In short
- International adults pay about R400–500; children pay R246.
- South African citizens pay R110 per adult.
- Bring your original passport or ID to verify your rate.
In this article
The daily conservation fee applies to all visitors entering Addo Elephant National Park. Many guided tour packages include this cost in their total price, saving you time at the gate.
How much is the addo elephant park entrance fee for international visitors?
International adults pay about R400–500, and children pay R246.
These standard daily conservation fees are valid through October 2026. You must pay this rate if you are not a South African citizen or a resident of a SADC country. You can pay at the Main Gate or Matyholweni Gate upon arrival.
What are the rates for South African citizens and SADC nationals?
South African citizens pay R110, while SADC nationals pay R225.
SANParks offers discounted rates for local visitors to encourage domestic tourism. To qualify for these reduced daily conservation fees, you must present proof of residence or citizenship at the entry gate.
Do guided tours include the park entrance fee?
Yes, most full-day guided safaris include the SANParks fee in their booking price.
When you book a guided tour from Port Elizabeth, the operator typically covers the entrance fee. Your guide will handle the paperwork while you remain in the vehicle.
What do I need to bring to the gate?
Bring your original passport or South African ID.
Gate staff require official identification to verify your entry fee bracket. Copies are generally not accepted. If you do not have your passport or ID, you will be charged the standard international rate of about R400–500.
How often do SANParks fees change?
SANParks updates its daily conservation fees annually, typically in November.
The current Addo Elephant National Park entrance fees are locked in until the end of October 2026.
Where do you pay the entrance fee?
You pay at the reception desks at either the Main Gate or the Matyholweni Gate.
If you self-drive via the R335 or N2, you will park and pay inside the reception building before entering the main game viewing area. This fee goes toward park maintenance and wildlife conservation.
Questions travellers ask
Do children pay full price at Addo?
International children pay a reduced rate of R246. This is exactly half the international adult rate of about R400–500.
Does the entrance fee cover the marine section?
The standard fee covers the land-based game viewing areas. The Algoa Bay Marine Area requires booking specialized marine eco-tours leaving from Port Elizabeth harbor.
How far is the Main Gate from Port Elizabeth?
The Main Camp and gate are 72 kilometers north of Port Elizabeth via the R335. It takes about 45 to 60 minutes to drive there.
