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Mountain bikers can look forward to riding eco-friendly, hand-cut trails in one of the world’s most biologically diverse areas when they sign up for The Herald VW Cycle Tour in Addo on February 1.

The mountain biking segment of the cycle tour not only exposes riders to some of the area’s natural wonders but also provides pathways to development by creating trail-building jobs for local labourers.

According to race director Brad Jackson of Mountain Events, participants should expect “something new and exciting” from the newly skilled route builders.

“We believe that a good mountain bike race is all about good quality trails,” said Jackson.

“Every year we endeavour to add something different instead of just serving up the same old race routes year after year.”

This approach, he said, had led to various job creation and skills development opportunities.

“In collaboration with local landowners, we have worked on building some of the best dedicated mountain bike single track in the country.

“However as much as we love spending time outdoors building trails, we just don’t have the luxury of doing this on a full-time basis.”

Instead they decided to train and equip a team of local labourers to build and maintain mountain bike trails throughout the year.

At Hayterdale Trails, four labourers are employed on a permanent basis, while the development team expands to as many as eight workers from time to time, as needed.

“Aside from the fact that sustainable jobs have been created, these guys have truly become masters at trail building and have developed the skills to build proper single track while adhering to sound environmental principles.”

Due to the mostly inaccessible nature of the terrain, the majority of the work is done manually without the use of heavy machinery.

Jackson said the head of the trail-building crew, Zolile Pikoli, would showcase his signature trail section – the aptly named Zorr’s Rollercoaster – for the first time in next year’s race.

He said conserving the environment and ensuring it remained unharmed during events such as the cycle tour was extremely important as Addo encompassed five of the country’s seven biomes.

Jackson said riders would have the opportunity to experience the beauty and diversity of the region first-hand.

“The cycle tour mountain bike routes start among citrus orchards in the Sundays River Valley and extend to the Zuurberg mountain range and back, traversing a diverse range of vegetation along the way.

“If riders are lucky, they may even spot a herd of Addo elephant where sections of the feature route hugs the Addo Elephant National Park.”

If a brief glimpse from the bike left them wanting more, he said participants were encouraged to stay on and explore the region with families and friends after crossing the finish line.

Leading the host of accommodation options in the area is Zuurberg Mountain Village, which is the official cycle tour accommodation sponsor for the mountain biking events.

General manager Clinton Wild said the tranquil mountain top retreat would host 24 of the cycle tour’s VIPs.

In addition, it will provide special rates to participants who wish to enjoy the establishment’s four-star accommodation and breathtaking views over the Addo Elephant National Park.

About 145 000ha of the park surrounds the Zuurberg Mountain Village, where a wide range of activities from horse riding to hiking trails can be enjoyed amid magnificent wildlife, birdlife and vegetation.

For those riders looking for a budget-friendly option, organisers will turn the fields of the Addo Polo Club, which is next to the start and finish line, into a campground. Campers will have access to a pub, braai facilities, bathrooms, food stalls and a bike lock-up.

The mountain bike events comprise the 80km Extreme, 60km Adventure and 30km Powerade Leisure Challenge. The 5km Kiddies’ Challenge and 500m Toddler’s Dash, also sponsored by Powerade, complete the line-up.

Registration takes place on Friday, January 31, at The Boardwalk, with late registration for the mountain bike events continuing on the Saturday at the Addo Polo Club.

Trail-building crew (from left) Zolile Pikoli, Happyboy Hina and Bulelo Pikoli look forward to welcoming mountain bikers to The Herald VW Cycle Tour in Addo on February 1. In the background is official accommodation sponsor Zuurberg Mountain Village, which is offering discounted rates to participants. Photo: Brad Jackson

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Living near to the Addo Elephant National Park has its advantages, because when I need my bush fix it is a mere 40 kms from my front door.

This year has been really special, with the arrival of a big crop of baby elephants and like all children they are playful,  mischievous and a joy to watch.

On this trip I spent a long time sitting in the middle of a small family group watching the antics of these two .

The game ultimately culminated in a pile on and you can see that they are really enjoying themselves.

Article source: http://themaxefiles.blogspot.com/2013/11/baby-elephant-pile-on.html

Living near to the Addo Elephant National Park has its advantages, because when I need my bush fix it is a mere 40 kms from my front door.

This year has been really special, with the arrival of a big crop of baby elephants and like all children they are playful,  mischievous and a joy to watch.

On this trip I spent a long time sitting in the middle of a small family group watching the antics of these two .

The game ultimately culminated in a pile on and you can see that they are really enjoying themselves.

If humans had the same determination and sense of purpose as dung beetles, perhaps the world would be a better place…

These mini 4x4s, of which there are 800 species living in South Africa, are fascinating creatures. If you have ever paused to watch one trying to push a ball of dung over a little rise – head down and back legs up – you will know exactly what I mean. Giving up is rarely an option, even when its precious cargo keeps rolling back down the incline and he is forced to start his ascent all over again.

The dung beetle’s expertly made poo parcels have many uses. They are a source of nourishment, an ideal den for laying eggs, and for some male species, a nuptial gift to lure in a lucky lady, the bigger the ball of dung, the more impressive… how’s that for a romantic wedding gift!?

But the dung beetles in South Africa’s Addo Elephant Park in the Eastern Cape are even more unique because they don’t have wings.They are a sub-species named Circellium bacchu or simply called the Addo Elephant Park’s flightless dung beetles, one of the rarest species of dung beetle. They once had a much wider range but due to the disappearance of elephants, rhinos and buffalo (the producers of their favourite dung) in many areas, they are now almost exclusively endemic to Addo. It’s no wonder with the reserve having more than 500 ellies!

Addo’s dung beetles can get very big! From about 22 to 47 mm long. They can also role up to 50 times their weight! Amazing! Photo by Jonker Fourie

But the question I have been trying to answer is why. Why did these particular dung beetles evolve to having no wings?

Photo by Scott Ramsay

One theory (which I read in the Journal of Experieamental Biology.) is based on research done by Marcus Bryne and Francis Duncan of the University of Witwatersrand. It suggests that by not having wings, these dung beetles have been able to evolve a ‘nifty’ way of breathing which helps them to survive Addo’s arid conditions.

Instead of wings, flightless dung beetles have a tightly sealed elytra (wing case), which supports a convective cooling system where heat is drawn away from the insect’s body. Read more about this research here 

If you have held a dung beetle you will also know they have a strong grip! Photo by Dianne-Tipping-Woods of Afribird

Personally I would have thought that having wings would be like having two built in fans, l obviously wouldn’t make a very good scientist!

Pleased to meet you little dung beetle… photo by Theresa Lozier

Photo by Brian J.McMorrow

 So next time you’re in Addo Elephant Park (just an hours drive from PE), don’t forget to stop and give some attention to these special dung beetles.  The work they do may not seem very important, but it is – their tunnelling movements (used to bury the ball of dung in the ground once eggs have been laid in it), air-rate the soil and spread organic matter over the ground like compost.

Recently scientists discovered that dung beetles also use the milky way to navigate their movements at night, but that’s another story… watch this space!

* This blog post was inspired by a trip to Port Elizabeth and to Addo Elephant Park hosted by Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism. Thank you to Jonker Fourie and friendly PE for a wonderful trip. More blog posts inspired by the trip to come

Your Addo Elephant National Park appeared to be suggested within 1931, the actual park ended up being established to defend the rest of the elephants inside the Addo location, there was clearly below 15. Previously the Addo pack seemed to be among the most significant inside Eastern Cape by 140 elephants, nevertheless looking ruined most of these numbers on the place close to Two hundred years. 

Elephants would have to be pursued towards spot that’s schedule for the Addo Elephant National Park, though the kennel area hasn’t been strong enough to incorporate elephants, they usually been freed and stayed murdered simply by producers and through educates which will travelled down the close by collection. Within 1933 the particular boss with the park started to feast the particular elephants to try to contain these individuals.

Inside 1954 the elephant substantiation wall was created by simply Graham Armstrong, tram track along with lift up cable have been with an area of 2270 hectares seemed to be fenced in out of. The fence turned out to be successful and can certainly be found in the park nowadays. Deluge lumination had been erected round the feeding areas as well as site visitors stomach to determine a elephants, however nourishing prompted additional problems for the reason that elephants located be expecting the foodstuff along with would relax in a serving area. The plant lifestyle in your neighborhood has been messed up and also the elephants grew to become aggressive on the nourishing pickup and the other person, quite a few elephants were being hurt, which means this eating seemed to be discontinued within 1979.

A park was initially opened to help vacationers within 1981, when they inserted this park they can see the elephants simply as the numbers received cultivated substantially. Illness cost-free Cape Buffalos were being likewise safeguarded british telecom the particular Addo Elephant National Park since were the flightless Dung Beetle. Eland, zebras, warthogs, dark-colored rhino in addition to hippos were all introduced to your park this years.

Lions have been reintroduced on the spot around 2003 in addition to seen hyenas with 2003/2004. These are generally just one or two on the pets that is seen jackals, kudu, crimson hartebeest plus duikers will also be found in the Addo Elephant National Park .

The actual Addo Elephant National Park alone doesn’t have any all-natural waterholes; the stream comes from boreholes. These types of man made waterholes hold the benefits they are by the streets and may deliver a number of outstanding photography options, for lots of wildlife exploring waterholes on anyone time.

Your Spekboom waterhole and conceal is great for photography lovers. Hapoor waterhole known as right after a half truths elephant that was the actual prominent fluff on the Addo pack for many Per day several years, immediately after being ousted by their herd simply by Lanky – a forthcoming fluff – Hapoor steered clear of with the containment system produced by Graham Armstrong, he / she appeared to be really the only elephant actually for this. He / she was found grazing by way of Coerney Sta along to be photo as he was a hostile pet – your toss with this massive elephants head are visible center within the main relax camping throughout Addo Elephant Park .

The principle camp gives high-quality accommodation by chalets to be able to camping areas, there are chrome camp tents which in turn look instantly across the park and it’s also commonplace to get an elephant or a herd regarding buffalo grass going too quickly! Riding safaris are offered, these excursions check out online game spot and can be pretty lack of feeling bringing, a little bit of practical experience is required.

Morning, sundown as well as nighttime pushes may also be supplied with the most important camp and therefore are value for money for money in addition to extremely helpful. Before reserving is essential, specifically while in the holidays. A park is fairly smaller than average is often driven about comfortably daily.

Article source: http://lucastill59.wordpress.com/2013/11/18/addo-elephant-national-park-most-effective-elephant-photograph-possibly-south-africa/

Your Addo Elephant National Park appeared to be suggested within 1931, the actual park ended up being established to defend the rest of the elephants inside the Addo location, there was clearly below 15. Previously the Addo pack seemed to be among the most significant inside Eastern Cape by 140 elephants, nevertheless looking ruined most of these numbers on the place close to Two hundred years. 

