ADDO SUMMER BUCKET LIST
Right, let’s get this summer show on the road! Following the incredible response to the Ultimate Addo Bucket List, we thought we’d put together a summer-themed Addo Bucket List of things to do in Addo this summer: activities, moments, adventures and memory-makers to give you the most fun this summer holiday. Whether you’re staying with us in Addo, Paterson, Colchester and Kirkwood, visiting from Nelson Mandela Bay, or the greater Eastern Cape, we invite you to come have a high-summer good time in our Amazing Addo.
PADDLE THE NUKAKAMMA CANOE TRAIL
This overnight trip is the only Green Flag canoe trail in South Africa and offers nature-lovers and adventurous families a fantastic outdoor experience paddling the Sundays River and overnighting at a rustic riverside cabin. [MORE]
WATCH THE ELEPHANTS SPLASHING ABOUT AT HAPOOR DAM
There’s nothing on earth better than arriving at Hapoor Dam to find families of African elephants splashing about in the water and mud. It’s clear that they’re enjoying their cooling-off period and makes for some of the best elephant sightings to be seen anywhere in South Africa.
TOAST MARSHMALLOWS OVER A CAMPFIRE
Brilliant night sky? Check. Warm summer night? Check. Marshmallows? Check. Then, it’s time to light the fire and enjoy a perfect summer moment with your loved ones. Camping is available at Pearson Park & Parkview Safari Lodge in Colchester, Sitrusoewer & Nieshoutkloof in Kirkwood, Homestead B&B in Addo, and within the national park itself. [Visit our Guide to Camping in Addo.]
ENJOY SUNDOWNERS AT THE SIR PERCY FITZPATRICK LOOKOUT
Yes, that’s right, the author of the beloved Jock of the Bushveld novel chose Sundays River Valley/Addo as his final resting place. He so loved the view of the valley that he had a platform built from which to showcase this vista to his guests. The platform is still in use today and is a popular spot for a sun-downer picnic on warm summer evenings. [FIND OUT MORE]
SANDBOARD THE ENDLESS COLCHESTER DUNES
What would summer be without a bit of sea sand? Sandboarding is one of Addo’s top attractions and, when you see the wide Sundays River extending up to towering dunes of Colchester, it’s not hard to see why. Whether you’re an expert, adrenaline junkie or beginner, this is one super-fun ride. [MORE]
CATCH A FISH ON THE SUNDAYS RIVER
Settle in along the bank, hop into your kayak or launch the boat, and enjoy the best of river life by casting a line. You’ll find like-minded fisherfolk all along the river from sunrise to sundown, and beyond. [Fishing permit]
You might also enjoy: 10 Tranquil Farm Stays close to Addo Elephant National Park
FLY ALONG THE HIGHEST & FASTEST DOUBLE ZIPLINE
Adrenalin Addo is home to the highest and fastest double zipline in South Africa. Valley views are taken to the extreme with this highly enjoyable activity that can be done in tandem! Try your screaming voice on the big swing, let your hair fly on the double zipline or suit up for the increasingly popular Superman zipline.
DRINK A G&T POOLSIDE
Your options are endless for proper relaxation in Addo, and our accommodation members understand that, after a long day on safari or adventuring, a refreshing swim and a cool drink is just the thing. Flavour your g&t with citrus from our local orchards, naturally 😉
OVERNIGHT ON A HOUSEBOAT
Have you ever heard someone say:” I’d never want to stay on a houseboat”? Nope. Because who wouldn’t want to stay on a houseboat? There’s something soothing and magical about falling asleep on the water listening to the river lap gently against the boat and waking up to ocean-fresh air and sunshine. [FIND OUT MORE]
PICNIC AT JACK’S IN ADDO ELEPHANT NATIONAL PARK
Pack up your snacks and braai meat, fill the cooler box and head to the park for a beautiful day at Jack’s Picnic Site. The picnic area, which has 18 sites, is located in Botanical Reserve with views across the park and a truly “wild” experience in our Big Seven National Park. [PARK DAY-ENTRY FEES]
QUADBIKE THROUGH THE CITRUS ORCHARDS
Adventurous and immersive, a quadbike ride through the valley will open up the region in unexpected ways. Get off the beaten track on eco-friendly electric quad bikes and explore valley bushveld, ride along the river and traverse citrus orchards for maximum family fun. [MORE]
TAKE A SUNSET CRUISE ON THE RIVER
Whether you launch yourself or book a cruise, there’s almost nothing as beautiful as the Sundays River at sunset. Mirror-clear reflections, salty-fresh air, golden light and a cold one in your hand. This is a highly recommended way to end at least one of your days in the Addo region.
EXPLORE THE COASTLINE AT ALEXANDRIA
Pack up your troubles in a hiking backpack and take off for the almost untouched Alexandria coastline and the Alexandria Coastal Hike. This coastal section of the national park is breathtakingly beautiful and still very wild. Expect smaller antelope, bird species, endless dunes and emerald forests, and unsurpassed views across Algoa Bay. [MORE ON THE HIKING TRAIL]
VISIT THE ISLANDS OF THE BAY ON A MARINE SAFARI
Speaking of Algoa Bay, what would a visit to the bay be without a bit of ocean? Hop on a marine safari from the harbour and immerse yourself in the wonders of the marine protected area of the Addo Elephant National Park. Visit the Bird and St Croix island groups, spot bottlenose dolphins by the hundreds, penguins, gannets and more on a sunny, summer safari. [MORE ABOUT MARINE SAFARIS]
