ADDO NATIONAL PARK & EASTERN CAPE GAME RESERVES
Addo Elephant National Park is the heart of a malaria-free safari region in the Eastern Cape. It is famed for its huge elephant herds and is the only park worldwide to host Africa’s “Big 7.”
This region offers exceptional biodiversity, stretching from the dense valley bushveld to the dramatic Zuurberg Mountains and the Algoa Bay coastline, providing diverse adventure activities.
Most Popular Attractions
Big 7 & Wildlife Experience:
Addo Main Game Viewing Area: The primary network of roads, perfect for self-drive or guided safaris to view elephants, buffalo, lions, rhinos, and antelope.
The Big 7: The unique opportunity to spot the Big Five (elephant, rhino, lion, buffalo, leopard) plus the Great White Shark and Southern Right Whale in the adjacent marine protected area.
Hapoor Dam Waterhole: A famous spot often frequented by large herds of elephants, visible from the main rest camp’s underground viewing hide.
Addo Flightless Dung Beetle: Look for the endangered, flightless beetle unique to the park’s dense thicket biome, a conservation success story.
St Croix Island: The largest breeding colony of the endangered African Penguin, accessible via marine tours from the nearby coast.
Bird Island: Home to the world’s largest colony of Cape Gannets, part of Addo’s protected marine area.
Night Game Drives: A guided experience using spotlights to view elusive nocturnal animals like aardvark, hyena, and porcupine.
Guided Bush Walks: Track wildlife on foot with an armed ranger for an intimate, low-impact safari experience.
Adventure & Landscape Trails:
Zuurberg Mountain Section: The mountainous northern block of the park, offering hiking trails and spectacular views over the valley.
Alexandria Hiking Trail: A renowned two-day, 36 km circular route through the Alexandria forest and the massive coastal dune fields.
Woody Cape Dunes: Explore some of the longest and least degraded coastal sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere, part of the park’s coastal section.
Bedrogfontein 4×4 Trail: A challenging, scenic 45 km route through the park’s rugged terrain, rich in Anglo-Boer War history.
Zuurkop Lookout Point: A high vantage point offering panoramic views of the entire Addo area and surrounding mountains.
Adrenalin Addo Adventure Park: Offers ziplining and a giant swing over the Sundays River for thrill-seekers.
Private Game Reserves & Lodges:
Shamwari Private Game Reserve: A premier, five-star Big Five reserve known for luxury accommodation and conservation programs.
Kariega Game Reserve: A family-friendly, malaria-free reserve offering river cruises and Big Five viewing on a beautiful landscape.
Amakhala Game Reserve: A collection of intimate, luxury lodges offering exceptional Big Five safaris and river experiences.
Schotia Game Reserve: Reputed to be the oldest private game reserve in the Eastern Cape, known for its high wildlife density and night drives.
Pumba Private Game Reserve: Home to rare white lion and offering luxury safari experiences in the region.
Kuzuko Lodge (Addo Concession): A private lodge located in the northern, remote part of Addo Elephant National Park, offering exclusive viewing.
Daniell Cheetah Breeding Project: A centre focused on the conservation of cheetahs, offering educational visits and interaction opportunities.
Activities & Experiences
Go on a Self-Drive Safari in Addo: Experience the thrill of finding the famous Addo elephants, flightless dung beetles, and the rest of the Big Five at your own pace along the park’s well-maintained routes.
Take a Professional Guided Game Drive: Join an open-vehicle safari with an experienced ranger, especially in the private reserves, for better chances of spotting elusive wildlife and getting in-depth commentary.
Experience a Night Drive or Sunset Safari: Witness nocturnal animal activity, such as aardvark, porcupine, and certain predators, under the vast African sky, a typical offering in private reserves.
Do an Addo Marine Eco-Tour (Big Seven Safari): Take a boat trip from Port Elizabeth/Gqeberha to spot the “ocean Big Two” (Southern Right Whales and Great White Sharks), completing the Big Seven experience.
Go on a Guided Bush Walk/Walking Safari: Under the protection of an armed ranger, venture out on foot to track animals, learn about smaller flora and fauna, and appreciate the bushveld from a ground-level perspective.
