MyAddo
Addo and Kirkwood Accommodation
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– African Safari Review by Jonathan Sophie Ellaby Set on its own exclusive concession in the heart of Addo Elephant National Park, we find a unique blend of nature and history at Gorah that makes for a delightful stay. It’s easy to spot Gorah from afar, perched in rolling hills, each luxury safari tent with […]
Port Elizabeth Budget Accommodation
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Sep17
Addo Afrique is situated in the Malaria Free Greater Addo in South Africa, bordering the Addo Elephant National Park, the only National Park in the world, where the Big 7 (Lion, Elephant, Buffalo, Rhino, Leopard, Shark and Whale) are protected under conservation areas. There are two luxury Lodges, one three bedroom and one four bedroom, with stunning views over the Valley of the bordering Addo Elephant Park, with the Elephant and Buffalo roaming free, whilst the Giraffe, Eland, Bush Buck wonder gracefully between the Lodges on the Addo Afrique Estate.
At Addo Afrique, you can book a room on a bed and breakfast basis in the Giraffe Lodge, or the Special three Night Package, or you can book the entire Elephant Lodge with four en-suite bedrooms on a self-catering and exclusive basis. Breakfast, lunch or dinner can be provided on request.
You can laze on the deck with the splash pool, admiring the beauty of nature, whilst sipping on a sun-downer cocktail, or go for a self-drive safari in the bordering Addo Elephant Park, just a 10 minute drive to the main entrance gate of the Park.
Tags: bed__breakfast • lodge • luxurious • national_park • relax • Safaris • Sightseeings • stargazing • swimming_pool • vacations • wildlife
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Coastal Route
The Eastern Cape Parks and Tourism Agency (ECPTA) has developed a new Coastal Route covering nearly 900km of pristine coastline spanning the length of the Eastern Cape. The new Coastal Route is designed to appeal to both self-drive and group tourists looking for an authentic and memorable travel experience. The route incorporates suggested itineraries based on interesting things to see and do as well as value-for-money local accommodation which are sure to extend visitor stays in the province. It is divided into eight regional routes that will take travellers to the Eastern Cape’s less explored and off-the-beaten-track attractions to discover the heart and soul of the province. The eight regional routes include Baviaans, Tsitsikamma Adventure, Kouga, Frontier Country, Sunshine Coast, Amathole Mountain Escape, the Wild Coast, and Greater Addo.
The province is rich in biodiversity with contrasting landscapes featuring primeval coastal forests and white sandy beaches, diverse wildlife, ancient rock art and Xhosa culture, offering the intrepid explorer an adventure of a lifetime. The benefit of the Coastal Route is that it will highlight not only the Eastern Cape’s well known and iconic attractions such as the Mkhambati Nature Reserve, Addo Elephant National Park and the province’s amazing beaches and surfing spots, but it will also take travellers to some of the undiscovered places of natural beauty. For sand dune enthusiasts, the 6500-year-old Coastal Dune Field found at Alexandria is the largest shifting dune field in the Southern Hemisphere and has been nominated for listing as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other attractions include the Amathole Mountain Escape and Port St Johns, Jewel of the Wild Coast. For those interested in history and culture, tourists can view ancient man-made fish traps at Cape St Frances and experience Grahamstown, a small city that boasts more than 70 heritage sites including a cathedral and the surrounding Victorian and Edwardian shop fronts on the Church Square. Alternatively, you can spend time visiting the final resting place of Sarah (Saartjie) Baartman the “Hottentot Venus” in Hankey, visit the Xhosa cultural hub of the province in the Wild Coast and experience mouth-watering dishes in East London, surrounding game reserves and in Port Alfred. Go jump At Tsitsikamma adrenalin junkies can participate in the third highest commercial bungee jump in the world, take a treetop canopy tour or go black water tubing. Those who like their thrills a little more sedate, can spend a few days at one of the many 5-star game lodges, play golf, go fishing or just relax at a spa.
The Eastern Cape has it all. Other highlights along the Route include Jeffrey’s Bay, home of the best right-hand wave in the world; Port Elizabeth, a water-sport paradise offering every conceivable coastal and marine recreational experience one could think of including the added thrill of deep sea diving to explore a few of the 300 ships wrecked in nearby Algoa Bay. There are six blue flag beaches along the coastal route including the world-renowned kite-surfing spot at Cannon Rocks. The Baviaans Wilderness Area is an extension of the Cape Floral Kingdom and has been declared a World Heritage Site. Addo Elephant National Park abutting the Indian Ocean is the only protected area in the world where not only the “Big 5” (lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant and rhino) may be seen but also whales and Great White sharks. The Wild Coast covers untouched beaches with waterfalls running into the sea. The annual sardine run rivals the famous Masai Mara wildebeest migration in East Africa. The area is rich in cultural diversity, including the birthplace of Nelson Mandela with a National Museum in Mthatha dedicated to the origin of his footsteps. The area is home to many of South Africa’s historic leaders and human icons such as O.R. Tambo and Walter Sisulu. This region is also known for its authentic Xhosa culture tradition, art amenities and other adventure activities.
For more information visit www.openafrica.org/route/coastal-route or call 043 701 9600.
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– African Safari Review by Jonathan Sophie Ellaby We step apart from the Addo crowds and into the wilderness to discover a little-explored, yet hugely under-rated section of the Park, to see what Kuzuko has to offer. Standing on the dining deck, or from your chalet and surveying the vast expanse of wilderness from this […]
Port Elizabeth Budget Accommodation
Go to:My Addo
A holiday takes on a whole new form when traveling as a family, especially with young kids. Let me start by pointing out that this article is a positive look at family travel! Obviously it’s an absolute pleasure to explore Africa with two inquisitive youngsters constantly bombarding you with questions and giving you the run-around when it comes to keeping them entertained, but it takes some planning to ensure you stay at family friendly places and visit destinations that keep the kids safe.
An African safari…with the kids!? Here’s a few pointers to keep things simple:
1. Choose the destination carefully. In Africa there is the reality of safety and health that needs to be kept in mind when traveling with young kids.
2. Pick your accommodation with kids in mind. This doesn’t just mean the sleeping arrangements are family friendly, but also the set up of the property you choose to stay is child friendly.
3. Make sure there’s more than enough to do for the kids – keep them busy and they’ll be happy. Over and above kids activities many places offer child minders and baby sitters, so it allows you free time to relax while the kids are having fun.
4. Pack in a way that makes family travel easy. For self drive holidays, have books, games and activities available to make the longer journeys fun.
Ok, back to our family safari. We decided to explore the Greater Addo area situated around the famous Addo Elephant National Park in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. We wanted to visit some of the larger wilderness areas and game reserves, while not excluding the little gems along the way. These came in the form of quaint little towns, homely farm stalls, secluded beaches and even a few dirt tracks leading to beautiful views. Our route included 3 main destinations to overnight – Kwandwe Private Game Reserve, Addo Elephant National Park and Shamwari Private Game Reserve. These were purposefully chosen due to its child-friendly offering. The three game reserves are very different and offer a variety of activities, landscapes and experiences.
Have a look at our Greater Addo Family Safari Self Drive Route on dedicated routes section. We’ve included the map of the route below:
View Greater Addo Discovery in a larger map
Wildlife on safari
If you want to get an insiders view on the three main wildlife destinations we visited, have a look at the separate articles we’ve posted – just click on the links below.
1. Ecca Lodge at Kwandwe Private Game Reserve
2. Addo Main Camp and Matyholweni Rest Camp at Addo Elephant National Park
3. Riverdene Lodge at Shamwari Private Game Reserve Our aim was to visit family friendly places in the Greater Addo area and the kids loved them all!
All three the reserves visited on this route are home to the Big Five (lion, leopard,buffalo,elephant and rhino), but to make the most of the wildlife experience, spend time on the smaller creatures (insects and birds are plentiful so there’s lots to see) to ensure that the kids stay interested and entertained. There are great stories to tell around the many different bird species and insects found in the area. In Addo Elephant National Park you will find a flightless dung beetle (only found there), so make sure you drive around the elephant dung on the roads and let the kids keep an eye open for the dung beetle!
The rangers at Kwandwe and Shamwari are highly trained and if they have children on their game drives they structure the time on the vehicle in a way that will suit the children. Activities that focusses around wildlife includes track identification, short nature walks, wildlife tracking, ‘poo’ walks, making track moulds and insect inspections to name but a few.
Activities on Safari
We measured the success of the trip by the amount of enjoyment the two youngsters got out of the trip. This was very much dependent on how busy they were, and during every part of the safari the kids were either entertained or busy exploring something new! If you as parents need a break, this is an important aspect of a family safari. We enjoy being involved in most things our kids are busy with, but we appreciated the times when we had time on our own. Both private game reserves we visited had interpretive centres for children where they can draw, watch movies and play games.
In Addo Elephant NP we had to be a bit more pro-active in terms of entertaining the kids so we took bird walks in the camp or tried to identify as many bugs as possible. It offered varied accommodation, different experiences and a whole lot of fun. There are day hikes at Woody Cape in Alexandria Forest and we put a day aside to enjoy this beautiful part of the park. We packed a picnic lunch and headed into the magical forests with old yellowwoods, small streams and magnificent birdlife. The walk is only 7km in length so it’s an easy hike, even with young kids.
Beaches and rivers
Another major family-friendly activity is of course the beaches and tidal rivers along the coast. We explored the coastal section between Boknes and Bushmans River Mouth during our visit. There are huge dunes nearby the Bushmans River, so the kids had a ball jumping, rolling and running around. Sandboarding is a must on these large dunes. The rivers (we spent most of our time along the Bushmans River) offer a variety of activities that works for children: – canoeing is lots of fun – fishing (remember to get a permit at the local municipal office) – bird watching (we even saw Greater Flamingos and lots of Oyster Catchers) – on sunny days pack the beach bag and head out to the many beaches around the area – water skiing for the older kids – sand dune boarding (tip: use swimming goggles or a diving mask to keep the sand out of the eyes).
Sightseeing
There are interesting places easily incorporated in your journey, ideal for a quick stop to stretch the legs such as the Big Pineapple at Bathurst and Tam’Jazi Country Farm Stall (with farm animals) near Alexandria. As you travel between places the scenery is breathtaking and you have many opportunities to take photos along the way.
Places to eat
There are great places to have a bite to eat along the way such as The Fresh Fish Market on the banks fo Kowie River in Port Alfred where you can enjoy freshly made fish and chips take away! The Red Apple Farm Stall Family Restaurant is so much more than a farm stall. It offers excellent food and there’s a jungle gym to keep the kids entertained. All sorts of local delicacies can be picked up here too.
FAST FACTS:
Duration? This route can easily be done in 10 days. The distances between destinations are short, so it’s ideal for family travel.
What type of vehicle is required for this route? All roads on this route is in good condition, so a standard sedan will do. If you plan to do the Bedrogberg 4×4 Trail in the Addo National Park, you’ll require a 4×4 with low range. This is a day trip and can be booked at Addo Main Camp. Keep in mind that the game drives at Kwandwe and Shamwari are conducted in their own 4×4 vehicles under the guidance of a professional ranger. Game drives in Addo Elephant National Park is on a self drive basis – remember that height makes a difference when looking for the elusive wildlife in the reserve. A great option is a microbus (i.e. VW Kombi or similar) which offers both space and driving height without compromising on comfort and safety.
