The Place Where Elephants Walk

ADDO ELEPHANT NATIONAL PARK

Deep within the shadows of the dense valley bushveld of the Sundays River region of the Eastern Cape lies the Addo Elephant National Park. It is situated 72 km from Port Elizabeth. The access road from the main road (4 km) is tarred as far as the rest camp. Roads within the rest camp are tarred – all other internal roads are gravel. The Addo Elephant National Park represents one of South Africa’s major conservation success stories. In the early days of European settlement, the elephants of the Eastern Cape were ruthlessly hunted for their ivory, and they were later subjected to a deliberate campaign of extermination. By 1920, the great herds which once roamed the region had dwindled to only 11 survivors. Since proclamation of the park in 1931 Addo’s Elephant population has grown to 205. The park also supports Cape buffalo, black rhino, kudu and other antelope, the flightless dung beetle and over 180 bird species. Two hiking trails have been laid out in the park, and conducted night drives can be arranged, offering a rare experience of nocturnal life in the bush. A large waterhole near the chalets and cottages, enables guests to watch game from the comfort of their verandas. Illuminated at night, it provides exceptional opportunities for game viewing. Gate hours Addo 07:00 – 19:00 throughout the year. Zuurberg 07:30 – 16:30 throughout the year.

Climate

Temperate to warm, with annual rainfall of 450 mm occurring throughout the year.

Accommodation

All accommodation is serviced daily and provided with bedding, towels and soap. Six bed guest cottages, each with two bedrooms, bathrooms en suite (one with bath; one with shower), open plan partially equipped kitchen. bungalows each with two single beds, a double sleeper coach, bathroom (bath and shower), basically equipped kitchen. Two bed bungalows with bathroom (shower), basically equipped kitchen. two bed bungalows, each with bathroom (shower), refrigerator, communal kitchen facilities with basic kitchen equipment.

Camping

Caravan and camp sites, communal ablution and kitchen facilities. Caravan sites equipped with 220 v power points. A maximum of six persons, one caravan with a side tent and one vehicle, or one tent and one vehicle, or one autovilla or one motorized caravan will be permitted per site.

Other facilities

Picnic area for day visitors. Swimming pool for resident visitors only. Restaurant, serving a la carte meals and light refreshments. Only petrol is available.

Recreational Activities

Game viewing from own vehicle. Bird watching from hide in rest camp. Game viewing at night – illuminated waterhole. Guided night drives to experience nocturnal species. Spekbook Day Trail (3 – 4 hours) in the safety of a botanical reserve within the park. Lookout points at various waterholes within game area. Horse riding at Zuurberg (17 km from Addo). Two nature trails at Zuurberg – one hour and five hours.

Handy Hints

Bring along binoculars, camera, walking shoes and wildlife reference books.

Take Note

Pets are not allowed in national parks. Firearms to be declared at reception where they will be sealed. The seal will be broken upon departure. No citrus fruits may be brought into the park. Medical, vehicle repair and police service are available at Addo Village and Sunlands (15 km).

Accommodation in and around Southern Drakensberg