A Visit to Addo Elephant National Park, South Africa
We decided to take a trip to the Addo Elephant National Park, we are regulars at the Kruger National Park, and decided to have a change of scenery in a different part of South Africa. Addo Elephant National Park is situated close to Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape and is one of the countrys' twenty national parks.
Founded in 1931 the park was created to provide a sanctuary for the eleven remaining elephants in the area. There were many wild elephants in this area for centuries, but hunting over the years had brought the numbers tumbling until there was only 11 left – one hunter, Major JP Pretorius is known to have shot 114 elephants between 1919 and 1920!
Over the years, and a few teething problems, such as elephants escaping through the inadequate fence that surrounded the park and again being killed by hunters and farmers whose stock they destroyed, some elephants were even killed by being struck by trains on the surrounding train line. The development by Graham Armstrong in 1954 of the “Armstrong Fence” put a halt to the escapes and parts of this fence are still used in the Park today. There was only one elephant that ever broke out of the Park, Harpoor was the dominant bull from 1944 to 1968, he had a nick in his ear which was believed to have been caused by a hunters bullet, which would explain why he had a strong dislike to humans. He was deposed from his dominant status by Lanky, a rival bull. Once Harpoor was “dethroned” he escaped through the “Armstrong Fence” and unfortunately had to be shot.
The first tourists entered the park in 1981 and the population of elephants has grown ever since, today there are over 400 elephants in the park. Bulls from the Kruger National Park were introduced to bring new genes into Addo National Parks herd and there have been new calves each season.
As with all the National Parks in South Africa, only animals that were natural to the areas are reintroduced into the park, other animals in the park include Cape buffalo, black rhino as well as a variety of antelope species. Lion and spotted hyena has also recently been re-introduced to the area. A species unique to the area is the flightless dung beetle; you will see lots of signs asking that you watch out for these beetles and not to run them over as with 400+ elephants there is an awful lot of dung!!
The park receives over 110,000 visitors each year; 54% of these are International people, with German, Dutch and British nationals making up the majority.
The main entrance as well as two looped tourist roads in the park is tarred while the others are gravelled.
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Woodall offers luxury Boutique Hotel accommodation in South Africa's Eastern Cape. Opening onto beautiful rose or indigenous gardens, alive with the calling of birds, each room boasts swirling ceiling fans, air conditioning, heating, private verandas, en suite bathrooms with separate bath and shower. All have private outdoor showers for an enlivening experience not to be missed and mosquito nets. Other features include mini-bars, mini hi-fi's, electronic safes, telephones, internet access points, hairdryers, tea / coffee facilities, crisp percale linen, bath robes and electric blankets for chilly winter nights. Twin or King bedded rooms available, we also have two family units.
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The Greater Addo Elephant National Park: Information And Wildlife Lists!
Find The Magnificent Big Seven (7) In The Addo Elephant National Park
The Addo Elephant National Park was founded on the 13th of June 1931 with only 11 African Elephants in the reserve. It was a very big mission to keep these large mammals in the boundaries of the park. The African Elephants were fed oranges to try and keep them from wandering off onto neighbouring farms but this did not work! Until one day in 1954 where the Addo warden Graham Armstrong erected a unique "Elephant proof" fence. This game fence that consists of tram lines, lift cables and strong wooden poles is well known today as the Armstrong fence. Thanks to the efforts of the Addo warden the African Elephant population increased and they are now being translocated to all areas of the newly proclaimed Greater Addo National Park. To add to that Addo has one of the most densest populations of Elephants on this planet and incorporates the largest field of dunes in the Southern Hemisphere.
The main section of the Addo Elephant National Park is close to the towns of Paterson and Addo in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa and is a wildlife haven. Addo is one of the most well known conservation areas on the African continent and more people learn about what a struggle it was in the early 1900's to proclaim this park and protect the Elephants. Addo is also home to the only disease free Buffalo in South Africa. These Buffalo are the original Cape Buffalo and have been separated from other subspecies of African Buffalo for a long time. Addo's Cape Buffalo are more nocturnal than the African Buffalo, they also appear smaller and they posses larger sets of horns. Another animal that is not well known but is famous in Addo is the flightless Dung Beetle, an amazing insect! Black (Hook-Lipped) Rhino are found in Addo too amongst many other amazing wild creatures, trees, flowers and spectacular vegetation.
The Rest Camp In The Main Section Of Addo
The Greater Addo National Park consist of more than 360 000 hectares (ha.) and is made up of five (5) different biomes, from Fynbos to Karoo. There is also a marine section that is some 120 000 hectares large. This unbelievable wilderness area also boasts the Big Seven: African Lion, Southern Leopard, African Elephant, Cape Buffalo, Black Rhino, Great White Shark and numerous Whale species.Article Source
ADDO ELEPHANT NATIONAL PARK - NATIONAL PARKS
Main Attractions
1. Elephants (350)
2. Black Rhinoceros
3. Cape Buffalo (disease free)
4. Suricate (Meerkat)
5. Flightless Dung Beetle
Cottages and Chalets
All of the cottages and chalets are close to the main waterhole which is illuminated at night, affording a memorable window into the real nightlife of Africa! There is a privately-run, licensed a la carte restaurant and shop in the restcamp while for those who wish to self cater, all units are fully equipped or have communal facilities. There is a lapa, which is used for spitbraais and potjies.
Guest houses: These luxury units each consist of two bedrooms with bathrooms en suite (one with bath; one with shower), a living room with fan and a fully equipped kitchen. The guest houses have air conditioning and each can sleep up to six people.
Family chalets: This type of accommodation can sleep either two adults and two children, or three adults. Each unit has two single beds, a double sleeper couch, full bathroom (bath and shower), air conditioning and a fully equipped kitchen.
Rondavels: These huts have two single beds, shower, toilet, hand basin, air conditioning and fridge. A communal kitchen with a four plate electric stove, cutlery, crockery and cooking utensils is shared by the other rondavels . You can view elephants at the waterhole from the comfort of your rondavel.
Forest cabins: The cabins consist of an open plan area with four beds and a table with seating for four. Each cabin has a shower, toilet and basin, as well as braai ( barbecue) facilities and a fridge.
Family chalet (no. 16): This unit can sleep a maximum of six people. It comprises one bedroom with a double bed, and a bed sitter area with two single beds and a sleeper couch, with a bathroom leading off the bed sitter area. It has air conditioning and a fully equipped kitchen.
Chalet no. 15: This chalet has two single beds in an open plan area with a kitchen, shower, toilet and hand basin. The unit also has air conditioning.
All of the rest camp accommodation is serviced daily and provided with bedding, towels and soap. Check In is at 13:00 and Check Out is at 10:00.
Caravan and Camping
There is a shady site for campers and caravanners in the main rest camp. Caravan sites are equipped with 220V power points. Communal ablution and kitchen facilities are available.
A maximum of six persons, one caravan with a side tent and one vehicle, or one tent and one vehicle, or one auto villa or one motorised caravan will be permitted per site.
The site is near the main waterhole which is illuminated at night
Zuurberg
This section is named after the Zuurberg mountain range and runs from west to east with the park encompassing most of the mountain range. Various vegetation types are to be found within this section from forested valleys to Fynbos covered mountaintops. This is surely the most dramatically beautiful section of the park.
Most of the section is set aside as a wilderness area with very little human activity-taking place.
Narina Bush Camp
There is a tented bush camp at Narina overlooking crystal clear natural pools on the Witriver. in the ruggedly beautiful Zuurberg section of the park. This camp is named after the exquistely beautiful Narina Trogon bird, which frequents the forests of the Zuurberg. The camp is very rustic, accommodating eight people at any one time. Every need is catered for in a very primitive manner. Four dome tents cater for the overnight sleeping arrangements. These tents are provided with linen. No food or drinks are provided for and it is up to the guests to provide for themselves. Firewood is available for campfires at night. Paraffin lanterns are available for overnight use. This camp can be reached by Vehicle, Walking trail or on Horseback.
Kabouga Section
The Kabouga section is surely one of the most beautiful sections within the Addo Elephant National Park. This section provides largely for those people who own 4x4 vehicles. The section is covered with Valley Bushveld, Afro- mountain forests and Riverine thicket. This gives rise to very diverse flora and fauna. A Network of 4x4 routes covers this area with the main route linking Kabouga to Darlington.Historically this route was of great significance during the Boer war and saw numerous skirmishes between the Boers and English. Old relics can still be seen from this bygone era. Two species of cycad can be seen in this section with some of the cycads standing up to six meters in height.
Kabouga Guest House
Kabouga Guest is situated in a magnificent natural amphitheatre setting along the route of one of the challenging mountain 4x4 trails in this section of the park. The guesthouse house sleeps six people with bedding, cutlery and crockery provided for. A gas stove and fridge are also available. An old reservoir has been converted into a swimming pool with a braai lapa in close proximity.
Mvubu Camp
This rustic bush camp is situated on an idyllic stretch of the upper Sundays River and provides an overnight base for 4x4 enthusiasts. There are ablution facilities but no electrical power.
Darlington Dam
The Darlington section is situated at the most northern extreme of the park. This section is to a large extent covered by Succulent Karoo with a very low rainfall. The vegetation in this section is dominated by succulent species with the Noors plant being the most dominant.
The Darlington Lake takes up a large area within this section, which is a man, made system. This dam covers approximately 5000ha and is well stocked with various fish species. The bird life around this dam is very varied with numerous unusual species occurring. One of the most frequently seen birds is the fish eagle which has become a symbol of Africa. Various game species can also be seen ranging from the endangered Black Rhino to the elusive Leopard.
Houses
Accommodation is available in the form of old lake construction houses that have been revamped to accommodate up to four people. Four of these houses are available.
Camping
Camping is allowed below the dam wall as well as on the western shoreline of the dam.
Woody Cape Section
This unique section includes majestic dunefields, forest and two island groups.
There is overnight accommodation on the Alexandria Trail (link to wildlife trails in Addo/ Eastern Cape/ Sunshine Coast) is allowed below the dam wall as well as on the western shoreline of the dam.
Travel Information - Eastern Cape
The second largest of South Africa's nine provinces, the diverse Eastern Cape
landscape ranges from the dry desolate Great Karoo to the steamy forests of the
Wild Coast and the Keiskamma Valley. The area also embraces the fertile
Langkloof, renowned for its rich apple harvests, and is cradled by the
mountainous southern Drakensberg.
Here, widespread hills are juxtaposed
with sandy beaches; here small-town South Africa comes to greet you - gently
offering hospitality and friendship and asking for nothing in return. This is
where the "big seven" roam, and where the tropical forests share their space
with abundant birdlife and nature at its most generous.
