Addo Elephant Park

Welcome to Addo Elephant National Park, one of South Africa’s most unique wildlife destinations. Here, the savanna meets the ocean, and the Big 5 become the Big 7 with elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, buffalo, whales, and even great white sharks.

Why Addo | Things to do in Addo | Frequently Asked Questions

Experience the big 7 safari

Set in the Eastern Cape just outside Gqeberha, Addo offers raw, unspoiled nature and unforgettable encounters without the crowds. Addo is more than just a game drive. Cruise through the park’s rugged bush, home to over 600 elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, buffalo, and countless other species, then head out to sea from Algoa Bay to spot southern right whales, dolphins, and penguins. Between the two, explore coastal forests, river estuaries, and winding dirt roads where the land and ocean come together. Whether you’re in it for fast-paced wildlife action or slow mornings in nature, Addo delivers a full-circle safari experience.

Why Addo is a must-visit in the Eastern Cape

Addo Elephant Park is one of the best places in South Africa for families, couples, and adventurers alike. It’s malaria free, easy to access, and far less crowded than many big name parks. The region around Addo is dotted with citrus farms, dramatic coastlines, and relaxed lodges that make it ideal for a multi-day stay. It’s not about luxury, it’s about connection, real experiences, and seeing Africa in its purest form.

Things to do in Addo & surrounding areas

There’s a lot more to Addo than elephants. The region blends bush, coast, and countryside, perfect for travelers who like variety. Here’s what to add to your list:

Game drives in Addo Elephant National Park – spot elephants, lions, buffalo, rhinos, and more in one of South Africa’s most wildlife-rich parks.
Marine safari in Algoa Bay – head out by boat to see whales (June to November), dolphins, penguins, and seals.
Hiking and horse riding – explore the Zuurberg Mountains or coastal trails on foot or horseback.
Addo River Safari – paddle along the Sundays River and spot fish eagles, monitor lizards, and maybe even elephants on the banks.
Visit the Addo Elephant Sanctuary – learn about conservation and get up close to these gentle giants in an ethical setting.
Hit the beach – visit Colchester or Cannonville for quiet sand dunes and swimming spots just outside the park.
Explore local farms and citrus orchards – stop for fresh juice, homemade jams, and a slice of Eastern Cape hospitality.
Sandboarding at Sundays River Mouth – ride the dunes for an adrenaline fix with unbeatable views over the estuary.

Whether you’re after wildlife, water, or wide open spaces, Addo and its surroundings offer the perfect balance of adventure and calm.

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All your burning questions about Karoo, Klein Karoo en Baviaanskloof answered

Addo Elephant National Park is in South Africa’s Eastern Cape province, about 70 km from Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth). It’s easy to reach by road and forms part of the greater Addo conservation area that stretches to the coast.

Addo is around 800 km from Cape Town, about an 8 to 9-hour drive. Many travelers include it as the final stop on a Garden Route road trip that runs from Cape Town through towns like Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, and Tsitsikamma.

Addo is home to the Big 5: elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, and buffalo, as well as zebras, antelope, and over 400 bird species. It’s also one of the few places in the world where you can see the Big 7, which includes whales and great white sharks off the nearby coast.

No, most of the main park roads are suitable for standard vehicles. Some of the gravel or coastal routes may need a high-clearance or 4x4 vehicle for comfort, but regular cars can access most areas.

Addo is great all year round. The dry season from May to September is best for spotting wildlife as animals gather around waterholes, while June to November brings whale sightings along the coast.

Addo isn’t technically part of the Garden Route, but it’s often included as the next stop after Tsitsikamma or Jeffrey’s Bay. It’s the perfect way to end your Garden Route adventure with a true safari experience.

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Addo Elephant Park

Experience the big 7 safari

Things to do in Addo Elephant National Park

Why Addo is a must-visit in the Eastern Cape

Things to do in Addo & surrounding areas