For a nature lover, safari is always the answer. On a South African safari there are many options to choose from, Kruger is the most popular choice, but Addo Elephant National Park may be right for you specifically for two reasons:
- Addo is not located within a malaria zone
- Situated along the coast, it is not necessary to fly into Johannesburg
And a bonus, it is much less crowded than Kruger. There are two main gates in the park and you can easily self-drive the entire route in one day – many of the roads are dirt, but they are in good driving condition for a sedan (map of the park). 
Make sure to have a full tank of gas before your trip, there are no fuel services in the park.
A daily conservation fee is required to enter the park, or if you purchased a Wildcard that covers admission.
The Sightings
As in the name, Addo is known for its elephants. Thankfully elephants aren’t endangered in South Africa, and safari in this park provides so many enchanting moments with these giants.
Along with the elephants comes their dung, which is extremely special in this instance. Addo is the only place where the endemic (and endangered) flightless dung beetle lives! Avoid driving over elephant dung for this reason.
The big five and all the species you could desire reside within the park and some snoozing lions were some of the most exciting animals to come across.
Seeing hyenas and jackals duke it out for a snack on an elephant carcass was quite a sight.
Baby mongoose were just about the cutest thing, very transfixed on the car as we passed by.
Stately kudu emerged from the thick brush and grazed along the road, unbothered by a passing vehicle.
We didn’t see hartebeest at Kruger, so finding them plentiful in at Addo was a real treat.
Zebra are always dazzling to witness, we were even lucky enough to see some with foals.
Birding opportunities are abundant whether at the watering holes, or just in the brush while driving about.
At the main rest camp there is a great underground hide to get out of the car and search for wildlife.
You will also find a small museum to learn more about the wildlife and the culture of the region.
Having experienced both Kruger and Addo, it was interesting to see the differences of species and environments – both were very rewarding.
Where to next?
+Addo pairs well with the popular road trip along the South African coast, the Gardens Route, leading into Cape Town.
+If you have more time in the area, consider visiting the coastal portion of the park where you may encounter great white sharks, penguins, and cape fur seals.