
As day turns into night, Sun Terrace transforms into the Calabash restaurant, presenting patrons with the opportunity to savour an African-themed buffet dinner. Situated within the Sun City Hotel, this restaurant also caters to the public for breakfast and lunch, along with conference dinners.
With a seating capacity of up to 600 individuals under cover, the Sun Terrace Restaurant is versatile, serving banquet and buffet-style meals for its guests.
Opening times: Monday – Sunday, 6:00 am – 10:00 pm
Contact: 014 557 1211
28. Treasure Island Snack Bar
The Treasure Island Snack Bar is ideal for any guest on the go. Come for a quick snack, light lunch, or a cool ice cream or shake. Right on a small lake, Treasure Island Snack Bar offers stunning views.
Opening times: Monday – Sunday, 9:30 am – 5:30 pm
Contact: 080 023 7422
29. The Shebeen
Dine and drink the South African way in a Shebeen-styled restaurant that offers shish’nyama and other local delicacies.
This establishment offers an authentic African feel and is an excellent place for guests to enjoy something different and unique.
Opening times: Monday – Friday, 2:00 pm – 11:00 pm; Saturday – Sunday, 12:00 pm – 2:00 am
Contact: 014 557 1830
30. Legends Restaurant
Legends Restaurant in Sun City offers patrons a modern-chic setting with a touch of Mediterranean influence, providing an exquisite fine dining experience.
This establishment pays homage to a visionary entrepreneur and the numerous famous stars, personalities, guests, and icons who have visited Sun City over the past 36 years. The restaurant specialises in trendy grill house-style cuisine and boasts a diverse drinks menu to cater to various tastes.
As you dine here, you can take a nostalgic journey through the history and glamour that made Sun City world-famous, embracing an era of razzle and dazzle.
Opening times: Monday – Sunday, 6:00 pm – 10:30 pm
Contact: 014 557 3151
Address: Resort R556 Norleng Sun City
Frequently Asked Questions about Sun City
What is the best time to visit Sun City?
October to March. Despite being in a subtropical zone with below-average rainfall, the North West Province of South Africa is a summer rainfall region. When it rains, it typically does so briefly and is welcomed as a relief from the heat.
Why was Sun City created?
It was established in 1979 when gambling was outlawed in South Africa due to the firm control of the then-current government. The initial hotel and entertainment complex was built around a sizable casino, and the idea was dubbed a “rebel development” at the time.
What is Sun City famous for?
The Miss South Africa and Miss South Africa Teen Pageants were held in the Sun City resort, among other concerts and activities. Each year, these pageants are held at the Valley of Waves and the Super Bowl Arena in Sun City. In addition, It also hosted the Miss World pageant 5 times, from 1992 to 1995 and in 2001.
Is Sun City safe to visit
Sun City is a five-star restore with private security on call in and around the premises. There are many things to do in Sun City, but regarding safety in South Africa, it doesn’t matter which place you visit. It is advisable to be vigilant in your surroundings.