Elephants would have to be pursued towards spot that’s schedule for the Addo Elephant National Park, though the kennel area hasn’t been strong enough to incorporate elephants, they usually been freed and stayed murdered simply by producers and through educates which will travelled down the close by collection. Within 1933 the particular boss with the park started to feast the particular elephants to try to contain these individuals.

Inside 1954 the elephant substantiation wall was created by simply Graham Armstrong, tram track along with lift up cable have been with an area of 2270 hectares seemed to be fenced in out of. The fence turned out to be successful and can certainly be found in the park nowadays. Deluge lumination had been erected round the feeding areas as well as site visitors stomach to determine a elephants, however nourishing prompted additional problems for the reason that elephants located be expecting the foodstuff along with would relax in a serving area. The plant lifestyle in your neighborhood has been messed up and also the elephants grew to become aggressive on the nourishing pickup and the other person, quite a few elephants were being hurt, which means this eating seemed to be discontinued within 1979.

A park was initially opened to help vacationers within 1981, when they inserted this park they can see the elephants simply as the numbers received cultivated substantially. Illness cost-free Cape Buffalos were being likewise safeguarded british telecom the particular Addo Elephant National Park since were the flightless Dung Beetle. Eland, zebras, warthogs, dark-colored rhino in addition to hippos were all introduced to your park this years.

Lions have been reintroduced on the spot around 2003 in addition to seen hyenas with 2003/2004. These are generally just one or two on the pets that is seen jackals, kudu, crimson hartebeest plus duikers will also be found in the Addo Elephant National Park .

The actual Addo Elephant National Park alone doesn’t have any all-natural waterholes; the stream comes from boreholes. These types of man made waterholes hold the benefits they are by the streets and may deliver a number of outstanding photography options, for lots of wildlife exploring waterholes on anyone time.

Your Spekboom waterhole and conceal is great for photography lovers. Hapoor waterhole known as right after a half truths elephant that was the actual prominent fluff on the Addo pack for many Per day several years, immediately after being ousted by their herd simply by Lanky – a forthcoming fluff – Hapoor steered clear of with the containment system produced by Graham Armstrong, he / she appeared to be really the only elephant actually for this. He / she was found grazing by way of Coerney Sta along to be photo as he was a hostile pet – your toss with this massive elephants head are visible center within the main relax camping throughout Addo Elephant Park .

The principle camp gives high-quality accommodation by chalets to be able to camping areas, there are chrome camp tents which in turn look instantly across the park and it’s also commonplace to get an elephant or a herd regarding buffalo grass going too quickly! Riding safaris are offered, these excursions check out online game spot and can be pretty lack of feeling bringing, a little bit of practical experience is required.

Morning, sundown as well as nighttime pushes may also be supplied with the most important camp and therefore are value for money for money in addition to extremely helpful. Before reserving is essential, specifically while in the holidays. A park is fairly smaller than average is often driven about comfortably daily.

We are a retired couple, enjoying life and traveling!

Article source: http://jerryandannestravels.blogspot.com/2013/11/addo-elephant-national-park.html

We are a retired couple, enjoying life and traveling!

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Nov 3, 4 Addo Elephant Park

We stopped on the way out of JeffreyBay for some birding and then meandered slowly north and east, by-passing Port Elizabeth.  Addo was not far and so we could take it easy and still get into the park by noon.  Addo was set up about 60 years ago to protect a handful of elephants that still roamed wild in the south part  of SA.  Now there are about 450 and they are trying to expand to handle the growth.  It is about 100 km long and maybe 40 wide.

Right in the car park I saw two new birds and countless old friends.  Our reservation gave us two nights camping and three days entry permit.  The full sized camp spots are booked months in advance, but there are ten tent sights, still with electricity.  Most were taken, but we found a good one right beside a cook shelter, that had electric stoves, a freezer and boiling water on demand.

We had lunch in the restaurant and hung around, until about 3:30 looking at birds in the camp vicinity and then went for the first of four game drives, each about 2-3 hours.  Zebra, Kudo, Red Hartebeest, Ostrich, Warthogs, were everywhere.  But the main attraction is the Elephants which we saw in large numbers each time we went out.  And of course birds were everywhere.  We got a number of new ones, and I got some of  my best photos.  We had a cursory lion siting.

Perhaps my best birding experience here was on the first morning.  I was up early, in part to answer natures call and in part because of the raucous bird calls.  I pressed coffee with the always ready boiling water and then sat watching and listening to the birds.  Probably a dozen varieties came in waves.  It had been raining for a few days before we came, and there was a cold night followed by a bright still morning.  Possibly this was what was so special this day.  It was no where near as good the second morning.

We had saw at least three kinds of raptors, various little black and white birds that we mostly sorted out, but that will be hard to remember, and we talked with more knowledgeable SA birders.

Nov 5,  Chintsa 

We left our campsite at about 7:30 and drove about 50 km south through a part of Addo that we had not seen before.  This was very quiet compared to the traffic around main camp.  We saw a few more elephant a and other animals, but importantly we had a distant view of a hillside full of eland, the largest of the African ungulates.  We had not seen them before on this trip.

