addo elephant park day tour

Addo Elephant Park Full Day Safari Tours

Including a braai (bbq) for lunch.

Join us on an Addo Elephant Park Full Day Safari Tour that takes you on a journey to see the mighty Addo Elephants up close and personal with your qualified Addo guide. After leaving the Orange Elephant at 9am after a hearty breakfast, we enter the Western side of the Addo Park, we make our way to the many waterholes around the Addo Park. Our experienced guide takes you through the thick Addo bush on the lookout for Elephants, Buffalo, Hyena and Lion.

Other animals include Red Hartebeest, , zebra, kudu, bushbuck, duiker and the very special Addo flightless Dung Beetle. Also hear about the smaller things that can be found in the Park. During your visit of the Addo Park, learn about the various plant species, insects and majestic Animals that roam the Park. The local knowledge and well trained eyes of your guide is invaluable in finding the elusive animals in the thick Addo bush.

All day 08H30 to 16H30/17H00

Transfers to and from the park to the Orange Elephant, Refreshments, Lunch BBQ (Braai), Vegetarians catered for , Park Entrance Fees and Guide fees.

ATTRACTIONS:

R2600 per person..

An alternate Safari Tour is the

Addo|Cradock combination Walking Safari

Blu-Pebbles Tours & Transfer

Addo Elephant National Park Full Day Guided Safari (Lunch Included)

What are we going to experience ?

Prepare for an unparalleled journey as you delve into the heart of South Africa's natural beauty with our Full-Day Guided Tour of Addo Elephant National Park. The adventure begins as you step into a luxurious, air-conditioned vehicle , setting the stage for a day of discovery like no other. This extraordinary journey invites you to explore the diverse wonders of the park, from the arid landscapes of northern Karoo to the mesmerising coastal vistas nestled between the Sundays and Bushman's river mouths.

As you traverse the park's diverse biomes , the thrill of encountering the legendary Big Five will keep you on the edge of your seat. Keep a keen eye out for these iconic creatures: the African elephant , formidable rhinoceros, majestic lion , stately buffalo , and elusive leopard. Addo Elephant National Park proudly holds the title of the world's densest concentration of wild elephants , with a thriving population exceeding 650 of these magnificent giants.

Beyond the impressive wildlife, Addo Elephant National Park is also home to the remarkable Spekboom or Elephant Bush plant . This resilient succulent not only contributes to the park's unique ecosystem but also plays a pivotal role in combating climate change through its remarkable carbon absorption capabilities. The park showcases the remarkable biodiversity of five of South Africa's seven biomes, rendering it one of Earth's most ecologically diverse places.

Make sure to be on the lookout for the Addo flightless dung beetle , found almost exclusively in Addo.

Did you know? Adolescent bulls leave the herd to form bachelor groups, and when much older, bulls may often choose to range on their own. When an older bull is accompanied by younger bulls, learning the ways of the world from their elder, the younger bulls are referred to as “ askaris ,” which means “young warriors. Elephants help the environment by tearing down trees, breaking up bushes, making trails and digging water holes. Baboons and birds rummage through their droppings for undigested seeds and nuts.

Our guided tours cater to every nature enthusiast and adventure seeker. Whether you yearn for wildlife safaris, seek intimate elephant-watching shore excursions or dream of embarking on classic South African safari adventures, we've designed the perfect itinerary to fulfil your desires. Our expert guides are well-versed in the park's secrets and will ensure you witness the best of Addo's natural wonders, leaving you with cherished memories to last a lifetime .

So, join us for an extraordinary day in this stunning conservation area, where a fusion of incredible landscapes and captivating wildlife awaits. Be prepared to leave with more than just photographs; leave with unforgettable memories that will stay with you long after your journey concludes.

Come and experience the magic of Addo Elephant National Park with us and be part of the legacy of South Africa's extraordinary wilderness.

Your Itinerary

Pick-up from Your Accommodation or Cruise Terminal : Your adventure begins with a convenient pick-up service from your accommodation or cruise terminal in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), Bluewater Bay, or Colchester . Our professional and friendly guide will ensure a comfortable and hassle-free start to your day.

