Categories > Guides and Tips
Is Sun City, South Africa, worth visiting? Here’s what you should know!
- Time Zone
- Best Time to Go
- Things to Know
- How to Get Around
- Where to Stay in Sun City
- What to Do in Sun City
- Play golf at The Gary Player Golf Course and Country Club.
- Swim at the Valley of Waves.
- Get lost in the Maze of the Lost City.
- Explore the Pilanesberg Game Reserve.
- Ride on a hot air balloon over Pilanesberg.
- Relax at the Royal Baths.
- Visit Nile crocodiles at the Kwena Gardens.
- See the best of African wildlife at Predator World.
- Learn about African tribes at the Motseng Cultural Village.
- Visit the Lesedi Village.
- Join the Pilanesberg Hikes.
- Go on a food trip in The Shebeen.
- Fly like a bird in Sun City’s Zip 2000.
- Apps to Download for a Trip to Sun City
Sun City is a world-renowned resort, perfect for travelers seeking thrilling adventures and a relaxing experience. It’s the largest entertainment center in North West South Africa, with hotels, casinos, gardens, pools, waterfalls, and even a sky train.
In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know when visiting Sun City. Read on and take note!
Time Zone
South Africa Standard Time (SAST) (GMT+2)
Best Time to Go
If you want to travel with smaller crowds and lower prices, visit Sun City from May to October since it’s their dry winter season – you’ll be welcomed with clear skies, sunshine, and comfortable temperatures (23°C to 35°C).
On the other hand, the best time for wildlife spotting in Sun City is between May and September, as the dry weather makes it easier to see the animals.
Things to Know
Currency: South African Rand (ZAR)
(Check the current exchange rate)
Languages: English, Afrikaans, Zulu, Xhosa
Calling Code: +27
How to Get Around
Shuttle Buses: The most convenient and cost-effective way to navigate the resort is through these air-conditioned shuttle buses. They operate regularly, connecting hotels, casinos, restaurants, and other attractions within the Sun City complex, all for free!
Rental Golf Carts: They’re a fun way to get around the resort, especially if you have a lot of luggage or young children. Here’s a pro tip: purchase the Sun City Resort Card for discounts or complimentary access to golf carts.
Taxis: Uber and other local taxi companies operate in Sun City, so they’re readily available and can be hailed from the hotel reception area or by phone. They’re a good option for late-night travel or to go somewhere outside the resort.
Car Rental: Renting a car is the most convenient option to explore the surrounding area, including Pilanesberg National Park, Kruger National Park, or nearby towns like Rustenburg. Here’s a list of car rental companies in Sun City:
- Avis
- Budget
- Hertz,
- Europcar
- Tempest Car Hire
- First Car Rental Sun City
Where to Stay in Sun City
The Palace at the Lost City
Address: Sun City Resort, R556 Rustenburg, 0304, South Africa
Phone: +27 (014) 553 4000
Pricing: RRR
Book Now
The Palace is the most luxurious hotel in Sun City, boasting themed rooms like ancient ruins, exquisite gardens, cascading waterfalls, and crocodiles in the moat. It’s in the heart of the resort, so you’ll have easy access to all the main attractions.
The casino, restaurants, entertainment center, and the Valley of Waves water park are only a few steps from The Palace. You’ll also enjoy gourmet dining options, a swim-up bar, and world-class spa treatments, giving you a complete pamper day experience.
Sun City Cabanas
Address: Sun City Resort, R556, Sun City, 0316, South Africa
Phone: +27 14 557 1863
Pricing: RR
Book Now
The Sun City Cabanas is a vibrant, modern hotel with colorful interiors and contemporary furnishings. The resort caters to families with spacious family suites, a dedicated kid’s pool, and playground facilities.
The hotel sits central to the action, only within walking distance of the Valley of Waves water park, the Entertainment Center, and various restaurants and shops. It’s also a comfortable and stylish stay at a more affordable price than other hotels in the city.
Black Swan Guest House
Address: J2103, Portion115, Boshoek, 0301, South Africa
Phone: +27 (0)61 526 3957
Pricing: R
Book Now
The Black Swan Guest House offers lower rates, ideal for travelers on a tighter budget. It’s located outside the resort bustle, where children under four years old are welcome and stay for free when sharing a room, making it a good option for families.
This guesthouse provides a more local experience of authentic South African hospitality as you interact with friendly staff. It’s best to stay here to explore the Pilanesberg National Park, Rustenburg, or other attractions outside Sun City.
Amritz Private Lodge and B&B
Address: 27, Zwaarverdiend, Lindleyspoort Road, Boshoek, 0301, South Africa
Phone: +27 83 272 8808
Pricing: R
Book Now
Amritz Private Lodge offers a unique and authentic African experience with its peaceful ambiance, wildlife encounters, and homely atmosphere. You can observe grazing sheep and goats and listen to the calls of peacocks and guinea fowl.
It has two four-bedroom houses with a shared lounge and kitchen area. It’s just a 29-kilometre drive from Sun City, so you can access the resort’s attractions, entertainment, and dining options and return to this peaceful haven later.
