Daniell Cheetah, Addo Elephant and Giraffe Walk Safaris

Travelers seeking an authentic wildlife adventure in South Africa’s Eastern Cape will find this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the region’s diverse fauna. Combining a drive through Addo Elephant National Park, a close-up visit to the Daniell Cheetah & Awareness Centre, and a giraffe tracking walk on foot, this experience balances scenic views with intimate animal encounters.

What makes this tour stand out is the chance to see the Big 5 in their natural habitat, get up close to African cheetahs, and enjoy some of the most breathtaking landscapes the Eastern Cape has to offer. The inclusion of a guided walk with an FGASA-trained ranger adds a layer of authenticity and insight that many safaris lack.

A potential consideration is that the tour is not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, which might limit accessibility for some travelers. It’s also priced at $199 per person, which is quite reasonable for the comprehensive experience provided.

This tour would suit wildlife lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those wanting a balanced day of driving, walking, and animal observation. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer a more interactive experience rather than just a traditional safari drive.

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Key Points

Close encounters with Africa’s Big Cats at the Daniell Cheetah & Awareness Centre.
Scenic drive through Addo Elephant National Park with the possibility to see elephants, lions, and other wildlife.
Giraffe tracking walk led by an experienced guide in a private reserve.
All entry fees and guided tours included, offering good value for a full day.
Limited accessibility, not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users.
Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary and How It Looks in Practice

The tour begins with a pickup from your accommodation, airport, or port in and around Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth). From there, the journey first heads toward the Daniell Cheetah & Awareness Centre, a dedicated facility where you’ll get a close look at some of Africa’s most elusive cats, including cheetahs, lions, leopards, servals, and caracals. According to reviews, visitors often find it fascinating to see these animals relaxing or playing just a few feet away, which is a rare treat for wildlife lovers. One reviewer mentioned, “The cheetahs seemed so relaxed and playful—it’s much more personal than just viewing them from a vehicle.”

The centre’s focus on education and conservation adds depth to the experience. You’ll learn about the animals’ behaviors, threats, and ongoing efforts to protect them. Guides on-site are usually highly knowledgeable, adding meaningful context to each encounter.

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The Drive-Through Addo Elephant National Park

After the centre, the tour continues with a scenic drive through Addo Elephant National Park. This is arguably the highlight for many, as the park is home to the largest herd of African elephants in the world. The landscapes are varied, from open grasslands to dense bushveld, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography.

The park is also part of a big five reserve, so there’s a real chance you’ll spot lions, buffalo, rhinos, and leopards. Reviews indicate that the park’s scenic vistas and abundant wildlife make this drive worthwhile even for seasoned safari-goers. One guest shared, “We saw a herd of elephants crossing the road and watched a lion lounging in the shade—it’s like stepping into a wildlife documentary.”

Refreshments and Rest Breaks

Midway through the park drive, the tour stops at a nearby restaurant for some refreshments and a chance to stretch. This break is a good opportunity to relax, review your photos, and discuss the sightings with your guide.

Giraffe Tracking Safari: Walking in the Bushveld

The final part of the experience is the Giraffe Tracking Safari in a 2500-hectare private reserve. Led by a FGASA-trained, armed trails guide, this walk offers a rare, intimate view of the bushveld. The guide’s expertise means you’ll learn about giraffe behavior, their habitat, and the other wildlife that shares their environment.

Walking through the Addo Valley bushveld allows for a different perspective than the vehicle drives. Several reviews mention the peaceful, almost meditative quality of walking among giraffes and other wildlife. One person noted, “Getting close to giraffes on foot was surreal; you feel like you’re part of the landscape rather than just an observer.”

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Return Journey and Drop-off

After completing the walk, your guide will drive you back to your original pick-up point, with plenty of time to reflect on the day’s highlights. The entire experience is designed to be well-paced and informative, with thoughtful stops and plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities.

The tour covers entry fees at the Daniell Cheetah Project and Bellevue Forest Reserve, guided tours, bottled water, snacks, and drinks—making it good value for a full day out. The price of $199 reflects a comprehensive experience that combines both animal encounters and scenic drives at an accessible price point.

Lunch is not included, so travelers should plan to bring or buy their own meals if they prefer. The flexible booking option with free cancellation up to 24 hours is handy for those with uncertain schedules.

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Guide Experience and Group Size

Guides are described as highly experienced and qualified, with specific mention of FGASA-trained guides for the walking safari. This expertise ensures safety and rich commentary throughout. While group sizes aren’t specified, reviews suggest a small to medium-sized group, which enhances the feeling of intimacy and personal attention.

Compared to other wildlife safaris in South Africa, this experience packs in a variety of encounters—from large herds to iconic predators and gentle giants—without the hefty price tag. The inclusion of walking safaris provides a more hands-on, immersive experience that many are looking for in their wildlife adventures.

The combo of vehicle and foot safaris allows for diverse perspectives, making it a well-rounded option for those who want more than just a drive. The educational focus, guided by knowledgeable professionals, adds educational value, especially for travelers interested in conservation.

This experience is especially suited for wildlife enthusiasts, photography lovers, and families (minus the very young or those with mobility restrictions). It’s a day that balances adventure, education, and serenity—perfect for those who want meaningful interactions with Africa’s wildlife while enjoying the stunning landscapes.

Is transportation provided for the entire tour?
Yes, the tour includes pick-up and drop-off from your accommodation, airport, or port within a 50 km radius of Addo Elephant National Park.

Can I book this tour on short notice?
Booking is flexible with the option to reserve now and pay later, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is lunch included in the price?
No, lunch is not included, so you should plan to bring your own or purchase something during the day.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally family-friendly, but it may depend on children’s ages and mobility. It’s not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users.

How long does the entire tour last?
While the exact duration isn’t specified, it’s designed as a full-day experience, with time allocated for each activity and breaks.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?
You’ll have a good chance to see elephants, lions, cheetahs, giraffes, and possibly other members of the Big 5, depending on sightings during the drive.

Are guides knowledgeable about the animals and environment?
Yes, guides are experienced and qualified, with some being FGASA-trained, ensuring engaging, educational commentary.

This tour offers a well-balanced blend of drive-through safaris, close animal encounters, and walking experiences that appeal to a wide range of wildlife enthusiasts. The inclusion of the Daniell Cheetah Center and the giraffe tracking walk makes it stand out from standard game drives, providing opportunities for personalized, memorable moments with some of Africa’s most beloved animals.

The value for money is clear, especially considering all the inclusions and the intimacy of the activities. The scenic landscapes and chance to see the Big 5 in a relatively accessible environment** make this a solid choice for those wanting a comprehensive wildlife experience in South Africa.

While not suited for everyone due to mobility or pregnancy restrictions, it’s an excellent option for adventure seekers and wildlife lovers eager to witness the continent’s iconic animals in a natural setting. Whether you’re a photographer, a conservation enthusiast, or simply looking to tick wildlife off your bucket list, this safari provides a fulfilling, authentic day in the African bush.