Addo Elephant National Park: After checking in, we will embark on an exciting safari. We will spend our time together experiencing the diverse plant, animal, and bird life that Addo has to offer. You may see lions, hyenas, various antelopes, Cape Buffalo, our tenacious warthog, and inquisitive zebras.

Jack's Picnic Site: Along the way, we will make a quick stop at Jack's Picnic Site, named after Jack, the Black Rhino, one of the first black rhinos to be brought to Addo. This picturesque location is nestled in the heart of the Addo Elephant National Park. This quick pit stop allows you to stretch your legs and use the facilities.

Lunch at The Cattle Baron: After exploring Jack's Picnic Site, it's time to savour a delectable meal at The Cattle Baron in the main camp of the national park. The restaurant offers a diverse menu that caters to various culinary preferences. Enjoy a relaxing and sumptuous lunch, taking your time to indulge in the flavours of the region.

Opportunity to Explore : While at The Cattle Baron, you can also take some time to explore the curio shop, which features an array of locally crafted souvenirs and memorabilia. Alternatively, you can stroll to the lookout point below the eating deck, which offers awe-inspiring vistas of the surrounding landscape. The chance to soak in the views and relish the ambience further enhances your Addo Elephant National Park experience.

Resume Exploration: After lunch and some leisure time, we'll continue our exploration of the north side of the park. This section of the park teems with diverse wildlife and mesmerising landscapes. Keep your camera ready, as this part of the park is known for fantastic wildlife encounters, including the iconic elephants that the park is famous for.

Departure: As your day in Addo Elephant National Park nears its end, we'll begin our journey back to your accommodation or cruise terminal. Along the way, your guide will share their expertise, providing insights into the park's history, ecosystem, and the incredible wildlife that calls it home.

The approximate time spent in the park is between seven and eight hours .

Your Addo Elephant National Park adventure promises a well-rounded experience, blending convenience, culinary delights, and the beauty of the natural world. You'll leave with unforgettable memories of the diverse landscapes and remarkable wildlife that make this park a South African treasure.

Tour Image Gallery

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• Quoted, invoiced and payable in ZAR . • South African citizens rates available. • For tours commencing from accommodations in Addo or any area not mentioned, an additional fuel charge may be applicable for the pickup.

Terms and Conditions Apply.

We ask that you contact us directly to obtain the most accurate and personalized information about our rates.

Precautionary Measures & Recommendations

• Passport or ID card (or a copy)
• Pickup and drop off from your accommodation
• Conservation fees
• Professional English-Speaking Qualified Guide
• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Bottle of mineral water at the start of the tour
• Lunch Voucher R200 per person
• Tips and gratuities
• Items of a personal nature
• Activities not mentioned
• Accommodation

Book this Tour

Disclaimer: The client shall not hold any claim against Blu-Pebbles Tours & Transfer (PTY) Ltd, our partners or employees for any injury, loss, accident, discomfort or inconvenience that may have been caused to the client’s self/partner/children/family members or friends on any tour or transfer including against any of his/her/their property and/or belongings from any cause whatsoever whether occasioned by any act, neglect or default of Blu-Pebbles Tours & Transfer (PTY) Ltd or our service providers, employees or associates or by any act of God, nature, theft or civil commotion/disruption. The client in whole hereby indemnifies Blu-Pebbles Tours & Transfer (PTY) Ltd against any such claim and hereby holds Blu-Pebbles Tours & Transfer (PTY) Ltd harmless in all respect thereof.

Blu Pebbles Tours and Transfer | South Africa Tours

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Experience 3 Breathtaking National Parks!

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All inclusive safari experience of the Greater Addo Elephant National Park!

Personalized small group Big 5 safari with guaranteed daily departures!

Join us on a 5 day tour of the famous Garden Route, from Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha) to Cape Town!

More about this tour

Experience the rural heartbeat of South Africa!

We specialise in Addo Elephant National Park safaris, a variety of Malaria free Big 5 Safaris and adventure based tours. Along with our expertly trained local guides we aim to highlight the very best of South Africa and its warm friendly people. We pride ourselves in our personalised service and off the beaten track experiences.

The company was founded in 2014 by two passionate adventurers with a deep love for South Africa and heaps of experience in the South African travel industry. As adventure tour operators we are committed to sustainable tourism practices and aim to deliver on each adventurers desire!