Visit the Addo Elephant Interpretation Centre: Spend time at the main camp to learn about the park’s history, its conservation success story, and the unique Addo elephant characteristics.
Try Horseback Safaris: Explore the outskirts of the park or select private concessions on horseback, allowing you to get closer to non-dangerous game, especially plains animals.
Book a Day Trip to Schotia or Amakhala Game Reserve: Experience the luxury and high-density game viewing of the neighbouring private reserves, which often include spectacular dinners in the boma (traditional enclosure).
Enjoy Bird Watching at the Park’s Waterholes: Bring your binoculars and spend a quiet morning or afternoon at a hide or waterhole, observing the region’s diverse birdlife, including the rare Knysna turaco.
Hike the Alexandria Hiking Trail: Tackle this two-day, 36 km circular trail through pristine forest, coastal dunes, and Fynbos, offering a unique wilderness experience outside of the main game areas.
Relax at a Boma Dinner under the Stars: Savour a traditional South African braai (BBQ) or dinner around a crackling fire in a boma, a staple of the private game reserve experience.
Local Tips & Transport
Car is Essential: The Addo region and the Eastern Cape reserves are spread out, and public transport is almost non-existent for tourists. A rental car is mandatory for a self-drive safari in Addo and for accessing the private reserves.
Access Point & Distances: The park’s main gate is about 72 km (1 hour) from Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) airport. The private reserves are scattered around this central area, requiring driving on provincial roads.
Gravel Roads: Be prepared for rough, corrugated gravel roads both within the National Park and leading up to some private reserve gates. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended, though not strictly required, for comfort.
Fuel and Supplies: Fill up your tank in the towns surrounding the park (e.g., Addo, Kirkwood, or Gqeberha) as fueling options within the park or the immediate vicinity of some reserves are limited or non-existent.
The Big Seven: This region is one of the few places in the world where you can see the Big Seven—the traditional Big Five (Lion, Leopard, Rhino, Elephant, Buffalo) plus the Southern Right Whale and Great White Shark (in the nearby marine protected area).
Addo’s Elephant Characteristics: The elephants of Addo are genetically unique, often having a slightly smaller frame and a distinctive brownish-yellow colour from wallowing in the red dust. Their tusks are often broken or absent due to past poaching pressures.
Book Your Safari Timing: The best time for game viewing is typically early morning (starting just after sunrise) and late afternoon (the two hours before sunset) when animals are most active and the light is best for photography.
Gate Times are Strict: The National Park gate times are strictly enforced, especially if you are self-driving. Check the official SANParks website for the current summer and winter times and plan your driving accordingly.
Driving Rules: Stick strictly to the speed limits and designated roads inside the park. It is illegal and dangerous to alight from your vehicle except at designated spots, like the main camp and picnic areas.
Hidden Gems
- The Dune Field Lookout: Drive to this point within Addo for a spectacular view over the coastal dune fields, a unique, often-overlooked part of the park’s ecosystem.
- Picnic at Jack’s Picnic Site: A beautiful, fenced-in spot within the park where you can safely get out of your car, enjoy a packed lunch, and use the restroom.
- The Flightless Dung Beetle: Addo is home to the endemic, flightless Addo Dung Beetle. Be extremely careful when driving in the park to avoid running over these protected creatures, especially near fresh piles of elephant dung!
- Eastern Cape Hospitality: Engage with the local staff and rangers. The Eastern Cape is known for its friendly, welcoming people and you’ll find an immense passion for conservation among those who work in the reserves.
Top Restaurants
Woodall Country House Restaurant [$50-$80] – Known for its fine dining menu with a strong focus on South African flavors and locally sourced ingredients, set within a luxurious country estate near the park.
Restaurant @ Zuurberg Mountain Village [$35-$55] – Offering a traditional, country-style menu with spectacular views over the Zuurberg mountain range, this restaurant is housed in a historic hotel outside the main park gates.
Africanos Country Estate Restaurant [$30-$50] – A well-regarded country-chic restaurant in the heart of Addo, offering an à la carte menu that blends traditional South African and international cuisine, and also features the area’s only Sushi Bar.
Cycad Restaurant (at Zuurberg Mountain Village) [$35-$55] – Exuding an elegant, traditional African atmosphere, this restaurant offers a la carte and set menus with delicious country-style cuisine.
