The Elephant House

A small, friendly lodge on the edge of Addo Elephant Park, perfect for independent game viewing near the Garden Route

How did the elephant get his trunk? Well, my dear, it’s a long story, but if you spend a night at the Elephant House deep in the South African savannah, then you might find the answer in an envelope on your pillow. And, next day, you can see a real elephant and judge for yourself…

The Elephant House is a country lodge which reveals its charm slowly. At first sight, it’s nothing more than a thatched building behind ochre walls, just off the dusty road to Addo Elephant National Park. Step inside and you will discover 2 unexpected grassy courtyards and a small swimming pool. Open your bedroom door and the elegant, air-conditioned spaciousness is a welcome relief. Come nightfall and the place is transformed into a magical outdoor banquet hall, with lamplit tables set beneath fiery orange-blue skies, and smiling staff to ply you with food and wine. Finally, as you lift the mosquito net to hop into bed, a bedtime story left on your pillow with a chocolate seals a perfect evening.

Highs

• The friendly helpfulness of owners Clive and Anne, and their dozen cheery colleagues
• The delicious outdoor dinners and the sociable atmosphere
• The large bedrooms with air-conditioning, mozzie nets, old furniture and pretty decorative touches
• The proximity to the largest concentration of elephants in South Africa, and the big 5 as well
• The Elephant House has a new open game-viewing vehicle and 3 rangers

Lows

• The mosquitoes at nightfall (but repellent is supplied and this is a malaria-free area)
• The heat in summer - plan an early start and a long siesta
• The initially uninspiring location, on the edge of the small town of Addo - but don’t write it off!