Once out of the park we were back on the N2, the main highway that goes along the coast, although not very close to it.  For the past week and some we have been taking side roads but now, to gain some distance, we stuck to it for a bit over 300 km, past East London before heading off down to the sea,  at Chintsa to The Buccaneers backpacker used by surfers, where we will relax overnight before heading off on out last week of the trip.  We ate the communal meal, Indian with about 30 other residents, walked the beach a bit and wondered at the complexity of the backpacker world here.

Nov 6 Warren Beach

This is primarily a driving day, as we finish driving through the Eastern Cape and into KwaZulu/Natal Province.  We were on N2 all day, but it was pretty slow with construction tie ups off and on, something like yesterday.  There were also a few bigger towns with markets overflowing onto the road.  We saw a lot of township type living and many people waiting or walking on the road.  This is a SA that we don’t experience very much.  The people we deal with in the service stations, game reserves and back packers are all very outgoing and friendly.  Not to say those in the communities we see along the road are not friendly.  We just don’t have the opportunity to interact in any way.  To us SA is like any other European or North American place.  It is possibly a little cheaper in some ways, but we never have any communication problems and everything is available.  Our whole trip has been a trip for us.  We have both, particularly Rich, have experienced a very different Africa;  where getting things and dealing with people can very confusing.  In all three countries here there have never been any of the issues that we would sometimes refer to under the explanation…”Well it is Africa”.  We have been driving on good roads for the last days, and there is significant road work underway that will turn good roads into excellent roads.  There is obviously money and infrastructure here to get this done.

We stopped today at Warren Beach, 30 km short of Durban, at a backpackers called the Blue Sky Mining Backpackers and Lodge.  This is another eclectic place with great people.  We took advantage of their Indian night, wandered in the gardens and looked out over the Indian Ocean.  Incredible these backpackers; so much value for the cost.  We are paying about $25-40 for a twin room with bath for the two of us.

Tomorrow we head into the mountains for some exercise.

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Article source: http://kenmyhre.com/2013/11/13/addo-elephant-park/

Nov 3, 4 Addo Elephant Park

We stopped on the way out of JeffreyBay for some birding and then meandered slowly north and east, by-passing Port Elizabeth.  Addo was not far and so we could take it easy and still get into the park by noon.  Addo was set up about 60 years ago to protect a handful of elephants that still roamed wild in the south part  of SA.  Now there are about 450 and they are trying to expand to handle the growth.  It is about 100 km long and maybe 40 wide.

Right in the car park I saw two new birds and countless old friends.  Our reservation gave us two nights camping and three days entry permit.  The full sized camp spots are booked months in advance, but there are ten tent sights, still with electricity.  Most were taken, but we found a good one right beside a cook shelter, that had electric stoves, a freezer and boiling water on demand.

We had lunch in the restaurant and hung around, until about 3:30 looking at birds in the camp vicinity and then went for the first of four game drives, each about 2-3 hours.  Zebra, Kudo, Red Hartebeest, Ostrich, Warthogs, were everywhere.  But the main attraction is the Elephants which we saw in large numbers each time we went out.  And of course birds were everywhere.  We got a number of new ones, and I got some of  my best photos.  We had a cursory lion siting.

Perhaps my best birding experience here was on the first morning.  I was up early, in part to answer natures call and in part because of the raucous bird calls.  I pressed coffee with the always ready boiling water and then sat watching and listening to the birds.  Probably a dozen varieties came in waves.  It had been raining for a few days before we came, and there was a cold night followed by a bright still morning.  Possibly this was what was so special this day.  It was no where near as good the second morning.

We had saw at least three kinds of raptors, various little black and white birds that we mostly sorted out, but that will be hard to remember, and we talked with more knowledgeable SA birders.

Nov 5,  Chintsa 

We left our campsite at about 7:30 and drove about 50 km south through a part of Addo that we had not seen before.  This was very quiet compared to the traffic around main camp.  We saw a few more elephant a and other animals, but importantly we had a distant view of a hillside full of eland, the largest of the African ungulates.  We had not seen them before on this trip.

Once out of the park we were back on the N2, the main highway that goes along the coast, although not very close to it.  For the past week and some we have been taking side roads but now, to gain some distance, we stuck to it for a bit over 300 km, past East London before heading off down to the sea,  at Chintsa to The Buccaneers backpacker used by surfers, where we will relax overnight before heading off on out last week of the trip.  We ate the communal meal, Indian with about 30 other residents, walked the beach a bit and wondered at the complexity of the backpacker world here.

Nov 6 Warren Beach

This is primarily a driving day, as we finish driving through the Eastern Cape and into KwaZulu/Natal Province.  We were on N2 all day, but it was pretty slow with construction tie ups off and on, something like yesterday.  There were also a few bigger towns with markets overflowing onto the road.  We saw a lot of township type living and many people waiting or walking on the road.  This is a SA that we don’t experience very much.  The people we deal with in the service stations, game reserves and back packers are all very outgoing and friendly.  Not to say those in the communities we see along the road are not friendly.  We just don’t have the opportunity to interact in any way.  To us SA is like any other European or North American place.  It is possibly a little cheaper in some ways, but we never have any communication problems and everything is available.  Our whole trip has been a trip for us.  We have both, particularly Rich, have experienced a very different Africa;  where getting things and dealing with people can very confusing.  In all three countries here there have never been any of the issues that we would sometimes refer to under the explanation…”Well it is Africa”.  We have been driving on good roads for the last days, and there is significant road work underway that will turn good roads into excellent roads.  There is obviously money and infrastructure here to get this done.