When is the best time to visit the Greater Addo area? This is a year-round destination with September to March being summer and temperatures range between 20 and 30 degrees C. Winter can be cold with occasional rain, so pack accordingly.
What about malaria? The Eastern Cape is a malaria-free area so it is ideal for families with children of any age.
How to get there? The Addo area is preferred start or end point for a Garden Route route and Cape Town self drive holiday. Port Elizabeth is the nearest major airport with daily flights to and from the major international hubs of Johannesburg and Cape Town. Car rental is available at Port Elizabeth with all major vehicle rental companies represented there. To ensure you get the vehicle of choice pre-booking is essential as this is a popular self drive destination.
The Safari Co. thanks SANParks for assisting with the production of the Greater Addo feature. Visit www.sanparks.org for more information about South Africa’s diverse range of national parks.
– African Safari Review by Jonathan Sophie Ellaby
We step apart from the Addo crowds and into the wilderness to discover a little-explored, yet hugely under-rated section of the Park, to see what Kuzuko has to offer.
Standing on the dining deck, or from your chalet and surveying the vast expanse of wilderness from this hilltop lookout, we feel like we’re in the middle of nowhere. Ridge after ridge of rocky Karoo scrubland merges into haze and then sky as far as the eye can see, and I can scarcely see a sign of human habitation in any direction. But look carefully and you’ll see the telltale movement far away on a rocky hillside – a troop of baboons perhaps, a kudu, or one of the reserves many elephant.
Kuzuko is a 5-star hotel transported into the middle of the bush, in its own private reserve, and part of Addo Elephant National Park. Getting here is not the easiest – more than 2 hours drive from Port Elizabeth, the last hour or so on gravel roads, but at least the drive is scenic and unlike some parts of Addo, this feels wild. Really wild.
Our chalet is hotel standard and feels like a hotel, not a safari lodge and this is part of its appeal to those who know what to expect from the Legacy Hotels. So expect OMG! And Dish magazine in your room, rather than Birding or Africa Geo.
Make no mistake though, you’ll still get a ‘real’ safari experience here, with a variety of optional activities available, from walks with Cheetah to star gazing. If you love birds, you won’t need to stray far beyond the beautifully kept indigenous gardens interspersing the chalets, and if you come in winter, as we did, the chances are you’ll have most of the place to yourself.
After ‘high tea’ at 2pm, we pile into an open-top land cruiser with head guide Freddie for the three-hour afternoon game drive. With the whole 15,000-hectare reserve for the exclusive use of Kuzuko guests, there’s no sharing sightings with other vehicles – it’s just you, the other guests and the wilderness.
A track winds down a ravine from the hotel – baboons shelter in craggy cliffs, Cape Mountain Zebra cling to the slopes and extraordinary numbers of kudu mingle among the Jacket Plums, Shepherd Trees and iconic Spekbooms. The constant bird chatter, especially the whistling cries of the bokmakierie, reverberates around the gorge. Down in the plain we soon spot a large herd of elephant and go to pay our respects. As we drink sundowners overlooking the expanse, the sky turns mauve, and thunder starts to crackle as a storm begins to move in. It’s a magical moment.
We enjoy the passing storm to the full on our chalet deck, as flashes of lightning illuminate the hills and the sounds of the nightjar carry on the warm wind.
Dinner is a four-course a la carte affair; I have tomato soup, beef Carpaccio, lamb stew and malva pudding. Don’t expect levels of cuisine or service to match five star lodges in Sabi Sand, but as value for money goes, Kuzuko delivers.
There’s no crack-of-dawn wake-up call here – the morning game drive kicks off at the sociable time of 8am, leaving plenty of time for a leisurely breakfast as the sun rises spectacularly in front of the hotel. Remember to leave space for the post-drive brunch. You won’t go hungry at Kuzuko.
We spot the reserve’s two male lion on our three-hour morning drive but we’re unlucky with the rhino. No matter – for us this place is not about the Big Five, but a slice of solitude and beauty – though you’ll still be able to tick a few of those boxes. There’s a good chance of seeing amongst other things – lion, elephant, rhino, kudu, zebra, black wildebeest, red hartebeest and eland.
Kuzuko may not be the easiest place to get to, but those that make the effort are blown away by the beauty, the friendly staff and the feeling that you’ve done something – well – different.
Good for: Wild solitude, value-for-money safaris in a spectacular setting. Families, team-building groups. There are good conference facilities.
Not so good for: Accessibility, Big Five.
Our Verdict: Solid good-value choice if you’re up for a safari in the Addo area.
We would love to help you plan your own African safari. Contact us today.
Email: info[at]kleincollection.com | South Africa Tel. +27 (0) 21 813 6961
– African Safari Review by Jonathan Sophie Ellaby
We visit one of Addo’s three exclusive lodges for a dose of colonial luxury and come away impressed with what the large reserve has to offer. And the hospitality.
It’s a warm winter’s day when we arrive, greeted by the competent front-of-house team and we tuck into a scrumptious lunch while our room is being prepared. A good chunk of the reserve’s 120-odd elephant are parading not far from the lunch terrace, while a couple of fish eagles wheel overhead. It’s a promising start.
Addo Main Game Area can sometimes feel a bit claustrophobic, with a lot of roads traversing quite a small area. If you’re yearning for a bit of space, then River Bend Lodge has the answer. The only lodge in the huge 14,000 hectare Nyati section of the park, you and your fellow guests will have this whole tract of wilderness to yourselves.
After high tea with our guide, Mike, we pile into the land cruiser for the evening game drive. Mike has taken time to chat to us and find out exactly what our interests are, which is what guides are supposed to do but these days often don’t, being instead obsessed with finding what they THINK their clients want to see. So we’re impressed. But what, I want to know, makes River Bend unique, and why does he enjoy working here?
“Addo has incredible diversity and much of it is right here at River Bend,” he explains. No less than 5 of South Africa’s 7 biomes are represented in a small area – from Cape Fynbos to sub-tropical thicket, Afromontane forest, and savannah. “And we’re incredibly fortunate to be the only lodge on this whole reserve.”
We spend some time with the elephants, which are remarkably relaxed around the vehicle, allowing for some excellent interactions, before checking out some birds and sundowners looking out over the river. We rumble a few spring hares and no less than three Spotted Eagle Owls on the night drive back to the lodge, before tucking into a superb three course a la carte dinner.
A few things stand out. First is the ambiance, which is colonial style and relaxed – from the lounge areas packed with soft chairs, to the library and self-contained chalets comprising the guest suites, each with a private deck overlooking the bush and, (always a winner this), its own private outdoor shower.
Second is the level of hospitality and attention to detail, which we usually associate with lodges in a much higher price bracket. You always expect smiles and greetings from hospitality managers but here, the waiters greet you by name and the gardeners welcome you too with genuine warmth. All this without being over-attentive or fussed over. Here, River Bend succeeds where a lot of other places let slip.
The lodge location within the reserve is not ideal, being relatively close to a main road and within sight of electricity pylons – for bush purists such as us this is an initial shock but the other pros outweigh this. On the plus side, it’s easy to get to, and the lodge benefits from this with excellent facilities and every comfort in the beautiful chalet-suites – including free Wi-Fi in every room.
On our final morning drive we head up a rough track into the foothills of the Zuurberg mountains and leave the main road far behind – here you feel in the middle of the wild, bumping along up wooded ravines stalked by black rhino (though you’ll be lucky to see one), the shrill whistles of Sombre Greenbuls ringing in your ears. This is also the place to hunt for the elusive Narina Trogon. At once we’re in our element – just us and our guide in a truly remote corner of the park, where you know your moments of peace and solitude won’t be disturbed by anyone else, or any other vehicle. That’s rare in Africa’s parks, even if you’re staying at top-dollar lodges. At River Bend, it’s taken for granted.
We rumble the reserve’s three lion and a large healthy herd of buffalo – but along with the elephant this is as much of the Big Five as you’re likely to see here, or indeed anywhere else in Addo. But that’s not what River Bend is about. It’s about a diverse safari experience, away from the crowds, in a beautiful setting, and with quality of food and hospitality to match.
If that’s your idea of a great safari, River Bend Lodge won’t disappoint.
Good for: Romantic getaways (the honeymoon suite has its own plunge pool), superb food and hospitality
Not so good for: Big Five, lodge setting
Our Verdict: One of the best choices for a luxury safari in the Addo area, a place where everything comes together and you’re made to feel part of the family
We would love to help you plan your own African safari. Contact us today.
Email: info[at]kleincollection.com | South Africa Tel. +27 (0) 21 813 6961
– African Safari Review by Jonathan Sophie Ellaby
Set on its own exclusive concession in the heart of Addo Elephant National Park, we find a unique blend of nature and history at Gorah that makes for a delightful stay.
It’s easy to spot Gorah from afar, perched in rolling hills, each luxury safari tent with a commanding view of the bush and no fences to interfere with it. But it’s only when you get there that you appreciate how intense it can be and how different it is to anywhere else in Addo, or for that matter, South Africa. As seasoned bush hands, we were simply blown away.
First, a step back. The modern-day lodge is on the site of a farmhouse dating back to 1856, since lovingly restored, and the house oozes a sense of family history from the moment you step through its doors. Open verandas, lots of wood and old furniture and giant fireplaces are designed to conjure up images of hunting parties and colonial splendor.
The farming history is apparent in the large swathes of grassland previously used for cattle grazing, now the domain of larger herbivores such as zebra, kudu, hartebeest and eland. And elephant of course. Ironically, these open grasslands (which ought naturally to be thickets) make you feel more than ever like you’re in Africa, evoking the great savannah plains of East Africa.
Up close and personal – Gorah Elephant Camp
We sit out on the colonial-style veranda for a ‘light lunch’ gazing out onto the plain, with herds of elephant just metres away and no fence in between – this comes close to many people’s vision of what a safari ought to be like. And we have to say, having spent many months in the bush, that this is pretty damn good. With a waterhole a stone’s throw away, you have a good chance of observing most of the plains game as well as elephant, at close range, while enjoying every gourmet meal Gorah’s superb staff lay on for you.
There’s little to fault the service either – from the meet and greet, waiting staff, guides and tent escorts – there’s everything you’d expect for a five-star lodge. The camp runs on solar power so there are a few compromises on things some take for granted – no air-con for example, and to get a battery charged you have to give it to your guide to take away overnight. But these are small things in what is otherwise a very luxurious set-up.
Relaxing by the tent at Gorah Elephant Camp
It’s the lack of electricity that gives the historic lodge its charm in the evenings – the whole place lit only with candles and heated by blazing wooden fires in each room, and after a post-game drive drink in the paneled lounge, we sit down to a superb 3-course dinner (by candle light of course: there’s no other way).
After dinner, we step onto our private tent veranda for one of our most memorable bush experiences ever. There’s nothing but wild bush everywhere in front of us, all lit up by an almost-full moon and the air is dead still, punctured only by nightjars and the shrieks of a barn owl. Then comes the first rumbling, then another, and a big bull elephant is standing right in front of us, tearing grass from the very edge of the veranda. We sit motionless, spellbound, close enough for him to touch us with his trunk if he tried. Next morning, recalling this encounter in the silvery swathe of moonlight seems like it was a dream.
