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!

The best places to stay in Addo

For Families

• Bydand B&B offers five simple, contemporary rooms. The garden playground, swimming pool and games are sure to be a hit with the kids, whilst there are plenty of activities — from sailing to safaris — to do together in the area. A great value family choice.
• Chrislin African Lodge is a laid-back pick for a fun, family stay. Thatched huts are spacious, and many offer private balconies and gorgeous views. The children’s play area and swimming pool are perfect for unwinding, and the in-house tour company — Crisscross Adventures — offers great day trips. A rustic and relaxed family base with a restaurant serving hearty South African fare.
• Elephant House is a beautiful family-run hotel with eight rooms in the main farmhouse and six Cape-style cottages scattered around the grounds. Think antiques, quirky artwork and stacks of character, as well as fab farm-to-table food and two lovely swimming pools. Family Cottages sleep 4, whilst the Stable Cottages are an intimate couples’ retreat. With horse riding, zip-lining, golf, 4x4 safaris and more, there’s something here for everyone. A warm, welcoming stay.
• River Bend Lodge is an elegant Victorian homestead in Addo National Park. The thoughtfully-appointed rooms and cottage suites brim with classic charm, and many offer interconnecting rooms. Relax at the small onsite spa and spend days birdwatching or elephant-spotting from the terrace. Guides are great with children, making game drives exciting and accessible. An intimate family hotel in a top location.
• Hlosi Game Lodge is a super-stylish hideaway with both lavish suites and smart tented accommodation, including spacious family options. Enjoy the outdoor pool, game drives, river cruises and the special Cubs on Safari programme for little ones. Family-focused luxury!

For Nature Lovers

• Koedoeskop Private Mountain Reserve prides itself on stepping beyond 4x4 safaris and specialising in horse-riding, mountain biking, tracking, botany trails and hiking, encouraging guests to delve deeper into this striking region. This is also a great family choice, with four rustic-chic bedrooms offering the option of adding single beds, and specific nature-focused activities for children. A fantastic, family-run hotel focused on exploring.
• Kuzuko Lodge offers 24 hillside chalets (some of which have space for the whole family) with dramatic views. The lodge boasts a children’s play area, an infinity pool and a wellness centre, but the standout here is the focus on conservation and community. Food is grown by local farmers or hotel staff and their families, and there’s a big effort to create jobs and protect wildlife. An excellent choice for a fun, educational experience.
• Woodbury Lodge is an appealingly secluded escape in the Amakhala Game Reserve, with great Bushman’s River valley views. Six stone-and-thatch cottages ensure a tranquil, intimate stay. Children will love the outdoor pool, river cruises and game drives. The rural location means you can expect to see plenty of wildlife, including the famed Big Five.

For a spa

• Woodall Country House & Spa is a charming, family-run hotel in a 20th century farmhouse on a 65-acre citrus farm. Rooms and suites boast four-poster beds and one Family Suite comes with a private pool. Whilst this is a great choice for foodies and wine lovers, the big standout here is The Citrus Spa. Try the signature African Wood Massage or Citrus Fusion Massage for total bliss.
• Shamwari Bayethe offers a sumptuous five-star stay, with contemporary tented bedrooms and large bathrooms boasting free-standing baths. Pick this place for beautiful views, private pools, gourmet fare and an indulgent open-air spa. The Shamwari Signature Treatment promises a rejuvenating 2.5 hour experience. A romantic honeymoon choice.

For a tented safari stay

• Woodbury Tented Camp is the perfect place to get back to nature. Large canvas tents house big beds and en-suite bathrooms. Chill out by the pool, head off on horseback, birdwatch from your terrace and admire impressive views of Bushman’s River. A great-value pick for cool campers.
• Quartermain’s 1920s Safari Camp offers an amazing chance to step back in time, through a colonial-style tented experience. Think cosy camp beds, wooden trunks and cooking on a campfire under the stars. A romantic adventure!
• Hillsnek Safari Camp promises an appealingly intimate stay, with just four luxurious tented bedrooms and a comfortable family-friendly feel. There’s a small outdoor pool, lovely communal areas and beautiful views. A chic, enchanting choice.
• Gorah Elephant Camp is an exclusive tented camp set around a historic manor house in Addo National Park. The 11 canvas-topped suites are opulent and sophisticated, influenced by the traditions of the safaris of the 1900s. Dining in the imposing manor house is a real event, with gourmet meals overlooking the watering hole and the vast plains beyond. Marvellous tented luxury.

For eco-luxury

• Hitgeheim Country Lodge & Eco-Reserve features stylish thatched chalets with private terraces — some have plunge pools — and stunning views over the orange groves and the countryside beyond. There is an adults-only wing, as well as top-notch Family Suites in another part of the hotel. Enjoy gourmet dinners and sundowners on your gorgeous terrace. A chic and sophisticated honeymoon hideaway with a commendable eco-ethos.
• Camp Figtree is a small, solar-powered sanctuary, offering spell-binding views from mountaintop rooms, suites and luxury tents. The decor is classic and luxurious, with enormous bathrooms and a wonderful outdoor pool. The African Country-style Karoo food is a real highlight, as is the impressive wine cellar.

For an apartment or villa

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly from Cape Town or Johannesburg to Port Elizabeth International Airport. Addo is around 1 hour north-east of Port Elizabeth. Most hotels will be happy to arrange an airport pick up with a reliable driver, which is especially helpful if you’re staying somewhere remote.
• Alternatively, contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Addo is a great year-round destination, with very little rain. Come between December and March for the warmest weather (temperatures average around 24°C). This is peak season so do book well in advance to avoid missing out!
• If you are especially keen to see certain animals whilst on safari, speak to your hotel about migratory patterns and the best months to travel.

Still not sure?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Port Elizabeth.

• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of all the best places to stay in the Eastern Cape.

• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.