Plan your visit
Plan your Addo Safari
Everything you need to know about driving routes, park rules, gate times, and daily itineraries.
Getting there
Getting to the park gates.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tour: Booked full-day guided game drive from Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha) | 7-9 hours (including 45-60 min transfer each way) | approx. $150 - $200 (R2800+) | Includes hotel pickup, park entry fees, an English-speaking guide in an open 4x4 or air-conditioned vehicle, and typically a traditional braai (BBQ) lunch. |
| Car: Self-drive via the R335 to the Main Gate or N2 to the Matyholweni Gate | 45-60 minutes from Port Elizabeth | Car rental + about R400–500 international park entry | Roads in the game viewing area are accessible for standard sedans, though many are corrugated gravel. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
The park is open year-round. Game viewing peaks during the dry winter months between May and September. Vegetation is thinner, and animals gather around waterholes.
Summer brings hot weather and lush green thickets. This makes spotting elusive animals like black rhinos harder, but birdwatching is excellent.
What to bring
Your ticks are saved in this browser only.
The strict speed limit on all park roads is 40 km/h (25 mph).
Allow plenty of time to drive between camps and viewpoints.
How the day runs
Suggested routes for your time in the park.
A complete loop of the main game area from south to north.
- Enter at Matyholweni Gate
Start at the southern gate just off the N2 highway.
- Spekboom Loop
Drive this winding dirt road slowly to look for browsing elephants.
- Addo Main Camp
Stop at the headquarters for lunch and use the underground viewing hide.
- Hapoor Dam
Park at this famous waterhole. Turn off your engine and watch the herds drink.
The typical schedule for a full-day guided safari from Port Elizabeth.
- Hotel Pickup
Meet your guide in Port Elizabeth and drive 45 minutes to the park.
- Morning Game Drive
Focus on spotting lions and antelope while temperatures are cooler.
- Lunch Break
Stop for a traditional braai (BBQ) or light lunch at a rest camp.
- Return Transfer
Leave the park and arrive back at your Port Elizabeth accommodation.
Park rules and safety
Visitors must stay inside their vehicles at all times. You may only exit at designated fenced lookout points, picnic areas, or camps. Keep at least 30 meters away from elephants and yield to them on the roads.
Watch out for the flightless dung beetle. These insects have right-of-way on all roads. It is a strict park regulation to swerve and avoid driving over elephant dung.
Easiest way to do it
Addo Elephant National Park All Inclusive Full-Day Safari
9 h 4.9 (296)
- Hotel drop-off
- Transportation by airconditioned 4x4
- Professional guide
- National Park fees
From$192per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
Do you need a 4x4 for Addo Elephant Park?
No. Standard sedans can access the roads in the game viewing area. Be aware that many secondary routes are corrugated gravel.
Can you self-drive Addo Elephant National Park?
Yes. You can drive your own rental car through the park. Pay the conservation fee at the gate and follow the map.
What should I pack for an open vehicle safari?
Bring warm layered clothing. Early morning open-vehicle drives are freezing, even in summer. You also need sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and binoculars.