The shoreline of
this province extends from the Umtamvuna River in KwaZulu-Natal, to the Storms
River mouth on the scenic Garden Route, in the west, and stretching inland, to
the north, bordering on Lesotho. Today, the Eastern Cape incorporates the
previously independent "homelands" of the Ciskei and Transkei. Despite its
colonial past, the Eastern Cape remains the home of the Xhosa-speaking people of
South Africa. With its almost seven million people, the Eastern Cape has the
third-largest provincial population, living on about 169 600 km2 of
land.
The Eastern Cape climate varies considerably
but has, a year-round holiday climate. The Eastern coastal regions enjoy hot
summers and moderate winters and Port Elizabeth experiences a daily average of 7
hours sunshine. Northern regions are much cooler. Certain areas receive rain
throughout the year albeit erratic.
Beaches
The Eastern Cape offers 800 km of untouched and pristine
coastline along with some of the worlds best beaches. Port Elizabeth, alone, has
40 km of magnificent beaches and, with its perfect combination of warm water,
calm sea and fair breezes, it is one of the best sailing venues in the world,
and a magnet for all beach and water sports enthusiasts.
Port Elizabeths
Southern Beaches offer safe and sheltered swimming, body surfing, sunbathing,
board sailing, excellent waves and surfing opportunities as well as interesting
inter-tidal sea life, while the Northern Beaches offer vast stretches of sand
and dunes, ideal for long beach walks and superb angling and swimming
options.
The beaches include Kings Beach, Humewood Beach, Hobie Beach,
Pollock Beach, Brighton Beach, Bluewater Bay, St Georges Strand and Wells
Estate.
On the south side of the city, Schoenmakerskop - a picturesque
seaside village - offers scenic picnic spots, coves, rock pools and holiday
resorts with safe bathing and fishing in tidal pools.
A little further
along is Sardinia Bay, a marine Reserve with miles of unspoilt coastline and
crystal-clear water - excellent for diving, horse riding and scenic walks and
hikes.
Water Sports
The Swartkops River Estuary is a unique
water sports playground - ideal for power boating, canoing, sailing, windsurfing
and angling.
Game Viewing
The Eastern Cape boasts the most
concentrated elephant reserve in Africa. Home to a herd of 300 elephants, the
Addo Elephant National Park allows close-quarter viewing.
Whether at the
exclusive Shamwari Game Reserve, the large Addo Elephant Park, or the Mountain
Zebra National Park, the Eastern Cape offers unequaled game viewing in
conditions suited to the traveler.
The Wild, Wild Coast
Further
north, along the Eastern Cape's east coast, is the largely untamed and
extravagantly beautiful Wild Coast - the ultimate holiday
destination.
Fishing, more than anything else, draws holiday-makers to
the Wild Coast. In summer, catches include huge reef fish such as musselcracker.
In autumn, the annual sardine run brings fighting game fish. Totally unspoilt
and un commercialized, the Wild Coast offers a pleasant climate, mild seas and
family resorts where fresh seafood features on most menus.
Whale
spotting
Southern right whales and their calves are regularly spotted
from the high dunes, usually between May and November, and common and bottlenose
dolphins are often seen close to shore.
Off-The-Beaten
Track
The Eastern Cape offers unlimited adventure possibilities in a
virtually unspoilt part of the world. A number of routes can be taken
off-the-beaten track. However, road infrastructure can be limited at times - so,
ensure that you have the right vehicle, adequate directions and safety
instructions to ensure the best possible experience.
Restaurants
Browse through South Africa�s gourmet and discover the pleasures of the South African table. South Africa�s glory lies in its scenic splendour, contrasts, diversity and its fine cuisine.The country�s recipes offer a great spectrum of good food and appeals to the widest audience; a real gourmet�s paradise.South Africa�s historical heritage contributed to the diversity of its recipes, which originated during the settling of the Dutch East India Company�s Service Base, in the Cape Province. Sea-farers of various nations, Malayen Slaves, French Huguenots, British and Scottish Settlers - who settled in South Africa - all contributed to the South African Cuisine.The exotic dishes of the Malayen and Indian kitchen predominantly influenced the South African Cuisine, i.e. favourite dishes such as "Sosaties" (mutton and beef shashlik), "Bobotie" (mutton- mince and curry casserole) and various types of meat and vegetable stews. These specialities, especially the "Waterblommetjie bredie" is best enjoyed in the Cape region.
Beef, lamb, or fish curry dishes should best be tried in Durban. These deliciously diverse appealing meals can be prepared back home - none of the recipes are very difficult.Simply visit the Indian market in Durban, which should be compulsory under any circumstance, where all sorts of exotic spices as well as recipes may be acquired. By the way, an authentic curry-mix is also considered as an original South African gift.Should the curry be a little "too hot" simply add rasped coconut. The British introduced roastbeef and various puddings. Cucumber sandwiches, scones and crumpets are typical for traditional tea times. The typical English Breakfast was also introduced to South Africa. This is still served in all major hotels today.