Our evening game drive yielded more special elephant moments. Gorah is unique in Addo in being allowed to use entirely open-top vehicles, with not even a canopy to shield you from the grey beasts. Make no mistake – this results in far more intimate encounters (and also ensures you’ll get a soaking if it unexpectedly rains, as it did for us next morning). With 5,000-odd hectares of private concession to themselves, as well as access to the rest of Addo Main Game Area should the need arise, the game viewing is exclusive, as you’d expect. We miss the lion, but glimpse a black rhino across the hills (there are regular sightings of this extremely rare animal).
Sipping complimentary sparkling wine on comfy chairs in the luxury of your tent, while gazing out at vast herds of kudu (we counted 52), elephant and other game, you’ll most likely have a ‘pinch-me-is-this-real’ moment. We did. And if one of Addo’s 12 lions took down one of those kudu at that moment it would be, well, unreal. But it could just happen. At Gorah, you hardly need to go on game drives. The game comes to you.
Good for: Classic luxury tent safari in a spectacular setting (ask for tent 10 for the most spectacular experience of all)
Not so good for: Those who demand the highest level of creature comforts (the lodge runs off solar). Ticking off all the Big Five
Our Verdict: The combination of old family history and an exquisite camp almost guarantee an unforgettable experience
For enquiries, please contact us on +27 21 813 6961 or info@kleincollection.com. Alternatively, please complete the short enquiry form below.
Published: September 2nd 2012
August 29th 2012
Breakfast viewFor our 5thday of the Cape to Addo tour, the major activity was the Addo Elephant National Park. This is a giant national park that was initially developed in 1931 to provide a sanctuary for the 11 remaining elephants in their natural habitat. The elephant population had dwindled in this area because of poachers and farmers (who were trying to protect their farms from being trampled by Elephants). Over the years since it has started, the national park has grown in size, now boasting that they are home to the “Big 7” – elephants, hippos, buffalo, lion, leopard, whale, and great white shark. The elephants have also thrived, and the population is now over 450. This is a major highlight of this trip, both in advertising and in reality. After enjoying breakfast and coffee with a spectacular view, we said good-bye to our farm house and we headed out to Addo.
In the morning, we had the option of doing an open-air jeep game drive (for an additional cost) or a game drive with our own guides in our travel vans. Roy, Yi Jiun, and I decided to skip the additional cost option and
Let the adventure beginstick with our own guides. That ended up being a good decision for two reasons. First, Martin is known as the “elephant whisperer”, as he has a knack for finding elephants at just the right time. Second, it was a chilly morning and the people who chose to do the open air tour were freezing (although they said it was very cool). We spotted our first elephants from a distance, and we excitedly took blurry photos on maximum zoom having no idea of the amazing elephant experience that was in our near future.
The first animals that we saw up close were zebras, warthogs, and kudu (antelope). All were exciting, but I was particularly enchanted by the zebras. When you get the chance to see them up close, you can tell how beautiful and graceful they are. Plus, you can appreciate their unique camouflage, because when they are all together you can’t tell where one ends and another one begins. I also learned that zebra babies are born as tall as their moms, so that the mom can stand in front of the baby and predators can’t tell that there is a baby
Our photographer hard at work
Note: Yi Jiun had the best camera, so she was our official photographer. She took many of the photos that follow, and she is really talented. I was lucky to share this with her!nearby. I think that’s awesome, and we got to observe that in real life. Check out the picture of the zebra with 8 legs.
Our first up close elephant sighting was also thrilling. Martin could see a few elephants in the distance, and he could tell by the way that they were walking where they would be crossing the road. All we had to do was drive to that spot and wait, and sure enough a small elephant family came walking right in front of our car. Amazing! This is also where we could view an elephant pooping up close and personal. Gross, but cool. Later we would see one peeing, giving us a new perspective on the saying “hung like an elephant”.
After our 2-hour morning game drive, we went back to the entrance where we met up with those of us who decided to do the jeep tour. Although shivering, they said it was also amazing. We all had a quick lunch, and then we headed back out to do another 3 hour game drive, which would take us all the way through the
The most common Elephant photo taken at the parkpark to an exit on the other side. This is when we got really, really lucky. The morning had been cold and overcast, but the sun came out when we were eating lunch. So, when we were back in the park for the second drive, many many many elephants all got hot and started to head to the biggest watering hole at about the same time. And we were basically ahead of them! When we got to the watering hole, there were 4-5 elephants in the water, and by the time we were done probably 40-50 elephants had come. Since we had the elephant whisperer with us, he knew to drive a little distance from the rest of the cars, planting us right in the spot where they would be walking by. For me, this experience was more thrilling than the bungee jump… My heart was pounding so fast, I could stop grinning, and my face was flushed with enthusiasm. I could have watched the elephants for hours and never gotten bored. But, alas, we had to keep moving because there were other places to go and things to see. Before we left the park, we saw more elephants, more
Kuduzebra, and just as we were about to exit we spotted a buffalo. He was really old and alone, and our guides think that he was cast out of his group because he couldn’t keep up anymore. I’m glad that we got to spot him. As we left the park, I could feel the glow of seeing wild elephants in their natural habitat in Africa. I didn’t think that I would ever have that experience, and I enjoyed every moment of it.
Next up, we drove to Jeffery’s Bay, or J-Bay to the locals. Everything has a nickname. Port Elizabeth = PE. Jeffery’s Bay = J Bay. Cape Town = the Cape or CT. Johannesburg = Jo-burg. So, we drove to J Bay, where we basically just went to our accommodation. Luckily, our accommodation was really cool and beautiful. We were back on the coast, and our “backpackers” was made up of several houses, each of which looked out on the water. J Bay is known for its surfing, and this backpackers would be, I imagine, a surfers paradise. All you need to do is walk out of your room, and you can
I loved themride the waves all morning. Then, when you are finished for the day, you can come back for drinks and camaraderie around a fire. For me, not a surfer, this was the perfect place to snuggle into an oversized armchair and look out over the water. I read and tried (unsuccessfully) to connect to the internet. It was awesome.
J Bay was also unique because it’s the first place where I could sense the security. I had felt safe throughout the entire trip, and I felt safe at this location. But, there is security all around. There are often security guards in parking lots, and there were many security guards at the farm. At first we didn’t know if they were supposed to be protecting us or the farm, but we later learned that there was one guard who just walked between the places where we were staying all night. At our lodging in J Bay, they directed us to only walk to the left, because to the right is more deserted and “things can happen”. There were gates to get into and out of all of the different houses. And, since we
Protecting her babywere staying at a different house, I walked back to our room in the dark, and I observed 3 security guards on the street. There are a lot of disparities in South Africa, and while driving around you can find the most amazing beautiful beach front vacation homes a few kilometers from a “township” where people’s homes are erected from large sheets of hard plastic. I am privileged to this amazing, life changing, vacation, but I am “guarded” from some of the other parts of South Africa. This hasn’t been something that has been talked about much, but it’s something that I could feel more in J Bay. I hope to continue to learn about and reflect on this element of South Africa throughout the rest of my time here.
The elephant is not a domestic animal and so chasing it into the bush after a sojourn ‘abroad’ is not a big deal.
The big deal, really, is how to lure the elephant back from the bush and, thereafter, tame it into a domestic animal. Surely, it will take something extremely compelling to attract the elephant back from its comfortable zone in the bush, and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and its flag bearer, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, cannot be oblivious of that enormous task on December 7.
Beyond the publication of Dr Arthur Kennedy’s ‘Chasing the elephant into the bush,’ a critique of the performance of the NPP in the 2008 general election, there have been many other elaborate assessments of the party’s performance in that polls.
Indeed, the NPP itself has done a thorough self-examination, culminating in the adoption of the three-prong strategy of ‘Reflect, Rebuild and Recapture’ as the party seeks to reflect on what went wrong in 2008, rebuild its broken structures and attempt to recapture political power in the December polls.
Having observed the 2008 election campaign of the NPP at close range, as a journalist covering the party’s flag bearer, there are some personal observations that Nana Akufo-Addo and the NPP must consider critically if they really want to lure back and domesticate the elephant.
One observation was how the NPP campaign was heavily laden with complacency, spearheaded by the ‘Agbenaa’ (it’s finished) slogan. Meanwhile, the campaign was bleeding profusely at the grassroots level where much of the action was required. On one of Nana Addo’s visits to Kumasi, I interacted with some of the party’s ‘foot soldiers’ who had travelled from various places to Kumasi to seek financial and logistical support for campaigning in rural communities.
Some of them needed just GH¢20 for transportation to execute that task but their desire was not met and their faces were dimmed with frustration.
Certainly, money could not have been a major problem of the NPP, given the pomp campaign it ran in 2008. Some of the resources could have been channelled into more intensive work at the grassroots, but complacency misguided that priority. Following the demise of the late President J. E. A. Mills, many NPP supporters think the battle has been won long before December 7, forgetting that the battle is not over until it’s all over.
The National Chairman of the NPP, Jake Obetsebi-Lamptey, was spot on at the launch of the party’s manifesto in Accra recently when he cautioned members to eschew complacency in the run-up to this year’s election; otherwise, efforts to bring back the elephant home would be in vain. Another observation was how all the ‘big’ people in the party were so eager to follow the flag bearer around to the neglect of effective campaigning at the grassroots.
They seemed to enjoy driving in long convoys, flaunting themselves on rally platforms and receiving cheers from the crowd. When some of them were asked to speak on platforms, they chose to use the opportunity to attack political opponents without addressing critical national issues that would direct the thumbs of voters in the party’s favour.
The last NPP rally at the Accra Academy Park in Accra just before the election was one of the biggest (if not the biggest) political rallies I have ever witnessed since 1992. Prior to that, the party’s Ashanti Regional rally held at the Jackson Park in Kumasi was equally massive. There were two interesting observations I made at those rallies. One was about the fact that many people in the crowd, especially the youth, were not registered voters. Some of them were below 18 years; others did not either register or lacked interest in voting in view of the violence that characterises the process or were ignorant of the whole election process.
The other observation was that a large number of the people, particularly those who attended the Accra Academy rally, had to vote in their hometowns, but they were either not prepared to travel just for that purpose or did not have the means to travel. The implication was that the size of crowds at the Kumasi and Accra rallies did not reflect in votes for the NPP. It is, therefore, imperative for the NPP to address these challenges and ensure that the large crowds that patronise its rallies are translated into votes. This requires education for party supporters to appreciate the need to vote.
The perception about Nana Addo as an arrogant person was a big deal in 2008, and I daresay it is still a big deal now. I’m not quite sure about the extent to which the flag bearer and his campaign team have addressed that issue or are seeking to do so. But the crux of the matter is that this perception has to be flushed out of the minds of the electorate if the elephant is to return from the bush.
Many people, especially journalists, have also expressed concern about the inaccessibility of Nana Addo. I do not share a contrary opinion. The NPP flag bearer tends to speak to the media when he so desires, but he is rarely accessible when the media need him. Whether this is a personal attitude or campaign strategy, such posturing can be very costly because it feeds into his perceived arrogance.
Covering Nana Addo’s campaign in 2008, one would have imagined that after every tour, there would be an opportunity for the flag bearer to interact with journalists following his campaign to clarify issues and even get a feedback from independent, objective and non-partisan perspectives. That approach, in my humble opinion, is better than the over-reliance on praise-singers who only seek to soothe the ears with favourable information, which at best false hope of electoral victory.
The security detail of the flag bearer, in their over-zealous and sometimes unnecessary actions to provide protection, block access to Nana Addo, making it difficult for party faithful to at least shake hands with him. Journalists also find it difficult to interact with and take good pictures of him.
The security detail must appreciate the role of the media in the campaign process as complementary to the services they (security personnel) provide. If the role of the media does not matter, the NPP would not be making a big fuss about allegations that GTV did not capture Nana Addo at the funeral of the late President Mills. It will also not be complaining that the Daily Graphic has been bias against the party in its coverage of political activities.
So why should the security detail be hostile to journalists who want to get close to Nana Addo to do a good job? Even in Iraq where suicide bombing is a past-time of many, the worst thing an Iraqi journalist could do to register his disgust at America’s occupation of his country was to throw a pair of shoes at former US President George W. Bush Jnr. What then can harmless Ghanaian journalists do to Nana Addo to warrant hostility from his security detail in the course of their duty?
Beyond the observations made of the 2008 election campaign of the NPP, it is also pertinent for the party to address some issues that have the tendency to hurt its electoral fortunes.
First, the ‘All die be die’ mantra is not sitting well with many Ghanaians, particularly floating voters who may make the difference in December. The mantra sends a negative signal as a threat to peace and stability. The closeness of margin in the 2008 election should make every wise political party and politician respect the sensibilities and views of the floating voter.
The amount of time NPP spokespersons have spent in explaining the philosophy underpinning the mantra is enough a good reason to abandon it as a message for electoral victory. The party will be better off spending that time to water the seeds of Nana Addo’s campaign policy on free education up to the senior high school level and others that look very attractive to the electorate.
Similarly, it is very important for the party faithful to avoid tantrums such as the one unleashed by the Member of Parliament for Assin North, Kennedy Agyapong because they could cause irreparable damage to the party.
It is important to note, without any fear of attack from any political quarters, that the NPP has waged a better campaign towards Election 2012 than any other political party. So why must it allow unguarded pronouncements to undermine the good efforts made so far?
Sometimes, political parties have a way of dismissing such tendencies as trivial and inconsequential to their electoral fortunes. But pretence, no matter how strong it seems, will always crumble in the face of reality.
Indeed, the NPP has a huge tax to create a conducive environment at home to attract the elephant from its comfort zone in the bush as Election 2012 approaches.
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Wildlife lovers can visit Addo Elephant National Park and most of South Africa’s game parks for free next week during the South African National Parks (SANParks) Week.
Have a chance of spotting Addo’s wildlife in action for free next week. Photo: Trix Jonker ©
Addo is 40km from Port Elizabeth and an hour’s drive from Uitenhage and Grahamstown. Visitors can make use of the well-developed network of tourist roads, suitable for all types of vehicles in the game area as well as picnic sites in the game area and at Addo main camp.
Elephants at Addo National Park. Photo: Johannes van Niekerk
Addo main camp offers a bird hide, underground hide and short walking trail while there are also day walking trails in the Zuurberg and Woody Cape areas of the Park. There’s a chance to spot the Big Five as well as zebra, antelope species and over 400 bird species which occur in the Park.
But there is free access to all SA parks for day visits by any SA resident from 10-14 September. The only exceptions are Boulders Beach Penguin Colony in Table Mountain National Park and the Namaqua National Park.
Besides Addo, Eastern Cape residents have three other national parks in close range. The Mountain Zebra National Park, Camdeboo National Park and Garden Route National Park are all free during SA National Parks Week. Schools that would like to participate in environmental education programmes in the Park are welcome to contact the Park’s people conservation department to book.
Camdeboo National Park, which surrounds the town of Graaff-Reinet, offers visitors an outing to the world-renowned Valley of Desolation, the Game Viewing Area surrounding the Nqweba Dam as well as picnic sites, 4×4 trails and various hiking trails. Mountain Zebra National Park near Cradock, offers visitors picnic sites with swimming pools, a recently upgraded network of roads for wildlife viewing and the chance to spot magnificent cheetah as well as the Cape mountain zebra for which the Park has named.
According to SANParks Acting Head of Communications, Paul Daphne, the objective of SANParks Week is to cultivate a sense of understanding and pride in South Africans of their natural, cultural and historical heritage. This is part of the established theme ‘Know Your National Parks’.
Environmental education and protection is the responsibility of everyone, not just a privileged few. If we are to create a sense of ownership of the natural heritage of South Africa in all South Africans, then all South Africans should be able to access the parks Daphne said. “We especially want young people to take advantage of this opportunity because this heritage will be under their protection in the near future.”
As part of SA National Parks Week, Addo Elephant National Park’s people conservation department will host various community and school groups in the Park to show what Addo has to offer. More than 300 youth and adults who live in the communities bordering the Park will participate in the educational programmes throughout the week, including environmental education lessons and game drives.
Since it is also National Clean-up Week, 50 learners from Colchester will participate in a clean-up of the Park’s coastline.
The annual SANParks Week has been made possible with support from First National Bank (FNB). SANParks Week is in its seventh year and has proven to be a successful campaign in terms of education and awareness of conservation issues.
Note: Free access to the Park does not include guided activities, such as horse trails, guided game drives, guided tours or overnight hiking trails and is not available to visitors on open safari vehicles or organised pre-paid tour buses.
Visitors need to produce their valid SA ID documents to secure free access. Young persons under the age of 16 will be allowed free access.
(Edited by St Francis Chronicle)
All articles edited or written, all photos taken plus all adverts designed by the Editor and printed in the St Francis Chronicle are protected by the law of Copyright ©. Reproduction or copying of any part of the contents of this newspaper and its concept and design can only be done with the Editor’s written permission.
Tell me about the best of the Western Cape of South Africa in the spring (September). It’s my first trip, and I’m searching for sweet addiction!
In spring 2013 (September) my husband and I will fly from San Diego or Los Angeles into Cape Town. (We may fly via Europe with a stopover in London, Paris or Frankfurt. We will then spend 17 incredible nights in South Africa before flying home out of Cape Town. Nothing is booked yet but I want to book soon. I’m both nervous and excited!
Please help me select our best 3 or 4 “bases” for a total of 17 nights to stay in the Western Cape of South Africa, for a beautiful and hopefully sunny spring trip (September)? We will have a car and ideally prefer to spend 4 nights at each “base”, and take day-trips from there in our car.
Most of what we want to see is in the Western Cape. But we are also tempted by the Addo Elephant National Park in the Eastern Cape, although I don’t see how we can fit it in, unless we add a flight to Port Elizabeth. (Addo would have to be included in the 17 nights.) Each of our “bases” should be well-located for day-trips to beautiful natural areas, and with tasty places to eat nearby. (We like great food with fresh ingredients in a friendly, casual setting…places that are “favorites” with the locals.)
Our 3 or 4 bases will be well-located, to allow us to explore some of these amazing areas, which I hope are beautiful and sunny in the spring:
WESTERN CAPE:
Cape Town Cape Peninsula
Table Mountain National Park
Cape Winelands
Cederberg west coast wildflowers
Hermanus the Whale Coast
Overberg
Southern Coast Garden route ( Tsitsikamma National Park?)
Route 62 Prince Albert?
Little Karoo area? (not interested in ostriches)
EASTERN CAPE:
–Addo Elephant National Park?
–Kwandwe? (pricey and not sure my husband is convinced Kwandwe is for him)
My husband and I are as different as boiling water and a tea bag. We are in our 50’s and love to travel. (Switzerland, New Zealand, Costa Rica…awesome!) I am a dreamy poet who enjoys fresh tasty food and inspiring scenery, and I can only hike for an hour or 2 due to current hip and foot issues. When I’m inspired I whip out my pen and paper. My husband is an active biologist who can hike all day, and is passionate about exploring native flora fauna, especially tortoises, reptiles, and natural stands of native annual wildflowers. When he’s inspired, he whips out his camera.
We both enjoy meeting the locals for a chat; discovering locally owned eateries with fresh, tasty food; cultural experiences; music and art; and staying in owner-run guesthouses, bbs, or small boutique hotels where the owners have time for a chat, and where we can meet other guests at breakfast.
I have read 2 Fodors guidebooks, the Frommers guidebook, and the AAA guidebook for South Africa. Now its time to book the trip. I haven’t booked anything yet. Our budget is flexible. We normally like an interesting mix of accommodations ranging from luxury to moderate to inexpensive, each of which is special within its price category. (I’m using the prices in the Fodors guidebook as a reference point.)
THANKS as ever for your help! Right now I’m hoping you can help me select the cities, towns, or villages which will become our “bases”. But I’m also open to specific accommodations, if something pops into your mind. Feel free to give me your subjective personal opinions, and if everyone disagrees, it’s even more fun and interesting.
Addo Elephant National Park is the only park in the world where you can see the Big Seven: lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo, plus the great white shark and southern right whale. A day trip to the park and surrounding Greater Addo tourism route provides a huge variety of activities. By Alison Westwood
Route: From Port Elizabeth take the N2 towards Grahamstown. After the Sundays River bridge, turn left at the sign for Camp Matyholweni and follow this road to Matyholweni Gate. Drive through the park to Addo Rest Camp. Exiting main camp, you can turn left and take the R335 towards the town of Addo and the R336 to Kirkwood or follow the winding Zuurberg Pass for about 15km to reach Zuurberg horse trails..
Distance: About 40 km from PE to Matyholweni and 36 km through the park to main camp (this takes about 90 minutes at the 40km/h speed limit).
When to go: The dry, winter months from May to September are the best time for game viewing.
Instead of turning left to Matyholweni, turn right towards Colchester to catch an early cruise on the Sundays River Ferry and drift down to the spectacular dune fields at the mouth. Tel 041-468-0140, e-mail maggiemann@addogatewaylodge.co.za or web www.addocruises.co.za.
Inside the park, a network of game viewing roads provides excellent opportunities for a self-guided game drive and the new picnic site in Addo’s botanical reserve is a welcome chance to take a break.
On your way to Addo Rest Camp, don’t miss Hapoor Dam, usually bustling with elephants. At the camp, visit the waterhole lookout and Sasol Red Bishop Bird Hide. For kids, there’s the PPC Discovery trail, a short walk that teaches them about the region’s plants and animals.
If you enjoy riding, two and three-hour horse trails in Addo hold the chance of encounters with big game. Tel 042-233-8621 or e-mail addogamedrives@sanparks.org. Drive on north and you can take in the lovely scenery of the Zuurberg on horseback among harmless game. There’s a choice of one, three and five-hour guided trails here.
For an entirely different kind of ride, continue along the Zuurberg Pass to Addo Elephant Back Safaris where you can spend three magical hours interacting with elephants in their natural habitat. Tel 042-235-1400, e-mail res@addoelephantbacksafaris.co.za or web www.addoelephantbacksafaris.co.za.
For visitors interested in the area’s history and environment, local guide Stef Delport’s half or full day tours provide a wealth of fascinating facts and stories. Tel 042-230-1311, cell 082-657-1960 or e-mail stef@kirkwood.co.za.
Stef also guides the Bedrogsfontein 4×4 trail, a 45km route between the Kabouga and Darlington sections of Addo, which takes around six hours. It isn’t technically challenging, but a 4×4 with low range is compulsory. Tel 042-233-8169 or e-mail addoenquiries@sanparks.org.
Must do in Addo
- Ogle elephants at Hapoor Dam
- Stop for flightless dung beetles crossing the road
- Ride a horse and an elephant on the same day
Top tips for Addo
- Addo is malaria free, but bring insect repellent anyway.
- The park’s roads are suitable for normal sedans. The speed limit is 40#km/h.
- No citrus fruits are allowed inside the main wildlife area.
- There’s no natural water in the main section of the park, so animals congregate around waterholes.
Useful Addo contacts
- Greater Addo Route, tel 071-437-8487, e-mail greateraddo@gmail.com or web www.addotourism.co.za.
- Addo Elephant National Park, tel 042-233-8600, e-mail addoenquiries@sanparks.org or web www.sanparks.org/parks/addo/.
First published in Getaway Magazine
Interested in Addo? Read my feature article about Greater Addo National Park.
For those of us in the Southern hemisphere, September is the month of blooming, and South Africa is not the exception. Greenness, flower blossoms and people filled with a new energy that seemed dormant during the winter months all come together to make this one of the best seasons for a visit to this magical land.
Among other things, South Africa boasts a spectacular flora: The Cape Floral Region is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring 8 500 plant species, 70% of which are indigenous to the area and unique in the whole world.
Spring is thus arguably the best time of the year for flights to South Africa, especially for those looking to experience nature in full and radiant bloom.
Flowers and Whales
Whale sighting by Gearings Point, Hermanus by cornstaruk
The South African Spring is a time when even the dry areas of the Northern Cape come alive with an explosion of millions of flowers. The blooming of the Namaqualand daisies is such a spectacle, that many locals travel to the area en masse to observe them. There are also many seasonal flower shows across the land, including the ones held in the Cape, Caledon, Darling, and Clanwilliam.
But Spring doesn´t only bring flowers to the fields of South Africa , it also brings whales to its shores. A prime location for whale watching can be found in Hermanus, where a Whale Festival is held, attracting over 120,000 visitors every year, who come together to celebrate the return of the whales.
Hiking enthusiasts will enjoy the Spring as much as environmentalists and whale enthusiasts, since Spring is also the best time of year for this activity: not too hot, not too rainy, with virtually perfect outdoor weather.
Reserves and Gardens
Some of the most popular spots to enjoy the South African Spring in its fullest is the De Hoop Nature Reserve, in the vicinity of Bredasdorp, where hikers can observe whales and an impressive variety of migrating birds, such as flamingoes and pelicans.
The Lowveld National Botanical Garden in Mpumalanga is a plant and greenery lovers dream, with more than 2000 native species, and the Addo Elephant National Park will provide opportunities to come in contact with buffaloes lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, great white sharks and southern right whales.
Check out this Flowers of Namaqualand music video
MOST POPULAR TRAILS ROUTES
The Cape Country Meander spans 100kms through green farmlands and charming little towns, following the footsteps of the first Boer pioneers, with plenty of opportunities for fishing, river barging, hiking, rock climbing and canoeing, among other fun water sports.
The Freedom Trail is a mountain bike route with stunning panoramic views that goes from Cape Town to Durban, crossing mountains, valleys, natural reserves and stretches of virtually untrodden wildernesses.
A great trail for wild flower spotting, climbing and fly-fishing, the Highlands Meander in Mpumalanga will make for an exciting adventure, complete with breathtaking visions of waterfalls, flowers and black leopards.
Bird-watching lovers will be delighted by a visit to the Limpopo province, where many detailed Birding Routes are available. The best time of the year to see the hundreds of birds that populate the area is from mid Spring to mid Summer, between November and February.
Spring is simply my favorite time of year, and I can think of very few things more rewarding than escaping towards the Spring, when a rainy fall starts darkening the last days of Summer. Spring in South Africa is positively glorious, and it is just beginning right now. Happy Springtime travels!
Featured image by jonwade
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Marriage is probably the biggest adventure you’ll ever undertake, so here are a few exciting honeymoon options to go with it… plus, they’re closer than you think
By Lisa van der Knaap
This article was taken from Wedding Inspirations magazine September/Spring 2011
Why you should go: The Namib Desert is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful areas in the world – a place where the stark serenity of nature is allowed to take centre stage. Here, Sossusvlei Desert Lodge’s 10 villas are made from glass and stone, affording you enveloping views of the fiery sand dunes, some of the highest on the planet. The elegant muted tones of the decor are complemented by natural elements like bone, slate and wood. Your private wraparound veranda is the ideal spot to admire the dusky hues of the breathtaking sunsets. All the villas at the five-star lodge have an en-suite bathroom with an indoor and outdoor shower and even a dramatic skylight over the bed for stargazing. Air-conditioning and a cosy fire will ward off extreme temperatures.
In the evenings, you can choose your wines in the lodge’s impressive walk-in cellar, opting to have a romantic dinner by lantern light on the open dining deck or at one of the nearby dunes in summer. For a better understanding of the night sky, the resident astronomer at the state-of-the-art observatory is on hand to help. During the day, hot-air balloon rides and flight safaris are available at an additional cost; or go on a scenic 4×4 drive, followed by a desert picnic excursion. You can get a little closer to nature on a quad bike adventure with an expert guide, or take a slightly more relaxed walk or hike and savour the unspoilt wilderness up close.
Rates: Prices start from around R3 350 per person per night (1 November – 20 December and 7 January – 30 June) and from around R5 995 per person per night (1 – 6 January, 1 July – 31 October and 21 – 31 December).
Contact details: Call 011 809 4300 or visit www.andbeyondafrica.com
Reader special: From 1 November to 20 December 2011, you can stay at Sossusvlei Desert Lodge for four nights for R13 143 – R15 281, depending on which part of the country you live in. This price includes flights, accommodation, car hire, three meals a day and scheduled safari activities. Call Thompson’s Travel on 0861 846 677 (quote ref: 28959).
Note in a box: The history of the region is fascinating and you can learn about the early inhabitants through a bushman’s cave guided walk; there’s also an equally interesting medicinal plants walk.
Why you should go: If you love going to the bush, taking in the natural scenery while riding on top of an elephant will be a once in a lifetime experience. The ride lasts about three hours and when you’re finished, you’ll reward the herd with their favourite treats while walking with your ellie through the diverse valley bushveld.
Bordering the Greater Addo Elephant National Park, the area is regarded as Africa’s most biologically diverse region. Because of this, the lodge has all sorts of eco-friendly systems in place so that minimal unnatural impact is felt – but it still offers five-star comfort. All of the private suites are on elevated wooden decks. Constructed of part canvas, part recycled Brazilian pine, this luxurious tented lodge blends in discreetly with the surroundings and provides undisturbed exclusivity. Some of the suites are nestled in the yellowwood forest, while others are set on the hillside, boasting magnificent views of the surrounds. All of them have en-suite bathrooms with both indoor and outdoor showers. There’s also a private viewing deck and the option of a king-size bed if you’re treating yourselves. To keep you entertained, there are game drives and walks – and if you haven’t had enough of the gentle giants, ask about the Sunset Elephant Encounters.
The history of the region is fascinating and you can learn about the early inhabitants through a bushman’s cave guided walk; there’s also an equally interesting medicinal plants walk. For the romantics, ask about their hillside sundowners and candle-lit bush dinners. There are other day trips which are available at an additional cost – or you can simply soak up the sun on your private deck, unwinding in your own spa bath or enjoying sumptuous cuisine at the elephant’s favourite watering hole. Good to note, Addo Elephant Back Safaris and Lodges is also a wedding venue, should you choose to do something a little different for your big day.
Rates: An elephant back safari costs R875 per person; booking is essential. Until 30 September 2011, rates are R2 450 per person sharing per night (excluding transfers). From 1 October 2011, it is R2 950 per person sharing per night (including road transfer from the Addo Office to the lodge and a scenic flight out from the lodge to the Addo Office).
Contact details: Call 086 123 3672 or visit www.aebs.co.za
Why you should go: Situated between Namibia and Botswana is the Caprivi Strip, on the banks of the Chobe River and National Park, where the Zambezi Queen cruises along. It’s a unique spot – just a few kilometres away, four countries meet: Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana and Namibia.
On the boat, all 14 suites have two single beds or a double bed and their own private balconies. The four master suites have their own private outdoor areas. The sunbathing area and pool are on the top deck; you’ll also find the telescope here for night-time stargazing. The five-star opulence comes through in the whites and natural tones of the decor, which is fresh and welcoming. The dining room offers unobstructed views of the river.
Water and land play an equally important part on this trip. Besides land-based game viewing in the Park, water-based game viewing on smaller boats allows you to get up close to some of the creatures and takes bird watching to a whole new level.
On the three-day package, the cultural tour of the local village is a must; or, in season, you can try your hand at tiger fishing. For an additional cost, aerial game viewing is an option; you can also use the helicopter as a transfer service to Victoria Falls or the Okavango Delta. The area is one of the most densely populated areas for wildlife on the entire continent, featuring more than 400 different bird species and around 120 000 elephants. Watching the animals gather at the water at dusk is a truly magical experience.
Rates: Prices start from R6 500 for a two-day cruise and R9 800 for a three-day cruise, per person sharing a suite (prices increase for 2012).
Contact details: Call 021 438 0032 or visit www.zambeziqueen.com
Reader special: Until 30 November 2011, you can spend two nights on the Zambezi Queen River Safari for R10 132 – R12 270, depending on which part of the country you live in. This price includes flights, transfers, accommodation, three meals a day and certain activities. For more information, call Thompson’s Travel on 0861 846 677 (quote ref: 28189).
Note in box: Take a walk down to the Sabie River with your specially prepared picnic basket, then treat yourselves to an aromatic full-body massage in the privacy of your
own suite.
Why you should go: This secluded Lowveld hideaway is located high in the hills and among the forests, close to the Kruger National Park and the Blyde River Canyon. Each of the spacious rooms at this five-star lodge features Moroccan-inspired decor (plus an impressive four-poster bed with mosquito netting), adding a romantic feel to the place. The enormous sunken Moroccan baths are perfect for two and really romantic when all the candles are lit around the side; afterwards you can cosy up by the fire.
The lodge has amazing views of the Sabie Valley and river in the distance – whether you are in your private pool or enjoying the sun streaming in at the Bali-style restaurant on stilts. The menu includes salmon roulade, chicken and prawn curry and a light and luscious chocolate soufflé.
Here, it’s all about relaxing. Take a walk down to the Sabie River with your specially prepared picnic basket, then treat yourselves to an aromatic full-body massage in the privacy of your own suite. There’s yoga and horse-riding, or river rafting, quad biking and abseiling for the adventurous. It’s a great bird watching spot where you’ll find species like the purple-crested lourie and the elusive narina trogon. Make your trip really special by watching the sunrise during an early morning hot-air balloon ride. You can also venture out for the day: Pilgrim’s Rest, the Kruger Park and God’s Window are all close by.
Rates: Starting from R1 800 per person for a double room until 31 October 2011, including breakfast and dinner. Tariffs increase from 1 November 2011.
Contact details: Call 013 767 1740 or visit www.timamoonlodge.co.za.
Why you should go: Step back in time and enjoy the charm of a bygone era with the conveniences of the modern world. Travelling by train means that you start to unwind from the moment you leave the station – and the most luxurious train in the world ticks boxes for both comfort and five-star elegance. Train journeys range from 24 hours to two weeks, depending on how far you want to go: choose from Cape Town, KwaZulu-Natal, the Garden Route, Victoria Falls, Dar es Salaam and Cairo, with staggering views along the way.
The train carries a maximum of 72 passengers in 36 superbly appointed suites, offering privacy for newlyweds. Each room has a twin or double bed and an en-suite bathroom with hot showers and hairdryers. The smallest is the Pullman Suite, which measures seven square metres – but a honeymoon is a great excuse to spoil yourselves, so go for a Royal Suite. Measuring in at 16 square metres, it takes up half a carriage, boasting its own private lounge area and full en-suite bathroom with a Victorian bath and separate shower. In the lounge and club car, wingback chairs and deep sofas are a great place to read a novel and have an afternoon snooze.
During the day, the dress is casual, but a jacket and tie is a minimum requirement for dinner. Your three meals a day feature the best in local, fresh ingredients, with a slight slant towards traditional dishes, all of which are complemented by superb South African wines. At the back of the train, the observation car has an open deck so that you can really take in the scenery. There are also exciting excursions on certain routes. When you travel by train, nowhere else does the adage, “life’s a journey, not a destination” hold more true.
Rates: The 2011 tariffs start from R12 000 per person sharing for the Pullman Suite and from R24 000 per person sharing for the Royal Suite, depending on which route you travel on. Tariffs for 2012 are higher.
Contact details: Call 012 315 8242 or visit www.rovos.com.
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Wildlife lovers can visit Addo Elephant National Park and most of South Africa’s game parks for free next week during the South African National Parks (SANParks) Week.
Have a chance of spotting Addo’s wildlife in action for free next week. Photo: Trix Jonker ©
Addo is 40km from Port Elizabeth and an hour’s drive from Uitenhage and Grahamstown. Visitors can make use of the well-developed network of tourist roads, suitable for all types of vehicles in the game area as well as picnic sites in the game area and at Addo main camp.
Elephants at Addo National Park. Photo: Johannes van Niekerk
Addo main camp offers a bird hide, underground hide and short walking trail while there are also day walking trails in the Zuurberg and Woody Cape areas of the Park. There’s a chance to spot the Big Five as well as zebra, antelope species and over 400 bird species which occur in the Park.
But there is free access to all SA parks for day visits by any SA resident from 10-14 September. The only exceptions are Boulders Beach Penguin Colony in Table Mountain National Park and the Namaqua National Park.
Besides Addo, Eastern Cape residents have three other national parks in close range. The Mountain Zebra National Park, Camdeboo National Park and Garden Route National Park are all free during SA National Parks Week. Schools that would like to participate in environmental education programmes in the Park are welcome to contact the Park’s people conservation department to book.
Camdeboo National Park, which surrounds the town of Graaff-Reinet, offers visitors an outing to the world-renowned Valley of Desolation, the Game Viewing Area surrounding the Nqweba Dam as well as picnic sites, 4×4 trails and various hiking trails. Mountain Zebra National Park near Cradock, offers visitors picnic sites with swimming pools, a recently upgraded network of roads for wildlife viewing and the chance to spot magnificent cheetah as well as the Cape mountain zebra for which the Park has named.
According to SANParks Acting Head of Communications, Paul Daphne, the objective of SANParks Week is to cultivate a sense of understanding and pride in South Africans of their natural, cultural and historical heritage. This is part of the established theme ‘Know Your National Parks’.
Environmental education and protection is the responsibility of everyone, not just a privileged few. If we are to create a sense of ownership of the natural heritage of South Africa in all South Africans, then all South Africans should be able to access the parks Daphne said. “We especially want young people to take advantage of this opportunity because this heritage will be under their protection in the near future.”
As part of SA National Parks Week, Addo Elephant National Park’s people conservation department will host various community and school groups in the Park to show what Addo has to offer. More than 300 youth and adults who live in the communities bordering the Park will participate in the educational programmes throughout the week, including environmental education lessons and game drives.
Since it is also National Clean-up Week, 50 learners from Colchester will participate in a clean-up of the Park’s coastline.
The annual SANParks Week has been made possible with support from First National Bank (FNB). SANParks Week is in its seventh year and has proven to be a successful campaign in terms of education and awareness of conservation issues.
Note: Free access to the Park does not include guided activities, such as horse trails, guided game drives, guided tours or overnight hiking trails and is not available to visitors on open safari vehicles or organised pre-paid tour buses.
Visitors need to produce their valid SA ID documents to secure free access. Young persons under the age of 16 will be allowed free access.
(Edited by St Francis Chronicle)
All articles edited or written, all photos taken plus all adverts designed by the Editor and printed in the St Francis Chronicle are protected by the law of Copyright ©. Reproduction or copying of any part of the contents of this newspaper and its concept and design can only be done with the Editor’s written permission.
5 Day Cape to Addo Safari
Day 1: Cape Town – Agulhas
We depart from Cape Town between 06h30 – 07h30. Today’s route takes us along the Coastal Whale route, through one of the most scenic parts of our country. We stop en-route in the town of Hermanus to have lunch (own expense) and in the hope of spotting the Southern Right whales (seasonal) that visit this coast to breed.
After lunch we head to the exact point where the African continent sinks into the ocean and keep a sharp eye out for the Cape Grysbok in the fynbos or Cape fur seals and Dolphins playing in the surf. We reach our overnight destination in time to appreciate one of the most spectacular sunsets in the world from the patios of our fisherman’s cottages, in sight of the ocean.
Dinner is a two course meal, prepared by your guide and served al fresco outside one of the cottages. Wine is served with dinner but guests are welcome to bring along additional / alternative drinks which should be purchased before entering the park.
(Dinner included)
Day 2: Agulhas – Tsitsikamma
Today our route takes us through the scenic fruit and wheat producing regions of the Overberg and Langeberg. These rolling grasslands are known to be home to the endangered Blue Crane and we may be fortunate enough to spot some of these beautiful birds. We travel along the world renowned Garden Route, past the picturesque coastal towns nestled in the lake and lagoon region at the foot of the Outeniqua mountains and reach Tsitsikamma, the jewel of the Southern Cape in time for lunch (own expense).
After lunch and checking into our accommodation, there is time to explore the beauty of the rare indigenous forest and impressive coastline on a hike to a waterfall. If we are lucky we might spot the Cape clawless otter hunting in the streams and surf.
Dinner is a two course meal, prepared by your guide and served al fresco outside one of the cabins. Wine is served with dinner but guests are welcome to bring along additional / alternative drinks which can be purchased at the shop.
(Breakfast Dinner included)
Day 3: Tsitsikamma – Addo
We rise early for a morning hike in search of the beautiful but elusive Knysna Turaco and depart after breakfast to the world renowned Addo Elephant Park. The drive takes us from forest and plantation through the semi arid region of the Southern Cape with several opportunities to see some of the rare Raptor species that make this area their home.
We arrive at Addo Elephant Park and start exploring the park in our closed tour vehicle. After a short drive, we have lunch (own expense) at the main rest camp and check into our accommodation. This afternoon you head out on an afternoon game drive, conducted by a SANParks ranger, in an open game drive vehicle. This drive generally takes about 3 hours and tends to extend into the early evening, affording guests the possibility of spotting some nocturnal animals.
Dinner is a two course meal, prepared by your guide and served al fresco outside one of the chalets. Wine is served with dinner but guests are welcome to bring along additional / alternative drinks which can be purchased at the shop.
(Breakfast Dinner included)
Day 4: Addo
Today we will spend the morning afternoon exploring the park in our tour vehicle, in search of some great photo opportunities experiencing wildlife at its best! Addo Elephant Park offers a unique eco system and is home to a huge variety of wildlife, including the Big 5 as well as plains game, Black Backed Jackal, Tortoises and Dung Beetles (who have right of way!).
We’ll return to camp for breakfast after the morning drive and have time for a siesta lunch (own expense) before heading off on our afternoon drive.
Dinner is a two course meal, prepared by your guide and served al fresco outside one of the chalets. Wine is served with dinner but guests are welcome to bring along additional / alternative drinks which can be purchased at the shop.
(Breakfast Dinner included)
Day 5: Addo – Port Elizabeth
After an early wake-up call (the time varies according to the seasons and park gate opening times) we have tea or coffee rusks (dried biscuits to be dunked in your coffee or tea). Our final morning safari will take approximately 3-4 hours.
We return to camp for breakfast after which we sadly have to leave the park head to Port Elizabeth airport where the tour ends around mid-day.
(Breakfast included)
Safari Options: (rates valid from 1 August 2012 – 30 September 2013)
Classic R11950 per person sharing R14200 per person single
Accommodation is in en-suite chalets with beds, linen, towels soap.
(Please note that a minimum of 2 pax is required in order for this safari to take place)
Included:
• Transport for the duration of your safari
• Pick up points at the V A Waterfront or CPT International Airport
• Drop off at Port Elizabeth Airport
• Professional drivers/guides (FGASA registered – Field Guides Association of Southern Africa)
• Meals as specified per itinerary
• All game drives in Addo Elephant National Park are conducted in the closed, air-conditioned tour vehicle, with the exception of:
• SAN PARKS sunset drive (All guests over 6 years of age)
• All entry fees and daily conservation levies
• Accommodation in en-suite chalets with beds, linen, towels soap provided
• Bottled mineral water in the vehicle
• Wine with dinner
Excluded:
• Meals not specified in itinerary
• Guests are welcome to bring their own drinks to dinner, which can be purchased at the Park’s shop or en-route to the parks
• Items of a personal nature
• Gratuities
Notes:
This Safari can be extended by one day to include a night in the Little Karoo and thus end in Cape Town. Please consult with your agent regarding this option.
On our safaris, we make use of facilities and accommodation situated inside the National Parks and do not stay outside the Parks, unless forced to do so because of availability.
It is important to note that this is not a private safari and more than likely there will be other guests joining you on the safari.
Please note that sunset game drive times are subject to change and availability on the day. These drives are conducted by SAN PARKS, by one of their rangers and in one of their vehicles. There will most likely be other guests on this drive. Children under 6 years of age are not allowed on SAN Parks open game drive vehicles.
Guests flying out of Port Elizabeth Airport on the last day are reminded to not book any flights departing earlier than 13h00 (domestic) in order to give us enough time to get you to the airport. We recommend that you rather stay over in Port Elizabeth if possible. Since we cannot guarantee our arrival time in Port Elizabeth on the last day we will not be held responsible for re-imbursements of flight tickets, should we arrive later than expected.
** Terms Conditions apply **
Tags: Addo Elephant Park, big 5, Cape Agulhas, cheetah, cuisine, educational safaris, elephant, endangered species, game drives, game drives in open vehicles, game viewing, hippo, kruger national park, kruger rest camps, lion, photographic workshop, Pilanesberg, professional photographer, safari holiday, safari in africa, safari tour, secretary bird, south africa, Tsitsikamma, workshop
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Article source: http://blog.krugerwildlifesafaris.com/itineraries/2012-13-cape-town-to-addo-elephant-park-5-day-safari/
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RiverBend 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. Article source: http://riverbendaddo.blogspot.com/2012/08/red-billed-ox-pecker-update.html
Port Elizabeth Budget Accommodation
Go to:My Addo
5 Day Cape to Addo Safari
Day 1: Cape Town – Agulhas
We depart from Cape Town between 06h30 – 07h30. Today’s route takes us along the Coastal Whale route, through one of the most scenic parts of our country. We stop en-route in the town of Hermanus to have lunch (own expense) and in the hope of spotting the Southern Right whales (seasonal) that visit this coast to breed.