Addo Elephant National Park & Garden Route Specialists!

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Join us on a 5 day tour to Cape Town along South Africa's stunning Garden Route!

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Experience the heartbeat of rural South Africa on this 5 day tour that covers the breathtaking central wild coast area!

Addo Elephant National Park Safari

Small group Big 5 safaris. Unrivalled biodiversity and professional guides! 

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Explore Addo Elephant National Park - Exclusive Shore Excursions for Cruise Guests

ELEPHANT FACTS

Learn about the different animal species found in Addo.

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Read all about the Addo Elephant National Park

Addo Elephant Day Safari & Shore Tour from Cruise Terminal

Discover the marvels of Addo Elephant National Park on a full-day shore excursion from Port Elizabeth, tailor-made to fit your cruise ship's schedule.

This all-inclusive experience offers intimate encounters with over 600 elephants and the renowned "big 5," all led by our seasoned guide. From seamless cruise ship pick-up to captivating wildlife insights and a scenic picnic, it's a day of extraordinary discovery.

Ideally suited for small groups and wildlife enthusiasts, create unforgettable memories on this intimate South African cruise ship tour. Don't miss your chance to explore this remarkable wildlife wonderland!

Shore Excursion Tour to Addo Elephant National Park

Don't miss the opportunity to embark on an extraordinary safari adventure during your cruise vacation to Port Elizabeth Harbour. Join our Addo Elephant National Park shore excursion, an exhilarating 8-hour guided tour starting right at the cruise terminal.

Uncover the magic of South Africa's third-largest national park as you explore in a small group , ensuring an intimate and personalised experience. Encounter over 600 elephants, the famous "big 5" antelope species, and captivating wildlife. Your all-inclusive tour package covers photo stops, lunch, entry fees, and engaging commentary, making it a hassle-free journey.

Travel through the park with a knowledgeable guide who reveals its wildlife secrets and storied history during a guided game drive. Dive into the park's ecology and conservation efforts at the Interpretive Centre and enjoy a picnic lunch amid stunning landscapes.

Perfect for small groups and wildlife enthusiasts, this South African cruise ship tour guarantees unforgettable memories and an up-close experience with African wildlife and endangered species.

Tour Highlights:

• Morning and Afternoon Game Drives: Encounter a wide range of wildlife during morning and afternoon game drives.
• Picnic Lunch: Savor a light lunch surrounded by the park's natural beauty.
• Interpretation Centre Visit: Explore the park's flora and fauna at the Interpretive Centre.
• Curio Shop Exploration: Find unique souvenirs at a local curio shop.

Our tours are thoughtfully designed to fit your ship's schedule, and our local guides offer invaluable insider knowledge. Plus, we provide a Back-To-Ship Guarantee and Flexible Cancellation policies for a worry-free experience.

Embark on a day of wonder and discovery with our Addo Elephant National Park shore excursion. Book today and prepare for an incredible safari adventure on your cruise vacation!

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Morning Game Drive 

Explore the beauty and diversity of Addo National Park with a guided morning game drive. This incredible national park is renowned for its vast elephant population and hosts a variety of other wildlife, including the big five.

Your expert guide will lead the way, providing insight into the park's flora and fauna, as well as the history and culture of the region. You can expect to see elephants, lions, buffalo, and various antelope species, among other animals. Your guide will help you identify the species and help you understand their unique behaviours. You'll also learn about the conservation efforts to safeguard these animals and their habitats.

The game drive takes you through different park areas, from the grassy plains to the dense thickets. You'll have the opportunity to see the animals in their natural habitat and appreciate the beauty and diversity of the park. Whether you are an experienced traveller or a first-time safari-goer, a guided game drive in Addo National Park is an unforgettable experience.

Minutes: 15

Panoramic views

After your park adventure, take some time to relax at the lookout point and enjoy the stunning view of the Addo Elephant National Park. This location offers a unique perspective of the surrounding scenery, allowing you to appreciate the park's natural beauty. Treat yourself to a glass of South African wine and some snacks as you unwind and take in all the wonders the park has to offer.