We stopped today at Warren Beach, 30 km short of Durban, at a backpackers called the Blue Sky Mining Backpackers and Lodge.  This is another eclectic place with great people.  We took advantage of their Indian night, wandered in the gardens and looked out over the Indian Ocean.  Incredible these backpackers; so much value for the cost.  We are paying about $25-40 for a twin room with bath for the two of us.

Tomorrow we head into the mountains for some exercise.

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Summary of this Budget Safari

An action-packed budget lodge safari along the scenic coast of South Africa, starting in Durban on the east coast and ending in Cape Town in the Western Cape.

First we explore the remote Wild Coast area with its unspoiled sandy beaches, visiting the rustic seaside town of Coffee Bay and enjoying the laid-back atmosphere of the rugged Eastern Cape Province. After relaxing and participating in some optional activities, such as surfing and horse-riding, we leave the Wild Coast and head for Addo Elephant Park, where we embark an exciting game drive in search of the abundant elephants and other wildlife found in the park.

Next stop is the Tsitsikamma National Park where there is the option of taking a walk in the indigenous forest along the dramatic coastline, before making our way to the popular town of Knysna. Continuing along the Garden Route we travel to Hermanus, famous for its seasonal whale watching. Lastly it’s to the Cape Wine Route for some wine tasting and on to our final stop, the beautiful city of Cape Town.

An amazing 8 day long trip through some of South Africa’s most picturesque landscapes from the rugged East coast to the austere West coast!

Itinerary for this Tour

Tour Highlights:

• Remote Wild Coast Beaches, Coffee Bay Hole in The Wall
• Nelson Mandela Museum  Wild Coast Village Walk
• See herds of elephants and other wildlife in Addo Elephant Park
• Tsitsikamma National Park forest Knysna on the Garden Route
• Oudtshoorn, ostrich farm Cango Caves in the Klein Karoo
• Cape Agulhas, Hermanus, Cape Wine Tour  Cape Town

DAY 1: Durban to Coffee Bay Hole in The Wall (Breakfast Dinner)

Leaving Durban early in the morning we travel into the remote Wild Coast area, a sparsely populated region of wild and rugged beauty.

We spend most of the day on the scenic road to Coffee Bay, driving over the incredibly stunning mountain passes of the Drakensberg foothills as we meander to the rugged east coast of South Africa.

Formerly called the Transkei, the Wild Coast area is home mainly to Xhosa people, one of the major ethnic groups of South Africa. Many of the Xhosa we encounter here, still practise tribal traditions and remain deeply rooted in old Xhosa customs and beliefs, making for an interesting cultural experience. Along the way we pass farms and a scattering of rural villages, as well as Mthatha (formerly Umtata) where Nobel Peace Prize winner Nelson Mandela was born.

We reach Coffee Bay in the early afternoon and set off for the unspoilt beach on foot. We walk to the well-known rock formation called Hole in the Wall, located just off the shore near Coffee Bay. This unusual geographical feature is a large rock stack with a hole eroded through it, the tale of which has been woven into local Xhosa mythology.

Overnight: Holiday resort or similar – Twin share rooms with en-suite facilities

Day 2: Coffee Bay – South Africa (Breakfast Dinner)

This morning we embark on a guided walk in one of the Xhosa villages of huts, dotting the hills around Coffee Bay. We meet the friendly local people and even a Sangoma (healer), learning a bit about their traditions and way of life.

The small seaside village of Coffee Bay offers an idyllic slice of rustic living in rural Africa, with its vibrant, yet laid-back and peaceful vibe. One of the most picturesque spots on the Wild Coast, this is a fantastic place to enjoy uncrowded beaches and walks in the hills and coastal forests. The name Coffee Bay originates from coffee trees that were said to grow here after a shipwrecked Cargo vessel spilled its beans here.

Then the day is yours to do as you please, with plenty of activities to choose from. Relax on one of the stunning sandy beaches and take a swim in the ocean, or go walking on one of the lovely trails through nature. Other optional activities include surfing, horseback riding on the beach, fishing, mountain biking and canoeing on the river. 

Overnight: Holiday resort or similar – Twin share rooms with en-suite facilities

DAY 3: Addo Elephant Park – South Africa (Breakfast Dinner)

Start your day in a lush valley on this remote coastline, enjoying a light breakfast in the tranquil environment. Then we hit the road for our next game viewing destination, visiting the Nelson Mandela Museum en route. At the museum we gain insight into the life of South Africa’s first democratically elected president, Nelson Mandela. The museum lies in a rural Eastern Cape town called Mthatha, near the small village where this Nobel Prize winner was born and raised.

We also drive through the historic university town of Grahamstown, where the National Arts Festival is held each year. 

Our overnight lodge is located just outside of Addo Elephant National Park, home to some 500 elephants. Having expanded considerably over recent years, Addo Park is also sanctuary to around 280 Cape Buffalo, lion, leopard, black rhino, zebra, hyena and a variety of antelope species. The unique flightless dung beetle is found almost exclusively in the Addo region, which covers five of the major vegetation biomes found in South Africa. Tomorrow we embark on a game drive in Addo, where wildlife sightings are generally very good, due to well-located waterholes and the flat landscape.

This evening we put our feet up at the scenic lodge and enjoy some sundowners beside the quiet river.

