Port Elizabeth:2-Day Schotia Safaris & Addo Wildlife Reserve

Exploring South Africa’s Eastern Cape: A 2-Day Safari at Addo Wildlife and Schotia

Travelers craving a taste of Africa’s legendary wildlife will find plenty to love in this 2-day safari adventure near Port Elizabeth. This tour combines the thrill of game drives through Addo Wildlife Reserve and Schotia Safaris, offering a balance of iconic Big Five sightings, expert-guided experiences, and comfortable accommodations.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is its focus on accessibility—luxury lodges, open-sided 4x4s for prime viewing, and guided insights that turn a safari into a memorable education. The sunset and full-day safaris promise stunning vistas and exciting animal encounters, all packed into a manageable, value-conscious itinerary.

However, it’s worth noting that this tour isn’t suited for travelers with mobility issues or wheelchair users, given the nature of the vehicle and terrain. It’s best for those eager to see Africa’s wildlife up close, enjoy guided storytelling, and relish the thrill of a true safari adventure. If you’re after a balanced mix of comfort, authentic wildlife spotting, and expert guidance, this experience might be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• All safaris are conducted in open-sided 4×4 vehicles for optimal wildlife viewing.
• Expert guides like Lawson, Richard, and crew are praised for their helpfulness and knowledge.
• The tour offers luxury accommodation in the Addo area, making your stay comfortable and authentic.
• Multiple game drives include sunset, morning, and full-day safaris, maximizing wildlife sightings.
• The experience is priced at $605 per person, which offers value through inclusive meals, park entries, and guided drives.
• The tour is perfect for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts who enjoy guided adventures and stunning vistas.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Close Look at the 2-Day Safari Itinerary

This tour is designed as an immersive, yet manageable, wildlife experience that balances adventure with comfort. It begins with a pickup from Port Elizabeth, typically around noon, easing any transport worries and setting a relaxed tone for the trip. Once at the luxurious accommodation in the Addo area, you’ll have the chance to settle in before heading out for the sunset safari.

Day 1: Sunset Safari and Bush Dinner

The highlight of the first day is the sunset safari, which starts around 4:30 PM. During this drive, you’ll be riding in an open-sided 4×4 with a guide who is enthusiastic about sharing insights into the flora and fauna. The timing around sunset is ideal—it’s when animals become more active, and the landscape is bathed in golden light, perfect for photos.

Guests consistently noted how guides like Lawson and Richard enhanced the experience with their knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive approach. One reviewer, Osamu, mentioned being able to see most of the animals he hoped for, thanks to the guides’ efforts to maximize sightings. The safari’s pace and focus on wildlife—rather than just scenery—make it a rewarding experience, especially for first-timers.

After the game drive, you’ll enjoy a bush dinner under the stars. While availability may vary, this adds a magical touch, allowing you to soak in the sounds of the bush and feel truly immersed in the African night. The experience isn’t just about spotting animals; it’s about feeling like you’re part of the ecosystem.

Day 2: Full Day at Addo and Schotia Safaris

The second morning kicks off early with a breakfast at your lodge, setting you up for a full day of wildlife encounters. The day begins with a drive through Addo Elephant National Park, famous for its large herds of elephants, but also home to lions, buffalo, rhinos, and a variety of other wildlife.

The real highlight is the full-day safari at Schotia Safaris, a private reserve renowned for its Big Five encounters. The guides here—like Rowson and Richard—are praised for their ability to spot elusive animals and for their friendly, informative approach. One reviewer highlighted how they made sure guests saw as many animals as possible, which is a huge plus for wildlife enthusiasts.

A midday lunch amid the bush adds to the sense of adventure, with many commenting on the delicious, hearty meal served in the midst of nature. The opportunity to see the Big Five, along with other species like cheetahs, hyenas, and a variety of birds, makes this a safari highlight.

What You’ll Love About the Experience

The use of open-sided 4×4 vehicles is a game-changer, offering unobstructed views and excellent photo opportunities. Coupled with knowledgeable guides like Lawson, Richard, and others, the insights into animal behaviors and local flora elevate the tour beyond just spotting animals.

