Established
1931
Size
1,640 km²
Elevation
0–1,028 m
Ecosystem
Valley Bushveld, Fynbos, Marine
Best Time
Year-round (malaria-free)
Entry Fee
$20 per adult/day
About Addo Elephant National Park
Addo Elephant National Park in the malaria-free Eastern Cape is a conservation success story and Africa's only Big Seven park — combining the Big Five with southern right whales and great white sharks in its marine section. What started in 1931 with just 11 elephants has grown into a thriving population of over 600, making it one of Africa's densest elephant concentrations. The park spans five biomes from the Sundays River Valley to the offshore islands of Algoa Bay, creating extraordinary ecological diversity. For families and first-time safari visitors, Addo offers the perfect introduction to African wildlife without the malaria risk.
What Makes It Special
600+ elephants
Big Seven (land + marine)
100% malaria-free
Self-drive friendly
Close to Garden Route
Wildlife & Species
Things to Do
Best Time to Visit
Peak Season
Best wildlife viewing
MayJunJulAugSep
Shoulder Season
Fewer crowds, good value
OctApr
Green Season
Lush landscapes, birding
NovDecJanFebMar
Where to Stay
Gorah Elephant Camp
LuxuryColonial-style tented camp inside Addo, offering exclusive traversing rights and Big Five game drives.
From $650/night / night
Kuzuko Lodge
Mid-RangePrivate reserve on Addo's western boundary with stunning Karoo views and Big Five game drives.
From $300/night / night
Addo Main Camp
BudgetSANParks-managed rest camp with chalets, camping, pool, and restaurant overlooking a floodlit waterhole.
From $60/night / night
Safari Packages
5-Day Garden Route & Addo Safari
Combine stunning coastal scenery with elephant encounters