Explore
The northern section is the original core of Addo Elephant National Park. This area features dense Albany thicket and the park's highest concentration of elephants.
Most full-day guided safaris and self-drive visitors focus their time in this northern section. The dense vegetation provides a rich habitat for the park's elephant herds, black rhinos, and lions.
You access this area via the Main Gate, located 72 kilometers north of Port Elizabeth. Strict rules apply here, including a 40 km/h speed limit and the right-of-way for flightless dung beetles.
1-2 hoursElephant herds
Hapoor Dam is the most productive waterhole in the park. Massive herds of elephants congregate here to drink and bathe during the day. Park your vehicle at the designated viewpoint and turn off your engine. The elephants frequently walk right past parked cars.
1 hourFacilities available
This area serves as the park's headquarters and primary rest stop. It features a restaurant, shop, fuel station, and an underground hide overlooking a floodlit waterhole. It is the safest place to use the restroom, buy coffee, or eat lunch during a full-day drive.
45 minutesWinding dirt road
This scenic, winding dirt road cuts through dense succulent thicket. The vegetation provides excellent cover for browsing elephants and elusive black rhinos. Drive slowly and carefully check all blind corners. Elephants can step out of the thick bush very suddenly.