After lunch we head to the exact point where the African continent sinks into the ocean and keep a sharp eye out for the Cape Grysbok in the fynbos or Cape fur seals and Dolphins playing in the surf. We reach our overnight destination in time to appreciate one of the most spectacular sunsets in the world from the patios of our fisherman’s cottages, in sight of the ocean.
Dinner is a two course meal, prepared by your guide and served al fresco outside one of the cottages. Wine is served with dinner but guests are welcome to bring along additional / alternative drinks which should be purchased before entering the park.
(Dinner included)
Day 2: Agulhas – Tsitsikamma
Today our route takes us through the scenic fruit and wheat producing regions of the Overberg and Langeberg. These rolling grasslands are known to be home to the endangered Blue Crane and we may be fortunate enough to spot some of these beautiful birds. We travel along the world renowned Garden Route, past the picturesque coastal towns nestled in the lake and lagoon region at the foot of the Outeniqua mountains and reach Tsitsikamma, the jewel of the Southern Cape in time for lunch (own expense).
After lunch and checking into our accommodation, there is time to explore the beauty of the rare indigenous forest and impressive coastline on a hike to a waterfall. If we are lucky we might spot the Cape clawless otter hunting in the streams and surf.
Dinner is a two course meal, prepared by your guide and served al fresco outside one of the cabins. Wine is served with dinner but guests are welcome to bring along additional / alternative drinks which can be purchased at the shop.
(Breakfast Dinner included)
Day 3: Tsitsikamma – Addo
We rise early for a morning hike in search of the beautiful but elusive Knysna Turaco and depart after breakfast to the world renowned Addo Elephant Park. The drive takes us from forest and plantation through the semi arid region of the Southern Cape with several opportunities to see some of the rare Raptor species that make this area their home.
We arrive at Addo Elephant Park and start exploring the park in our closed tour vehicle. After a short drive, we have lunch (own expense) at the main rest camp and check into our accommodation. This afternoon you head out on an afternoon game drive, conducted by a SANParks ranger, in an open game drive vehicle. This drive generally takes about 3 hours and tends to extend into the early evening, affording guests the possibility of spotting some nocturnal animals.
Dinner is a two course meal, prepared by your guide and served al fresco outside one of the chalets. Wine is served with dinner but guests are welcome to bring along additional / alternative drinks which can be purchased at the shop.
(Breakfast Dinner included)
Day 4: Addo
Today we will spend the morning afternoon exploring the park in our tour vehicle, in search of some great photo opportunities experiencing wildlife at its best! Addo Elephant Park offers a unique eco system and is home to a huge variety of wildlife, including the Big 5 as well as plains game, Black Backed Jackal, Tortoises and Dung Beetles (who have right of way!).
We’ll return to camp for breakfast after the morning drive and have time for a siesta lunch (own expense) before heading off on our afternoon drive.
Dinner is a two course meal, prepared by your guide and served al fresco outside one of the chalets. Wine is served with dinner but guests are welcome to bring along additional / alternative drinks which can be purchased at the shop.
(Breakfast Dinner included)
Day 5: Addo – Port Elizabeth
After an early wake-up call (the time varies according to the seasons and park gate opening times) we have tea or coffee rusks (dried biscuits to be dunked in your coffee or tea). Our final morning safari will take approximately 3-4 hours.
We return to camp for breakfast after which we sadly have to leave the park head to Port Elizabeth airport where the tour ends around mid-day.
(Breakfast included)
Safari Options: (rates valid from 1 August 2012 – 30 September 2013)
Classic R11950 per person sharing R14200 per person single
Accommodation is in en-suite chalets with beds, linen, towels soap.
(Please note that a minimum of 2 pax is required in order for this safari to take place)
Included:
• Transport for the duration of your safari
• Pick up points at the V A Waterfront or CPT International Airport
• Drop off at Port Elizabeth Airport
• Professional drivers/guides (FGASA registered – Field Guides Association of Southern Africa)
• Meals as specified per itinerary
• All game drives in Addo Elephant National Park are conducted in the closed, air-conditioned tour vehicle, with the exception of:
• SAN PARKS sunset drive (All guests over 6 years of age)
• All entry fees and daily conservation levies
• Accommodation in en-suite chalets with beds, linen, towels soap provided
• Bottled mineral water in the vehicle
• Wine with dinner
Excluded:
• Meals not specified in itinerary
• Guests are welcome to bring their own drinks to dinner, which can be purchased at the Park’s shop or en-route to the parks
• Items of a personal nature
• Gratuities
Notes:
This Safari can be extended by one day to include a night in the Little Karoo and thus end in Cape Town. Please consult with your agent regarding this option.
On our safaris, we make use of facilities and accommodation situated inside the National Parks and do not stay outside the Parks, unless forced to do so because of availability.
It is important to note that this is not a private safari and more than likely there will be other guests joining you on the safari.
Please note that sunset game drive times are subject to change and availability on the day. These drives are conducted by SAN PARKS, by one of their rangers and in one of their vehicles. There will most likely be other guests on this drive. Children under 6 years of age are not allowed on SAN Parks open game drive vehicles.
Guests flying out of Port Elizabeth Airport on the last day are reminded to not book any flights departing earlier than 13h00 (domestic) in order to give us enough time to get you to the airport. We recommend that you rather stay over in Port Elizabeth if possible. Since we cannot guarantee our arrival time in Port Elizabeth on the last day we will not be held responsible for re-imbursements of flight tickets, should we arrive later than expected.
** Terms Conditions apply **
Tags: Addo Elephant Park, big 5, Cape Agulhas, cheetah, cuisine, educational safaris, elephant, endangered species, game drives, game drives in open vehicles, game viewing, hippo, kruger national park, kruger rest camps, lion, photographic workshop, Pilanesberg, professional photographer, safari holiday, safari in africa, safari tour, secretary bird, south africa, Tsitsikamma, workshop
This entry was posted
on Wednesday, August 22nd, 2012 at 1:04 pm and is filed under Itineraries.
You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.
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F rom its humble beginnings in 1931, Addo Elephant National Park has grown into one of South Africa’s most ambitious conservation projects. The park is situated in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa and the ideal destination for wildlife safaris, family holidays and romantic getaways.
Addo is South Africa’s third largest national park at 180 000 hectares, and the recent addition of a long stretch of coastline stretching all the way to the Bushman’s River includes massive dune fields adding significantly to the park’s ecological diversity. It includes six of South Africa’s seven biomes – from the vast open spaces of the Karoo to rolling hills covered in fynbos, thicket and sloping sand dunes flanking the coastline. With the inclusion of marine areas the park now boasts the Big 7: lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, buffalo, southern right whale and great white shark.
The below video will give you a taste of what Addo has to offer.
History of Addo
Today, Addo Elephant National Park is home to the densest populations of African elephant in the world. The area boasts a carrying capacity incomparable to any other wilderness region. But it wasn’t always like this – Addo and the surrounding region endured dark times during the early 20th century when the once-widespread elephant population was hunted to near extinction due to the ivory trade and agricultural activities that encroached into the natural habitat of wildlife. The elephants had a penchant for oranges in particular and raided the local farmers citrus crops. To combat the ‘problem’ the Administrator of the Cape Province, Sir Frederick de Waal employed hunters to exterminate the elephants. A professional hunter, Major P.J. Pretorius, was especially destructive by killing 120 elephants in his first 11 months in the area. It is journalled that he once shot 16 elephants in 30 seconds.
When the elephant population reached a critical number of only 11 individuals things started to change. Due to public pressure a reserve was allocated and in 1931 the national park was proclaimed. The elephant survived in an unfenced area of around 2000 hectares. Only in 1951 the park was fenced and the elephant-human conflict stopped. The population grew steadily, but due to the low numbers the genetic pool was too small and most of the females were tuskless. The National Parks Board then decided to introduce a number of elephant bulls from Kruger National Park. But the results took a bit longer than planned as the new bulls quickly formed their own herd and didn’t integrate with the local population. The theory according to the local rangers is that the new bulls didn’t speak the same dialect and it took some time for the new-comers to find their place in the Addo family.
Map of Addo
The below map shows the main wildlife area of Addo Elephant National Park with the two camps – Addo Main Camp in the north and Camp Matyholweni in the south.
Visitors to Addo can expect excellent game viewing of Africa’s magnificent wildlife. Enjoy self drive game viewing in your own car, or if you want the in-depth knowledge of the local rangers, join them on the scheduled morning and afternoon game drives. Night drives are also a good opportunity to spot some of Africa’s more elusive nocturnal animals and birds. Horse riding is available from Addo Main Camp. Bird watchers won’t be disappointed with 450 species to tick off and a hide offering a view of the local bird species up close.
Accommodation in Addo
Addo offers a variety of accommodation options. From family friendly self catering units in Addo Main Camp to luxurious boutique lodges (such as Gorah Elephant Camp) ideal for honeymoons and romantic getaways. If we include the Greater Addo area, your options include some of South Africa’s most unique private game reserves such as Shamwari and Kwandwe. Read more about the Greater Addo Route we recently experienced.
Addo Main Camp is conveniently situated in the central part of the National Park just off the main road. This makes for access easy and should be high on your list when planning a self drive holiday. The camp is full of interesting things to do for kids and include a jungle gym in the shape of an elephant. The interpretive centre offers an insight into the wildlife found in the area. Night drives are offered from Main Camp with horse riding and game drives in open sided vehicles also available.
Bedrogberg 4×4 Trail
If you travel in an all-terrain vehicle Addo offers a 45km 4×4 trail over the Zuurberg mountains between the Kabouga and Darlington areas of the park. It offers spectacular views and interesting history. The scenery is completely different from the main wildlife area with riverine thicket, afromontane forest and fynbos on the peaks. As you make your way into the mountains you will see cycads, one of the most ancient plant species in the world. The trail takes you across flowing streams and mountainous valleys. The route will take you around 6 hours. Accommodation before and after the route is available at Kabouga House or Mvubu campsite (camping only) on the Kabouga side and the luxury Darlington Lake Lodge is available on the Darlington side. The below map will give you a rough idea of where it will take you.
Alexandria Hiking Trail
As you descend down to the coastal section of Addo called Woody Cape, the landscape changes dramatically to forest and beach. The area offers two hiking options – the 7km Dassie Day Hike and the 36km 2 day circular Alexandria Hiking Trail. The trails are well-signposted. The 2 day hiking trail is made up of 19.5km on day one and 16.5km on the second day. Accommodation before and after the hike is available at the Langebos huts situated at the start and end point. Your overnight stay on the first night of the hike is at the Woody Cape hut, nestled in thick coastal forest on top of the cliffs with a view of Bird Island in the distance. This hut has 12 beds with mattresses and drinking water is available in the form of rainwater tanks. This hike takes you through a variety of biomes starting out in the magical coastal forest where ancient yellowwods and exotic Knysna loeries can be seen. It then takes you onto the beach where you might spot southern right whales and dolphins off the coast. You will cross the largest coastal dune field in the southern hemisphere on day two before heading back through thick forests ending back where you started.
FAST FACTS:
Where is Addo located? In the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Nearest city is Port Elizabeth.