The luxurious yet authentic accommodation offers a comfortable retreat after days filled with exploration. Many reviews highlight how well the lodges are maintained, with some describing their experience as “great,” “awesome,” or “spectacular.”

Guided safaris at sunrise, sunset, and full day ensure you avoid missing critical animal activity times. The sunset drives, in particular, are often praised for their stunning scenery and wildlife activity. The mix of early starts and late nights keeps the adrenaline high while still allowing for relaxing breaks.

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Practical Details and Value

At $605 per person, this tour offers good value considering it includes all accommodations, entrance fees, meals, and multiple game drives. The inclusion of meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) adds convenience, especially on day two, when you’re deep in the bush and don’t want to worry about meal planning.

The tour’s logistics are straightforward, with pick-up at 12 pm, check-in at 2 pm, and the sunset safari starting at 4:30 pm. This schedule makes it accessible for travelers arriving in Port Elizabeth or those on cruise ships.

A Few Considerations

While the experience is extensive and well-organized, it’s important to note that it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to vehicle and terrain constraints. Also, the tour involves long game drives, so packing comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a camera is a must.

Some guests, like Osamu, mentioned that they were able to see most animals they expected, but wildlife sightings depend on many factors like weather, time of day, and luck. The guides do their best to optimize sightings, but no guarantee exists in the wild.

Authentic Encounters and Expert Guidance

One of the tour’s prized features is the guides’ expertise. Reviewers repeatedly mention how guides like Lawson, Richard, and others made their experience special with their politeness, helpfulness, and storytelling. Their ability to spot animals and explain behaviors enriches the safari, transforming it from a simple drive into an educational adventure.

The private reserve access at Schotia is also a major plus, giving you a more exclusive, less crowded experience compared to public parks. This setting increases the chances of seeing elusive predators like lions or leopards, which are harder to spot in larger, busier parks.

Final thoughts on the experience

This tour provides a well-rounded safari experience for those who want to see Africa’s Big Five and other iconic wildlife while enjoying comfortable accommodations and guided expertise. The combination of sunset, full-day, and early morning safaris maximizes chances for sightings and keeps the experience dynamic and engaging.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a luxury wildlife escape that’s manageable in length but rich in activity, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for first-time safari-goers looking for guided insights and diverse game drives, as well as seasoned travelers wanting a trusted, well-organized experience.

Nature lovers will enjoy the stunning scenery, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to see Africa’s iconic animals in their natural habitat. Adventure seekers will appreciate the thrill of multiple safaris, especially the sunset drive that promises extraordinary views.

This experience is best suited for those who value comfort, expert guidance, and authentic wildlife encounters—but not for travelers with mobility challenges or those seeking a very remote, rugged adventure.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes transfer services to and from Port Elizabeth airport or cruise ship terminal, ensuring a hassle-free start and end to your trip.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, change of clothes, camera, sunscreen, water, and perhaps some beachwear for downtime. Pack light but be prepared for weather changes.

Are meals included?
Yes, all meals—dinner, breakfast, and lunch—are covered, making the experience convenient and allowing you to focus on the wildlife.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to vehicle and terrain constraints.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you peace of mind if travel plans shift.

Will I see the Big Five?
While wildlife sightings depend on many factors, the private Schotia reserve is known for its Big Five opportunities, and guides work hard to maximize your chances.

Wrapping Up

This 2-day safari experience in Port Elizabeth offers a balanced combination of luxury, guided wildlife viewing, and authentic bush experiences. The well-trained guides and carefully curated itinerary ensure you’re not just observing animals but truly appreciating their natural habitat.

The tour’s value is clear when considering the inclusive meals, luxury stays, and multiple safaris—all packed into a manageable length that fits most travel schedules. The combination of sunset and full-day drives promises plenty of opportunities for memorable sightings, especially if you’re lucky with wildlife activites.

For travelers who want a guided, comfortable, and educational safari adventure, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s particularly suited for those eager to see the Big Five and enjoy expert insights, all while relaxing in high-quality accommodations.

If you’re ready to experience Africa’s wildlife in a setting that’s both accessible and immersive, this tour is definitely worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: