Addo Elephant National Park and Giraffe Walk Tracking Safari

If you’re seeking a safari experience that mixes the classic thrill of game viewing with the rare chance to walk among wildlife, this tour from Port Elizabeth might just be your ideal match. It’s a full-day adventure that promises both the excitement of a guided vehicle safari through Addo Elephant National Park and the unique intimacy of a Giraffe Walk Tracking Safari on private land.

What we love about this experience is its versatility — you get to see the Big 5 from the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle, then step onto the bush in person for a giraffe encounter. The knowledgeable guides, especially Carlin, add a layer of authenticity and safety that really enhances the day. Plus, the inclusive lunch at Nanaga farm stall, with homemade pies and pineapple juice, gives a taste of local flavor.

A potential consideration is the physical activity involved in the giraffe walk — it’s moderate, so travelers should be comfortable walking in outdoor conditions. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy a mix of comfort and adventure and want a comprehensive, authentic safari experience without the need to go off-grid or pay extra for separate excursions.

This experience is perfect for wildlife lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone wanting to experience South Africa’s iconic fauna up close, with a touch of on-foot adventure.

Key Points

• Balanced Experience: Combines game drives with an on-foot giraffe walk for a well-rounded safari day.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Local guides are praised for their communication and wildlife expertise.
• All-Inclusive Value: Includes park entrance fees, lunch, bottled water, binoculars, and transportation.
• Small Group: Limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.
• Authentic Encounters: The walking safari offers a rare chance to walk among big game in safety.
• Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellations up to 24 hours before the tour.

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Addo Elephant National Park: A Classic Safari

Your day begins with a guided game drive inside Addo Elephant National Park, one of South Africa’s largest parks and home to around 800 elephants. Known for its dense elephant population, the park is also home to the Big 5 — elephants, buffalo, lions, rhinos, and leopards — plus a variety of antelope and other wildlife. The park’s relatively large size (176,000 hectares) means you’ll have ample space to spot wildlife in natural settings.

The guided drive, which lasts about five hours, is designed to maximize wildlife sightings from the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle. Your guide will be on hand to share insights into animal behaviors and park ecology, creating an educational aspect to your adventure. Many reviewers mention how guides like Carlin make the experience more engaging, with excellent communication and wildlife spotting skills.

Stop at Nanaga Farm Stall for a Taste of Local Flavors

Next, you’ll stop at Nanaga Farm Stall, renowned for its homemade pies and roostekoek (South African bread rolls). This break is a perfect chance to relax, refuel, and enjoy some local treats. The inclusion of a drink such as homemade pineapple juice adds a refreshing touch to the meal. Many travelers find this stop charming and authentic, offering a glimpse into local life beyond the parks.

Giraffe Walk Tracking Safari: Walking with Giants

The highlight for many is the Giraffe Walk Safari in a private reserve. This is your opportunity to walk alongside gentle giants, literally in their natural environment. The guided walk lasts around two hours, and while walking in big game country can sound daunting, safety is paramount, and guides are experienced at managing this terrain.

Reviewers have praised guides like Carlin for their expertise and friendly approach, making the walk both safe and memorable. Walking in the bush offers a different perspective—standing eye-to-eye with giraffes, observing their behavior close-up, and hearing their sounds — experiences that vehicle safaris can’t replicate.

What makes this walk special is the chance to have an up-close encounter that’s both intimate and respectful of wildlife. It’s an activity that adds a physical and emotional dimension to your safari, leaving lasting impressions.

Transportation, Group Size, and Overall Value

The tour is run with a modern, air-conditioned vehicle, making long drives comfortable, especially in warm weather. The group size is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, offering a more intimate atmosphere where you are more likely to ask questions and get personalized attention.

Pricing at $183.89 per person seems quite reasonable when you consider the inclusions — park entrance, lunch, bottled water, use of binoculars, and the guiding services. Many reviews note that guides like Carlin make the day particularly special, with good communication before the trip and friendly, knowledgeable hosting.

The timing, starting at 8:30 am and lasting about 8 to 10 hours, ensures you get a full day of wildlife immersion without feeling rushed. The tour is designed to balance the time between the game drive and the walking safari, giving you a comprehensive experience of South Africa’s wildlife.

Authentic Encounters and Practical Considerations

While the vehicle safari is fairly standard, what we love about this tour is the opportunity to walk among the animals, a rare privilege in many safaris. This aspect is especially valuable for photography buffs or those eager for a more visceral experience.

Keep in mind, the walking activity requires a moderate physical fitness level, and participants should be prepared for outdoor conditions. The guides are experienced in managing safety, but it’s important to listen carefully to instructions.

The tour’s flexibility with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind, especially if weather conditions change unexpectedly. Since the experience is weather-dependent, poor conditions may lead to rescheduling or full refunds.

Final Verdict: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This safari combo is ideal for adventurous wildlife enthusiasts who enjoy a mix of comfort and physical activity. It’s particularly suited for those wanting a full-day exploration that’s both educational and personal, with a chance to see South Africa’s Big 5 from a vehicle and then walk among giraffes in a safe environment.

Families with older children, wildlife photographers, or couples looking for a memorable, authentic experience will find this tour offers excellent value and memorable moments. The small group size and knowledgeable guides make it a friendly, engaging way to explore the region’s rich biodiversity.

If you prefer a more relaxed, purely vehicle-based safari, this might feel a bit intense, but for those craving a deeper connection to wildlife, it’s hard to beat.

FAQ

Is pickup included in this tour?
Yes, pickup is offered as part of the package, making it convenient for travelers staying near Port Elizabeth.

How long does the tour last?
The experience is approximately 8 to 10 hours, allowing ample time for game drives, lunch, and the giraffe walk.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for the giraffe walk, along with sun protection, sunglasses, and a hat. Bottled water is provided, but you might want to bring your own as well.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the moderate physical activity suggests it’s best suited for older children or teens comfortable with walking in outdoor environments.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews highlight guides like Carlin for their excellent communication, wildlife knowledge, and friendly demeanor, which greatly enhance the experience.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers park entrance fees, lunch at Nanaga, bottled water, binoculars, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.

Can I cancel if the weather is poor?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. If canceled due to bad weather, you’re offered a full refund or the option to reschedule.

Is this tour suitable for someone with limited mobility?
The walking activity requires a moderate level of physical fitness; those with mobility challenges should consider this when booking.

Final Thoughts

This combined safari tour from Port Elizabeth offers a well-rounded glimpse into South Africa’s iconic wildlife. It balances the comfort of vehicle safaris with the thrill of walking amongst giraffes, guided by experienced and friendly hosts. The inclusion of local food, small group size, and flexible cancellation policies add to its appeal.

Perfect for wildlife lovers seeking a meaningful, personal encounter with nature, this tour promises memorable sights and stories that will stay with you long after your trip ends. Whether you’re a photographer eager to capture close-up shots or a family introducing young explorers to the bush, this experience delivers genuine value and authentic adventure.