There’s a thrill in the air at Sun City Resort, and it’s not just from the hot air balloons drifting over the Pilanesberg. For over four decades, Mankwe GAMETRACKERS has been bringing adventure to life in one of South Africa’s most iconic destinations, offering a range of activities that include game drives, bush walks, quad biking, archery, and even rope courses that have visitors swinging through the trees.
Based next to the malaria-free Pilanesberg National Park, the company has grown into the largest outdoor adventure activity operator in the North West, and it’s doing far more than creating bucket-list moments for travellers. It’s also building bridges between big tourism brands and local small businesses through a forward-thinking partnership model that’s as inspiring as the scenery.
Partnerships that empower
Through a service level agreement with the Greater Pilanesberg Tour Operators Association (GPTOA), Mankwe GAMETRACKERS not only runs its adventure activities but also coordinates guest shuttles to and from Sun City, including private transfers between Lanseria and OR Tambo International airports.
The model is simple but powerful: Mankwe handles the bookings, while GPTOA, a network of around 35 local tour operators, fulfils the services. The result is collaboration over competition, creating consistent opportunities for smaller tourism players and strengthening the region’s visitor experience.
“This confidence gives us hope for what can be achieved when local small businesses and the community at large are given a chance to participate in the local economy,” says Patrick Nkwe, chairman of GPTOA. “We’ve seen real growth in professionalism among our members, and we hope other operators will follow this example of partnership and shared progress.”
The people behind the wheel
For Mankwe’s drivers, the work is as much about passion as it is about purpose.
“I love to explore and educate people about our beautiful province, especially Sun City Resort and the Pilanesberg National Park,” says Phenyo Sephoti, one of the company’s guides. “This industry creates jobs and can help eradicate poverty. The best part about Sun City is that everything is in one place.”
His colleague Mosiane Modisaotsile agrees. “My job puts food on the table, but it’s also about connecting with people from all over the world. You learn so much through those interactions; it helps you understand what guests want and how to make their experience even better.”
So next time you’re wondering how to get to Sun City from Johannesburg, skip the long drive and hop on one of these locally powered shuttles. You’ll arrive relaxed, ready for adventure, and part of a travel story that gives back.
Also Read: Inside the newly renovated Sun City Hotel – Joburg’s favourite day trip escape
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