Addo Elephant National Park in Addo, Addo: Tickets, Hours and Family Guide
Animals and wildlife in Addo, Addo
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South Africa's third-largest national park, home to over 600 elephants, the Big Five, and a unique marine section, offering self-drive game viewing and guided drives.
What is Addo Elephant National Park?
Addo Elephant National Park is a conservation success story and a premier family safari destination in the Eastern Cape. It was established to protect the last remaining elephants in the region and is now home to over 600 of them, along with the rest of the Big Five (lion, leopard, buffalo, rhino). The park offers excellent self-drive game viewing on a network of well-maintained gravel roads. For families, a guided game drive with a knowledgeable ranger is highly recommended. The park also has a fascinating interpretation centre and a thriving population of flightless dung beetles.
Addo is a flagship national park for elephant conservation and is part of the Greater Addo Elephant National Park initiative, which includes a marine protected area.
Addo Elephant National Park ticket prices 2026
| Visitor type | Adult | Child (2-11) | Under 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard rate | ZAR 425 | ZAR 212 | Free |
International visitors: Adults R425, Children (2-11) R212. South African residents: Adults R106, Children R53. Conservation fees are valid for one day. Confirm current rates at the gate.
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- Go early or late Animals are most active at dawn and dusk. Bring binoculars
Is it right for your child's age?
| Age group | Verdict | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| 0-2 years | Okay | Game viewing is from the car, so it's suitable, but it can be a long day. |
| 3-5 years | Good | The elephants are a huge thrill for young children. |
| 6-9 years | Great | Kids love spotting animals and learning about the park. |
| 10-12 years | Great | The conservation story and game drives are engaging. |
| 13+ years | Great | A fantastic safari experience for the whole family. |
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Key details
- Address
- Addo Elephant National Park, Addo, 6105, Addo
- Opening hours
- Daily 7am to 7pm Open now
- How long to plan
- Half day to full day
- Suitable ages
- All ages
- Setting
- Outdoor
- Booking
- Self-drive or book a guided game drive
- Payment accepted
- Card
- Cash (SA Rand)
- Phone
- +27 42 233 8600
What to expect when you visit
Enter at the main gate and pick up a map. You can self-drive the loop roads or book a guided game drive. The park is known for its elephants, so expect to see large herds. The interpretation centre is great for learning about the park's history. Allow a full day for the best experience.
What if...?
The questions every parent asks before booking. Tap to expand.
Can we self-drive?
Yes, the park is perfect for self-drive safaris.
Will we see the Big Five?
Elephants are almost guaranteed, but the others require patience and luck.
Are there guided drives?
Yes, you can book guided game drives with a ranger.
Family essentials
- Suitable age bands
- 0–2 years
- 3–5 years
- 6–9 years
- 10–12 years
- 13+ years
- Toddler suitability
- Great for toddlers
- Minimum age
- No minimum age
- Facilities
- Toilets
- Baby changing
- Cafe or food on site
- Gift shop
- Parking
- Restaurant
- Access and parking
- Wheelchair accessible
- Stroller friendly
- Free parking
- Safety notes
Stay in your vehicle except at designated viewpoints and follow all park rules.
Tickets and costs
- Parking
- Free
- Free entry rules
- No
- Extra costs (activities, rentals, food)
Guided game drives, horseback safaris
Plan your visit
- Combine with
- Schotia Safaris
- Kragga Kamma Game Park
- Port Elizabeth
- What to bring
- Binoculars
- Camera
- Sun hat
- Insect repellent
- Water
- Warm jacket for early mornings
Accessibility deep dive
Here is what to expect on the ground.
The main camp and some roads are accessible, but a 4x4 is recommended for the best game viewing.
Available at the main camp.
Free on-site parking at the main camp.
Combine your visit
Plan the perfect day
Resident family of 4 estimate (SA residents): ~R318 for entry
What to pack
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Family day bag checklist
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Frequently asked questions
- How much does it cost to visit Addo Elephant National Park?
- Adults pay ZAR 425 and children (ages 2-11) pay ZAR 212. Children under 2 enter free. International visitors: Adults R425, Children (2-11) R212. South African residents: Adults R106, Children R53. Conservation fees are valid for one day. Confirm current rates at the gate.
- What are the Addo Elephant National Park opening hours?
- Daily 7am to 7pm.
- Is Addo Elephant National Park suitable for toddlers and young children?
- Yes. Addo Elephant National Park is great for toddlers. Minimum age: No minimum age. Baby changing facilities are available. Stay in your vehicle except at designated viewpoints and follow all park rules.
- How long do you need at Addo Elephant National Park?
- Plan for Half day to full day.
- What payment methods does Addo Elephant National Park accept?
- Addo Elephant National Park accepts Card, Cash (SA Rand). It does not accept cash.
- Is Addo Elephant National Park accessible, and is there parking?
- Access and parking: Wheelchair accessible, Stroller friendly, Free parking.
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