Best time to visit? Addo is a year-round destination. Summer (November to February) is best for game viewing, as wildlife can be found around the few waterholes. Winter is colder, especially at night, with rain occasionally occurring. The coldest months are June and July.
Getting there? Fly to Port Elizabeth and transfer to one of the lodges. Or explore Addo by car. Rent a vehicle of choice or take your own and discover this beautiful park at your own pace. Addo is the ideal destination as a start or end point for a Garden Route and Cape Town safari.
Places to stay? Addo offers something for everyone – from luxury lodges for those wanting the best, self catering units for families and couples, affordable accommodation just outside the park and camping options scattered around the region.
Activities are on offer? Game viewing, hiking trails, horse riding, 4×4 trails, bird watching, night drives, guided game drives and the PPC Discovery Trail (a fantastic experience for visually-impaired and wheelchair-bound visitors).
Book Addo accommodation: Check availability and book online with SANParks – Addo Main Camp, Matyholweni Rest Camp
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6 Day Cape to Addo Safari Day 1: Cape Town – Agulhas We depart from Cape Town between 06h30 – 07h30. Today’s route takes us along the Coastal Whale route, through one of the most scenic parts of our country. We stop en-route in the town of Hermanus to have lunch (own expense) and in […]
Port Elizabeth Budget Accommodation
Go to:My Addo
The national winners in the 2012 AA Quality Assured Accommodation Awards programme were announced in Johannesburg last night. Only AA Quality Assured members are eligible to participate in this programme, which is now in its nineteenth year and the only established mechanism for consumers to voice their opinion about the quality of tourist accommodation in Southern Africa.
More than 61 000 consumers commented on approximately 800 establishments this year, either online, via eGuestSurv reviews, or by completing AA guest review forms. A total of 21 winners in different categories were announced, including guest houses, bed breakfasts, self-catering apartments, game lodges and different types of hotels (see list below). Guests commented on aspects such as service levels, the quality of facilities, cleanliness, ambience and food.
Convenor Vanessa Sand of Essential Travel Info says all information received from guests, whether positive or negative, is sent back to participating establishments: “This assists owners or managers to improve certain aspects of their operations or to maintain existing high standards. The awards programme is therefore a very effective tool to respond to the needs of consumers and gives establishments a definite marketing edge, particularly when times are tough in the industry.”
High scoring establishments were examined carefully and were visited by qualified and experienced assessors to verify that the scores were justified.
A full list of the national winners is available on www.accommodationawards.co.za.
The awards programme is supported by Essential Travel Info, BnB Sure, PG Glass and members of the Bravo Group namely Sealy Posturepedic, Grafton Everest and Alpine Lounge.
Winners by category, area and province:
Bed Breakfast: The Hideaway, Swellendam (WC)
Boutique Guest House: Fernwood Manor, Newlands (WC)
Boutique Hotel: Banksia Boutique, Rosebank (WC)
Budget Hotel: Stayeasy Emnotweni, Nelspruit (MP)
Country Retreat: Highgrove House, Kiepersol (MP)
Exclusive Retreat: Addo Afrique, Addo Elephant Park (EC)
Farm Stays: Rouxwil Country House, Caledon (WC)
Full Service and/or Conference Hotel: Indaba Hotel and Conference Centre, Fourways (GT) (Pictured above)
Game Lodge: Nedile Lodge, Welgevonden (L)
Game or Nature Reserve Experience: Mattanu Private Game Reserve, Kimberley (NC)
Guest House with Breakfast: Cycad Guest House, Polokwane (L)
Guest House with Dinner: Opikopi Guest House, Pretoria/Tshwane (GT)
Leisure Hotel: Orion Mont-Aux-Sources Hotel, Drakensberg (KZN)
Resort Hotel: Pumula Beach Hotel, Umzumbe (KZN)
Resort with Varied Accommodation: ATKV Klein-Kariba Holiday Resort, Bela-Bela (L)
Selected Service Hotel: Town Lodge Nelspruit (MP)
Self-catering Accommodation – Large: The Cycad Lodge and Chalets, Nelspruit (MP)
Self-catering Accommodation – Small: Emerald Cove Beachfront Holiday Chalets, Shelly Beach (KZN)
Self-catering Resort: Forever Resorts, Plettenberg Bay (WC)
Small Hotel/Inn: Orion Wartburger Hof Hotel (KZN)
Suite Hotel: Courtyard Rosebank, Johannesburg (GT)
Go Wild in South Africa with South African Airways
By Max Milano
“When elephants want their waterhole”, our guide said in an Afrikaans accent from the driver’s seat of an open top Range Rover, “all the other animals have to get out of the way, they’re the real kings of the Jungle”. Or at least kings of the South African veldt, though I, as the majestic beasts took control of the waterhole, scattering warthogs and zebras in their wake. We were in South Africa’s Addo Elephant Park, and were not disappointed. We had driven hundreds of miles from Cape Town to the outskirts of Port Elizabeth to watch elephants in their semi-natural habitat, and once again, South Africa had delivered. Many countries promise a lot to visitors and end up disappointing. Not South Africa. Since our arrival into Cape Town a few days before, South Africa had amazed us, and then some. We had sunbathed with penguins on Boulder Beach, gone whale watching at Hermanus, hiked to the top of Table Mountain, gone wine tasting in Stellenbosch, and had been amazed at the friendliness of the people and the multicultural blend of Cape Town. The Cape Region of South Africa was both familiar and exotic. With echoes of Southern California, the West Indies and Southeast Asia, but also uniquely African. Isn’t it time you discovered this amazing country?
Now you have the chance to discover South Africa with Vayama and South African Airways’ “Ready to Go Wild?” contest. Click on this link, send a picture of your beloved pet or favorite animal, and get ready to see for yourself why South Africa really delivers in its promise of an exciting and beautiful vacation destination.
South Africa’s Top 8
1-Cape Town’s Victoria Albert Waterfront
Cape Town is gorgeous. There is no town on Earth like it. From the moment you land at the airport you will be amazed at the majesty of Table Mountain, looming above it all. The day we landed, Table Mountain had its ‘tablecloth’ on, as the locals call the cottony clouds that wrap over it during the morning hours and at dusk. After checking in our hotel we headed directly to Cape Town’s famous Victoria Albert Waterfront. The colorful Dutch style piers of the Victoria Albert Waterfront are a perfect introduction to South Africa; with souvenir shops, pubs and restaurants serving local Cape Malay curries. You can also catch the Ferry to Robben Island from there; the famous island prison (now a museum) that held Nelson Mandela and other freedom fighters during the apartheid years. One of the coolest shops at the Victoria Albert is called “Presidential Shirts”, where you can buy fateful copies of the colorful shirts favored by President Mandela. They even come with a picture of the president wearing the actual shirt you are buying.
Victoria Albert with Table Top Mountain (and tablecloth)
2-Bo Kaap
Cape Town is a melting pot of African, European, East Indian and Southeast Asian cultures. You can get amazing Ethiopian food, enjoy a pint in a British style pub and then head out for a spicy Cape Malay curry, all within a small radius. And if you’re in the mood for a traditional Cape Malay curry, head up to Cape Town’s colorful Bo Kaap district. The houses are painted in pastel colors, reminiscent of the West Indies, and most of the residents hail from Malaysia. Visit Biesmiellah, the best curry house in the Bo Kaap, for a true taste of a traditional Cape Malay curry.
Colorful Bo Kaap
3-Boulder Beach
If you love penguins and the beach, then Boulder Beach is for you. This beautiful seaside suburb, south of Cape Town, is reachable via one of the most beautiful scenic roads in the world. The road climbs a steep hill, as it passes gorgeous beaches and bays. Boulder Beach is divided in two; one part is exclusive for the penguins, with a visitor center and wooden viewing platforms from which to enjoy these beautiful birds as they frolic in the surf. Then there’s the boulder part of Boulder Beach; a secluded cove with massive sandstone boulders right on the water, where humans are allowed to sunbathe and swim with the feathery African Penguins. This is an experience you will never forget.
Boulder Beach Penguins
4-Stellenbosh
The Cape Region is famous for its wines and Stellenbosch is their answer to the Napa Valley. This beautiful whitewashed town is home to some of the best wineries in South Africa. You can also wonder around its downtown, lined with outdoor cafes and shops. The perfect day trip from Cape Town.
Posh Stellenbosh
5-Table Mountain
Table Mountain is impressive. It evokes the power of nature while at the same town, accentuating the beauty of the Cape Town beach suburbs. You can hike to the top or take the cable car. But no matter how you get to the top, you will be amazed at the stunning views it offers; Cape Town in all of its splendor, lined with beaches and tranquil bays. There is also a café and a souvenir shop up on the top, perfect to relax before hiking back down.
Top of Table Top
6-The Garden Route
This stretch of road connects Cape Town with Port Elizabeth and it’s one of the most scenic roads in the world. It first cuts through the South African veldt (a dry savannah with low shrubs) where you can see many species of South African springbok (antelope), before veering to the coast, passing many Californiaesque beach towns, where you can stop for steamed mussels or for a day of sailing or windsurfing. The Garden Route ends in Jeffrey’s Bay, a laid back surf town, with beach front bars and one of the best right hand point breaks in the entire world.
Jeffrey’s Bay
7-Hermanus
This beach town at the beginning of the Garden Route is famous for its whales. There are many whale watching spots on this earth, but none like Hermanus. Due to some quirk of nature, and the currents, Hermanus’s tranquil coves are the preferred spot for southern right whales to give birth and raise their young. The massive whales get really close to the shore, and can often be confused with beach rocks, until they start to move (yes they get that close). You can often see a mother and her calf, swimming in a cloud of whale milk. A true spectacular spot.
Hermanus Whale
8-Addo Elephant Park
Kruger National Park may be more famous, but Addo wins my heart. The beauty of the South African National Park system is that you have three ways to enjoy the experience: On an open top Range Rover, driven by an official guide, in your own car with a local village guide, or a self-guided tour in your own car. The accommodations are top notch. We booked a luxury hut with all the mod cons and a thatched roof, overlooking a waterhole (more on that later). Our first day at the park, we booked a two hour tour with a park ranger on an open top Range Rover. Our guide was a joyful and informative Boer who knew a lot about all the different types of animals roaming around the park. In our first outing we were able to get up close and personal with a herd of elephants, zebras, warthogs and several species of springbok. The park has a pride of lions, but they are a bit shy, but trust me, they are out there (no one is allowed to step out of the vehicles for safety reasons). There is also an electrified picnic area that reminded me of Jurassic Park, only that the fences are designed to keep the park’s lions from turning visitors into their next lunch. The next day we went out with a local village guide. He spoke several native dialects, as well as English and Afrikaans (there are 11 official languages in South Africa). He was quite amused when we tried learning the Xhosa ‘click’ language, which is spoken in a series of clicks. On our last night in the park we sat outside our hut, gazing at the stars, when a wild roar startled us. The bushes around the lit waterhole next to our hut began to shake as a huge animal with a phalanx of sharp teeth appeared, followed by many more. We stood speechless as a pack of massive hyenas trotted around the waterhole, grunting and sniffing the cool night air. Then, just as suddenly as they appeared, they headed back into the blackness of the bush, and the African night was quiet again. Just another day in South Africa.
Addo Elephant Park
* Max Milano is a travel writer and the author of “The Mechanicals of Recoleta”, available at Amazon.
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