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Addo Elephant National Park

South Africa, Africa

Addo Elephant National Park is a must-visit destination in South Africa, famed for its large population of elephants—a sanctuary for over 600 of these gentle giants. Beyond elephants, the park also hosts the Big Seven: elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, buffalo, southern right whales, and great white sharks. Visitors can enjoy game drives, guided walks, and birdwatching amidst diverse landscapes ranging from dense bush to rolling hills. With its stunning scenery and vibrant wildlife, Addo offers an unforgettable adventure in nature.

Quick facts

Target stay

2-3 days

Type

Nature Reserve

Vibe

Active

Airport

Port Elizabeth

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit

8 Best Things to Do in Addo Elephant National Park

1. Go on a game drive

Experience wildlife up close on guided tours.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

3 hrs

2. Visit the Elephant Sanctuary

Learn about and interact with rescued elephants.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

2 hrs

3. Explore the Zuurberg Mountain Range

Hike stunning trails with breathtaking views.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

4 hrs

4. Take a night drive

Experience the park's wildlife under the stars.

Available all year

Adults only

Booking required

2 hrs

5. Visit the Addo Elephant Park Interpretive Centre

Discover the park's history and ecosystems.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

6. Go birdwatching

Spot diverse bird species in their natural habitat.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

7. Enjoy a picnic at Addo

Relax in nature with views of wildlife.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

8. Visit the nearby Tsitsikamma National Park

Explore lush forests and stunning coastlines.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

5 hrs

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

5 (#38 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Rand

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Zulu

(20-50% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Bobotie

Spiced minced meat baked with egg. (National dish)

Biltong

Cured, dried meat, often beef or game.

Braai/Shisa Nyama

Barbecued meat, often served with sides.

Bunny Chow

Curry in a hollowed-out bread loaf.

Potjiekos

Slow-cooked stew in a cast-iron pot.

Phrases to learn

English

Zulu

Hello

Sawubona

(Sah-woo-boh-nah)

Yes/No

Yebo / Cha

(Yeh-boh / Chah)

Thank you

Ngiyabonga

(Ngee-ah-bon-gah)

Excuse me

Uxolo

(Oo-ksoh-loh)

How much?

Malini?

(Mah-lee-nee)