Addo Elephant Back Safari

Addo Elephant Back Safari

I have been travelling in Africa for over three decades. In that time, I have been on countless safaris; by Land Rover, on foot, by canoe and horseback, up and down mountains and valleys. The sense of wonder and appreciation of natural beauty has never left me. There are, of course, individual animals which I prefer above all others. Some are large, very large and some small but all, for some reason or other, have endeared themselves towards me. I will start with the very large.

The African elephant is the poster boy for safaris. Huge and gracious, gentle and ferocious. I know he causes vast devastation wherever he goes. To eat one leaf on a branch, he will knock over and crush a century-old tree. And he eats a lot. On average, an adult will consume 150 kilos a day of vegetation. I have come close to these animals in the bush, sometimes steering too close and having to beat a hasty retreat. A recent invitation to Addo Elephant Back Safari Lodge near Addo National Park in the Eastern Cape was a chance to satiate my decades-long desire to touch and feel one in a natural setting.

Often in nature conservancy, there are moral debates. In this case, is this experience of going to ride on the back of an elephant little more than a circus outing by animals trained as performers? These arguments can never be won with each adversary tenaciously standing their ground. All I can say and write is that it was a wonderfully satisfying experience with no evidence that the elephants were stressed or distressed or unhappy in any way. They roamed the natural, mountainous bush setting with a couple of flyweights on their backs, eating at will. There was no saddle, and the handlers were mines of information about everything you ever wanted to know about elephants. In fact, that was one of the most satisfying aspects of the visit. The evident enthusiasm and love, yes, love, for their charges. We learnt a mine of information. An elephant's trunk has 50000 muscles and can hold 17 litres of water. Ears act as vast fans to cool themselves down. The exterior of their skin was a very hard leather, but the underside of their ears felt as soft as silk.

It is a difficult road to reach this exceptional Eastern Cape lodge climbing the rocky Zuurberg Pass, but that also is part of Africa; it should never be too easy. On arrival in this miniature Eden, it is another story. The rooms are made out of canvas and wood perched on stilts with wide decks maximising the mountainous and bush views. Every comfort is catered for with spa baths and Hemingway safari-inspired decoration. The public rooms and mess areas overlook a vast watering hole or communal bath for elephants if you prefer. No, this is no hardship, and that is the other side of Africa; you are here to enjoy certain romantic comforts!

Driving back down the pass, you can take a more conventional if equally appealing safari in the Addo National Park, originally designed to conserve a heavily poached elephant population but for the sheer sensual pleasure of being up close and personal to these magnificent creatures, I could not recommend this experience strongly enough.

Addo Elephant Back Safari

Addo Elephant Back Safari
Addo Elephant Back Safari
Addo Elephant Back Safari
Travel To The Eastern Cape
Map Of Eastern Cape Safari Lodges And Boutique Hotels
Popular Accommodation Options In The Eastern Cape

  • Amakhala Safari Lodge

    Amakhala Safari Lodge

    Rates from R6 080.00 per person

    Amakhala Safari Lodge, situated in the scenic Amakhala Game Reserve, is a breathtaking sanctuary that offers an immersive and holistic safari experience. With its impeccable design and meticulous attention to detail, this safari lodge provides a perfect haven for rejuvenating your soul and immersing yourself in the magnificent wildlife of the Eastern Cape.

    From the air-conditioned safari huts to the serene surroundings, every aspect of this retreat is crafted to ensure an unforgettable stay.

  • Amakhala Leeuwenbosch Country House

    Amakhala Leeuwenbosch Country House

    Rates from R3 830.00 per person

    Leeuwenbosch Country House and Amakhala Game Reserve offer an enchanting experience. Nestled in the beautiful Amakhala Game Reserve, the colonial-style retreat of Leeuwenbosch Country House provides exceptional guesthouse accommodation surrounded by indigenous gardens.

    Explore the reserve's abundant wildlife on an unforgettable safari, immersing yourself in the captivating beauty of this remarkable destination.

  • Kwandwe Great Fish River Lodge

    Kwandwe Great Fish River

    Rates from R15 200.00 per person

    Experience the luxury of Kwandwe Great Fish River Lodge, where nature and elegance converge. Perched on a steep bank with breathtaking views, this Lodge offers unobstructed vistas and immersive encounters with wildlife.

    Great Fish River Lodge's design reflects the rugged landscape, blending seamlessly with the surroundings. Step inside to a warm and inviting ambience adorned with antiques and cosy rugs.

  • Kariega River Lodge

    Kariega River Lodge

    Rates from R9 200.00 per person

    Experience the magic of the Eastern Cape Wilderness at Kariega River Lodge. Nestled along the serene banks of the Bushman's River, this enchanting destination offers tranquillity and luxury.

    Immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of the reserve, embark on thrilling game drives, and indulge in exquisite culinary delights while enjoying panoramic views of the river and wilderness.

  • Kariega Homestead

    Kariega Homestead

    Rates from R64 000.00 exclusive use

    Experience unbeatable privacy, exceptional service, and unforgettable wildlife encounters at Kariega Homestead. This luxurious exclusive-use lodge offers ultimate comfort, convenience, and tranquillity with dedicated hosts, knowledgeable game rangers, and skilled cooks.

    Enjoy an intimate and personalized experience in this idyllic haven of luxury and natural beauty, perfect for small groups or families.

  • Kariega Main Lodge

    Kariega Main Lodge

    Rates from R7 300.00 per person

    Located on a scenic hilltop on the eastern side of Kariega Reserve, Kariega Main Lodge offers a serene and welcoming environment to immerse yourself in the beauty of the African bush.

    With stunning views, harmonious blending with nature, abundant birdlife, and renowned "Big Five" safaris, this malaria-free sanctuary promises an unforgettable adventure for families and nature enthusiasts.

  • Kariega Ukhozi Lodge

    Kariega Ukhozi Lodge

    Rates from R9 100.00 per person

    Experience the wild luxury of Kariega Ukhozi Lodge, a secluded Eastern Cape getaway where romance and adventure meet. Perched high on a hill, this exclusive safari destination offers stunning panoramic views of the Kariega Game Reserve.

    Embark on thrilling game drives, indulge in gourmet dining, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Eastern Cape. Escape into the heart of the wild at Ukhozi Lodge.

  • Shamwari Eagles Crag Lodge

    Shamwari Eagles Crag Lodge

    Rates from R14 875.00 per person

    Discover Eagles Crag, a luxurious and private retreat nestled within the Shamwari Private Game Reserve. Immerse yourself in breathtaking natural scenery and experience unparalleled serenity. With its timeless elegance and seamless blend of glass and stone, this hidden gem offers a profound connection with the natural world.

    Escape the ordinary and indulge in an unforgettable experience that will leave you longing to return.