Silver Thorns @ River Bend Lodge [$60-$90] – Located in a private concession of the Addo Elephant National Park, this offers a luxury fine dining experience that must be booked in advance.
Hitgeheim Country Lodge Restaurant [$40-$60] – Situated on an eco-reserve with breathtaking views, this restaurant focuses on authentic South African cuisine with a touch of elegance.
Gorah Elephant Camp Dining [$80-$120] – This exclusive, five-star tented camp offers a unique dining experience in the heart of Addo, where guests dine on a colonial-era verandah with views of the waterhole (reservations are essential and non-guest policy may vary).
Kuzuko Lodge Restaurant [$40-$60] – Located in the remote northern section of the Greater Addo Elephant National Park, this restaurant offers game dishes and South African specialties with stunning Karoo landscape views.
Molo Lolo Restaurant [$30-$50] – Part of Addo Africa Home, this fine-dining spot focuses on a “responsible cuisine” using home-grown vegetables from their organic garden and fresh local products.
The Deck Restaurant (at Addo Dung Beetle Guest Farm) [$30-$50] – Offering beautiful views and a hearty menu that blends local and international dishes, perfect for a relaxed dinner after a game drive.
Lapa Restaurant (at Schotia Safaris) [$40-$60] – Known for its traditional South African braai (barbecue) dinner prepared over an open fire in an expansive open-air reed-walled lapa. Often included in safari packages.
De Old Drift Guest Farm Restaurant [$30-$50] – Offering a pleasant setting and a menu featuring traditional South African dishes and homestyle cooking, perfect for a quiet meal.
The Stables at Chrislin African Lodge [$25-$45] – Offers traditional and contemporary South African meals in a rustic setting, often catering to lodge guests but welcoming outside visitors with prior arrangement.
Nyosi Wildlife Reserve Restaurant [$35-$55] – This modern reserve near Gqeberha offers dining inspired by the richness of the surrounding nature and a great spot to enjoy local gins and wines.
Muse Restaurant [$35-$55] – Located in Richmond Hill, this intimate and handsome restaurant offers contemporary fine dining and is a true step above the region’s generally mediocre dining scene.
Ginger The Restaurant [$40-$60] – A beachfront eatery in Summerstrand with a fine-dining menu influenced by Cape flavors and inventive starters. Known for its superb culinary experience.
De Kelder Restaurant [$30-$50] – Offers a perfect balance of quality and price with a varied menu including unique starters like a trio of warthog, springbok, and crocodile carpaccio, and excellent steaks.
The Hussar Grill – Walmer [$30-$50] – Part of a premier South African grill room chain, known for its perfectly aged succulent steaks, delectable house specialties, and extensive wine list.
Fushin Sushi & Oriental [$30-$50] – Widely regarded as the best sushi and Oriental food in the area, offering a clean, contemporary dining experience in Gqeberha.
Grazia Fine Food & Wine [$35-$55] – An elegant spot in Gqeberha known for its modern Italian-inspired menu and an extensive selection of fine wines.
Coachman on the Bay [$25-$45] – A classic seafood and grill spot in Summerstrand, popular with locals for its consistent quality and views of the bay.
Barney’s Tavern [$20-$40] – A lively, casual spot on the Boardwalk Beachfront complex, offering a mix of steaks, seafood, and classic South African fare.
Off The Menu Food Emporium [$25-$45] – A speciality grocer and bistro offering luxury foods, artisan coffees, and an excellent tapas-style small plates menu in a chic setting.
Savages [$35-$55] – Located near St George’s Park, this fine dining spot is also a bakery/patisserie offering high-quality, organic breakfast and dinner options.
Isango Gate Penda Pendu Restaurant [$40-$60] – Located in a serene boutique hotel, this restaurant offers modern fine dining with an African touch in Summerstrand.
Vovo Telo Bakery & Cafe (Richmond Hill) [$10-$20] – A famous South African bakery chain that started in Gqeberha, perfect for artisan breads, pastries, great coffee, and a light breakfast or lunch.
Bridge Street Brewery [$15-$30] – A trendy micro-brewery and bistro on the banks of the Baakens River, popular for its craft beer, gourmet burgers, and lively atmosphere.
