The creation of the Reserve is considered one of the most ambitious programmes of its kind to be undertaken anywhere in the world. The crater of a long extinct volcano is the setting of Pilanesberg National Park - a fascinating alkaline complex produced by volcanic eruptions some 1300 million years ago. Pilanesberg is one of the largest volcanic complexes of its kind in the world. Its rare rock types and structure make it a unique geological feature. The area is fringed by three concentric ridges or rings of hills - the formation rises from the surrounding plains like a bubble. The structure of the park is termed the "Pilanesberg National Park Alkaline Ring Complex". Ancient, even by geological time scales, this extinct volcano is the most perfect example of an alkaline ring complex. A number of rare (but not necessarily economically important) minerals occur in the park. Pilanesberg National Park rates high amongst the world's outstanding geological phenomena...

This large game reserve is close to Gauteng and has a wide variety of bushveld, woodland and water birds. Besides the big game (Hippo, Rhino & Buffalo) over 300 bird species have been recorded. The main picnic area near the Dam Wall is a good spot for a waxbills, pipits and woodpeckers. In and around the picinic site and adjacent hills look for Short-toed Rock Thrush (winter), Familar Chat and Groundscaper Thrush.

Each chalet at Mountain Sanctuary Park sleeps 4 people comfortably. Bedding is not supplied but can be arranged with the office at an additional fee. All the chalets are self catering and come fully equipped. All chalets have their own heaters for those who feel the cold easily (two have fire-places as well) . The log cabins, which are the latest addition to the reserve, are raised on stilts to afford a breathtaking view of the valley and the lower reserve. These cabins sleep eight people comfortably and are fully equipped with everything that you could want and need, including fire-places. The only thing you might want to bring with you is your companion.