Overnight: River cabins or similar – Twin share rooms with shared facilities

DAY 4: Tsitsikamma National Park Knysna – South Africa (Breakfast Dinner)

Wake up to the sound of birdsong in the lovely natural setting of Sundays River Valley, before venturing into Addo Elephant Park on an exciting game drive. Leaving Addo we continue into the well-loved coastal region of the Garden Route to explore the Tsitsikamma Park section of the larger Garden Route National Park.

In the Tsitsikamma Forest indigenous hardwood trees stretch from the mountains to the dramatic cliffs of the wild coastline. Tsitsikamma is a top hiking destination with scenic mountain and coastal walking trails, as well as offering excellent bird watching and many exhilarating adventure activities.

Go hiking in the lush forests, looking out for small animals and exotic-looking birds or walk along the dramatic rocky coast where you may spot dolphins and otters among others. Walk in the Fynbos covered hills, snorkel over the unspoilt reefs, take a boat trip or canoe on the Storms River. 

In the late afternoon we depart from the rich and diverse Tsitsikamma National Park making our way further along the Garden Route to the picturesque town of Knysna. We travel via the Bloukrans Bridge, renowned as the site of the world’s highest commercial bungee jump. Take the 216 metre plunge into the gorge for a real adrenalin rush, if you dare.

Then we arrive in the attractive seaside town of Knysna, famous for its annual Oyster Festival. This popular holiday destination is located beside a large estuary, nestled between the south coast and the lofty Outeniqua mountains. We spend the next two nights in Knysna, allowing enough time to appreciate this special place and its stunning surroundings. 

Overnight: Travellers lodge or similar – Twin share rooms with shared facilities

Day 5: Knysna – South Africa (Breakfast Dinner)

Day five starts with breakfast at the lodge before going to the famous landmark of Knysna Heads. Stand on one of these rocky cliffs and marvel at the spectacular views out over the Knysna lagoon, town and open ocean.

The remainder of today is unstructured, leaving you time to stroll around the leafy town of Knysna, visiting lively cafes and browsing its delightful little boutiques and craft shops. Knysna is far from short on things to do, with a wide array of activities for you to choose from, including hiking, fishing, mountain biking, boat cruises, canoeing and ferry rides on the lagoon, or visiting the Knysna Elephant Park and catching a tan on the beach. This stretch of the scenic Garden Route is a real highlight, not only for its natural beauty but for its abundance of fun activities.

We have an early dinner together and then you’re free to head out into the characterful town and enjoy the nightlife or amble around the bustling waterfront.

Overnight: Travellers lodge or similar – Twin share rooms with shared facilities

Day 6: Knysna to Oudtshoorn – South Africa (Breakfast Dinner)

From the charming coastal town of Knysna we drive inland towards the arid Klein Karoo region, passing over breathtaking mountain passes en route.

Our next stop is the historic Little Karoo town of Oudtshoorn, set between the majestic Swartberg and Outeniqua mountain ranges. Oudtshoorn lies in a unique ecological hotspot zone, where three types of vegetation meet, namely the fynbos, cape thicket and succuent Karoo. 

Oudtshoorn claims to be the ostrich capital of the world, which seems likely considering the abundance of these big flightless birds here. Ostriches have been bred in the area since the 1860’s and a huge industry now exists around these birds, selling their eggs, feathers, meat and leather. We head to an ostrich farm to get a closer look and even take a ride on an ostrich!

Then we explore the Cango Caves, a massive network of underground tunnels and large chambers with impressive limestone formations, stalactites and stalagmites. 

After our unusual day spent with long-legged ostriches and in underground caverns we overnight in quaint Oudtshoorn, known for its warm hospitality.

Overnight: Travellers lodge or similar – Twin share rooms with shared facilities

Day 7: Oudtshoorn to Hermanus – South Africa (Breakfast Dinner)

Returning to the coast today we travel through some of the most beautiful scenery in South Africa, crossing verdant mountains and flowing streams. Our journey takes us via the southernmost tip of Africa, where the cool Atlantic and warm Indian Oceans meet. The rugged Cape Agulhas point is called the ‘Cape of Storms’, notorious for the shipwrecks scattered along this stretch of coast. It is said that waves reach up to 30 metres along this Cape during the savage winter storms. At Cape Agulhas we pause for lunch in the towering lighthouse with its little museum.

The seaside town of Hermanus is our final destination for today. Hermanus is world-famous for its exceptional whale watching and dolphin spotting record. Our afternoon is free for you to walk around the laid-back town or participate in some outdoor activities. Outdoor activities include canoeing trips, diving, surfing, sailing on a yacht and whale watching boat trips (in season).

This evening you can hit the town for some fun in the local hang-outs or sit back and let the ocean breeze blow through your hair.

Overnight: Travellers lodge or similar – Twin share rooms with shared facilities

Day 8: Hermanus to Cape Town – South Africa (Breakfast)

Our final morning is set aside for you to explore seaside Hermanus on foot, browsing its charming shops and cafes. You can take a walk on the boardwalk along the ocean looking out for whales or stop in at the outdoor Old Harbour Museum, a Western Cape heritage site tracing the history of this famous fishing village. Hermanus is famous for its exceptional whale sightings (in season) and is considered one of the best places for land-based whale watching in the world. Choose from whale watching tours by boat or from the shores, a not-to-be-missed activity in Hermanus.

Departing before lunchtime we travel via rugged fishing villages set along the spectacular Atlantic coastline towards Cape Town. As we near our final destination we stop to visit a wine farm in this famous wine growing region. Taste some of the fine local wines and tour the winery before we continue to one of the most beautiful cities in the world – Cape Town.

