These guys passed within 20 feet of our car.
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Addo Elephant National Park

4.6
·7k reviews·, South Africa

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early morning & late afternoon

Animals are most active

CrowdMedium
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These guys passed within 20 feet of our car.

Addo Elephant National Park

Best Time

Early morning & late afternoon

Animals are most active

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.6
(7k reviews)

"Incredible experience! Seeing elephants in their natural habitat, calm and majestic, is something I'll never forget."

Vertical photo
TIP

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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Elephant Encounters

Elephant Encounters

Throughout the park

Witness hundreds of elephants in their natural habitat, a truly majestic and unforgettable sight.

The Big 7 Safari

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

Nyathi Rest Camp

Luxurious self-catering chalets with private pools and stunning game viewing from your balcony.

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Planning Your Visit

Self-Drive vs. Guided Tours

While self-driving is popular and offers flexibility, guided tours can enhance your experience by taking you to prime animal spotting locations. Consider your comfort level and desire for expert insights when choosing.

Best Time for Elephant Sightings

Elephants are most active and visible during the cooler parts of the day, especially in the early morning and late afternoon. Visiting waterholes can also increase your chances of seeing them.

Best Times

When
Early morning & late afternoon
Why
Animals are most active
Crowd
Medium
When
Dry season (May - Oct)
Why
Animals gather at waterholes
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#Fun @sundazeriver in 🇿🇦 #SouthAfrica #Sandboarding 😎 #rivercruise #canoeing #tiktok #sundaysriveradventures #AddoElephantPark #amazingaddo #tiktoksa #TasteOfAfrica #lifesshortcatchatan #sandboarding #MeetSouthAfrica #atasteofafrica #TravelYoung #tourism #sharethebay #SAtourism #portelizabeth #mynelsonmandelabay #cityofpe #mytravelgram #addo #adventureprovince #easterncape #Big5 #WeDoTourism #It...
@kbsundaze
437.9K likes • 8.9M views

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. Instagram

Book accommodation early

Popular camps like Nyathi sell out fast, especially during peak season. Book directly for potential off-season deals. Instagram

📍Addo Elephant Park, South Africa
@chasingrubie
18.7K likes • 118.4K views
Yesterday we explored Addo Elephant Park on foot and by car. There are 600 elephants here... I have the feeling we’ve seen them all ❤️ #addo #addoelephantpark #elephant🐘 #elephantlove #elefantes #livesouthafrica #meinsüdafrika #südafrika #meinesafari #südafrikawirsehenuns #africanamazing #thisissouthafrica #ig_africa #loves_africa #thisisafrica #lifeisanadventure #weroamabroad #exploreoureart...
wibkestravels
280 likes • 16.3K views

Self-drive is popular

Most visitors opt for self-driving, with well-maintained roads suitable for normal vehicles. InstagramReddit

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! Instagram

Addo Elephant National Park is a bucket list item when visiting the Eastern Cape of South Africa. Make sure to pack for a long day of safari sightseeing as you’ll never want the day to end. Addo is the only wildlife reserve in the world that is home to The Big 7. For this trip we chose the self drive option but you can also book a guided game drive. @sanparks @sanparksaddo #southafrica ...
pricey_travels
0 likes • 6.7K views

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. Instagram

Book accommodation early

Popular camps like Nyathi sell out fast, especially during peak season. Book directly for potential off-season deals. Instagram

Self-drive is popular

Most visitors opt for self-driving, with well-maintained roads suitable for normal vehicles. InstagramReddit

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! Instagram

Waterholes are key

Elephants and other animals often congregate at waterholes, especially during drier periods. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(7k reviews)

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

Abundant elephant sightings
Malaria-free environment
Great for self-driving

What People Dislike

Average park restaurant food

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).Instagram It's easily accessible by car, with well-maintained tarred and gravel roads suitable for most vehicles.Reddit Many visitors include it as part of a road trip along the Garden Route.Instagram

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.Instagram

The park is primarily a self-drive destination, with good roads for exploration.InstagramReddit Guided game drives are also available and can offer a deeper insight into the wildlife and park. Reddit

Addo Elephant National Park is conveniently located about 45 minutes to an hour's drive from Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha).Instagram+1

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee for a day trip is approximately R105.00 per person.Reddit 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.Instagram

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.TikTokReddit It's the only park in the world home to the Big 7, including whales and great white sharks in its marine protected area.Instagram

Sightings of elephants are almost guaranteed in Addo, as it has one of the densest elephant populations in the world.Instagram They are often seen near waterholes and along the park's roads.Reddit

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.Reddit

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.Instagram

The park offers amenities such as restaurants, picnic spots, lookout points, and accommodation facilities like camps and caravan parks.Reddit 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.Reddit However, some reviews suggest the food might not be consistently tasty.Reddit

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.Instagram

The area surrounding Addo offers various lodges and restaurants, including options like Camp Figtree, which provides a luxurious dining experience with stunning views.Instagram

While convenient, some visitors have found the food at the park restaurant to be average.Reddit 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.TikTok

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. Instagram

Be patient and observant. Animals can appear suddenly, so always have your camera ready. Consider the direction of the sun to avoid harsh shadows. Instagram

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. Instagram

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

Addo Elephant National Park is a fantastic destination for families. Its malaria-free status provides peace of mind for parents traveling with young children.Instagram The park's abundance of elephants means that sightings are almost guaranteed, keeping kids engaged and excited.TikTokInstagram The self-drive option allows families to set their own pace and make frequent stops for snacks or bathroom breaks, which is crucial with toddlers.Reddit

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. Reddit

🚗 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Addo Elephant National Park offers several cost-effective options. Day visits with an entrance fee of around R105.00 per person are very affordable.Reddit Opting for self-driving eliminates the cost of guided tours, allowing you to explore the park using your own vehicle.Instagram

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. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Addo is a photographer's paradise, especially for those keen on capturing wildlife. The park's dense elephant population provides ample opportunities for stunning shots.Instagram The golden hours of sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for your photographs.TikTok

Bring a good telephoto lens to get close-ups of the animals, and be prepared for spontaneous sightings – having your camera ready is key.Instagram 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. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Big 7: A Unique Wildlife Spectacle

Addo Elephant National Park holds the unique distinction of being the only wildlife reserve in the world that is home to the Big 7. This impressive list includes the traditional Big 5 (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo) plus the marine giants: the Southern Right Whale and the Great White Shark. While the terrestrial Big 5 are found within the park's terrestrial sections, the marine component is found in the adjacent marine protected area, making Addo a truly comprehensive safari destination.

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. Instagram

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

Addo Elephant National Park offers a range of accommodation to suit different preferences and budgets. For those who enjoy a more rustic experience, camping and caravan sites are available, providing a close-to-nature feel. These sites are often well-equipped and offer a convenient base for exploring the park.

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.Instagram 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.Instagram Booking accommodation in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular spots and during peak seasons, as they tend to sell out quickly.Instagram

Self-Driving vs. Guided Safaris

One of the most appealing aspects of Addo Elephant National Park is the flexibility it offers visitors. The park is largely designed for self-driving, with well-maintained tarred and gravel roads that are suitable for normal vehicles.Reddit This allows you to explore at your own pace, stopping whenever you spot an interesting animal or a scenic viewpoint.Instagram Many visitors find immense joy in the freedom of discovering wildlife on their own terms, making for a personal and engaging safari experience.TikTok

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.Reddit 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.InstagramReddit

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.

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