Afternoon game drive

The park's northern section has rolling hills and valleys with extensive grasslands and dense thickets. The vegetation in this area is dominated by succulent shrubs, aloes, and spekboom, which support a variety of small animals such as meerkats and tortoises. The northern region also has many water holes, including the Ngulube and Nyati waterholes, which attract large herds of elephants, antelopes, and other animals.

In addition to the diverse landscape, the northern section of Addo Elephant National Park is also home to various birdlife. Over 400 bird species have been recorded in the park, including the magnificent martial eagle, ostriches, and different water birds, such as the African fish eagle and the African darter.

Overall, the northern section of Addo Elephant National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in experiencing the beauty of South Africa's wildlife and landscapes. The unique combination of rolling hills, valleys, waterholes, and diverse wildlife makes it a truly unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

Addo Park Tours

Addo tour addo elephant national park.

EASTERN CAPE, SOUTH AFRICA

Addo Park Tours by Little Sisters offers guests the opportunity to get up close and personal with the BIG 5 and get a closer view at the biggest land mammal – the African Elephant. The Addo Elephant Park is home to the densest elephant populations in the world, close to 700. Other mammals include Lion, Hyaena, Cape buffalo, and Rhino, as well as Zebra, Jackal, Warthog, the native South Africa Suricata and numerous species of Antelope.

Over 150 bird species have been recorded in Addo and there are around 600 different plant species. Addo Elephant National Park, internationally known for its elephants is also the home of many other animal species. Your qualified guide will take you around the 35 thousand hectares of this park, to find as many animals as the guide can. 

Our Addo Park Tours start at Little Sisters Self Catering in Colchester, or at your pickup point in the Port Elizabeth area. Ponchos will be provided for the colder or rainy days! We will enter the Addo Elephant National Park at the Southern Gate, also known as Gate Matholweni at around 9am. Entering from this side will ensure that you will see lots of grass feeders such as Zebra, Hartebees, Eland and Buffalo early on the drive. We will then make our way to the more densely vegetated northern section of the park where the elephant feed on spekboom and play at the waterholes.

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Addo Elephant Tours

Eastern Cape Safaris · Transfers · City Tours · Garden Route Tours

Private Tours to Addo Elephant National Park

Enjoy your visit to Port Elizabeth with a private tour to the third largest national park in South Africa. With over 600 elephants roaming, you will find yourself quickly immersed in wildlife experience. Also available are tours to Kragga Kamma Game Park as well as Port Elizabeth city tours. BOOK YOUR TOUR WITH US

Have you enjoyed your tour with us? Review us on Trip Advisor - click HERE

About Addo Elephant National Park

Just a half an hour from PE's airport or harbour, the park offers exceptional wildlife viewing including both fauna and flora. Your private tour is a tailored excursion allowing you to sit back, relax and enjoy the viewing.

The Addo Experience

Your experienced guide, Mike Andrews, prefers a private experience away from the large crowds or an impersonal offering. Instead, your small group (max four passengers) will enjoy a boutique outing without the hustle and bustle that often follows a larger group occasion. Click on the link below to view our Instagram page.

What to expect

Addo Elephant National Park is home to elephants, lions, buffaloes, zebras, red hartebeest, eland, kudu and bushbuck as well as many bird species. While nothing is guaranteed in nature, you will enjoy a comfortable drive, calm surroundings and a five star personalised experience.

Book Your Trip to Addo

Meet Mike: Your Addo Guide

After a long career in the financial services industry, Mike combined his passion for travelling and meeting new people with his love of wildlife and nature. Originally from Cape Town, his career took him to many cities and towns along the coast before settling in Port Elizabeth nearly three decades ago. Mike is an associate of SA Guided Tours and has access to three experienced guiding colleagues to call on if needed. When not showing off the beautiful scenes that Addo and other tourist attractions in the area, you will find him looking for birdies at his local golf course.

