Discover True
African Hospitality

Just two hours from Johannesburg and Pretoria, lies a slice of heaven in the heart of the bush. Shepherd’s Tree Game Lodge is a phenomenal hideaway that is tucked quietly away in its own exclusive-use zone in the South-West of the Pilanesberg Game Reserve.

Shepherd’s Tree Game Lodge brings the best of the Pilanesberg to life, with bright sunsets setting the horizon alight, as the silhouettes of the mighty Big 5 pass by in the lush green and gold grass. Shepherd’s Tree Game Lodge is ideal for romantic getaways; perfect for fine family breakaways; fully equipped for state-of-the-art conferences, and offers the ultimate in flawless, memorable weddings.

Come and experience rustic hospitality, subtly steeped in five-star opulence, with the finest finishes, exquisite architecture and flawless interior design. Share the wonder of the best views on our vast, temperate continent and have a relaxed drink before you embark on a guided game drive.

Big 5 Reserve

Malaria Free

Swimming Pool

Boma

Bush Dinners

Child Friendly

Stay at
Shepherd’s Tree

Shepherds Tree Game Lodge brings you the best Pilanesberg accommodation and experiences that are nothing less than breath-taking.

Discover a true African phenomenon and leave warmed by a welcome you will never forget.

Pilanesberg:
Where Adventure Meets Serenity

Pilanesberg Game Reserve is a remarkable wildlife sanctuary nestled in the Northwest Province of South Africa. Spanning over 55,000 hectares, this expansive reserve is a testament to the country’s commitment to conservation and biodiversity. It boasts a diverse landscape comprising rolling hills, vast plains, and ancient volcanic formations, creating a stunning backdrop for its thriving animal population. Home to the iconic “Big Five” (lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino, and leopard), Pilanesberg offers visitors an incredible opportunity to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

The reserve’s abundant wildlife includes a wide array of other species, such as giraffes, zebras, hippos, and various antelope species. With its well-maintained road network, well-equipped lodges, and knowledgeable guides, Pilanesberg ensures an unforgettable safari experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty and wonders of the African wilderness.

What to do at Shepherd’s Tree

The Lodge provides a number of fun filled leisure activities for couples, families and groups.

Our Awards and Recognitions

These awards would not have been possible without the unwavering support and appreciation from our esteemed guests. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you.

What Our Guests Say

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Explorer24435200698 profile picture
Explorer24435200698
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Best place ever Everything was amazing- the staff- the food- the - the location - the animals - the room - all perfect
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Rachel S profile picture
Rachel S
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The best experience! Such an incredible experience, all the staff were so welcoming & attentive. They looked after us so well. The room, food & game drives were just amazing. Our ranger was Melo, we couldn’t recommend him enough, we had so much fun with him.
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Jennifer S profile picture
Jennifer S
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5 STARS A truly special experience. Highly recommend this lodge in the park. Large private rooms with wonderful outdoor showers. Excellent meals. Kind and friendly staff.
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Romien R profile picture
Romien R
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Relax, eat, safari, repeat. Lovely service and friendly staff. Fantastic place to relax and unwind. We will definitely be back.
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w0nderw0man42 profile picture
w0nderw0man42
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Thank you Doreen for making our dreams come true Left here in tears because I wanted to stay longer. Food was outstanding and plenty of it, room was beautiful, Spa is superb, Staff were the best team I've ever experienced. My mum and I could not find one fault with the place. I want to especially mention Doreen who was our Safari guide, we spent most of our days with Doreen out in the bush. She was a superb driver and taught me so much. Doreen was also very respectful of the animals giving them space and not harassing them like some of the other resort rangers. Doreen is all about giving you the best Safari experience ever. Again thank you Doreen for making a long time dream come true.
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DruidPiper profile picture
DruidPiper
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Trip of a lifetime.- South Africa and The Shepherd's Tree Game Lodge. This was a vacation of a lifetime. The food, staff, location, and game drives are outstanding. I have traveled in Europe for ski vacations and the staff at Shepherd's tree were the most friendly and professional who I have ever encountered. I absolutely cannot say enough about Shepherd's Tree. They utilize smaller safari type vehicles, that may accommodate 9-10 people, whereas the larger game lodges use very large vehicles, which I referred to as "cattle trucks," that appeared to hold about 20 people. Smaller and more intimate is the way to go. I hate to say it, but not having children at the lodge was a plus. The only negative comment i have would be that the pool water could have been a bit warmer. If you want to go on an African safari, go to South Africa and The Shepherd's Tree Game Lodge. You will not be disappointed.
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Miracle1927 profile picture
Miracle1927
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
The heart of the bush My husband and I spend 3 nights at shepherds tree. Amazing, friendly staff who pay attention to details. Room was spacious and clean. Food was very tasty and a good variety.
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Jean C profile picture
Jean C
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Wonderful stay and Dane Drive experience The room we had was absolutely perfect! It was very clean and beautifully decorated. We did the 1 night and 2 game drives. Our guide Helen was extremely knowledgeable and did all she could to help us see as many of the Big Five as possible. Last but not least is the food. The food was absolutely amazing and we were provided with the service to match. Would highly recommend and would stay here again.
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Charlie M profile picture
Charlie M
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I have traveled the world and this is now my favorite place on Earth! I will be back! What an amazing experience!! I ended up walking 11 miles through the bush with an amazing guide named Andre. AND THE ENTIRE STAFF HERE IS AMAZING! I don’t want to leave.
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Suki V profile picture
Suki V
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
A real bush experience - loved every minute Would thoroughly recommend a stay at ST. at least once in a lifetime. Against a mountain with secure game fences with beautiful views & a small waterhole that has day/night visitors. This secluded lodge tucked into Pilanesberg has all the amenities including a shop. Staff on duty at the lodge 24/7. Friendly staff greet you at the gate, drummed arrival at reception by Jafta, smiling staff in reception, fast check in & a welcome drink. In the back ground staff empty your car, buggy your stuff to your suite & you get a tour. We made it in time for a quick visit to our family suite & then out on a game drive. (2 a day). A true bush stay with pretty gardens, birds and butterflies, chairs to sit on your deck & breathe it all in. Plenty of food with pre game drive snacks, breakfast, morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner. One dinner was in the Boma with a Marimba band playing I would like to mention the staff as they are the backbone of the lodge. From gate staff to reception to buggy drivers to restaurant staff to cleaning staff( who turn your bed down at night & leave chocolates) to game guides & more. Always full of smiles & ready to help with any questions or requests. Happy to help they made our stay smooth. I would like to mention our game guide Sipho was with us for the duration of our stay. He showed us the Shepherds tree and how to clap for what we wanted to see & we did. 4.5 of the Big 5 as the buffalo were tiny specks on the top of a hill. A safe driver full of facts &stories, who took an interest in all passengers. I am disabled & he handled this well. Stops for morning & afternoon tea, he laid out a great speed. Sipho is an excellent game guide. Well done Sipho, you made us very happy. We often passed a game guide called Susan, who greeted us with a smile & wave, whether on the drives or at the lodge. Peter saw to us in the restaurant & I would like to mention him for great service. There is a bit of everything for everyone at ST and staff make it so enjoyable. A great asset to the lodge. We had a wonderful busy stay & will return one day. I sit back in the UK with wonderful memories. Thank you all.