Arriving in Cape Town late afternoon, our Durban to Cape Town Lodge Safari comes to an end at the foot of world-famous Table Mountain.

Tour Accommodation:

On this small group tour accommodation is mostly in shared rooms with twin beds in chalets, bungalows or cabins with shared facilities. Some nights are spent in twin rooms with en suite bathrooms. Many of the places that we stay at are located in picturesque settings with a swimming pool, restaurant and bar. Some of the accommodation is a little more basic but still comfortable, clean and secure.

Tour Transport:

Transport on this tour will be in a comfortable mini-bus or microbus. Maximum group size: 12 passengers.

Participation on this Tour:

This is an active participation tour; which means everybody helps out with the daily chores. The chores are usually shared on a roster basis and include tasks like shopping and cooking. 

The active participation on this tour provides good opportunities to meet local people and get to know your fellow travellers. Your contribution helps to make sure that your trip is successful and enjoyable for everyone. Sharing the responsibilities means that nobody has to work too hard! On past tours most people have found that the more they get involved, the more they enjoy themselves. With a sense of adventure and a flexible attitude you will be sure to have a wonderful trip.

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Getting to Addo Elephant National Park from Sunbird Hideaway isn’t that easy. We know, because we have been there this year – twice! But in our books, it is well worth the drive and that is why we went there twice this year. Allow about 10 hours to cover the 800 odd kilometres (500 miles) […]

Port Elizabeth Budget Accommodation

Go to:My Addo

Getting to Addo Elephant National Park from Sunbird Hideaway isn’t that easy. We know, because we have been there this year – twice! But in our books, it is well worth the drive and that is why we went there twice this year. Allow about 10 hours to cover the 800 odd kilometres (500 miles) to get there.

An Addo Elephant eating. They seem to eat all day!

The biggest attraction by far and in more ways than one, is of course African Elephant.

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Posted on October 20, 2013, in Peter’s Journal. Bookmark the permalink. Leave a Comment.

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Fayroush Ludick

The Addo Elephant National Park is one of the Eastern Cape’s, and indeed South Africa’s most popular attractions, and is home to an impressive array of wildlife. Included in this is the Big 7.

Find out what animals are part of this sought-after group and what unique attractions Addo Elephant Park has to offer, as Amelia chats to Fayroush Ludick, the Marketing Manager of this popular park.

An Interview with Fayroush Ludick of Addo Elephant National Park:

When was Addo established? What was the vision?
The emphasis at Addo Elephant National Park (AENP) was for years to save the Eastern Cape elephants from extinction.  This has been unbelievably successful – the population has grown from a mere eleven elephants when the Park was established in 1931 to over 600 at present.

 

 

Has this initial vision changed at all? If so, how?
The emphasis has now shifted to the conservation of biodiversity.  With Addo’s new philosophy and massive expansion, the complete wildlife experience is possible across a series of landscapes and biomes, unrivalled in beauty, all within a single protected area.

What sets Addo apart from other game reserves?
The AENP is the third largest national park in South Africa – at 180 000 hectares.  It is home not only to the Big 5, but to the Big 7 – with the presence of the Great White Shark and seasonal Southern Right Whale in the Park’s marine area.  Addo is the only Park to boast with the title of being the only Park in the world to encompass the Big 7.  It is also sanctuary to the unique Addo Flightless Dung Beetle.

Please tell us a bit more about the various accommodation options at Addo:
Safari tents – sleeps two people on two single beds with a communal kitchen and ablutions.
Rondawels – sleeps two people in one room with air conditioning and a communal kitchen.
Forest cabins – sleeps four people in one room with air conditioning and a communal kitchen.
Cottages – sleeps two people with a ceiling fan and television.
Chalets with sleeper couch – sleeps four people in one room with air-conditioning.
Semi-detached chalets – sleeps two people with air conditioning.
Hapoor and Domkrag Guest Houses – sleeps six people in two bedrooms with two bathrooms, air conditioning and a television.

Do you have family rooms?
The chalets and guest houses are best suited to families as they sleep more than two.

 

 

What facilities and amenities do you have?
Facilities:
Restaurant
Lapa for group functions
Picnic areas
Ulwazi Interpretive Centre
Underground viewing hide and bird hide
Swimming pool for overnight visitors
Shop with curios and basic commodities
Fuel station

Activities:
Self-drive game viewing
Guided game drives
Guided horse trails
4×4 trail
Hiking trails

What makes Addo great for families with children?
The Ulwazi Interpretive Centre exhibits information not just for adults, but for children too, in order to inspire a sense of appreciation and respect for nature. The Ulwazi Interpretive Centre uses different ways of communication to enhance the understanding of information on all levels. To stimulate the discovery process of the information, it is user-friendly and interactive. A fossil dig, geology puzzle (drifting continents), whisper dishes (movement of sound), sandbox and animal tracks, posters and multimedia programmes (sound booth) are used. It’s a fun centre, but also a learning centre.  Unlike traditional museums, we do not aim to collect, conserve and study objects – the centre is a specialised institution for communicating the importance of heritage. It works to educate and to raise awareness. The interpretive centre may sometimes have a temporary exhibition that is related to a specific topic.

The Park’s People and Conservation Department offers dedicated, fun children’s programmes for kids of all ages during all school holiday periods, so there’s always something to keep them busy.

