Addo Elephant National Park (Kabouge Section)

Addo Elephant National Park (Kabouge Section) is a protected area in South Africa.

Addo Elephant National Park (Kabouge Section) at a Glance

Location
Eastern Cape Safaris, South Africa, Southern Africa
Coordinates
-33.314987, 25.297660
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Quiet
Malaria Risk
None
Best Time to Visit
May to September (dry winter) for big game viewing. October to March for birdwatching and lush landscapes.

Getting to Addo Elephant National Park (Kabouge Section)

Nearest airport: Addo Elephant Airstrip (CLOSED), 23 km away.

Nearest international airport: Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport (PLZ), 80 km away.

Big Five in Addo Elephant National Park (Kabouge Section)

3 of the Big Five can be found here: Leopard Tortoise, African Buffalo, Lion.

Weather & Climate in Addo Elephant National Park (Kabouge Section)

The warmest temperatures in Addo Elephant National Park (Kabouge Section) occur in January, averaging 23.4°C (up to 31.1°C). The coolest conditions are in July at 13.5°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in August with average rainfall of 11.3mm. Average humidity: 57.8%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 23.4°C (rainfall: 47.4mm)
  • February: 23.1°C (rainfall: 47.0mm)
  • March: 22.1°C (rainfall: 46.9mm)
  • April: 18.6°C (rainfall: 44.7mm)
  • May: 16.7°C (rainfall: 32.9mm)
  • June: 14.8°C (rainfall: 24.8mm)
  • July: 13.5°C (rainfall: 13.8mm)
  • August: 14.4°C (rainfall: 11.3mm)
  • September: 16.2°C (rainfall: 36.4mm)
  • October: 18.2°C (rainfall: 55.6mm)
  • November: 19.9°C (rainfall: 32.9mm)
  • December: 21.4°C (rainfall: 69.4mm)

Best Time to Visit Addo Elephant National Park (Kabouge Section)

The best months to visit Addo Elephant National Park (Kabouge Section) are January, February, March, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 23.39°C, rainfall 47.4mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 67.4%
  • February: Great, temperature 23.11°C, rainfall 47mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 66%
  • March: Great, temperature 22.11°C, rainfall 46.9mm, sunshine 9.8 hrs, humidity 67.9%
  • April: Great, temperature 18.62°C, rainfall 44.7mm, sunshine 8.8 hrs, humidity 68.5%
  • May: Good, temperature 16.69°C, rainfall 32.9mm, sunshine 8.9 hrs, humidity 64.3%
  • June: Good, temperature 14.81°C, rainfall 24.8mm, sunshine 8.5 hrs, humidity 59.7%
  • July: Good, temperature 13.54°C, rainfall 13.8mm, sunshine 8.9 hrs, humidity 56.6%
  • August: Good, temperature 14.41°C, rainfall 11.3mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 57.8%
  • September: Good, temperature 16.18°C, rainfall 36.4mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 63.8%
  • October: Good, temperature 18.23°C, rainfall 55.6mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 67.6%
  • November: Great, temperature 19.85°C, rainfall 32.9mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 65.4%
  • December: Great, temperature 21.43°C, rainfall 69.4mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 66.9%

Wildlife in Addo Elephant National Park (Kabouge Section)

Home to 52 recorded species including 19 iconic birds, 12 waterbirds, 11 birds of prey, 3 big five, 3 big herbivores, 1 primates.

Recommended Packing List for Addo Elephant National Park (Kabouge Section)

Based on average temperature of 18.5°C, typical conditions, humidity 64%.

  • Light layers - comfortable for 19°C weather
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Addo Elephant National Park (Kabouge Section)

4 safari lodges available.

Other

Similar Parks in Eastern Cape Safaris

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for South Africa

Travel advisory for South Africa

Addo Elephant National Park (Kabouge Section) FAQs

What unique wildlife, beyond elephants, can I expect to see at Addo Elephant National Park (Kabouge Section)?

While Addo is famed for its large elephant herds, it's also unique for being home to the 'Big 7' – elephant, rhino, lion, buffalo, leopard, and the marine additions of great white shark and southern right whale (seen off the coast in the marine protected area). Keep an eye out for the endemic Addo flightless dung beetle, a fascinating creature found almost exclusively within the park.

When is the best time of year to visit Addo Elephant National Park (Kabouge Section) for optimal wildlife viewing?

The dry winter months, from May to September, are generally considered ideal for wildlife viewing as animals congregate around waterholes and the vegetation is sparser. However, Addo offers excellent year-round viewing, with summer bringing lush landscapes and newborn animals, though temperatures can be quite high.

What types of safari activities and unique experiences are available at Addo Elephant National Park (Kabouge Section) besides self-driving?

Beyond self-guided game drives, Addo offers guided game drives with experienced rangers, horseback safaris, and hiking trails like the Alexandria Hiking Trail. For a truly unique experience, consider a marine eco-tour from nearby Port Elizabeth to potentially spot whales and sharks, completing the 'Big 7' experience.

What are the typical entry fees and accommodation options within Addo Elephant National Park (Kabouge Section)?

Entry fees for Addo Elephant National Park vary for South African citizens, SADC residents, and international visitors, typically ranging from R90-R360 per adult per day (check SANParks website for current rates). The park offers a range of accommodation from budget-friendly camping and caravan sites to comfortable chalets and guesthouses, primarily at Main Camp and Matyholweni Rest Camp.

Are there any specific safety guidelines or park rules I should be aware of when visiting Addo Elephant National Park (Kabouge Section)?

While Addo is a safe destination, it's crucial to remain in your vehicle during game drives unless in designated picnic or lookout areas, and always maintain a safe distance from wildlife. Adhere to speed limits, never feed animals, and remember that the park is a malaria-free zone, so no specific precautions are needed on that front.

Recommended Books

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • Lonely Planet Botswana & Namibia by Lonely Planet - Covers the Okavango Delta, Chobe, Etosha, Sossusvlei, and the Skeleton Coast. Essential for self-drive safaris through two of southern Africa's wildest destinations.
  • Lonely Planet Zambia & Mozambique by Lonely Planet - From Victoria Falls and South Luangwa to Mozambique's pristine coastline. Practical advice for two of Africa's most rewarding off-the-beaten-path destinations.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • Lonely Planet Southern Africa by Lonely Planet - Covers South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique. Practical planning information with detailed park and city guides.
  • Lonely Planet South Africa, Lesotho & Eswatini by Lonely Planet - Comprehensive guide to South Africa including Kruger, Garden Route, Cape Town, and the Drakensberg. Essential for self-drive safari planning.
  • The Elephant Whisperer by Lawrence Anthony - Incredible true story of saving a herd of rogue elephants in Zululand, South Africa. A massive bestseller that will change how you see elephants forever.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Roberts Bird Guide by Hugh Chittenden, Greg Davies & Ingrid Weiersbye - Comprehensive southern African bird guide covering 960+ species with detailed range maps and illustrations. The birder's bible for safaris in South Africa, Botswana, and Namibia.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Sasol Birds of Southern Africa by Ian Sinclair, Phil Hockey & Warwick Tarboton - The southern Africa birding bible. Covers over 950 species with detailed illustrations, distribution maps, and habitat notes. The most trusted bird field guide for South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Mozambique.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • An Elephant in My Kitchen by Francoise Malby-Anthony - The moving sequel to The Elephant Whisperer, written by Lawrence Anthony's wife. Continues the story of the Thula Thula elephants after his death. A beautiful account of the bond between humans and elephants.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.