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Addo Elephant National Park
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Addo Elephant National Park, located near Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape, is South Africa's third-largest national park and a global conservation success story. Founded in 1931, the park was established to safeguard the final 11 remaining Cape elephants in the region from extinction due to conflict with farmers and hunters. Through decades of careful management, the elephant population has flourished to over 600 individuals today, making it one of the densest populations of these giants in the world. The park's expansion in recent years has incorporated diverse biomes, ranging from the semi-arid Karoo to coastal dunes and marine protected areas. This makes Addo the only place on Earth where one can find the 'Big Seven': elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion, leopard, Great White shark, and Southern Right whale. Beyond the megafauna, the park is home to the unique flightless dung beetle, which is strictly protected within its boundaries. With its varied terrain and commitment to biodiversity, Addo has a comprehensive wildlife experience that bridges the gap between terrestrial and marine ecosystems.
- Location: South Africa
- Top sights: Nyati Water Hole · Rooidam Viewpoint · Zuurkop Lookout Point
- Nearby: Kariega (48 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Apr, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 22 | 23 | 21 | 19 | 17 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 18 | 19 | 21 |
| Rain mm | 67 | 62 | 66 | 47 | 26 | 23 | 29 | 44 | 35 | 58 | 61 | 56 |
📋 Practical info
Best season
The best time to visit is the South African winter from May to September, when vegetation is sparser and animals gather at waterholes. Summer months offer lush green landscapes.
Best time of day
Elephants are most active in the early morning and late afternoon. Plan your game drives for these times to observe the large herds.
Etiquette
Stay inside your vehicle at all times and only exit at designated areas. Do not feed the animals and maintain at least 50 meters distance.
What to bring
Binoculars with good magnification are essential for observing the elephant herds. A camera with a telephoto lens and sun protection are recommended.
Getting there
The park is about 70 km north of Port Elizabeth and accessible via the N2 highway. There are several entrance gates, the main gate is at Colchester.
What to expect
Elephants are common but may roam in remote areas. Allow plenty of time and specifically check waterholes and open plains.
Geography
Facts
- The park was proclaimed in 1931 when only 11 elephants were left in the area.
- It now covers an area of approximately 1,640 square kilometers (164,000 hectares).
- The elephant population has successfully increased to over 600 individuals.
- It is recognized as the only park in the world to host the 'Big Seven' species.
- The park's marine section includes the largest breeding colony of African penguins.
- The unique flightless dung beetle (Circellium bacchus) is found almost exclusively here.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Addo Elephant National Park (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the park's main highlight?
The park is famous for its high density of elephants and is malaria-free.
Best time to see elephants?
In the dry season, elephants frequent the waterholes near the main camps.
Are there lions there too?
Yes, Addo now also hosts lions, though they are rarer to spot than elephants.
Do I need a reservation?
Not for day visits, but accommodation inside the park should be booked well in advance.
How are the roads?
Main roads are gravel and easily accessible by a standard car.
Addo Elephant National Park: where is it located?
Addo Elephant National Park is located in South Africa.
Addo Elephant National Park: what is there to see?
Highlights include Nyati Water Hole, Rooidam Viewpoint, Zuurkop Lookout Point.
Addo Elephant National Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Apr, Dec.
Addo Elephant National Park: why is it worth visiting?
Addo Elephant National Park, located near Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape, is South Africa's third-largest national park and a global conservation success story.
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Nearby cities
Gqeberha
Formerly known as Port Elizabeth, this coastal city is a major hub for the South African automotive industry.
East London
South Africa's only river port city is situated at the mouth of the Buffalo River on the Indian Ocean.
Kariega
Formerly called Uitenhage, this industrial town is heavily involved in the production of cars and tires.
Mthatha
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Bhisho
This small town serves as the administrative capital of the Eastern Cape province and houses government buildings.
Komani
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Makhanda
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Graaff-Reinet
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Aliwal North
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Cradock
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History & landmarks
Port Elizabeth City Hall
A historic government building featuring a prominent clock tower in the center of Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth).
Addo
World-famous for its Elephant National Park, Addo offers unparalleled wildlife safaris in the malaria-free Eastern Cape.
Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium
A multi-purpose stadium in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) featuring a distinctive roof design.
Owl House
A fascinating house and sculpture garden created by outsider artist Helen Martins in Nieu-Bethesda.
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Addo Elephant National Park
A well-known park for its elephant herds.
Addo Citrus Farm
Discover the cultivation of citrus fruits in the Addo region.
Suurberg Mountains
A mountain range in the Addo Elephant National Park area.
Port of Ngqura
A deep-water port adjacent to the Coega Industrial Development Zone, designed to handle new generation vessels.
Volkswagen Plant Kariega
The largest car plant in Africa, producing the popular Polo model for international distribution.
Port of Gqeberha
Formerly known as the Port of Port Elizabeth, it is a key facility for the automotive export industry.
Winterberg
A mountain region in the Eastern Cape with cooler temperatures.
Mountain Zebra National Park
Conservation area for the rare South African mountain zebra.