Words from recent guests

"It was a great experience for us to have seen so many animals. We were lucky to have such an experienced and nice guide like you for this trip. Thank you for all the information, the entertaining conversations and the surprising and very tasty picnic. The day ended far too early. We wish you, dear Mike, and your family all the best, many tours with nice guests and beautiful days on the golf course!" - Juergen, Germany

"We have enjoyed today’s guided tour through the Kragga Kamma Game Park. Thank you for trying so hard to bring us to the spots where the animals were located. Our favorite animal? Definitely the beautiful cheetah." - Ben, USA

"Just wanted to say an enormous thank you for yesterday. It was the best day ever thanks to you! We all had such a wonderful day-seeing so many animals, the delicious picnic and you! It was good of you to show us Port Elizabeth too. I bet you were glad to get home! Thank you again. It’s a day we won’t forget!" - Carol, England

"Wow! What an amazing day we had, perfect in every way - weather, animals and best of all, our guide Mike Andrews. I found Mike on the internet and from the beginning he made me feel confident about booking a tour with him. He always answered my queries immediately and I did have several! We arrived by cruise ship at Port Elizabeth and Mike was there at the port gates to meet us at 8.30am. We set off for the Addo Elephant Park chatting all the way. We learnt a lot about South Africa and the games parks. Mike drove us around the park stopping at various locations to watch the crowds of elephants as well as zebras, water buffalo, warthogs and hartebeest. At lunch time Mike took us to a beautiful picnic area where he set out a delicious picnic (made by his wife). After lunch we set off for the Kragga Kamma game park. This is another wonderful place where the animals live freely without predators. We were so fortunate to see giraffes, rhinos, ostriches up close and we took some super photos. After refreshments we set off for Port Elizabeth for Mike to show us the town-good and bad! We arrived back at our ship at 6.30. We had a very full and memorable day. Three of us shared this day with Mike and we all felt it was the most memorable day ever! Mike is a brilliant guide, knowledgeable and very friendly. I would recommend him as a guide to anyone. Truly 5 star!" - Jean, England

© Addo Elephant Tours. All rights reserved. Mike Andrews is a registered Tour Guide - EC1709.

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Addo Elephant Park Tours, Safaris, Game Drives

Experience the Greater Addo Elephant National Park Area

Four customised game drives and safaris to addo elephant national park in specially designed safari vehicles..

Please Note:

• The prices should be used as a guide line only. Please use the Book Online to get the most up to date rates before booking.
• Dry snacks and liquid refreshments on board are included in the price.
• Conservation for the Addo Elephant National Park is included.
• We supply binoculars to our guests for a better experience.

Addo Game Drive Options

OPTION 1  - ADDO ELEPHANT NATIONAL PARK HALF DAY TOUR   -    R1650 . Min 2 Pax - Approx. 5 hrs. The Game Drive - Leaves from the Dungbeetle River Lodge at 9.00 a.m. returns 14.00. Includes Conservation Fee, use of binoculars, soft drinks and dry snacks

Book this tour online

OPTION 2 -  ADDO ELEPHANT NATIONAL PARK AFTERNOON TOUR - R1800   Min 2 Pax -  The Game Drive Starts at Dungbeetle River Lodge at 13.30. Approx. 5 hours. Until park closes. Includes Conservation Fee, Binoculars Soft Drinks and Dry Snacks

OPTION 3  - ADDO ELEPHANT NATIONAL PARK EARLY MORNING TOUR -   R2020  Min 2 Pax -  The Game Drive   Starts at Dungbeetle River Lodge at 7.00a.m. Returns 12.00 Approx. 5 hours. Includes Conservation Fee, Picnic Breakfast, use of Binoculars, soft drinks and dry snacks

OPTION 4  - ADDO ELEPHANT NATIONAL PARK FULL DAY TOUR   - R2450  Min 2 Pax -  The Game Drive Starts at Dungbeetle River Lodge at 10.00a.m. Returns 18.00 Approx.8 hours. Includes Conservation Fee, Picnic Lunch with wine or beer. Use of binoculars, soft drinks, dry snacks

*FOR COLLECTION OUTSIDE COLCHESTER ADD R200 PER PERSON AND ½ HOUR ADDED TO DEPARTURE TIME.

*PUBLIC LIABILITY INSURANCE IN PLACE.

Dungbeetle River Lodge

Addo River Cottage

The owners of Dungbeetle Tours/Dungbeetle River Lodge are qualified nature guides.

Tours into the Addo Elephant National Park will be covered by their insurance.

The other tours are from 3rd parties and although the best in their fields and come highly recommended, Dungbeetle Tours and Dungbeetle River Lodge will not be liable for any theft, injury, loss or damage of whatever nature arising from these operators, whether from default, negligence or otherwise.

Contact Details

© Copyright Dungbeetle Tours 2016 | All Rights Reserved | Addo Elephant Park Tours, Safaris, Game Drives Resources

Adventure Destination Addo

Activity information.

World renowned Addo Elephant National Park is a beautiful scenic national park with history and geology, medicine plants and animals in abundance. Let our guide take you around this park and tell you the stories behind each animal, about the mountains and the sea. This big 5 (also known as a big 7 park) is a must when visiting South Africa.

On the MORNING TOUR we recommend departing at 7.00 a.m. and returning at 12.00 a.m.. Registration for the tour will be at DUNGBEETLE RIVER LODGE 76 Aquavista Crescent Cannonville/Colchester at 6.30a.m. Enjoy a cup of coffee with us before you leave on the tour, while sorting out the required papers. I.D. documents or passports essential.

A quality breakfast pack will be enjoyed by you at a venue chosen at the time by your guide. Tea and coffee will also be available. Toilet stops will be provided.

The early departure will give you a better opportunity to catch up with those nocturnal animals as they settle for the day. The day animals will then be viewed. Our qualified guides will endeavour to show you as many of the animals that they can find and impart interesting facts about nature, fauna, and flora in this amazing, biodiverse Big 5 park. Our guides will line you up for your memory filled photographs.

Our safari vehicles are specially designed to either have slide windows in bad weather or drop-down windows like an open safari vehicle if the weather is favourable.

Cancellation Policy

Payment in full will be expected for this activity within 30 days/on 30 days before arrival. In the event of weather conditions not permitting the tour to proceed, part or all of the activity will be refunded into the credit card account from where the payment was received.

• Qualified Nature Guide
• Safari vehicle
• Soft drinks
• Quality breakfast pack with coffee or tea
• Use of Nikon Binoculars
• Conservation fee as charged by SANPARKS.

Departure : 

Dungbeetle River Lodge at 06:30

Duration : 

5 Hour Tour (approx) Leaves at 07:00 Return at 12:00

Remember : 

Dress according to the weather Camera with enough battery power

Adults : R 2 020 per person

Children under 12 years : R1 300

Please Note

• 72 hour advance booking is essential
• For special arrangements please email us with your requirements before booking: [email protected]
• Full payment is required if not a guest of the Lodge.

Enquire about this Tour

Addo elephant national park : morning tour | resources, © all rights reserved adventure destination addo, addo elephant national park : morning tour.

Addo Elephant Park goes green ahead of World Environmental Day

W orld renowned tourist destination, Addo Elephant National Park, outside Gqeberha, formerly known as Port Elizabeth, has made headway in making improvements to mitigate its impact on the environment.

On Wednesday, the planet will celebrate World Environment Day.

The park, which is the third-largest national park, is home to what it calls the big seven, which includes the Southern right whale and Great white shark in its marine environment

The other five are the traditional Lion, Rhino, Elephant, Buffalo and the Leopard.

South African National Parks (SanParks) spokesperson JP Louw said, in recent months various solar-powered projects have been commissioned throughout the Park and a biofiltration system is recycling up to 80% of its busiest camp’s grey water.

He, in a statement, added that the Park’s 17 largest boreholes have been converted from diesel generators to solar.

“These boreholes supply drinking water to animals at waterholes and also service a number of staff homes across most of its 160 000 hectares. Whereas the diesel generators were noisy, emitted carbon emissions and were labour- and fuel-intensive in that they needed staff to drive to, check, repair and refuel them regularly, the new solar systems are quiet, clean and require minimal maintenance. Added to that, the Park’s spend on diesel to run the generators has considerably decreased,” Louw said.

He said the project to convert the boreholes got under way three years ago, with the latest addition coming online earlier this year.

“The project funding of just under R2 million came from Animal Survival International, an animal welfare organisation based in the UK, which works to help wildlife around the world.

“An additional 20 hybrid solar systems dotted throughout the Park provide power to Anti-Poaching Unit staff accommodation and a law enforcement fusion centre. These were funded as part of the Wildlife Conservation Bond which was launched by the World Bank in 2022,” he said.

