
Addo Elephant National Park
South Africa's premier elephant sanctuary, offering Big 7 wildlife encounters in a malaria-free Eastern Cape haven.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Animals are most active

Addo Elephant National Park
Best Time
Animals are most active

Highlights
Must-see attractions
South Africa's premier elephant sanctuary, offering Big 7 wildlife encounters in a malaria-free Eastern Cape haven.
"Incredible experience! Seeing elephants in their natural habitat, calm and majestic, is something I'll never forget."

Pack for a full day
You'll want to stay for hours! Bring snacks, water, and sun protection for a long day of safari sightseeing.
Book accommodation early
Popular camps like Nyathi sell out fast, especially during peak season. Book directly for potential off-season deals.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Elephant Encounters
Throughout the park
Witness hundreds of elephants in their natural habitat, a truly majestic and unforgettable sight.

The Big 7 Safari
Addo Elephant National Park
The only reserve globally boasting the Big 7: elephant, lion, rhino, buffalo, leopard, whale, and great white shark.

Nyathi Rest Camp
Nyathi Rest Camp
Luxurious self-catering chalets with private pools and stunning game viewing from your balcony.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Self-Drive vs. Guided Tours
Best Time for Elephant Sightings
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack for a full day
You'll want to stay for hours! Bring snacks, water, and sun protection for a long day of safari sightseeing.
Book accommodation early
Popular camps like Nyathi sell out fast, especially during peak season. Book directly for potential off-season deals.
Self-drive is popular
Most visitors opt for self-driving, with well-maintained roads suitable for normal vehicles.
Look for the Big 7
Addo is unique as the only park home to the Big 7, so keep an eye out for all of them!
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack for a full day
You'll want to stay for hours! Bring snacks, water, and sun protection for a long day of safari sightseeing.
Book accommodation early
Popular camps like Nyathi sell out fast, especially during peak season. Book directly for potential off-season deals.
Self-drive is popular
Most visitors opt for self-driving, with well-maintained roads suitable for normal vehicles.
Look for the Big 7
Addo is unique as the only park home to the Big 7, so keep an eye out for all of them!
Waterholes are key
Elephants and other animals often congregate at waterholes, especially during drier periods.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Addo Elephant National Park for its incredible wildlife sightings, particularly the abundant elephants. The park's well-maintained roads and malaria-free status make it an accessible and enjoyable experience for families and self-drivers. While the park offers a fantastic safari introduction, some find the food at the park restaurant to be average.
"Always a great experience with sightings of all sorts of animals guaranteed. I always see lots of elephants, zebras, buck of many varieties and the occasional hyena. It's a great place to take the family for a self guided safari. Very beautiful and makes for a great day trip or even better for an extended stay."
Lisa Crooks (Elle)
"Incredible experience! Within the one day we saw elephants up close, kudu, zebra, warthogs and even a black-backed jackal. The park is well-run, with good roads for self-driving and plenty of spots to stop and take in the views. Seeing elephants in their natural habitat, calm, majestic. It’s something I’ll never forget."
Kim K
"Well maintained ecosystem. Managed to see 4 out of 5 big fives. Unable to see Lion, I guess since Safari started late in the day."
Teresia Koech
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Addo Elephant National Park is located in the Eastern Cape of South Africa, approximately 85 km (52 miles) from Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha). It's easily accessible by car, with well-maintained tarred and gravel roads suitable for most vehicles. Many visitors include it as part of a road trip along the Garden Route.
Yes, Addo Elephant National Park is a malaria-free zone, making it a popular choice for families and travelers who prefer to avoid malaria precautions.
The park is primarily a self-drive destination, with good roads for exploration. Guided game drives are also available and can offer a deeper insight into the wildlife and park.
Addo Elephant National Park is conveniently located about 45 minutes to an hour's drive from Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha).
Absolutely! Many visitors enjoy Addo as a day trip, experiencing the abundant wildlife and beautiful landscapes. However, an extended stay is highly recommended to fully appreciate the park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for a day trip is approximately R105.00 per person. It's always a good idea to check the official SANParks website for the most current pricing and any potential changes.
The park generally opens early in the morning and closes in the evening. Specific hours can vary by season, so it's best to confirm with SANParks or check signage at the entrance.
For day visits, booking in advance is usually not necessary, but it's recommended during peak holiday seasons. For accommodation within the park, booking well in advance is crucial, especially for popular camps like Nyathi Rest Camp.
Yes, Addo Elephant National Park has multiple entrances, including the main southern entrance near the Addo Rest Camp and a northern entrance. The park spans a large area, so knowing your intended route can help.
Yes, SANParks Wild Cards are generally accepted at Addo Elephant National Park, offering access to numerous national parks across South Africa.
🎫 🦁 Onsite Experience
Addo is famous for its large elephant population, but you can also spot lions, rhinos, buffalo, leopards (the Big 5), zebras, warthogs, kudu, various antelope species, meerkats, jackals, and many bird species. It's the only park in the world home to the Big 7, including whales and great white sharks in its marine protected area.
