South Africa is famous for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. The country has been a leader in conservation, with elephant sanctuaries playing a crucial role in protecting these magnificent creatures. These sanctuaries act as safe places for rescued elephants and also help raise awareness and educate the public about the importance of wildlife conservation. In this article, we will explore the best elephant sanctuaries to visit in South Africa.
5 Best Elephant Sanctuaries in South Africa
1. Elephant Sanctuary Hartbeespoort
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The Elephant Sanctuary in Hartbeespoort is a safe space for African elephants, offering an interactive experience for visitors. Using positive methods, the sanctuary ensures elephants are comfortable with guests. Guided tours allow close encounters, letting visitors meet elephants up close, feel their breath, and touch their trunks during feeding. The sanctuary aims to educate and connect people with elephants, encouraging them to be advocates for conservation. It's more than a visit; it's a chance to make a difference for these amazing animals.
Address: Dam, Zandfontein, Hartbeespoort, 0216 Timings: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM Fees: Ranges from $50 to $70 for a 90 minutes interaction session How to Reach: Easily accessible by car from Johannesburg and Pretoria via R512 road.
2. Elephant Sanctuary, The Crags, Plettenberg Bay
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Nestled in the beautiful Garden Route, Elephant Sanctuary in Plettenberg Bay is a calm place for elephants and visitors. With African elephants and friendly training, the sanctuary offers a relaxed and hands-on experience. Guided tours let you learn about elephant behaviour, touch them in the forest, and even see them swim on hot days. Activities include walking trunk-in-hand with elephants, experiencing the Elephant Brush Down, participating in two informative wildlife programs, and even playing Elephant Keeper for a day.
Address: Monkeyland Road, The Crags, Plettenberg Bay, 6602 Timings: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM Fees: Admission prices depend on the chosen experience. Ranges from $40 to $110. How to Reach: Accessible by car or guided tours; 24 kilometres via N2 from Plettenberg Bay.
3. Hoedspruit Elephant Rehabilitation and Development (HERD)
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HERD, South Africa's first Elephant Orphanage, started in 2021 to help orphaned elephant calves due to increased poaching. They care for and rehabilitate these displaced elephants, with the HERD Orphanage, built in 2019, bringing orphaned calves into the Jabulani herd of 16 elephants. Besides the sanctuary work, HERD Trust educates local communities and connects globally online for elephant conservation.
To see the elephants, visit Jabulani Lodge, try the Elephant Moments morning experience, or join a virtual encounter. Please note that the HERD orphanage isn't open to visitors to ensure a calm environment for the young elephants. If staying at Jabulani Lodge, rangers will guide your safe interaction with the herd in the homestead or the bush.
Address: R40, Hoedspruit, Jabulani Safari Lodge, Kapama Private Game Reserve Timings: By appointment only Fees: Donations welcome How to Reach: Guided tours can be arranged, and the sanctuary is reachable by car.
4. Knysna Elephant Park
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Founded in 1994, Knysna Elephant Park in the Garden Route is South Africa's first sanctuary for orphaned African elephants. Over two decades, they've provided a home for more than forty elephants, including those rescued from difficult situations. With a current herd of five, the largest domesticated matriarchal group in the country, the park offers a unique and responsible experience, emphasizing natural behaviours without fences.
Visitors can enjoy experiences like the "Meet our Herd" tour and the Elephant Experience, and there's even the special Elephant Nature Lodge for a sleepover with elephants. Volunteers with a love for animals can contribute to conservation efforts. A visit not only allows you to meet these amazing creatures but also directly supports their care and conservation.
Address: N2, between Knysna and Plettenberg Bay Timings: 09:00 AM - 04:00 PM Fees: Admission prices vary. Ranges from $20 to $50 How to Reach: Accessible by car from Knysna and Plettenberg Bay.
5. Elephant Whispers
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In Hazyview, Elephant Whispers provides an up-close encounter with African elephants, emphasizing wildlife conservation. Guests can interact with five elephants, gaining insights into their behaviour. The centre focuses on raising awareness for long-term wildlife and elephant conservation. Activities include memorable elephant interactions, observing their daily routines, and educational encounters. Elephant Whispers offers visitors a chance to connect with the gentle nature of African elephants while supporting their conservation efforts.
Address: R40 Hazyview, Mpumalanga Timings: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM Fees: Various packages are available. Ranges from $40 to $180. How to Reach: Easily accessible by car from Johannesburg and Pretoria. Take N4 or N12 to Nelspruit, then follow R40 to White River. Continue on R40 towards Hazyview for 45 kilometres to reach.
Elephant sanctuaries in South Africa are not just safe spaces for these amazing creatures but also offer visitors meaningful and educational experiences. Supporting these sanctuaries means contributing to wildlife conservation while making lasting memories. When planning your next adventure, think about visiting one of these sanctuaries for an unforgettable journey into South Africa's dedication to protecting its natural heritage.
