Addo

Addo is the pulsating heart of nature conservation in the Eastern Cape, primarily known as the home of the Addo Elephant National Park. Originally established in 1931 to protect the last eleven elephants in the region, the park now hosts over 600 of these gentle giants. It is uniquely famous for being home to the 'Big Seven', lions, leopards, buffaloes, rhinos, elephants, as well as the great white shark and the southern right whale in its marine sections. The landscape is characterized by the dense Addo Bush, a unique succulent-rich vegetation providing a convenient habitat for diverse wildlife. Visitors can explore the park on guided game drives or self-drive safaris, where waterholes often become the stage for spectacular elephant gatherings. Beyond wildlife, the Sundays River Valley in Addo is one of South Africa's largest citrus-producing areas, filling the air with the scent of orange blossoms in spring. Adventure seekers can enjoy activities such as ziplining over the Sundays River or canoeing in its calm waters. Addo is located about 70 kilometers north of Gqeberha and is easily accessible via well-maintained roads. As a malaria-free destination, it is particularly popular with families. The best time for wildlife viewing is during the dry winter months from June to August when animals congregate at water sources.

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

Formerly known as Umtata, it was the capital of the Transkei and is deeply connected to the history of Nelson Mandela.

Bhisho

This small town serves as the administrative capital of the Eastern Cape province and houses government buildings.

Komani

A town surrounded by mountains, historically designed as a strategic outpost.

Makhanda

Previously known as Grahamstown, the city is famous for its educational institutions and annual arts festival.

Graaff-Reinet

The fourth-oldest town in the country, enclosed by a bend of the Sundays River, full of Cape Dutch architecture.

Aliwal North

The town on the Orange River is mostly known for its hot mineral springs, drawing many visitors.

Cradock

A historic gem in the heart of the Karoo, renowned for its Victorian architecture and as a gateway to the Mountain Zebra National Park.

Jeffreys Bay

World-renowned as a surfer's paradise, this town offers endless beaches, famous waves, and a laid-back coastal atmosphere.

Port Alfred

Port Alfred is a vibrant coastal town situated on the Kowie River, offering magnificent beaches and a bustling marina.

Gonubie

A scenic coastal town near East London in South Africa's Eastern Cape, known for its river mouth and sandy beaches.

Bushman's River Mouth

Bushman's River Mouth is a picturesque coastal town on the Sunshine Coast, renowned for its spectacular river estuary.

Port Edward

Port Edward is a popular resort town on the South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal, near the border with the Eastern Cape.

History & landmarks

Port Elizabeth City Hall

A historic government building featuring a prominent clock tower in the center of Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth).

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.

More places

Addo Elephant National Park

Reserve famous for its massive elephant herds.

Addo Elephant National Park

A well-known park for its elephant herds.

Port of Ngqura

A deep-water port adjacent to the Coega Industrial Development Zone, designed to handle new generation vessels.

Addo Citrus Farm

Discover the cultivation of citrus fruits in the Addo region.

Volkswagen Plant Kariega

The largest car plant in Africa, producing the popular Polo model for international distribution.

Suurberg Mountains

A mountain range in the Addo Elephant National Park area.

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.