An insider guide to Sun City


By Amy Rosoman

Photography by Sun International

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Take a trip to a resort with it all, sun, safari, surf and stories of the Lost City. Explore the world of Sun Central, the thrilling Valley of the Waves and listen out to the echo of untamed lands in South Africa.

Best for: golfing fanatics

The lowdown: Make a swing for it, or time your stay to watch champion golfing competitions by the pros. With a choice of two world-class golf courses, immerse yourself in two different playing experiences. Challenge your game at the legendary parkland Gary Player Course, one of the best in South Africa, set in an extinct volcano crater. Or hit the desert-style Lost City Course for dazzling surroundings and plenty of water hazard features. Savour these 18-hole courses, with a par of 72, in a sensational Sun City setting.

In the know… The Gary Player Golf Course is a walking course, which will give you a good day of teeing off while earning those sundowner drinks later. Lookout for the crocodiles on hole 13 of The Lost City Golf Course – don’t try and fish out any stray balls here.

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  • The Brew Monkey.

    Craft beer kick back

    Soak up the atmopshere and grab a bite to eat.

    Book a stay at Cascades
  • Quad biking in Botswana.

    Take a four-wheeling adventure

    Let your adrenaline pump, as you cross African landscape.

    Book a stay at Cabanas
  • Guest playing roulette in the casino.

    Get lucky

    Play a game of chance in the glamour of Sun City casino

    Book a stay at The Palace

Best for: thrill seekers

The lowdown: The Valley of Waves waterpark is a must-visit. Enter by the Bridge of Time, which erupts every hour, smoking and rumbling. Visit miniature slides, bigger rides and tubing slides, as well as the adrenalin rush Temple of Courage, with its almost vertical drop of 17 metres. Or head to Waterworld by the lakeside for an abundance of water sports, with wake boarding, jet skiing and tube rides. Book a unique experience and take off in the skies, with a hot air balloon safari, launching at sunrise. Watch out below for mesmerising views and roaming wildlife, as you glide across Pilanesberg National Park.

In the know… Share the excitement and fly high with tandem parasailing at Waterworld, or take a turn on the bumper boats. Stay on the water a little longer and enjoy a sunset cruise at the end of the day.

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  • 17th hole on the Lost City Golf course.

Best for: family fun

The lowdown: Head over to the newly opened Chimp & Zee rope adventure park, above the Valley of Waves. Tackle a mixture of obstacles in the air, from rope bridges, balancing beams and hanging spider nets, to soaring ziplines for exhilarating moments. Take the Leeto-Kgolo Village Tour together and learn about the Bakgatla-Ba-Kgafela tribe, with a bicycle tour that will take you to four heritage sites. Taste local food and drinks, then meet with locals and embrace the culture. For more outdoors, go on a 4x4 quad biking experience through Letsatsing Game Park with an experienced guide. Try and catch a glimpse of a giraffe or rhino on your adventure.

In the know… If your little ones are ages between 3 and 12, enjoy four-wheeled fun on the mini quad biking track, where they can take a spin and work on their driving skills.

Best for: a beach scene

The lowdown: Soak up the sun at the Valley of Waves and lounge on real sand next to palm trees, or take shade under a parasol. Discover relaxation on the Lazy River, as you float along in your inflatable rubber ring. Experience the tide at the Roaring Lagoon wave pool with two-metre-high waves every 90 seconds, or explore the serene hidden cave waterfalls. If you’re ready to make a splash, hit the Tarantula and Scorpion body slides, then take a whirl on the Viper and Mamba tube rides. Make the most of the free unlimited access, as a guest of Sun City Resort.

In the know… Ask for a terrace table at The Brew Monkey, a lively gastro pub overlooking the lagoon. Soak up the laidback atmosphere and tuck into grilled prawns, other light bites and craft beer. 

Best for: the casino hype

The lowdown: Hit the decks and get your bets on at the thriving 24/7 hot spot, Sun City Casino. Take a spin on one of hundreds of slot machines, or play your poker face on a choice of 40 tables. Bring your best at Blackjack and take a turn on American Roulette. Any level of play is welcome to the casino, whether you’re a serious gamer or want to have a go for the fun of it. Choose to dress-up or dress down, with the ease of no dress code on the main floor.

In the know… Beginners can bet as little as £2.50 on a Blackjack table on the main floor. Skilled gamers can experience the swish Sun City Privé, a luxurious gaming area with premium table playing.

  • Tusk Bar & Lounge.

    A lavish spot

    Soak up a safari-themed cocktail bar and lounge, oozing with style.

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  • Kids playing dress-up at Kamp Kwena.

    Entertainment for everyone

    Take some down time, while the children go wild for activities.

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  • Cascades glistening pool.

    Take a dip

    Make your stay one at Cascades and immerse yourself in its oasis.

    Book a stay at Cascades

Where to stay at Sun City

Luxury: The Palace of the Lost City

The lowdown: Savour every moment of exclusivity at The Palace. This majestic creation combines a luxury stay with the adventure of Africa, from beautifully furnished rooms, to the wilderness of surrounding jungles and waterfalls. The Crystal Court offers a tantalising feast of breakfast delights, including fabulous stations for omelettes and pancakes. You can order Champagne with your morning meal and treat yourself to an array of international dishes for a breakfast of champions. End your day with a sundowner tipple and listen to smooth music – visit the Tusk Bar and Lounge for a refreshing before or after dinner drink.

Insider’s tip… The view from the tower on floor nine is unforgettable, overlooking a world of wonders and dramatic landscape. Gaze at meandering waters, a velvet forest canopy and the mesmerising glow of spires at sunset, for a touch of romance.

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Mid-range: Cascades

The lowdown: Bask in the tranquillity of Cascades. Surround yourself in an oasis of spilling waterfalls, sparkling pools and marvel at the exterior Aztec style of this place. Take to the tennis courts for game, set and match, then take a dip in the welcoming heated outdoor pool. With its central location in the heart of Sun City, and just a stone’s throw away from the entertainment centre, it’s easy to get about and see the sights.

Insider’s tip… If you’re in a rush to reach another part of the resort, hop on the shuttle bus that stops by the hotel.

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Budget: Cabanas

The lowdown: Feel close to nature with a stay at Cabanas. Enjoy rolling spaces and its closeness to Sun City Waterworld Lake, where you can whizz around on a jet ski, fly high parasailing, try water skiing or take in the views on a cruise. With its sleek interior style, offering trendy suites, mod-cons and idyllic family ambience, all rooms come with lake or tropical garden views. Spend time with the kids and take them putting at Rock Venture Mini Golf.

Insider’s tip… When you’re ready for a lunchtime bite and fruity cocktail at Cabanas Pool Bar – take the children to Kamp Kwena, while you unwind poolside.

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