He said another R15 million funded solar project had kicked off, which will see what is known as Main Camp (the main hub of the Park with the most accommodation units, staff housing and where most of the activities depart from) going off-grid by the end of next year.

During a media tour in the park on Tuesday, Section Ranger Zizipho Mfazwe said the newly built biofiltration plant was recycling the majority of grey water from the main camp, which in turn gets fed to a nearby waterhole and the bird hides.

She said it is also set up to, in future supply water for the flushing of toilets at eight new family accommodation units currently being built.

“Once purified it is pumped to a holding reservoir before being fed to where it is required. This system has already seen a drop in the park’s reliance on municipal water and a decrease in its municipal water bill,” she said.

“This was necessary because the R8 million project will minimise negative impact on the environment. Depending on our peak season, it’s meant to be able to recycle 80% of the water that comes into the park. So this can recycle 120 kilolitres of water per day,” she said.

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Out of the Centre

Savvino-storozhevsky monastery and museum.

Zvenigorod's most famous sight is the Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery, which was founded in 1398 by the monk Savva from the Troitse-Sergieva Lavra, at the invitation and with the support of Prince Yury Dmitrievich of Zvenigorod. Savva was later canonised as St Sabbas (Savva) of Storozhev. The monastery late flourished under the reign of Tsar Alexis, who chose the monastery as his family church and often went on pilgrimage there and made lots of donations to it. Most of the monastery’s buildings date from this time. The monastery is heavily fortified with thick walls and six towers, the most impressive of which is the Krasny Tower which also serves as the eastern entrance. The monastery was closed in 1918 and only reopened in 1995. In 1998 Patriarch Alexius II took part in a service to return the relics of St Sabbas to the monastery. Today the monastery has the status of a stauropegic monastery, which is second in status to a lavra. In addition to being a working monastery, it also holds the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum.

Belfry and Neighbouring Churches

Located near the main entrance is the monastery's belfry which is perhaps the calling card of the monastery due to its uniqueness. It was built in the 1650s and the St Sergius of Radonezh’s Church was opened on the middle tier in the mid-17th century, although it was originally dedicated to the Trinity. The belfry's 35-tonne Great Bladgovestny Bell fell in 1941 and was only restored and returned in 2003. Attached to the belfry is a large refectory and the Transfiguration Church, both of which were built on the orders of Tsar Alexis in the 1650s.  

To the left of the belfry is another, smaller, refectory which is attached to the Trinity Gate-Church, which was also constructed in the 1650s on the orders of Tsar Alexis who made it his own family church. The church is elaborately decorated with colourful trims and underneath the archway is a beautiful 19th century fresco.

Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is the oldest building in the monastery and among the oldest buildings in the Moscow Region. It was built between 1404 and 1405 during the lifetime of St Sabbas and using the funds of Prince Yury of Zvenigorod. The white-stone cathedral is a standard four-pillar design with a single golden dome. After the death of St Sabbas he was interred in the cathedral and a new altar dedicated to him was added.

Under the reign of Tsar Alexis the cathedral was decorated with frescoes by Stepan Ryazanets, some of which remain today. Tsar Alexis also presented the cathedral with a five-tier iconostasis, the top row of icons have been preserved.

Tsaritsa's Chambers

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is located between the Tsaritsa's Chambers of the left and the Palace of Tsar Alexis on the right. The Tsaritsa's Chambers were built in the mid-17th century for the wife of Tsar Alexey - Tsaritsa Maria Ilinichna Miloskavskaya. The design of the building is influenced by the ancient Russian architectural style. Is prettier than the Tsar's chambers opposite, being red in colour with elaborately decorated window frames and entrance.

At present the Tsaritsa's Chambers houses the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum. Among its displays is an accurate recreation of the interior of a noble lady's chambers including furniture, decorations and a decorated tiled oven, and an exhibition on the history of Zvenigorod and the monastery.

Palace of Tsar Alexis

The Palace of Tsar Alexis was built in the 1650s and is now one of the best surviving examples of non-religious architecture of that era. It was built especially for Tsar Alexis who often visited the monastery on religious pilgrimages. Its most striking feature is its pretty row of nine chimney spouts which resemble towers.

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