Where to Eat in Sun City
Check out our list of the best places to eat in Sun City.
Crystal Court
Address: R556, Sun City, Rustenburg, 0316, South Africa
Phone: +27-14-557-4307
Pricing: RR
Website
Crystal Court offers an exceptional breakfast experience for travelers. They have an extensive breakfast selection, which you can enjoy with their exquisite decor adorned with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking lush gardens.
They have a diverse menu featuring dishes worldwide, prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients from European classics to Asian delights. Enjoy your meal with live music on weekends and a family-friendly vibe.
Maltos Restaurant
Address: Sun City, 0316, South Africa
Phone: +27 14 557 5600
Pricing: RR
Website
Maltos Restaurant will transport you to Greece with its blue and white Azulejo tiles, striped tablecloths, and lush greenery. Enjoy your meals on their outdoor terrace, perfect for soaking up the resort atmosphere.
Maltos Restaurant features a Mediterranean-inspired menu, from tapas and mezze platters to seafood, Greek dishes, sushi, and pizzas. They have sharing plates and jugs perfect for sharing and trying a bit of everything with friends and family.
The Grill Room
Address: Sun City Resort R556, 0316, South Africa
Phone: +27 11 780 7855
Pricing: RRR
Website
The Grill Room is the Palace of the Lost City’s signature restaurant, offering a personalized and intimate dining experience. It has an open kitchen where you can watch skilled chefs work their magic on their expertly crafted dishes.
The menu boasts an impressive selection of South African prime cuts, from a juicy sirloin, a tender fillet, or a marbled ribeye. They also have an award-winning wine list featuring local and international options, which the sommelier can help you with.
Casa Bella Sun City
Address: Shop 11, R556, Sun City Entertainment Centre Mankwe, Sun City, 2999, South Africa
Pricing: RR
Website
Casa Bella brings a taste of Italy to South Africa with its Italian-inspired menu, exposed brick walls, and cozy lighting, creating a welcoming and inviting ambiance. It’s perfect for a romantic dinner, a family gathering, or a casual meal with friends.
Pizzas are cooked in traditional wood-fired, adding a smoky flavor to dishes. You’ll also find grilled options, salads, vegetarian and vegan choices, and even gluten-free dishes.
Legends Restaurant
Address: Resort R556 Norleng Sun City, 0317, South Africa
Pricing: RR
Website
The Legends Restaurant pays homage to famous singers and sports personalities, and guests graced Sun City with their photos and memorabilia decorating the walls. It’s a trendy grill house where you’ll enjoy modern twists on steaks, seafood, and burgers.
The restaurant also offers live entertainment, craft cocktails, local South African wines, and various beers to complete the dining experience.
What to Do in Sun City
Here are all the activities you should try for an unforgettable stay in Sun City.
Walk along the Bridge of Time.
Address: R556, Sun City, 0316, South Africa
Phone:+27 (014) 557 4000
The Bridge of Time is a 100-meter-long pedestrian bridge that connects the entertainment center and the Valley of the Waves. It’s also called the “Earthquake Bridge” as its special effects simulate waves of tremors as if the earthquake broke out.
The bridge is adorned with carvings of African plants and animals, offering stunning views of the resort and its natural landscape. This is a popular spot for taking memorable photos with friends and families.
Play golf at The Gary Player Golf Course and Country Club.
Address: Sun City Resort, Sun City, 0316, South Africa
Phone:+27 (014) 557 4000
The Gary Player Country Club is ranked as one of Africa’s most prestigious golf courses. It’s an 18-hole par-72 walking course designed by Gary Player, with a 5-kilometer running trail along the course, rolling hills, water hazards and bunkers.
It has also been home to the Nedbank Golf Challenge since 1981, part of the European Tour’s Race to Dubai, which hosts some of the world’s golf legends. It’s known for its challenging layout, stunning scenery, clubhouse with a restaurant bar and pro shop.
Swim at the Valley of Waves.
Address: Sun City Resort, Sun City, 0316, South Africa
Phone:014 557 3444
The Valley of the Waves is the most important theme park in the Lost City because of the 6,500-square-metre wave pool, surrounded by palm trees, sand, grass-roofed pavilions and loungers.
It has a hydraulic wave-making system can create a 1.8-meter-high wave in 90 seconds. There are also five water slides in the water park, with the Temple of Courage spanning 70 meters long and a 17-metre pipe almost perpendicular to the ground.
Get lost in the Maze of the Lost City.
Address: Sun City Resort, Sun City, 0316, South Africa
Phone:+27 (014) 557 4000
The Maze of the Lost City is the largest permanent maze in the Southern Hemisphere. It’s built with artificial stone and wood to create the illusion of an ancient archaeological discovery and sprawls across a vast half-acre of captivating twists and turns.
It has an intricate network of pathways and ancient Mayan-inspired architecture, with towering walls, hidden chambers, and intriguing carvings. As dusk settles, the maze becomes a magical realm with flickering torches illuminating your path.
Explore the Pilanesberg Game Reserve.
