Sun City Resort celebrated 45 years of thrilling guests from around the world this past December and continues to rise in popularity as an iconic destination of fun with more than 101 things to see and do.
The only surf-and-safari destination within a two-hour drive of landlocked Johannesburg ensures guests will love every moment of their holiday by keeping a finger on the pulse of the latest entertainment and sports offerings.
“There is no way that anyone can experience everything that Sun City offers in just one stay, which is why we have so many repeat guests and regulars,” said Sun City General Manager Brett Hoppé.
“The Valley of Waves offers adrenalin and adventure in equal doses, welcoming thousands of guests each year to its white sandy beaches with palm trees. Those who prefer relaxation can relax on a lounger or take a tube ride on the Lazy River, but it’s the sheer 17-metre drop of the Temple of Courage slide that gets your heart pounding,” Hoppé said. Other adventure water slides include the Diamond Mine and the underground Tarantula tubes, where echoes of screams of terror and delight can be heard – and the famous the Roaring Lagoon, a 1.8m high man-made wave for swimmers to ride on.
At the Chimp & Zee Rope Adventure Park, guests of all ages can view the Valley of Waves from above while crossing an elevated obstacle course up in the trees. Challenge yourself to an adventure with everything from high balancing beams, speedy zip lines, hanging spider nets to jungle rope bridges and more.
Adventurers can get their Indiana Jones vibes on at The Maze of the Lost City, a hidden gem at Sun City accessed via a 100-metre-long suspension bridge, offering spectacular views of the resort. The largest permanent maze in the Southern Hemisphere, it is constructed from artificial stone and wood, creating the illusion of an ancient archaeological discovery. Enjoy a cold craft beer at the end of the Maze Bar – or take a shortcut if you get thirsty.
The squash-tennis hybrid sport of padel has built a huge fan base as the craze for the game has swept the globe, and Sun City is one of a limited number of hotels to offer four courts.
“Once again we have shown that we understand what visitors want and always create the latest and best entertainment for our guests,” said Hoppé. “With padel known for being a relaxed sport which is extremely social, it is a perfect addition to Sun City’s list of activities.”
Climb onto a 250cc Suzuki quad bike and join Mankwe Gametrackers on an adventurous trail through the Letsatsing Game Park, accompanied by experienced guides and see wildlife at eye level. You could see giraffe, zebra, buck, wildebeest and more as they meander through the bush. “Adrenaline junkies need to adopt a calmer approach to avoid speeding and scaring off sightings.”
Take a guided Segway tour around Sun City to cover a greater distance – either around the lake and golf course, or go off road and experience a multi-terrain tour. “Travelling this way requires concentrating on your surroundings, which means you may see some surprises like squirrels darting through the trees.”
Mankwe Gametrackers will guide guests through the adventure of the ancient art of archery using modern-day equipment. Master the technique of shooting a re-curve bow under the watchful eye of an instructor.
To hype up your adrenalin, take a ride on Zip2000, one of the world’s fastest, longest, and highest zip slides that is found at Sun City, where an average speed of 120 km/h over two kilometres will take your breath away. Solo and tandem slides are available, making this ride appealing for even the most amateur adrenalin junkie. This experience is open to anyone from the age of 12. “So far, the oldest person to go down the slide was a Scottish woman of 84,” said Hoppé.
After a busy day of adventure and adrenalin, bring your heart rate back to baseline with a relaxing body treatment or massage at one of Sun City’s two spas.
The Gary Player Health Spa and beauty salon, located inside the Gary Player Country Club, offers a selection of beauty treatments and products, a fully equipped gym, a spa pool, and a steam room.
At the five-star The Palace of the Lost City, The Royal Spa is a serene oasis of relaxation offering the latest in aesthetic and beauty treatments that will revive, replenish and indulge.
This award-winning spa has quickly gained international recognition since opening its doors in 2022, with accolades including the Best Hotel Spa and Best Spa Design in South Africa.
“It is up to our guests to decide if they want adventure, adrenalin or pure relaxation – Sun City has myriad options for everyone,” Hoppé said.