The South African�s love for grilling meat - a barbecue, dates back to the Voortrekker era, the first pioneers in the foreign country. On their long treks, only the bare necessities of life were taken along; this resulted in fresh hunted meat being grilled over an open flame. This custom later led to the South African�s favourite pastime, the "Braaivleis"; "Braai" meaning grill, "Vleis" meaning meat in Afrikaans. Beef, pork, mutton and a ring-formed "boerewors"(sausage) as well as "pap" (a dry mushy maize porridge) contribute to a Braaivleis, which results in a mighty thirst. However, plenty of good wine and fresh beer solves this problem. Also non-alcoholic beverages are of excellent quality: Appletizer, Grapetizer and natural fruit juices from Liqui Fruit.As desert the "melktert" (milktart) must be tried.During the long treks, needs led to inventions, resulting in various tasteful methods of keeping meat fresh. Large quantities of pre-cooked meat is used for "Bobotie", the meat of various "Sosaties" are vinegar marinated meat pieces."Biltong", an enjoyable snack, is a well-seasoned and air-dried piece of meat, which can be gained from cattle, kudu, ostrichs or even elephant.
For the fish and seafood lovers, South Africa is just the right place, considering its coastal stretch of over 3000 km. The fresh "catch of the day", mussels and especially cray fish are extremely popular. The motto in Cape Town being "Lobster that you eat today, slept last night in Table Bay". Also very typical on the menu is fresh "Linefish" - simply meaning that the particular fish was caught by fishing rod.
What is a good dish without an appropriate glass of wine? Let us indulge into South African wines, which are considere to be amongst the best in the world. The South African viticulture boasts a long tradition. First wine stocks were introduced into the Cape about 300 years back.The experienced French Huguenots contributed vastly towards the fact that today South African wines are giving the French a good run for their money. The majority of the winelands are found in a radius of 160 km from Cape Town.
A visit to Stellenbosch, the capital of South Africa�s wine industry, is absolutely compulsory when visiting the Cape. This University City with its stylish Cape Dutch architecture has an interesting romantic flair and also serves as an excellent base from which many wine farms can be visited. Not to forget the excellent wine tasting oppurtunities. The distinguished Cape wines perfectly compliment the South African Cuisine. In order not to run dry, make sure that your choice of restaurant is licenced! Should it not be, simply bring along your own wine.
Did we wet your appetite? You will soon realize that restaurants in South Africa appeal to the widest audience, from gourmets to newcomers, for the full spectrum of good food is included, from the classic realms of haute cuisine, to the most informal plating.Various nations have contributed to the South African cuisine, making it one of the most diverse in the world. To enable you to enjoy a good South African wine back home, please refer to our Wine (and Wine Route) folder which supplies you with a few local addresses of wine merchants.
Cheers and enjoy your meal!
Woodall Addo | Addo Accomodation
Adorable Addo
For an unrivalled elephant experience, and a growing number of additional natural attractions, Addo Elephant National Park plans to take on Kruger National Park as South Africa's ultimate tourist destination.
Imagine relinquishing your accumulated stress in the remote and dense bushveld of the Sundays River, deep within the Eastern Cape's Addo Elephant National Park. Imagine sundowners on your bungalow verandah, sharing the last bright orange-red glow of a glorious day with family and friends… and a procession of stately passing pachyderms, ear-swishing and tails twitching.
As the shadows lengthen and darkness descends a new order emerges in the bush. The call of the black-backed jackal seems ominously louder, the moon appears brighter, the world appears more alive than your city memory recalls… and the legend of Hapoor (Nicked Ear) the legendary irritable elephant that retained a deep hatred for humans after his ear was grazed by a bullet grows more fanciful with each telling.
The restaurant in the Addo Main Camp is the last resting place of Hapoor. If you happen to dine in the restaurant, the majestic elephant head above the fireplace is that of the aggressive bull. His magnificent trunk arches over the dining tables, making Hapoor and his 24-year reign over the elephants in Addo Elephant National Park (from 1944 until he was deposed by a new dominant bull called Lanky in 1968), a natural talking point.
It is told that Hapoor was driven from the heard and became a loner, eventually earning the honour of being the only elephant to escape the park's Armstrong fence - but due to his aggressive nature he was shot before he could enjoy his newfound freedom.
Another legendary character is Domkrag (the Afrikaans
word for jack), a giant mountain tortoise that had the unusual habit of
walking in behind cars and lifting them like a car jack with its
enormous strength. Domkrag's huge shell is still on display in the
reception area…the story of his demise is that he fell into an antbear
hole and was unable to extricate himself.
The original section of
the Addo Elephant National Park was proclaimed in 1931 to protect the
last remaining eleven elephant in the area. Conflict between farmers
and the elephant had reached a head in the early 1900s when the large
herds were all but decimated by the time public opinion began to
change.
Since the area was not adequately enclosed, conflicts between elephants and farmers continued even after the proclamation of the 2 000 hectare park. In 1954, Graham Armstrong, (the park manager at the time) developed an elephant-proof fence and fenced in an area of 2270 hectares protecting 22 elephants. This Armstrong fence is still used around the park today, and has only ever been bested by Hapoor.
Safe from relentless persecution in the past, the grey leviathans of the bush now roam in peace. Although the Addo Elephant National Park was originally proclaimed to protect a single species - elephant - priorities have now changed to conserve the rich biological diversity found in the area.
Today, when you wake the francolin's call heralding the dawn, you will see a finely tuned 164 000 hectare ecosystem that is sanctuary to 450 elephants, 400 Cape buffalo, 48 black rhino, a variety of antelope species, as well as the unique flightless dung beetle, found almost exclusively in Addo.
Less than 50 kilometres from Port Elizabeth, the original Addo National Elephant Park has subsequently been expanded to include the Woody Cape Nature Reserve that extends from the Sundays River mouth towards Alexandria and includes a marine reserve, that incorporates St. Croix Island and Bird Island in Algoa Bay, an important breeding habitat for a large variety of other marine life. Bird Island is home to the world's largest breeding colony of gannets and the second largest breeding colony of African penguins. This forms part of the plan to expand the Addo National Elephant Park into a 360 000 hectare mega park - the Greater Addo Elephant National Park.With the parks current expansion Addo contains five of South Africa's seven major vegetation zones (known as biomes). It has forest in the Woody Cape area, sub-tropical thicket in the original Addo area (as well as the Kabouga, Colchester and Nyathi sections), grassland and fynbos in the Zuurberg section, and nama-karoo in the Darlington section.
With the reintroduction of lion and spotted hyena to the park in 2003 Addo is also probably one of the only parks in the world to offer the so-called "Big 7" (elephant, black rhinoceros, lion, leopard, buffalo, southern right whales and great white sharks) in their natural habitats.
You can also hope to see red hatrtebeest, eland , kudu, bushbuck, Burchell's zebra and warthogs in abundance. But be warned - it is not the mighty elephant, nor the motor vehicle that rules the roads of Addo - it is the rare flightless dung beetle. Signs warn visitors that this tiny natural recycling machine has right of way.
In the outlying areas you can expect to see different mammals - these include the Cape mountain zebra, mountain reedbuck baboons, duiker and red rock rabbit. The coastal forest is home to buchbuck, bush pig, brown hyena and the rare tree dassie.
Hippos are found in the Sundays River and gemsbok, black wildebeest, and springbok are found in the arid nama-karoo and Darlington Dam. Plans include the reintroduction of cheetah and wild dog into this area.
"Must do" activities at Addo include guided game drives in open vehicles, guided walks and guided horse trails for various levels of ability. There are also 'hop-on' guides who can be hired to travel with you in your vehicle to guide you through the game area.
There is a large variety of accommodation options to choose from - from guest houses and forest cabins to caravan and camping sites - both in and outside the reserve. The rest camp has a swimming pool, a well stocked shop selling gifts and supplies, and an ala carte restaurant. Petrol and diesel is available at the main camp and the Red Bishop Bird Hide and new underground wildlife viewing hide are worth a visit.
For the intrepid adventurer, elephant-back safaris are operated from a farm abutting the northern boundary in the Zuurberg area (042 235 1400 / www.addoelephantbacksafaris.co.za / res@addoelephantbacksafaris.co.za) but expect to pay handsomely for the experience.
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Woodall Addo | Addo Accomodation
Lions, cape buffalo, rhino, elephant, leopard, sharks and whales are all residents to this single park. The 120 000 hectare marine reserve includes St. Croix Island and Bird Island, plus it is host to a breeding colony of African penguins. This makes it a perfect habitat for spotting both great white sharks and whales.
Abundant marine life however is no match for the ample elephants that can definitely be seen in the park. Over 350 African elephants have made the park their own personal domain. Sitting in traffic at Addo means waiting for herds of elephants to cross the road.
Founded in 1930 the park was home to only 11 of these gentle giants. Lions were reintroduced to Addo in 2004. This finely tuned ecosystem is home to both the largest and the smallest of species. Keep an eye out for the flightless dung beetle which is unique to the area.
The park consists of no less than seven biomes (vegetation zones), which makes it a birder's paradise. Birds can be viewed while on game drives or from the bird hide that overlooks a reedbed, at the main camp.
After a hard day’s game viewing, guests can return to one of the many different types of accommodation. Whether it is luxury, comfortable family accommodation, or rustic settings, the options are endless in the main rest camp.
Large groups or families can stay at guest houses or family chalets, both with air-conditioning.
Cottages and chalets are close to the main waterhole which is the perfect spot for sundowners. Alternatively, the familiar call of the Francolin can be enjoyed from the balcony of one of the forest cabins.
Those who like to ‘rough it’ will be comfortable in the rondavals or can book a camp site. The restaurant with a la carte menu and shop at the rest camp means that life’s small luxuries are never too far out of reach.
Activities at Addo
- Game viewing within the park
- Bird watching at the main camp
- Game viewing in the night at the illuminated waterhole
- Hiking trails
- Canoe trips down Sundays River
- Swimming pool
- Horse riding at Zuurberg
Getting there:
The park's proximity to Port Elizabeth's international airport makes it easily accessible. From Port Elizabeth, the N2 Highway goes to Grahamstown. Turn off at Motherwell on the R335. Drive on this road for about 50km, and the turn off to Addo is on the right.
For more information visit SANParks.
Article Source:
Article Source: Woodall Addo
ADDO SAFARIS AND GAME VIEWING
Rates are current for 2007/8 season, but may be subject to change. Times given are for the summer months and may change during winter. Transfers not included unless otherwise stated (these can be arranged).WOODALL SAFARIS AND TOURS
Woodall's luxury open topped land cruiser departs daily on a number of excursions: Our highly experienced and qualified game rangers, with an intimate knowledge of the Addo area, include a bird and tree expert with a MSc Degree in plant sciences; a local historian whose knowledge and experience of the local area is unsurpassed; a wildlife and agricultural conservationist. These rangers offer personalised tours with emphasis being placed on individual interests and comfort. The following highly recommended Safaris and Drives are offered:
Morning Drive: Addo Elephant Park (08h30 - 13h00)
R550 / person
including transfers, conservation fee, all drinks and snacks. (6 years
+)
Afternoon Drive: Addo Elephant Park (14h30 - 18h00)
R550 / person
including transfers, conservation fee, all drinks and snacks. (6 years
+)
Addo Citrus Tour: This tour includes a visit to top citrus farms in the area with one of the foremost citrus breeders in the world. Experience first hand knowledge on all aspects of citrus growing, as well as a tour to nearby ostrich and game farms where interesting waterfowl, fish eagle, wildebeest, zebra, eland, kudu and buffalo may be encountered. Rate: R350 / person including drinks and snacks.
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ADDO ELEPHANT NATIONAL PARK
Addo is the best place to get up close and personal with the biggest land mammal - the Park is home to the densest population of elephant in the world. Other mammals include lion, hyena, Cape buffalo, and black rhino, as well as zebra, jackal, warthog, suricate and numerous species of antelope. Over 150 bird species have been recorded in Addo and there are around 600 different plant species. Addo is also home to the endangered dung beetle. Whether you experience the park from the comfort of your own vehicle or on a game drive with an experienced guide, the chances are you will have close encounters with the elephant. To make the most of the park be sure to bring binoculars, camera, walking shoes. Wildlife reference books and road maps of the Park are available from the reception at Woodall.
Game viewing from your own vehicle: Explore more than 75 kilometres of road through prime wildlife country. There are a number of lookout points at waterholes in the area. Entrance fee to the park is R100 / person. Gate hours (game area): 07h00 - 18h00 throughout the year. No reservation required. Hop on guides on request - R100 for two hours.
Addo Park Sundowner Drive (18h00 - 20h00) Time subject to change in winter months. R255 / person (excludes transfers) Enjoy a sundowner drink while the sun sets after another exciting day of game viewing in Africa. Children 6 years +
Addo Elephant Park Night Drive: (19h30 - 21h30) R190 / person (excludes transfers ) lion, buffalo and black rhino and a host of nocturnal hunters are often spotted in the lush Addo bush). Time subject to change.
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AMAKHALA GAME RESERVE (± one an a quarter hours drive from
Woodall)
Amakhala means "Aloe', the prolific indigenous plant found in this
diverse area of the Eastern Cape. Feel the heartbeat and rhythm of Africa as you
become part of a Big 5 Safari Adventure on Amakhala Game Reserve.
Guided
by experienced rangers on open Land Rovers Amakhala offers a product aimed at
providing visitors with an experience of the diverse wildlife and landscape
including: The Big 5, Black Wildebeest, Cheetah, Giraffe, Zebra and numerous
other antelope.
The excursion commences from Reed Valley with a welcome
drink and a Game drive through the reserve enjoying spectacular views before
descending into the Bushman’s River Valley.
This is followed by lunch -
authentic African cuisine with a mouth watering buffet served in the true
African way before departing on a tranquil 45-minute river cruise. After the
river cruise enjoy a further game drive through other parts of the reserve
making your way back to Reed Valley. R720 / Person (12h00 – 18h00).
PUMBA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE (± one an a quarter hours drive from Woodall) Children 8 yrs +
Pumba Day Safaris offer sightings of the Big 5, against a backdrop of thornveld, grassland, thicket and forest vegetation. Apart from white lion, giraffe, leopard, 22 species of antelope; this is a bird lovers’ paradise with 200 plus bird species. Safaris consist of a 2 hour game drive, meal, drinks then a further one and a half hours game viewing. Cost is: R700 / person including meal and drinks.
KWANTU PRIVATE GAME RESERVE (± one an a quarter hours drive
from Woodall)
Kwantu means 'place of gathering', and the sights, sounds,
scents and sensations of this green pocket of Africa will embrace you. Visit the
oldest Anglican Church in South Africa, before departing on a three hour game
drive and encounter rhino, elephant, buffalo, hippopotamus, lion, leopard, zebra
and antelope, followed by a visit to the Predator and Educational and
Rehabilitation Centre, followed by an Eastern inspired 3-course meal. (Afternoon
visit includes a cultural exhibition, where spirited dancers tell stories of
other cultures)
Cost: R500 /person Children 5 - 12 years: R250 / child
Children under 2 years free - includes meal and drinks
SCHOTIA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE:
"Tooth & Claw" Safari: (45 minute drive from Woodall). Schotia is the oldest private game viewing reserve in the Eastern Cape, and offers one of the best chances to see lions in the wild.
The Tooth & Claw is a guided drive in open topped vehicles. It begins in the late afternoon, and returns after nightfall (late afternoon and evening game viewing is often the most rewarding time of day for game viewing as this is when animals are at their most active). This is especially the case with lion, which are generally nocturnal hunters. Schotia is also home to white rhino, zebra, wildebeest, warthog, jackal, crocodile, and a large variety of antelope. The drive is followed by a traditional meal is served under the stars in a thatched open air lapa. Drive leaves at 15h00 and returns at 20h00 and is then followed by dinner. Cost is R600 / person including dinner.
ADDO ELEPHANT BACK SAFARIS
A unique opportunity to be one in nature with these awe-inspiring gentle giants. Addo Elephant Back Safaris is situated in the pristine valleys of the Zuurberg Mountains within the recently proclaimed Greater Addo Elephant Park. This area is regarded as Africa’s most biologically diverse, supporting 4 of the 7 biomes or eco regions in Southern Africa. During the walk, informative guides will provide information on this unique area. After the walk relax at the boma overlooking the elephant’s favourite water hole.
Walk / Ride with the Elephants: Walk/Ride with the elephants includes walk, ride, drinks and snacks. Elephants can be observed in their natural surroundings. Duration two hours. Times 08h00, 11h00 and 15h30. Lunch optional R100 pp (prior notice required and highly recommended) Transfers available: R250pp. Rates R720 / Person
Elephant Back Safari Fly in: Includes return flight, lunch in unique bush restaurant, elephant safari, which includes the thrill of riding an African elephant in the wild, guided walk in pristine forest with these gentle giants, rewarding them with their favourite food. Duration: 3 hours (excluding flying time) Times: 07h30, 10h30 and 13h30 Rate: R1595 per person (minimum 2 pax - maximum 6 pax)
Schotia / Elephant Back Safari: includes return flight, three hour game drive, lunch and Elephant Back Safari. Time: Starts at 08h30 and ends at 16h30. Cost: R2245 per person (minimum 2)
HIKING IN THE ADDO AREA
Addo Park Discovery Trail: This unique 2 km trail through typical Addo thicket has been specially designed for disabled visitors and is suitable for wheelchairs.
Zuurberg Nature Trail: (1 hour and 4 hours). These trails wind through fynbos and deep kloofs within unspoiled indigenous forests, home to a wide range of game and birds, as well as various vegetation types including impressive cycad and yellowwood populations. Zuurberg is open from 07h00 - 16h30. Conservation fee is R25 / person.
ADDO HORSE TRAILS
Addo Park: Breathtaking horse trails through Addo & Zuurberg allow you to become one with the African bush. Experienced Riders: 3 hour guided horse trail within the elephant park with rare opportunities of viewing game close up (14h00 - 17h00 - R210 / person) (minimum age 10 years). Novice Riders: 2 hour guided horse trail next to the game fence (08h00 - 10h00 - R160 / person).
Zuurberg Mountain Horse Trails: Rate: R110 (1 hour - starting 09h00, 11h00, 14h00);R160 (3 hours - starting 09h00, 11h00); R180 (5 hours - starting 09h00).
Citrus Farms: Trails among beautiful citrus orchards and along the famous Sundays River.
SPECIALISED TOURS
Tailor-made birding and botanical tours in the Addo region can be arranged with highly experienced specialists within these fields.
PENGUIN CRUISES
Discover the marine life of Algoa Bay off
Port Elizabeth, one of South Africa’s most diverse bays. Bryde’s whales,
bottlenose and humpback dolphins can be seen almost all year round; Southern
right whales visit every year to give birth to their calves and mate; and
humpback whales pass through during their annual migration. Hundreds of common
dolphins often come into the bay to feed. Add to this the Cape fur seal, several
species of shark and seabird, as well as a visit to St Croix Island Marine
Reserve to see the largest breeding colony of the endangered African
Penguins.
Penguin Island Cruise Duration 3hours. Rate:
R500pp
(includes light refreshments during cruise)
Time: 8.30am at
Port Elizabeth Harbour
(optional extra - lunch at Algoa Bay Yacht Club at
R50 pp)
Sundowner Cruise Duration 1,5 hours. Rate R250pp Time: 5pm
or 6pm (depending on season)
Bird Island Cruise on
request
GRAHAMSTOWN FRONTIER COUNTRY TOUR
Grahamstown is approximately 1 hour's drive from Woodall. Join Alan Weyer, a well-known raconteur on a selection of tours through the heart of the Eastern Cape's Frontier Country. The results of the great confluence of human ventures in the region had a significant impact on not only South African history, but also on world history. Alan's insightful historical knowledge coupled with his many truths, tales and legends of the region make for an unforgettable journey through time.
Half Day Frontier Country Tour: R475 / person. Spend the morning in the hills around the City of Grahamstown following the influences of many cultures on the region. Includes a thrilling narration of the Battle of Grahamstown. Refreshments provided.
Full Day Frontier Country Tour: R775 / person. Morning spent as above. Then head into the Great Fish River Valley, the heartland of Big Game Country. Hear gripping tales of the Frontier Wars at the remains of the Fort at Doubledrift Game Reserve. Refreshments and lunch included.
Full Day Frontier Country and the Valley of the Ancient Voices Tour: R650 / person. Spend the morning as per Half-Day Tour, and then join a gentle walking tour of the Valley of the Ancient Voices. Discover the prolific rock art relics artefacts found in this pristine Eastern Cape Valley. Refreshments and lunch included.
TRANSFERS
The following transfers can be arranged:
- Port Elizabeth / Airport
- Pumba
- Kwantu
- Lalibela
- Amakhala
- Schotia
- Addo Elephant Park
- Grahamstown
- East London
Woodall Addo | Addo Accomodation Addo Elephant National Park - Best Elephant Photo Ever
- South Africa |
The Addo Elephant National Park was proclaimed in 1931, the park was formed to protect the remaining elephants in the Addo area, there were less than 15. At one time the Addo herd was one of the largest in the Eastern Cape with some 140 elephants, but hunting decimated these numbers over the space of around 200 years.
Not only were the elephants hunted but also black rhino and lions where made extinct in the area. The remaining elephants were 'rescued' by a land owner at Barkly Bridge - Mr J T Harvey, who allowed the elephants onto his land, preventing them from being hunted.
Elephants had to be chased to the area which had been set aside for the Addo Elephant National Park, but the fence was not strong enough to contain elephants, and they escaped and continued to be killed by farmers and by trains which travelled along the nearby line. In 1933 the manager of the park started to feed the elephants in an attempt to contain them.
In 1954 an elephant proof fence was developed by Graham Armstrong, tram rails and lift cable were used and an area of 2270 hectares was fenced off. The fence proved successful and can still be seen in the park today. Flood light were erected around the feeding areas and visitors would come to see the elephants, however the feeding caused more problems as the elephants came to expect the food and would stay in the feeding area. The plant life in the area was destroyed and the elephants became aggressive to the feeding truck and to each other, many elephants were injured, so this feeding was stopped in 1979.
The park was first opened to tourists in 1981, when they entered the park they could view the elephants easily as the numbers had grown significantly. Disease free Cape Buffalos were also protected bt the Addo Elephant National Park as were the flightless Dung Beetle. Eland, zebras, warthogs, black rhino and hippos were all introduced to the park over the following years.
Lions were reintroduced to the area in 2003 as well as spotted hyenas in 2003/2004. These are only some of the animals which can be seen jackals, kudu, red hartebeest and duikers are also found in the Addo Elephant National Park .
The Addo Elephant National Park itself has no natural waterholes; the water is supplied from boreholes. These manmade waterholes have the advantage that they are by the roads and can produce some excellent photo opportunities, with many different animals going to the waterholes at any one time.
The Spekboom waterhole and hide is fantastic for photographers. Hapoor waterhole is named after a bull elephant that was the dominant bull of the Addo herd for some 24 years, after being ousted from his herd by Lanky - an upcoming bull - Hapoor escaped through the fence developed by Graham Armstrong, he was the only elephant ever to do so. He was found grazing by Coerney Station and had to be shot as he was an aggressive animal - a cast of this giant elephants head can be seen in the restaurant at the main rest camp in Addo Elephant Park .
The main camp offers good quality accommodation from chalets to camp sites, there are also safari tents which look out directly over the park and it is not unusual to have an elephant or a herd of buffalo pass you by! Horse riding safaris are available, these tours go through the game area and can be quite nerve raking, a bit of experience is required.
Mornings, sunset and night drives are also offered from the main camp and are good value for money as well as very informative. Prior booking is essential, especially during the holidays. The park is relatively small and can be driven around comfortably in a day.
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Gerald Crawford was born in South Africa, studied electronics, telecommunication, eco-travel and african travel concepts. He taught responsible tourism in South Africa. If you have any questions or comments please e-mail me on. E-mail Address: southafricantravelarticles@12234455.co.za Website Address: http://www.12234455.co.za Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gerald_Crawford |
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Barbara Cole July 07 2008 at 12:31PM www.iol.co.za |
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His job is to monitor the movements of the recently introduced elephants in the park (previously known as St Lucia Wetland Park) as they move between the eastern and western shores.
Monitoring elephants is done with the aid of the electronic collars on the female herd matriarch (leader) and mature bulls in each group.
Cellphones and GPRS detect the whereabouts of elephants many kilometres away, while the radio telemetry methods track them on short distances.
"Monitoring elephants helps us manage people around the elephants, especially in areas where we have teams of land care staff and forestry workers," said Andrew Zaloumis, the park's chief executive.
Mfeka, who again monitors elephants in the afternoon, also checks to see if there have been new births, and if any elephants have been injured or have snares around them.
Dung is also collected to check which vegetation has been eaten by the elephants.
According to historical records, the last elephants were shot out of the St Lucia area in the early l920s. And 50 years later, the local Bhangazi people were also forced from their ancestral homes on the eastern shores.
Now, both have returned, including Mfeka, whose forefathers used to live in the area.
He feels that his ancestors are watching over him while he watches over the elephants.
Zaloumis says that one of iSimangaliso's biggest attractions is the game that can be seen while driving and walking in the park, but that many of these animals would not be there were it not for the park's active, ongoing programme to re-introduce them.
With much of the park having a history of land use for forestry, agriculture, cattle grazing, military activities and subsistence farming, the large animals that were once found there are now absent, or present only in low numbers.
iSimangaliso and the Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife "recognises the need to restore animal species richness at viable population numbers throughout an open ecological area that supports their behavioural (migration), breeding, nutritional and habitat requirements," a spokesperson for the park explained.
"It is necessary that different habitats and ecosystem processes from the Lubombo Mountains in uMkuze to the coast plains of the eastern shores and Lake St Lucia are linked over a large, consolidated land area in order to accomplish this."
Once this has been achieved, eland, which were once native to the area, will be reintroduced.
This will continue to support the aim of generating tourism, which is "crucial for the socio-economic sustainability of the park".
Forty-two elephants were first introduced to the park in 2001 and at the moment there are 59, most of which have made the western shores of iSimangaliso their home.
The uMkuze section of the park also has a herd of more than 50 elephant, and these are also collared. More than 200 buffalo, 40 oribi, 13 wild dogs, eight cheetah and 10 black rhino have also been introduced to the park.
