5 Day Addo Park & Amakhala Big 5 Safari – Eastern Cape, South Africa
Embark on an unforgettable Addo Park & Amakhala Big 5 Safari through the malaria-free Eastern Cape, combining two of South Africa’s top wildlife destinations – Addo Elephant National Park and Amakhala Game Reserve. This affordable and family-friendly safari offers excellent Big Five game viewing, professional guiding, and unique tented camp accommodation for an immersive African safari experience.
Safari Highlights
- Big Five game drives in Addo Elephant National Park
- Open 4×4 safari drives in Amakhala Game Reserve
- Expert-led wildlife viewing in malaria-free regions
- Stay in an intimate tented safari camp inside Amakhala
- Ideal for families or as a Garden Route tour add-on
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Port Elizabeth to Addo Elephant National Park
Your Addo Park & Amakhala Big 5 Safari begins with collection from your accommodation in Port Elizabeth at 8:00 AM. A short 35-minute drive brings you to Addo Elephant Park, home to nearly 700 elephants and a diverse range of wildlife. Enjoy extensive game drives with your professional guide, followed by lunch at the main rest camp. Optional night game drives available (additional cost).
- Accommodation: Chalet or cottage in Addo Elephant Park
- Meals: Lunch included
- Optional: Night game drive (SANParks)
Day 2: Full Day in Addo Elephant National Park
Wake early for a sunrise game drive in Addo, one of South Africa’s premier national parks. Spot predators and birdlife before returning to camp for a hearty breakfast. After some downtime and a light lunch, head out again for another wildlife-filled game drive. Evening options include stargazing or another night drive.
- Accommodation: Chalet or cottage in Addo Elephant Park
- Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
- Optional: Night game drive (SANParks)
Day 3: Addo to Amakhala Game Reserve
After a final Addo game drive and breakfast, travel to nearby Amakhala Game Reserve. Check into the charming Woodbury Tented Camp and enjoy a relaxing lunch. In the late afternoon, set out on your first Big Five safari drive in Amakhala, a 18,000-acre private reserve. Return to camp for dinner and a peaceful night surrounded by nature.
- Accommodation: Woodbury Tented Camp, Amakhala
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4: Amakhala Game Reserve
Begin the day with an early morning game drive in Amakhala, offering chances to see lion, rhino, buffalo, cheetah and more. After breakfast and some leisure time at camp, head out on a sunset safari with sundowners in the bush. Learn about the reserve’s diverse ecosystems from your knowledgeable guide.
- Accommodation: Woodbury Tented Camp, Amakhala
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5: Amakhala to Port Elizabeth
Conclude your Addo Park & Amakhala Big 5 Safari with a final morning game drive in Amakhala. Enjoy breakfast back at camp before transferring to Port Elizabeth, where your safari adventure ends with a drop-off at your accommodation.
- Meals: Breakfast
About Addo Elephant National Park
Addo is South Africa’s third-largest national park and one of the most accessible Big Five safari destinations, just 35 minutes from Port Elizabeth. It’s famous for its dense elephant population and is part of a unique Big Seven conservation area that includes marine wildlife like southern right whales and great white sharks. The park offers a range of activities and facilities, including a floodlit waterhole, wildlife hides, and a visitor centre.
Accommodation Inside Addo
You’ll stay at the main rest camp (subject to availability) in well-equipped chalets or cottages with en-suite bathrooms, kitchenettes, and private patios. The camp also has a restaurant, swimming pool, and waterhole for wildlife viewing between game drives.
About Amakhala Game Reserve
Amakhala is a family-run private game reserve less than an hour from Port Elizabeth. It spans multiple ecosystems and offers superb wildlife diversity, including all of the Big Five. The reserve is known for its conservation efforts and local community involvement.
Woodbury Tented Camp – Amakhala
Set on a hillside with views of the Bushman’s River plains, Woodbury Tented Camp offers authentic safari accommodation in canvas tents with en-suite bathrooms and private decks. Facilities include two swimming pools, a lounge, and a dining area overlooking the plains. Optional upgrades to luxury lodges are available.
Child Policy & Optional Extras
Children over 6 years are welcome on this safari. Night game drives are available at an additional cost, with a minimum age of 7 years. Please contact us for current pricing on optional activities or lodge upgrades.