Embark on an unforgettable journey through South Africa’s Addo Elephant National Park and witness the majesty of the Big 5 up close. Alongside experienced guides, explore the park’s diverse landscapes and encounter nearly 700 elephants. Venture beyond the park to the Sundays River Valley for a unique giraffe walk, offering a rare chance to interact with these gentle giants. Indulge in a traditional South African braai lunch, blending wildlife and cultural experiences for an immersive day in the heart of the country’s natural splendor. With transportation and other key details covered, all that’s left is to…
Good To Know
Key Points:
- Addo Elephant National Park offers diverse wildlife sightings, including the "Big 5" – African elephants, buffalos, lions, black rhinos, and leopards.
- The Giraffe Walk experience provides an intimate encounter with these gentle giants in their natural habitat outside the park.
- A traditional South African braai lunch is included, offering an authentic culinary experience amidst the safari setting.
- Convenient transportation with pickup options and an expert local guide ensures a seamless and enriching safari adventure.
- The tour includes park entry fees, conservation fees, and all necessary inclusions, with clarity on excluded services for proper planning.
Exploring Addo Elephant National Park
Within Addo Elephant National Park, visitors can embark on a guided tour and game drive to witness the park’s diverse wildlife.
Home to nearly 700 African elephants, the park also boasts buffalo, lions, black rhinos, and leopards – the famed Big 5.
Beyond these iconic species, the park is teeming with antelope, zebras, warthogs, and a variety of birds and reptiles.
Expert local guides lead the safari, providing insights into the animals’ behaviors and the park’s unique ecosystem.
With its malaria-free environment, Addo Elephant National Park offers an unparalleled opportunity to observe wildlife in their natural habitat.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Port Elizabeth.
Encountering the Big 5
As visitors explore the diverse landscapes of Addo Elephant National Park, they’re likely to encounter the renowned "Big 5" – a group of Africa’s most iconic wildlife species.
The park is home to close to 700 African elephants, as well as buffalos, lions, black rhinos, and leopards. These majestic animals can often be spotted during the guided tours and game drives.
While elephants and buffalos are frequently seen, the elusive leopards and rhinos require a sharp eye and skilled trackers to locate.
Visitors are sure to be in awe of these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Giraffe Walk Experience
Visitors venture beyond the boundaries of Addo Elephant National Park to the Sundays River Valley, where they’ll embark on a captivating Giraffe Walk experience.
Led by expert local guides, the activity allows guests to track and observe these gentle giants up close on foot. Giraffes are known for their long necks and distinctive patterns, and this intimate encounter offers a unique opportunity to appreciate their gentle nature.
With patience and caution, participants can get within a few meters of the giraffes, marveling at their towering presence and observing their behavior in their natural habitat.
This immersive experience is a highlight of the safari, offering a rare chance to interact with these magnificent creatures.
South African Braai Lunch
After the exhilarating Giraffe Walk, guests can look forward to savoring a traditional South African braai (barbecue) lunch.
The meal features a selection of grilled meats, such as succulent boerewors (farmer’s sausage) and juicy steaks, accompanied by classic side dishes like roasted vegetables, creamy pap (maize porridge), and tangy salads.
The spread is prepared by expert local chefs, ensuring an authentic and flavorful experience. Dietary requirements are catered for, allowing guests to fully enjoy this quintessential South African culinary delight amidst the stunning natural surroundings of the safari.
The braai lunch provides a delicious respite before continuing the adventure.
More Great Tours NearbyTransportation and Pickup Details
The safari experience begins with convenient pickup services from Port Elizabeth. Guests have the option to be picked up from their residences at 8:30 AM or from the Cruise Terminal at 8:00 AM. This ensures a seamless start to the day’s adventure. To accommodate all travelers, transportation is provided in either an air-conditioned vehicle or a custom 4×4, allowing for a comfortable and enjoyable journey.
Pickup Location | Pickup Time |
---|---|
Residences | 8:30 AM |
Cruise Terminal | 8:00 AM |
Return to | Port Elizabeth |
The expert local guide accompanies guests throughout the day, providing valuable insights and ensuring a memorable wildlife experience.
Tour Inclusions and Exclusions
The safari package includes a comprehensive set of services and amenities to enhance the overall experience.
It covers pickup and drop-off from Port Elizabeth and the Cruise Ship Terminal, transportation in air-conditioned vehicles or custom 4x4s, and expert local guides.
Plus, it provides park entry and conservation fees, a traditional South African braai (BBQ) lunch, and complimentary coffee, tea, and bottled water.
However, the package excludes any extra transportation costs outside the designated pickup and drop-off zones, gratuities, snacks, personal items, and anything not explicitly mentioned as included.
It’s important to confirm the pickup and drop-off location with the tour operator in advance.
Important Considerations
There are a few important considerations to keep in mind when booking the Addo Elephant Park and Giraffe Walk Safari.
The tour isn’t suitable for children under 3 years old or individuals with heart problems. To ensure a smooth experience, it’s essential to confirm the pickup and drop-off location with the tour operator via email.
Plus, the tour includes complimentary coffee, tea, and bottled water, but any extra transport costs outside the pickup/drop-off zones, gratuities, snacks, and personal items are excluded.
Customer Reviews
Numerous previous customers have praised the Addo Elephant Park and Giraffe Walk Safari, awarding it an impressive 5/5 overall rating. Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides who provide close encounters with the diverse wildlife, including the iconic African elephants, giraffes, and the Big 5.
Reviewer | Rating | Comment |
---|---|---|
John | 5/5 | "Incredible safari experience. Saw so many animals up close!" |
Sarah | 5/5 | "Highly recommended. Guides were fantastic, and the Giraffe Walk was a highlight." |
Michael | 5/5 | "Well-organized tour with a great balance of activities. Loved every minute!" |
Emily | 5/5 | "Unforgettable day. Can’t wait to return and do it all over again." |
David | 5/5 | "One of the best safaris I’ve ever been on. Exceeded all expectations." |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
You can bring your own snacks and drinks, but the tour includes a traditional South African braai (BBQ) lunch. Dietary requirements can be accommodated, so it’s best to confirm any special needs with the tour operator in advance.
Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?
While the standard tour itinerary is set, the tour operator may accommodate customization requests. Guests can discuss their preferences with the operator to explore potential modifications within the tour’s scope and duration.
What Is the Best Time of Year to Spot the Big 5?
The best time to spot the Big 5 in Addo Elephant National Park is during the dry season, typically from May to September. This is when the animals congregate around the limited water sources, making them more visible to visitors.
Can I Bring My Camera Equipment on the Giraffe Walk?
Yes, you can bring your camera equipment on the giraffe walk. It’s encouraged to capture the unique experience of walking alongside these magnificent creatures. Just be mindful not to disturb the animals or compromise the safety of the group.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
While there’s no option to extend the standard 7-hour tour, travelers can inquire about custom packages or private tours that may allow for a longer duration to explore the Addo Elephant Park and Giraffe Walk at their own pace.
The Sum Up
The Addo Elephant Park and Giraffe Walk Full Day Safari offers an unforgettable blend of South Africa’s rich wildlife and cultural experiences. Guests can enjoy the park’s diverse ecosystem, encounter the iconic Big 5, and enjoy a unique giraffe walk. Complemented by a traditional South African braai lunch, this safari provides an exceptional day filled with wildlife, nature, and cultural discovery.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Safari Adventures in Port Elizabeth
- Full Day Addo Elephant National Park Safari
- Full-Day Garden Route Safari From Port Elizabeth
- Full Day Private Addo Elephant Safari Min 2 Pax Max 6 Pax
- Full Day Addo and Schotia Private Game Reserve Safari
- Schotia Big 5 Safari Port Elizabeth (Optional Accommodation)
- Full Day Addo Elephant National Park Safari Wit BBQ:Thentic Tours
More Walking Tours in Port Elizabeth
- Guided Marine Walk: – Sardinia Bay (Marine Protected Area) – 2 Hours
- Port Elizabeth Walking City Tour
- Private Full-Day Addo Elephant Park & Giraffe Walk Safari
- Guided Marine Walk: – Sardinia Bay (Marine Protected Area) – 3 Hours
- Shore Excursion: Port Elizabeth Walking City Tour
- Addo Elephant Park and Giraffe Walk Full Day Safari
More Tour Reviews in Port Elizabeth
- Guided Marine Walk: – Sardinia Bay (Marine Protected Area) – 2 Hours
- Full Day Addo Elephant National Park Safari
- Port Elizabeth Tuk-Tuk Tour, Experience the Natural Beauty.
- Full-Day Garden Route Safari From Port Elizabeth
- Full Day Private Addo Elephant Safari Min 2 Pax Max 6 Pax
- Sandboarding in Jeffreys Bay, South Africa
Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Port Elizabeth we have reviewed
- Guided Marine Walk: – Sardinia Bay (Marine Protected Area) – 2 Hours
- Full Day Addo Elephant National Park Safari
- Port Elizabeth Tuk-Tuk Tour, Experience the Natural Beauty.
- 25 Best Tours In Port Elizabeth
- 2 Best Guided Tours In Port Elizabeth
- 3 Best Shore Excursions In Port Elizabeth
- 12 Best National Park Tours In Port Elizabeth
- Full-Day Garden Route Safari From Port Elizabeth
- Full Day Private Addo Elephant Safari Min 2 Pax Max 6 Pax
- Sandboarding in Jeffreys Bay, South Africa
- Full Day Addo and Schotia Private Game Reserve Safari
- Port Elizabeth Walking City Tour