 

 

What can visitors expect at the restaurant?
The restaurant offers a good mix of South African food, specialising in red meat dishes.  However, there is something for everyone on the menu – including chicken, seafood and vegetarian meals.  The special kiddies menu is also quite substantial.

Do you have conference venues available? If so, please tell us more about them:
There is a small conference venue available in the main camp section of the Park.  It could seat up to 50 pax – cinema style.  The lapa is also available for small group functions.

How are you involved in community and / or green initiatives? How can your guests contribute to these?
The Park has shifted from being focused on a single species to a more holistic outlook to meet conservation objectives and socio-economic development.  Over R179 million has been spent in Addo alone since 2001 on poverty relief and Working for Water programmes, providing for about 8 400 contractual jobs sourced mostly from the Park’s neighbouring communities.  Current projects include the removal of alien vegetation, cleaning the coastline, fencing, new roads, building tourism infrastructure, restoring thicket vegetation by planting, rehabilitation of degraded areas and harvesting of alien fish species.  Over 1 053 hectares of land have been cleared of alien invasive plants.

The objective has also been to empower communities through tourism development in national parks, looking specifically at employment creation, especially developing SMMEs.  Jobs and training have been targeted at women, single-headed households and the young and disable.  Training, including environmental issues, plant identification, chainsaw operating, firefighting, first aid, HIV and Aids awareness and business skills, aims to equip local communities with the skills necessary to secure their own employment when they exit the programmes.

What animals can visitors look forward to spotting on the game drives on offer?
The main game viewing area at Addo’s main camp, where the game drives operate, offers some of the best elephant viewing in South African and a chance to spot the Big 5.  Guests should also look out for Spotted Hyena and a variety of antelope species.  The Park has a rich variety of bird life with over 400 species across the expanded Park, while 170 species can be found in the main game viewing area.

 

 

Why do you love the Eastern Cape?
The Eastern Cape is unique in that it is home to such a rich cultural heritage.  Every day we interact with people who come from completely different cultural backgrounds to ourselves – it’s just so enriching.  All it takes is taking a minute or two to interact with them and almost immediately you feel enriched. The province also has the best to offer in teams of its richness in fauna and flora – where else can you travel only 30 minutes from a major city centre like Port Elizabeth and discover the diversity a Park like Addo Elephant National Park has to offer?

Where would you like to see Addo in 5 to 10 years’ time?
Plans are currently afoot to increase the size of Addo’s Marine Protected Area off Algoa Bay by about 120 000ha.  We hope that this will be passed by government in the not-too-distant future.

What is the most satisfying part of being involved with a reserve like Addo?
Seeing the delight in our guests’ faces as they enjoy what the Park has to offer – that’s the most rewarding part of the job.

Contact Details Additional Info:
SANParks Reception telephone: (during office hours – 07:00 – 19:00): +27 (0) 42 233 8600
Web: http://www.sanparks.org/parks/addo/default.php

Where to Stay:
Accommodation in Addo (Outside the park)
Accommodation in the Private Game Lodges

 

 

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About Amelia du Plessis

Amelia is a freelance writer and editor with a passion for all things travel-related. She is based in Port Elizabeth, but has studied, lived and travelled further afield. She studied Film, Media and Literature at the University of Cape Town. She began her solo career in the form of Voxate Writing Editing in 2008 and loves every minute of it. Amelia believes in silver linings, lessons learnt and the responsibility to do what’s right. When she is not writing, she can frequently be found at the local animal shelter, on the bicycle trails of the nature reserves of PE, or sampling new restaurants with her better half.

Related Posts:

• Addo Elephant Park Photograph
• Addo Elephants Photographs
• “Bottoms up” at Addo Elephant Park
• Winner 2 Nights for 8 People at the Luxurious 5-Star Graded Addo Afrique Estate
• The Addo Elephant Park

As you recognise a long-lost family member in the distance, it can be instinct to run towards them and give them a big hug.

And the same is true for elephants, it seems. In this video, a young calf travelling with a parent bounds forward, then comes to a stop as it excitedly waits for its mother to catch up.

Then, the two adult elephants brush each other and connect trunks. It’s achingly cute, and makes you think that they haven’t seen each other for quite a while. The mother continues to nuzzle in his ear as another young elephant joins the herd, while the tiny calf looks on.

This cute video was taken at the Addo Elephant Park in South Africa, where more than 450 elephants live across 180,000 hectares of land.

African elephants are mainly found at this park, and although there were a few million of them at the start of the 20th century, the population has fallen to between 450,000 and 700,000 due to poaching.

All the photographs and articles on this site are the property of Jonker Fourie, unless otherwise stated, and may not be used, copied, transmitted, or stored without my permission.

© All Rights Reserved by Jonker Fourie and/or FireflyAfrica so please ask before using it.

E-mail: fireflyafrica@telkomsa.net

River Bend Lodge is a mere 55 minutes’ drive from Port Elizabeth and is an ideal malaria-free safari addition to a Garden Route holiday. Personalised game drives are led by enthusiastic and experienced guides, who will ensure you have a truly memorable safari experience.

One lucky visitor to the Addo Elephant National Park caught this loving moment when a baby elephant was reunited with its father. This little family, which includes a mother and adolescent elephant, were able to recognize each other across a great distance, and while being surrounded by hundreds of other elephants. Try not to choke up when the baby takes off upon seeing its daddy. Go on, we dare you.

 

 

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