Gorah Elephant Camp: Classic Safari Elegance in Addo
Gorah Elephant Camp is a luxury tented safari lodge set on a private concession within Addo Elephant National Park, South Africa's third-largest national park and a top malaria-free Big Five destination. With its grand colonial manor house, panoramic views, and frequent elephant sightings at the waterhole, Gorah offers a top-notch safari experience rooted in history and romance.
Highlights
- Malaria-free Big Five safari in a private Addo concession
- 5-star luxury tented suites with panoramic views
- Elegant colonial manor house with curated dining experiences
- Unforgettable elephant encounters at the camp's waterhole
- Solar-powered eco-lodge with excellent service
- Ideal location for Garden Route itineraries
Tucked within a private concession in Addo Elephant National Park, Gorah Elephant Camp blends old-world safari romance with 5-star comfort in one of South Africa's top malaria-free wildlife destinations. This exclusive lodge centres around a gracious colonial-era manor house overlooking a bustling waterhole frequented by elephants and other game. Tented suites, styled in the spirit of the 1900s, offer panoramic views, king-size beds, and en-suite bathrooms — all powered by eco-friendly solar energy. Whether dining under the stars in the outdoor boma or unwinding on the veranda as elephants gather just metres away, Gorah delivers a timeless African safari experience.
A Private Concession Inside Addo Elephant National Park
Located just 70 km from Port Elizabeth, Gorah Elephant Camp sits within a 5,000-hectare private concession in the heart of Addo. This malaria-free park is famed for having one of the densest populations of elephants on earth, plus Cape buffalo, black rhino, lion, antelope species, and prolific birdlife. Gorah is also one of the few luxury lodges inside a South African national park, offering exclusive access and privacy.
Luxury Tented Suites Inspired by Safari's Golden Age
Gorah's 11 tented suites recall the style of early 1900s safaris—under canvas but with every modern comfort. Each spacious suite features:
- King-size bed with fine cotton linen
- Private deck with uninterrupted views of the plains
- En-suite bathroom with shower, his-and-hers vanities
- Solar-powered lighting and ceiling fan
- Hairdryer, slippers, and in-room safe
Tents are set apart for privacy and designed to immerse guests in nature—elephants and buffalo often pass by.
The Manor House and Camp Facilities
Built in 1856, the colonial-style Manor House has been lovingly restored and furnished to reflect the elegance of a bygone safari era. Facilities at camp include:
- Two cosy lounges with fireplaces and a curated library
- Two indoor dining rooms, plus a boma for firelit outdoor meals
- Wide verandas overlooking the busy waterhole
- Rock swimming pool with sun loungers and a viewing deck
- Curio shop and botanical gardens surrounding the camp
Dining is a highlight at Gorah. Meals are served on the veranda, in the dining rooms, or under the stars, with carefully paired estate wines.
Big Five Game Viewing and Safari Activities
Gorah offers classic safari experiences led by expert guides. Game drives explore the surrounding concession and broader Addo National Park, known for:
- Exceptional elephant sightings at close range
- Big Five wildlife, including black rhino and Cape buffalo
- Guided walks for a deeper connection with the environment
- Birdwatching and interpretation of flora, fauna and tracks
Even from the camp itself, wildlife viewing is outstanding, especially at the waterhole visible from the main verandas.
Child Policy and Family Safaris
Gorah welcomes children aged 10 years and older. Kids can join game drives and enjoy age-appropriate bush activities with guides, designed to spark curiosity about nature and Gorah's history.
Ideal Add-On to a Garden Route Safari
Thanks to its location in the Eastern Cape, Gorah Elephant Camp is a perfect start or end point for a Garden Route itinerary. It's easily accessible by road or air from:
- Port Elizabeth (approx. 1-hour drive)
- George (approx. 4¾ hours by road)
- Cape Town (approx. 9 hours by road or domestic flight + transfer)
Private road transfers or charter flights can be arranged.
Responsible Tourism and Sustainability
Gorah is committed to eco-friendly operations, using solar and gas power with minimal environmental impact. As a Hunter Hotels property, the camp delivers unobtrusive, personal service with an emphasis on conservation and heritage.
Ready to Book Gorah Elephant Camp?
Get in touch with our safari experts for tailor-made advice. Whether you're adding Gorah to a longer Garden Route trip or seeking a malaria-free Big Five experience, we'll help you create a seamless safari itinerary.
Includes
- Accommodation
- All meals
- Light snacks and beverages on game drives
- A selection of local soft drinks, wines, spirits and beers
- Tea and coffee
- Two game drives daily with an experienced guide and tracker
- WiFi
- VAT
Excludes
- Laundry
- Conservation levies
- Gate fees
- Transfers to and from the lodge
- Items of a personal nature
- Gratuities
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