The third largest game reserve in South Africa, Addo Elephant National Park is famed for the huge elephant herds which gather at its watering holes, as well as for sightings of the ‘Big Five’. Addo’s popularity has ensured that accommodation options are wide-ranging and cater to an array of budgets, offering everything from simple tented camps to luxurious lodges with private plunge pools. Whether you’re dreaming of a honeymoon hideaway or a conservation-focused family escape, our pick of the best places to stay in Addo promises a warm South African welcome in a picturesque setting.
Just an hour’s drive from Port Elizabeth, Addo’s main attraction is the enormous National Park itself, founded in 1931 to protect the area’s remaining elephants. Expanded numerous times since, the Park is now home to lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and Cape buffalo — widely referred to as the ‘Big Five’ — as well as countless other fascinating creatures. Whether you choose to marvel at Addo’s impressive flora and fauna from a 4x4, on horseback or on foot, knowledgable guides are poised to help you discover and understand the region’s many natural wonders through friendly and engaging tours. Some of our favourite hotels offer river cruises, whilst others pride themselves on having created child-focused game drives and outdoor activities, ensuring that the whole family gets the most out of each safari adventure.
Keen golfers can play a round or two in the area, and certain lodges offer archery, zip-lining and self-driving excursions. Head further afield to thriving Port Elizabeth, on the coast, for fabulous food, heritage architecture and great shopping, or take a day trip to Algoa Bay, where you can spot White Sharks and Southern Right Whales — the rarest whales in the world.
Rise early for morning game drives, unwind by the pool and spot birds flitting overhead from the privacy of your terrace, before dining on delicious homegrown fare under the stars each evening. Most of the best places to stay in Addo have swimming pools, some boast spas, and all offer spell-binding views over the South African countryside, encouraging you to unwind in total tranquility. This is a charming destination, ideal for both families and couples eager to retreat from the outside world and admire nature at its most wild and striking!
Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Port Elizabeth.
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Addo
Contemporary stay within easy reach of some of Addo's most popular attractions. This family and budget-friendly guesthouse provides guests with their choice of sumptuous buffet and full English breakfast. There's an inviting pool and flexible accommodation, with rooms that include private terraces.
Addo
An excellent value family stay with a long list of outdoor activities and flexible accommodation. Comfortable rooms are the perfect base from which to explore Addo Elephant Park. Hearty South African dining is on the menu, plus there's an inviting pool. A great choice.
Addo
Traditional African style huts, with thatched roofs, concealing luxurious interiors and quirky bathrooms. Each includes its own private sit out from which to watch the birds and wildlife pass by. There's a pool, excellent safari opportunities, as well as a strong environmental ethos.
Addo
This colonial style lodge, boasting traditional thatched roof and surrounded by the wilderness of Addo National Park, just 8km away. Beautiful rooms include exposed beams, boldly upholstered furnishings and antique Persian rugs. Excellent cuisine and romantic rooms plus daily safaris.
Addo (Rietvlei Road, )
A very well priced family stay. There is something for everyone here, wildlife safaris, spa treatments, cycling, and even yoga classes - all ages will love. A hearty breakfast is included, to set you up for a day spent exploring. Excellently located for visits to Addo Elephant Park.
Addo
This intimate lodge, within easy reach of the wilderness of Addo Elephant Park, provides a pampering backdrop during your stay in the Eastern Cape. Fine dining, a long list of spa treatments, lavish suites and modern bathrooms: it all makes for a very romantic stay. Outdoor activities abound.
Addo
Excellent value luxurious lodge this seven bedroom stay provides guests with very comfortable rooms: four-poster beds and Victorian style bathrooms with clawfoot tubs and monochrome tiles. There's an inviting pool, fine dining, and guests can choose between 4x4, walking, and elephant safaris.
Addo (Addo 6105 )
A lovely Victorian homestead set within Addo Elephant Park. The eight individual suites are elegant yet homely with antiques, beautiful bathrooms and fabulous views. Spend days on exhilarating game drives before returning to feast on top-notch gourmet cuisine and unwind in the indulgent spa.
Addo
This all-inclusive camp provides excellent value for families. With all meals, plus two game drives included in the rate, it's a very inviting option. Stylish tents provide every creature comfort, whilst still feeling like you're camping. There's a pool, a bar, and unspoilt views of Bushmans River.
Addo (EASTERN CAPE)
Set within the rugged surrounds of Addo Elephant National Park overlooked by the Zuurberg Mountains. There is a long list of outdoor activities, so it's very popular with families and al fresco spa treatments means adults can relax too! Candle-lit dining, luxury rooms - it's a popular stay.
Addo
The real safari experience. This 1920s style camp provides an authentic safari experience. Open tents are designed in a colonial style - camp beds with rustic trunks. Cooking is done on an open fire under the stars. A true adventure, yet very romantic, and children will love! One of a kind.
Addo
Well priced, all-inclusive lodge accommodation providing luxurious interiors and excellent value. Each of its thatched cottages offers an authentic African stay amidst the wilderness with the benefit of four-poster beds, private terraces, and enormous baths. Twice daily safaris should not be missed.
Addo
With just four bedrooms, this lodge is a very intimate experience. With tailored family accommodation, it's a great stay for all ages. Each room and tent provides luxurious interiors, depending on your preference. Make friends with your four-legged neighbours on a safari drive!
Addo
Charming property providing both tented and lodge accommodation. Children are well looked after with special kids safaris and a children's club, plus tailored menus and family suites. Every room boasts fabulous views, choose between four posters and lavish tents. All include spoiling bathrooms.
Addo
Five-star stay amidst the famed Addo Elephant National Park. Relax in the lavish setting of your colonial-style tent to the sound of the plains. Candle-lit dining is the height of luxury - every creature comfort is taken care of. There's an inviting pool (the guest's own watering hole) to unwind.
Addo
An ultimate five-star stay. These luxurious suites boast private pools, opulent interiors, enormous bathrooms and epic views. There is an open-air spa, offering traditional treatments, as well as a gourmet menu and al fresco dining. Wildlife is on your doorstep at this all-inclusive stay.
