Addo Elephant National Park

The Addo Elephant National Park (area 14,551ha/35,941ac) lies 72km/45mi north of Port Elizabeth between the Zuurberg range and the valley of the Sundays River. It was established in 1931 to preserve the last eleven South African bush elephants from extinction (there are now some 450 elephants in the reserve). The valuable Cape buffalo has also been preserved here.

Other animals to be seen in the park include black rhinos and numerous species of antelope (bushbucks, kudus, red hartebeests, elands, Cape grysboks, duikers, etc.). Among nocturnal animals found here are porcupines, anteaters and bush pigs. 185 species of birds have been recorded, including Cape thick-knees, bronze-naped pigeons, ostriches, little swifts, quails, wattled starlings, Cape red-shouldered glossy starlings and kites. The bush in the park consists of low-growing trees and climbing plants. The dominant plant is the spekboom bush, the elephants' main source of food. The best place to see elephants is at one of the six waterholes in the park. For bird-watchers there is an observation platform at the entrance to the park.

Accommodation for visitors is available in rondavels, cottages, chalets and a camping site, and there are a restaurant and a shop. Day visitors are also welcome. The park can be explored by visitors in their own car. There is also an area surrounded by an elephant-proof fence in which they can walk freely.