Full-Day BIG 7 Addo Elephant Park & Marine

Planning a South African safari that covers more than just elephants? This full-day tour in Port Elizabeth promises an exciting blend of marine life and Big 7 wildlife, including elephants, lions, and more. With a mix of boat cruises and game drives, it’s tailored for travelers wanting an authentic, action-packed day without the hassle of organizing multiple excursions.

What caught our eye? First, the unique combination of marine and terrestrial wildlife—you’ll see whales and dolphins in Algoa Bay and then explore the famously diverse Addo Elephant National Park. Second, the expert guides, like Riaan, who are praised for their friendliness and extensive knowledge. Lastly, the value for money: a nine-hour experience packed with sightings, learning, and fun, all at a reasonable price.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour begins early and involves a fair amount of travel between stops, which might be tiring for some. But for those who love a comprehensive, well-organized adventure, this tour is a solid pick. It’s especially suited for travelers with a keen interest in both marine diversity and Big 5 wildlife, and those who appreciate guided insights from locals.

Key Points

• Diverse experiences: combining whale watching, dolphin spotting, and a Big 5 safari.
• Expert guides: knowledgeable and friendly guides like Riaan enhance the experience.
• All-in-one day: perfect for travelers short on time but wanting maximum variety.
• Malaria-free park: adds peace of mind for families and sensitive travelers.
• Good value: includes boat cruise, game drive, and expert commentary.
• Flexible pickup: convenient meeting points in Port Elizabeth make logistics easier.

Why Choose the Full-Day BIG 7 Tour?

This tour offers a rare chance to tick off multiple wildlife experiences in one day. It’s designed for those who want to avoid the hassle of multiple bookings by combining marine and land safaris. From whale watching in Algoa Bay to spotting elephants, lions, and other Big 5 animals in Addo, you get a well-rounded day that’s both educational and exhilarating.

What makes this tour stand out is its balance of activities. The morning’s boat cruise not only provides a peaceful, scenic start but also a chance to see whales (Humpback and Southern Right), dolphins, seals, and sharks—incorporating the marine Big 7 into your holiday. The afternoon game drive then delivers an authentic safari experience, with a chance to see elephants, lions, buffalo, and possibly the elusive leopard.

The guides, notably Riaan, are highly praised for their enthusiasm and local knowledge. One reviewer mentioned how helpful and positive he was throughout the day, making the trip feel more personal and engaging. This kind of attentiveness can turn a good tour into a memorable one, especially for first-time safari-goers.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Morning: Marine Wildlife & Penguin Colony

The day kicks off at 8:30 am with pickup from your accommodation or the airport, which is quite convenient for travelers staying in Port Elizabeth. The first stop is Algoa Bay, where you’ll spend around three hours on a boat cruise.

Expect to be searching the waters for seasonal Humpback and Southern Right whales, which can be quite the spectacle if you visit during the right time of year. The guides are skilled at spotting marine mammals and will keep you updated on the wildlife you see. Addo’s waters are home to dolphins, seals, and even sharks, making the cruise a dynamic experience.

A highlight is circumnavigating St. Croix Island, home to the largest breeding colony of African penguins. If you’re lucky, you’ll see these charming birds up close, waddling around or swimming in the surf. The cruise provides a serene start, set against the backdrop of Algoa Bay’s stunning coastal scenery.

The cruise is followed by a light lunch in port. The included meal is a good chance to relax and fuel up for the afternoon safari. The relaxed pace and scenic views make this part of the day relaxing yet exciting.

Afternoon: Addo Elephant National Park Safari

After lunch, the focus shifts inland to the Malaria-free Addo Elephant National Park, about a 6-hour adventure. The park is renowned for its around 700 free-roaming elephants, but also hosts the traditional Big 5—lion, buffalo, leopard, rhino, and elephant.

The guided safari offers insight into the park’s ecology, with your guide pointing out various animals, birds, and reptiles. From the reviews, it’s clear that guides like Riaan stand out because of their friendly and knowledgeable approach, making sightings more meaningful.

Traveling in a small group (max 20 travelers), you’ll have time to look for elusive predators or marvel at herds of elephants. The park’s malaria-free status is an important aspect for families or travelers with health concerns, offering peace of mind during the safari.

Ending the Day

The tour wraps up around 6:00 pm with drop-off back at your accommodation or the airport. The day’s schedule is tight but well-paced, ensuring you get maximum exposure to the region’s wildlife and marine life without feeling rushed.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour provides pickup from your residence or airport, making logistics simple. The group size is capped at 20 travelers, which tends to allow for a more personal experience and easier wildlife sightings. The vehicle is comfortable and suitable for all weather conditions, which is essential since South African weather can be unpredictable.

Price and Value

At $313.58 per person, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck. With the boat cruise, game drive, and guiding included, the cost reflects a comprehensive experience. The addition of marine life sightings—whales, dolphins, seals—is often an extra cost elsewhere, so including it makes this a strong value proposition.

Compared to booking separate boat trips and safaris, this all-in-one day saves time and often money, especially considering the expertise of guides like Riaan, whose friendliness and knowledge elevate the tour.

Experience Highlights from Reviews

One reviewer, Murat_E, called it the “Best to do in PE”, highlighting guide Riaan’s helpfulness, friendliness, and positive attitude. They mentioned how Riaan’s insights made the day particularly memorable, emphasizing the importance of a guides’ passion and knowledge.

Another note from travelers is the smooth organization, with the tour starting at a convenient location in Summerstrand and ending back there, making it easier to coordinate with other travel plans. The flexible cancellation policy also adds peace of mind, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts eager to see both marine mammals and terrestrial animals in one day. It suits travelers who appreciate guided storytelling and want a comfortable, well-organized trip that covers lots of ground. Families, first-time visitors, or those with limited time in Port Elizabeth will find this tour offers excellent value and a variety of sights.

It’s ideal for those wanting to avoid the logistics of multiple bookings, and for travelers seeking an authentic South African experience driven by local guides with a real passion for the wildlife.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

For anyone wanting a comprehensive day of wildlife and marine experiences, this tour hits the mark. It balances relaxing boat cruises with exciting game drives, all led by guides who genuinely enhance the experience with their friendliness and knowledge.

You’ll love the opportunity to see whales, dolphins, and penguins in Algoa Bay, plus elephants, lions, and rhinos in Addo. The malaria-free status of the park adds an extra layer of comfort for families and sensitive travelers.

While it’s a full-day adventure, the well-organized schedule and diverse activities make it worth the effort, especially for those seeking a well-rounded, authentic South African safari experience. The combination of marine and land wildlife, guided by passionate local experts, guarantees a memorable journey that’s both fun and educational.

If you’re after a value-packed, immersive safari day with plenty of chances to spot iconic animals and marine life, this tour could very well be the highlight of your trip to Port Elizabeth.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in this tour?
The tour includes a boat cruise in Algoa Bay with whale, dolphin, seal, and shark sightings, a light lunch in port, and a guided safari in Addo Elephant National Park.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 9 hours, starting at 8:30 am and ending around 6:00 pm, including all activities and transportation.

Is the park malaria-free?
Yes, Addo Elephant National Park is malaria-free, making it safer for families and travelers concerned about health risks.

Can I participate if I am arriving via cruise?
Absolutely. The tour is designed to accommodate cruise liner visitors at Port Elizabeth’s port, making it a convenient shore excursion.

What’s the group size?
The tour operates with a maximum of 20 travelers, allowing for a more personalized experience and better wildlife viewing.

Are guides provided, and what are they like?
Yes, experienced guides like Riaan lead the tour, and reviews describe them as friendly, knowledgeable, and passionate about wildlife.

What is the price per person?
It costs around $313.58 per person, which covers the boat cruise, game drive, and guided experience—offering good value when compared to booking separately.

This full-day tour of the BIG 7 at Addo combines marine wonders with iconic African wildlife, all in one accessible and exciting package. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or a curious traveler, it promises a rewarding glimpse into South Africa’s diverse ecosystems.