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!
Some of our Addo Collections:
