Explore the Majestic Addo Elephant National Park
Discover the wonders of Addo Elephant National Park, a sanctuary for elephants and diverse wildlife in the heart of South Africa.
A brief summary to Addo Elephant National Park
- Monday 7 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-7 pm
- Thursday 7 am-7 pm
- Friday 7 am-7 pm
- Saturday 7 am-7 pm
- Sunday 7 am-7 pm
Addo Elephant National Park is a spectacular national park located in the Eastern Cape of South Africa, renowned for its incredible biodiversity and, most notably, its large elephant population. Established in 1931 to protect the remaining elephants in the area, the park has since expanded to encompass a range of habitats including dense thicket, savannah, and coastal dunes. Visitors can expect to see over 600 elephants roaming freely, along with lions, buffalo, and various antelope species. The park's unique ecosystem also supports a rich variety of birdlife, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. The park's well-maintained roads provide access to numerous viewpoints and picnic areas, allowing tourists to enjoy their surroundings while observing wildlife. Self-drive safaris are popular, giving visitors the freedom to explore at their own pace, although guided tours are also available for those seeking a more informative experience. For a true adventure, consider embarking on a night drive, where you can witness the park's nocturnal creatures in action. As part of your visit, don't miss the opportunity to explore the nearby Addo Elephant Park's Zuurberg Mountain section, which offers stunning views and hiking trails that showcase the area's natural beauty. With a variety of accommodation options within and around the park, ranging from luxury lodges to rustic campsites, visitors can easily plan an extended stay to fully immerse themselves in the wonders of this natural sanctuary.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching, as the park is home to over 300 bird species.
- Consider joining a guided tour to gain insights from experienced rangers about the wildlife and ecosystem.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the designated picnic spots while taking in the breathtaking scenery.
- Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen, as the sun can be intense during the day.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving from Port Elizabeth, take the N2 highway heading northwest. After approximately 60 km, take the exit for the R335 towards Addo. Follow the R335 for about 20 km until you reach the main entrance of Addo Elephant National Park. There is an entrance fee to the park, which is around ZAR 100 per adult and ZAR 50 per child, so be prepared for this cost.
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Public Transportation
To reach Addo Elephant National Park by public transportation, take a bus from Port Elizabeth to Addo Village. Several bus companies operate this route, and the fare is typically around ZAR 200 one way. Once in Addo Village, you can use a local taxi service to reach the park entrance, which is about 10 km away. Ensure you confirm the taxi fare beforehand as it can vary, but expect to pay around ZAR 100.
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Taxi or Rideshare
If you're already in Port Elizabeth and prefer a direct route, consider booking a taxi or rideshare service like Uber. The journey will take roughly 50 minutes and cost between ZAR 500 to ZAR 700, depending on the service and time of day.
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Guided Tour
For a more informative experience, consider booking a guided tour from Port Elizabeth. These tours often include transport to and from the park, a guide, and sometimes an entrance fee. Prices vary, but expect to pay around ZAR 1,500 per person for a full-day tour, which can be a great way to learn about the wildlife and environment.
Attractions Nearby to Addo Elephant National Park
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Kabouga Gate
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African Imprint Outdoor Centre
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Kuzuko Lodge
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Hayterdale Trails
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Adrenalin Addo Adventure Park
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addo travel center and adventure
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Entrance Addo National Park
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Addo Game Drive Departures
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Addo Elephant Main Camp
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Main Camp Interpretive Centre
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Main Camp Bird Hide
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Main Camp Underground Hide
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PPC Discovery Trail
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Nyathi Rest Camp
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Gwarrie Pan Lookout
Landmarks nearby to Addo Elephant National Park
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Red Location Museum
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R&D Shuttle and tours
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Reefrock
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North End Lake
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LONDT PARK MINI TRAIN
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Horse Memorial
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The Campanile
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Route 67
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DONKIN RESERVE, PYRAMID AND LIGHTHOUSE
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Harbour Board Building
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Prince Alfred's Guard Memorial
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Monument to Prester John
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Old Post Office Building
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No 7 Castle Hill
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Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Art Museum