Early Morning Addo Safari
Three hours in the park as the sun comes up, with the coolest air and the most active animals of the day.
The world waking up
An early start is the way to escape the summer heat and see Addo at its most active. The park comes alive as the sun rises, with antelope, zebra and warthog greeting the new day while the light is still low and the roads are quiet.
As the temperature climbs, the elephant herds start feeding and head for the waterholes to drink. That movement is the heart of this drive, and it is why the first hours are worth the early alarm.
Keep an eye out for predators too. Lion and spotted hyena are often settling in after a night of activity, though, as anywhere, sightings vary from morning to morning.
How the morning runs
Departure follows the park gate times, which shift through the year. Your guide confirms the exact collection time the evening before.
Pick-up from your stay
We collect you from the Homestead, The Silos, Beyond Cui Bono or the Farmstall. Coffee, tea and bottled water travel in the vehicle.
Into the park as it opens
Through the gate while the air is still cool. Antelope, zebra and warthog are usually the first things moving.
Elephants to the waterholes
As it warms up, the herds start feeding and heading for water. This is the most reliable elephant viewing of the day.
Back with the day ahead
Three hours door to door, so you are back with the rest of the day still to use.
What’s included
- Return transfer within a 15 km radius
- Park entrance and conservation fees
- Bottled water, coffee or tea
- Guide gratuity
- Transfers from outside Addo
- Meals
Collection and drop-off are included within a 15 km radius, from Homestead B&B, The Silos Guesthouse, Beyond Cui Bono or the Travel Addo Farmstall. Transfers from outside Addo are not included, but ask us and we will tell you what is possible.
What you might see
Antelope, zebra and warthog at first light, then elephant herds moving to the waterholes. Lion and spotted hyena are sometimes seen settling in after the night. Sightings vary from day to day.
Good to know
- A warm jacket, as mornings are cold year-round
- Comfortable shoes
- Sunscreen and extra water
- Comfortable clothing (avoid black, blue and navy)
- Collection is within a 15 km radius of Addo
- Departure moves with the seasonal gate times
- Sightings vary; no wildlife is guaranteed
- You need to be able to climb into an open vehicle using the steps
Common questions
How long is it?
How early is the collection?
What should I wear?
Is breakfast included?
Where do you collect from?
Make a trip of it
Where to stay
Stay at one of our collection points and the vehicle comes to your door.
