When South Africans hear the word ‘Addo,’ they immediately think of elephants. This region of our country has become synonymous with these mighty creatures (thanks to the Addo Elephant National Park), but have you ever wondered what their presence in this region was driven by?

For travellers venturing into the remote beauty of the Eastern Cape, particularly those staying with us at Kuzuko Lodge, understanding the significance of this region’s most iconic residents adds depth and wonder to every game drive.

A Conservation Success Story

The Addo Elephant National Park, often referred to as Addo Park, is South Africa’s third largest game reserve (covering over 1 600 square kilometres) and one of its greatest conservation success stories!

The park’s establishment was spurred on by the sad fact that in the early 1900s, the elephants of what is today the Eastern Cape were nearly hunted to extinction, with only 11 remaining in the wild by 1931. To safeguard the remaining individuals, the government of the day established a small protected area (about 2000 hectares) near the Sundays River.

This specific region was chosen for two reasons:

Firstly, it had historically been part of the elephants’ natural range, offering familiar vegetation and terrain. And secondly, the remoteness of the area made it ideal for undisturbed regeneration.

(Over time, the original reserve has expanded significantly and today encompasses a variety of habitats from coastal dunes to semi-arid Karoo landscapes.)

The elephant population in Addo Park grew steadily, thanks to careful monitoring, anti-poaching efforts, and the park’s successful fencing systems. Some elephants were introduced from other parts of South Africa to ensure genetic diversity and strengthen the population. Today, over 600 elephants roam the region, and the park is now considered one of the best places in the world to view them in their natural habitat.

Kuzuko Lodge, situated in a private concession that forms part of the Greater Addo conservation area, provides a vital extension of this protected space. Elephants frequently pass through the lodge’s surrounding valleys and plains – making them an integral part of our story too!

Why Kuzuko Lodge Is The Ideal Safari Destination

  • Frequent Elephant Encounters: One of the densest elephant populations in Africa, offering unrivalled opportunities for sightings – particularly around water holes.
  • Diverse Landscapes: From bushveld and savannah to semi-desert Karoo, our varied scenery is home to diverse species of wildlife.
  • Malaria-Free Area: A safe and convenient safari destination for families and first-time visitors.
  • Unique Animals: Apart from large mammals, which are always a thrill to see, we look forward to introducing you to even more curious characters, like dung beetles and meerkats!
  • Less Crowded: Retreat to your peaceful chalet at the end of a busy day, enjoying our lodge’s secluded location, luxurious amenities and the innate tranquility of a Karoo landscape.

Stay With Us

At Kuzuko Lodge, every day begins and ends with nature’s spectacle, whether it’s the sight of elephants meandering across the horizon or the tranquil feeling of twilight as it steals over the landscape.

Nestled in a private concession bordering Addo Park, our lodge offers a unique blend of comfort, seclusion, and unforgettable wildlife experiences.

Booking your stay is simple. Get in touch with our team at reservations@kuzuko.com for assistance or make use of our seamless online booking platform to secure your dates.

We look forward to welcoming you to Kuzuko Lodge!