Addo Elephant National Park

Tucked away in South Africa’s Eastern Cape, Addo Elephant National Park offers a wonderfully uncrowded safari experience just an hour’s drive from the coastal city of Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth). This malaria-free reserve is home to over 600 African elephants—making it one of the best places in the country to witness these gentle giants up close.

Addo isn’t just about elephants though. The park protects an astonishing variety of habitats, from dense thicket to open plains and marine coastline. That means you’ll have the chance to see the Big Five, as well as the lesser-known—but equally fascinating—flightless dung beetle, which is protected within the park’s boundaries. Lions, spotted hyenas, buffalo and black rhino are often spotted, and the coastal section includes islands that shelter Cape fur seals and African penguins.

Whether you choose a guided game drive or opt for a self-drive adventure, Addo’s excellent roads and infrastructure make it easy to explore. There are well-marked viewpoints, picnic spots, and even hideaways overlooking waterholes where you can sit quietly and let the wildlife come to you.

The surrounding area also offers charming country lodges, citrus farms, and scenic landscapes that make Addo a great stop on a broader Eastern Cape or Garden Route itinerary. It’s especially popular with families and first-time visitors seeking a relaxed, rewarding safari without the need for malaria precautions.