Sightings of elephants are almost guaranteed in Addo, as it has one of the densest elephant populations in the world. They are often seen near waterholes and along the park's roads.
Yes, guided game drives are offered by the park and can be booked at the reception. These drives are led by experienced rangers who know the best spots for wildlife viewing.
Yes, there are designated walking trails and guided walking safaris available in certain areas of Addo, offering a different perspective on the wildlife and flora.
The park offers amenities such as restaurants, picnic spots, lookout points, and accommodation facilities like camps and caravan parks. There's also a visitor center with information about the park's flora and fauna.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a restaurant located at the main entrance of the park, offering meals for visitors. However, some reviews suggest the food might not be consistently tasty.
Absolutely! Bringing your own food and drinks is a great idea, especially for a full day of exploring. There are picnic spots available throughout the park where you can enjoy your meals amidst nature.
Yes, if you're staying overnight, many of the camps, like Nyathi Rest Camp, offer self-catering facilities, allowing you to prepare your own meals.
The area surrounding Addo offers various lodges and restaurants, including options like Camp Figtree, which provides a luxurious dining experience with stunning views.
While convenient, some visitors have found the food at the park restaurant to be average. Packing your own snacks or planning a meal at a lodge outside the park might be a better culinary experience for some.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hours, early morning and late afternoon, offer the best light for photography. Animals are also more active during these times.
A telephoto lens (e.g., 70-200mm or longer) is highly recommended to capture clear shots of animals from a distance. A wider lens can be useful for landscapes and larger groups of animals.
Be patient and observant. Animals can appear suddenly, so always have your camera ready. Consider the direction of the sun to avoid harsh shadows.
Yes, you can take photos from your vehicle while self-driving. However, always ensure your vehicle is safely parked and you do not disturb the animals.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require special permits. Always respect wildlife and avoid intrusive photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking accommodation within the park for convenience, or look for family-friendly lodges nearby. The restaurant at the main entrance offers a place to refuel, though packing your own snacks is always a good idea. The park's well-maintained roads make it easy for families to navigate, and the sheer number of animals ensures a memorable experience for all ages.
🚗 Budget Travelers
Accommodation-wise, consider the camping and caravan sites within the park for the most economical stay. If you're looking for slightly more comfort without breaking the bank, the park's standard chalets and bungalows offer a good balance. Packing your own food and drinks for picnics will also significantly reduce your expenses compared to dining out at restaurants.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring a good telephoto lens to get close-ups of the animals, and be prepared for spontaneous sightings – having your camera ready is key. The park's varied landscapes also offer opportunities for scenic shots. Remember to be patient and respectful of the wildlife while you capture those perfect moments.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Big 7: A Unique Wildlife Spectacle
This incredible biodiversity means that visitors have the chance to witness a vast array of wildlife, from the majestic elephants that the park is most famous for, to the powerful predators and the ocean's apex hunters. The park's conservation efforts have been instrumental in protecting these species, ensuring that future generations can also experience this natural wonder.
To maximize your chances of seeing the Big 7, consider visiting during whale migration season (typically June to November) for marine sightings, and dedicate ample time to exploring the park's diverse habitats for land-based animals. The park's varied ecosystems, from dense bushveld to coastal areas, support this rich tapestry of life.
Accommodation Options: From Camping to Luxury
For a more comfortable stay, the park features several rest camps with various lodging options, including chalets and bungalows. Nyathi Rest Camp is frequently highlighted for its luxurious self-catering chalets, each boasting a private pool and stunning views, allowing for game viewing directly from your balcony. These camps provide essential amenities and are strategically located for easy access to game viewing areas.
Beyond the park's official accommodation, the surrounding areas offer unique and luxurious stays. Camp Figtree, nestled in the Zuurberg Mountains, is an extraordinary option with luxurious safari lodges and phenomenal views, offering a high-end safari experience just a stone's throw from the park. Booking accommodation in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular spots and during peak seasons, as they tend to sell out quickly.
Self-Driving vs. Guided Safaris
However, for those seeking a more in-depth and guided experience, guided game drives are an excellent option. Park rangers and tour operators possess intimate knowledge of the park's terrain and animal behavior, often knowing the best locations and times to spot elusive species. These drives can be particularly beneficial for first-time visitors or those who want to maximize their wildlife sightings. Some travelers even opt for guided tours to explore deeper into the park or to gain insights they might miss on their own.
Ultimately, the choice between self-driving and a guided tour depends on your personal travel style and objectives. Many visitors combine both, perhaps enjoying a self-drive during the day and opting for a guided drive in the evening or for a specific area. Regardless of your choice, both methods offer incredible opportunities to witness the park's magnificent wildlife.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit