Matyholweni Camp - Addo Elephant National Park - Colchester Section

Matyholweni Camp is a camp near Addo Elephant National Park - Colchester Section.

Location
Addo Elephant National Park - Colchester Section, Eastern Cape Safaris, South Africa, Southern Africa
Coordinates
-33.672676, 25.802217
Activities
camp

PlnrScore: 29/100

Wildlife Near This Lodge

1789 species observed within 20 km, 60 mammals, 276 birds.

  • African Savanna Elephant (Mammalia, 639 observations)
  • Common Warthog (Mammalia, 362 observations)
  • Plains Zebra (Mammalia, 329 observations)
  • Uitenhage aloe (Plantae, 295 observations)
  • Sweet Thorn (Plantae, 271 observations)
  • Karoo Boerbean (Plantae, 265 observations)
  • Greater Kudu (Mammalia, 241 observations)
  • Hartebeest (Mammalia, 239 observations)
  • Elephant bush (Plantae, 210 observations)
  • African Buffalo (Mammalia, 208 observations)

Best Time to Visit Matyholweni Camp

The best months to visit Matyholweni Camp are January, February, March, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 22.65°C, rainfall 38mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 72%
  • February: Great, temperature 22.45°C, rainfall 41.2mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 70.8%
  • March: Great, temperature 21.59°C, rainfall 39.6mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 72.6%
  • April: Good, temperature 18.42°C, rainfall 51.2mm, sunshine 8.7 hrs, humidity 72.2%
  • May: Good, temperature 16.55°C, rainfall 38.2mm, sunshine 8.8 hrs, humidity 69.5%
  • June: Good, temperature 15.12°C, rainfall 33.8mm, sunshine 8.3 hrs, humidity 63.2%
  • July: Good, temperature 13.65°C, rainfall 17.9mm, sunshine 8.8 hrs, humidity 62.1%
  • August: Good, temperature 14.13°C, rainfall 21.7mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 64.9%
  • September: Good, temperature 15.5°C, rainfall 40.3mm, sunshine 9.5 hrs, humidity 71%
  • October: Good, temperature 17.61°C, rainfall 75.2mm, sunshine 9.8 hrs, humidity 73.3%
  • November: Great, temperature 18.97°C, rainfall 43.3mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 72%
  • December: Good, temperature 20.73°C, rainfall 65.5mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 72.2%

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Matyholweni Camp's location specifically enhance a visit to Addo Elephant National Park's Colchester Section?

Matyholweni Camp is uniquely situated right at the southern entrance gate of Addo Elephant National Park, known as the Colchester Section. This provides immediate access to the park's game viewing loops, making it an ideal base for early morning or late afternoon self-drives to spot elephants, lions, and other wildlife without long travel times. Its proximity means you can maximize your time inside the park.

What type of accommodation and facilities can I expect at Matyholweni Camp, given it's described as a 'camp'?

Matyholweni Camp offers comfortable, self-catering accommodation primarily in family cottages and smaller chalets, rather than traditional tented camping. Each unit is equipped with basic kitchen facilities, air-conditioning, and a private braai (barbecue) area. While there isn't a restaurant, a small shop for essentials is available, and the focus is on providing a convenient, self-sufficient base for park exploration.

When is the best time to visit Matyholweni Camp for optimal wildlife viewing in the Colchester Section of Addo?

The cooler, drier winter months from May to September are generally considered ideal for visiting Matyholweni Camp and the Colchester Section. During this period, vegetation is sparser, and animals, especially elephants, congregate around waterholes, making them easier to spot. The mild temperatures also make for more comfortable game drives.

Beyond self-drive safaris, what specific activities are available directly from Matyholweni Camp or within the Colchester Section of Addo?

While self-drive game viewing is the primary activity, Matyholweni Camp serves as a gateway to other experiences. You can book guided game drives or river safaris on the Sundays River, which borders the Colchester Section, through operators in the nearby town of Colchester. The camp itself is a peaceful base for birdwatching and enjoying the natural surroundings.

How does booking Matyholweni Camp work, and what are the typical costs associated with staying there and entering Addo Elephant National Park?

Matyholweni Camp is managed by SANParks, so bookings are typically made directly through their official website or reservations office. Costs vary by accommodation type and season, but generally offer good value. Remember that park entry fees for Addo Elephant National Park are separate and payable daily at the gate, or you can use a Wild Card for unlimited access.

Other Safari Lodges in Addo Elephant National Park - Colchester Section

Parks in Eastern Cape Safaris

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for South Africa

Travel advisory for South Africa