Ziggy’s Rock & Reggae Bar [$15-$30] – Found in Pine Lodge Resort, this casual spot is known for its grilled food, gourmet burgers, and laid-back seaside atmosphere.
Elephant Walk Restaurant [$20-$35] – A popular country restaurant located just outside Gqeberha in Colleen Glen, offering hearty meals and a family-friendly atmosphere.
The Boma Restaurant (Seaview) [$20-$35] – A country restaurant with a distinctly African look and feel, nestled in the lush Eastern Cape bushes outside Gqeberha.
Slipperfields Farm Kitchen [$15-$25] – Located on a farm near Lady Slipper, this spot is known for its simple, affordable, and fresh farm kitchen meals and rustic setting.
Blackbeards [$30-$50] – Recognized as Gqeberha’s Seafood Landmark, this is one of the oldest and most respected seafood restaurants in the city.
La Kouzina [$25-$45] – Located in Brookes on the Bay, offering a delicious selection of Greek, Italian, and seafood dishes.
White Tiger [$25-$45] – A popular Thai restaurant in Gqeberha, offering authentic and flavourful Thai cuisine in a modern setting.
For a Traditional African Experience (Gqeberha) [$10-$20] – While hard to pinpoint a single non-touristy spot, seeking out local shisa nyama (braai/grill) or a reliable township restaurant (often best done via a local tour guide for safety/authenticity) offers a true taste of Xhosa culture.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Nineteen33 Speakeasy Bar & Venue: Transport yourself to the Prohibition era at this immersive speakeasy bar, discreetly located in Gqeberha’s commercial district. Reservations are typically required for this classy and sophisticated experience.
Sorella Cicchetti & Cocktail Bar: Found in the South End area, this spot offers an intimate, fun vibe perfect for mingling, with a menu featuring bold new flavours and expertly crafted cocktails alongside cicchetti (small snacks).
White Tiger Bar + Cafe: A popular crowd favourite in the Humewood area, known for its lively ambiance, great music, and excellent service. It’s an ideal spot for a casual or lively evening out.
Finnezz Fusion Café: An award-winning cocktail bar located right along the Port Elizabeth beachfront, offering a vibrant atmosphere and a wide selection of delightful drinks.
The Taste Room: Situated in the vibrant Walmer district, this top-notch venue is perfect for adventurous drinkers, offering a unique selection of drinks and cocktails and focusing on South African wines and gourmet pairings.
Barn & Barrel: Boasting a warm, inviting atmosphere in Walmer Heights, this spot is ideal for winding down with friends, offering a selection of cocktails alongside friendly staff and a pub menu.
Cosmos Cocktail Bar & Eatery: A top pick for cocktail enthusiasts in Gqeberha, known for its friendly staff and incredible drinks, making it perfect for a casual night out or a special occasion.
Banana Beach Bar & Kitchen: The place to be in Summerstrand, this spot offers a great blend of beachside relaxation and vibrant nightlife, with amazing cocktails and the best views in the bay.
Tabu: An elegant cocktail bar situated within the Radisson Blu Hotel in Summerstrand, providing a refined setting for enjoying a drink with an ocean-side breeze.
Ziggy’s R&R Bar: Found in the Summerstrand area, this bar offers a fantastic selection of reasonably priced drinks and a casual, easygoing atmosphere perfect for relaxed evenings.
Bohemia Art Gallery & Wine Bar: Located in the Walmer district, this intimate and stylish venue creates a memorable experience by blending art displays with fine wines and creative cocktails.
Africanos Country Estate Cocktail Bar: Situated 10km from the Addo Elephant National Park, this fine wine and cocktail bar within the estate provides a more upscale, country-chic experience near the reserves.
Infinity Cocktail Bar & Eatery: A cozy, local spot in Algoa Park, known for its good service and delightful drinks, offering a relaxed environment to sip on cocktails and catch up with friends.
Lush Cocktail Lounge: A dedicated cocktail bar in Gqeberha providing a sleek and modern setting for enjoying premium mixed drinks.
Pendu Penda Bar (Isango Gate): The bar within the elegant Isango Gate Boutique Hotel in Summerstrand, a lovely spot close to the ocean offering a refined atmosphere for evening drinks.