Address: Bojanala Platinum District, North West Province, South Africa
Phone:014 555 1600
The Pilanesberg Game Reserve is located in the Bojanala Region and offers an unforgettable safari experience. It’s home to the Big Five – lion, elephant, rhino, leopard, and buffalo – alongside over 400 bird species and 61 species of mammals.
With an area of 550km², it’s the fourth largest park in South Africa. You can have Guided game drives in open jeeps, bush walks, hot air balloon safaris, rhino tracking, stargazing, cultural experiences, and relaxing poolside at your lodge.
Ride on a hot air balloon over Pilanesberg.
Address: Pilanesberg National Park
Phone:014 555 1600
One of the best ways to see the park and wildlife is from the top while riding on a hot air balloon. This excursion lasts around 4 hours and starts with an early-morning pick-up, followed by a guided drive to the launch location in the Pilanesberg National Park.
You’ll drift peacefully for about an hour above the park. Landings are often followed by a celebratory toast with sparkling wine and a light breakfast at a scenic venue within the reserve, where they will give you your first flight certificate.
Relax at the Royal Baths.
Address: Sun City Resort, Sun City, 0316, South Africa
Phone: 014 557 1000
The Royal Bath, nestled among lush greenery, is a great place to relax and have a break. The pool offers a refreshing escape from the hot African sun.
You can relax and soak up the sun on comfortable loungers shaded by vibrant umbrellas. As the sun goes down, sip on refreshing cocktails or indulge in a delicious meal while enjoying the serene atmosphere.
Visit Nile crocodiles at the Kwena Gardens.
Address: Sun City Resort, Sun City, 0316, South Africa
Phone:014 557 5300
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 6 PM
The Kwena Gardens is home to over 7,000 Nile crocodiles. This includes two of the biggest captive crocodiles in the world, exceeding 5 meters in length, and one of them is Arnold, one of the world’s biggest captive Nile crocodiles.
Daily educational talks and feeding demonstrations are where you can learn about crocodile biology, behavior, and conservation efforts. There are also over 300 crocodile species from across Africa.
See the best of African wildlife at Predator World.
Address: R556 South Village, Sun City
Phone:014 552 6900
Predator World offers a thrilling experience for those looking to meet some of Africa’s most iconic predators. The tour will guide you on over 20 predator species home to Africa and their biology, behavior, and conservation efforts.
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 with this thrilling and educational encounter with Africa’s predators.
Learn about African tribes at the Motseng Cultural Village.
Address: Sun City Resort, R556, Sun City, 0316, South Africa
Phone:018 397 1500
The Motseng Cultural Village is located in the Sun City Resort, which showcases the eight major tribes of South Africa. It gives a visual experience where you can explore replica huts, witness traditional crafts demonstrations, and learn about tribal customs.
The best way to understand their culture is to meet the villagers and gain firsthand insights into their way of life. Afterward, you can shop for souvenirs from handcrafted artwork, textiles, and jewelry made by local artisans.
Visit the Lesedi Village.
Address: N14, Lanseria, 0408, South Africa
Phone:071 507 1447
The Lesedi Cultural Village is within the Cradle of Humankind, a World Heritage Site. Here, you’ll visit and learn about the five traditional homesteads where members of the Zulu, Xhosa, Pedi, Basotho, and Ndebele tribes live per their customs.
There are cultural shows with dance performances and storytelling that bring African traditions to life. You can also participate in interactive activities like drumming, beadwork, or traditional games for a hands-on cultural experience.
Join the Pilanesberg Hikes.
Address: Bojanala Platinum District, North West Province, South Africa
Phone:014 555 1600
The Pilanesberg National Park is one of the most environmentally diverse regions. 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 and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Pilanesberg crater, diverse fauna, and lush vegetation. The pathways are clearly defined so visitors can view the wildlife securely.
Go on a food trip in The Shebeen.
Address: Sun City Resort, Sun City, 0316, South Africa
Phone:+27 14 557 1831
The Shebeen is an African shebeen-styled eatery with various cultural experiences, including spaza shops, African huts and authentic African art. The menu also offers kid-friendly options and occasional performances by local artists.
You can immerse yourself in the vibrant flavors of South Africa with iconic dishes like shisanyama (skewered meat), curries, braai (bbq), bunny chow (hollowed bread filled with curry), and pap (maize porridge).
Fly like a bird in Sun City’s Zip 2000.
Address: Sun City Resort, R556, Sun City, 0316, South Africa
Phone:+27 14 557 1544
The Zip 2000 is one of the world’s original, longest, highest and fastest zip slides. You can feel the wind whip through your hair as you reach up to 160 km/h (100 mph) over two kilometers of breathtaking scenery.
You’ll get panoramic vistas of the Pilanesberg crater, lush savannah, and the Magaliesberg mountains from above. Landings are followed by a toast with sparkling wine and a light breakfast at a scenic venue.
Apps to Download for a Trip to Sun City
Uber: Hailing taxis within Sun City and nearby areas
iOs | Android
Google Translate: Word translation with offline capabilities
iOs | Android
Latest Sightings: Real-time sharing of sightings in the Kruger and Pilanesberg National Park
Android
