From Wildlife to Real Life: Pilanesberg Opens the Door

From Wildlife to Real Life: Pilanesberg Opens the Door

Pilanesberg has long captivated global travelers with its majestic wildlife and stunning bushveld landscapes. As one of South Africa’s premier safari destinations, it has drawn adventurers eager to spot the Big Five and immerse themselves in the wild. But a new chapter is unfolding—one that invites visitors to move beyond the binoculars and into the heart of the local community.

Kgosi Nyala Pilane, leader of the Bakgatla ba Kgafela, has set the tone for this transformation.

“Safaris will always be a part of what brings people here. But we are now adding to that. Visitors want to know the people. They want to understand where they are, not just what they see.”

he says

A Deeper Experience Through Culture and Heritage

This new direction in tourism is rooted in heritage, education, and connection. Two community-run museums now offer immersive experiences: one exploring the history and leadership of the Bakgatla ba Kgafela, and the other showcasing cultural customs, cuisine, and everyday life. Lodges and resorts in the area have partnered with the community to run heritage tours that guide tourists through these spaces.

According to Pilane, the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.

“Many international visitors are surprised at how much there is to learn here. They come for the animals, but they leave remembering the stories and the people.”

Building a More Inclusive Tourism Economy

The initiative goes beyond cultural appreciation—it’s a step toward economic inclusion. The goal is to empower locals through tourism by creating opportunities as guides, storytellers, cooks, crafters, and more. This approach ensures that tourism is not only about bringing visitors in, but also about lifting communities up.

“Our short-term goal is to get more of our people participating in tourism. In the long run, we want this to stand alongside the safari industry, offering an experiential layer that adds depth and meaning.”

says Pilane

Strengthening the Foundation for Growth

To support this evolution, plans are underway to collaborate with government stakeholders on improving infrastructure and safety in surrounding villages.

“We want tourists to feel comfortable and confident coming into our villages. The community will play a leading role in keeping these spaces welcoming and safe.”

Pilane explains

This human-centred approach to tourism, Pilane insists, is not just about economics—it’s about dignity and pride.

“For too long, our heritage has sat on the sidelines. Now it is front and centre. We are showing that our stories, our customs and our knowledge belong in the tourism experience.”

More Than a Safari—A Sense of Place

As tourism in Pilanesberg expands, the Bakgatla ba Kgafela are committed to ensuring that visitors take home more than just photos. They want them to leave with a real sense of place, a deeper understanding of the people who live there, and a connection that lasts long after the game drive ends.

For more information about the Bakgatla ba Kgafela Tourism Association and cultural experiences in the region, visit: https://bbkta.co.za/index.html