“Lions!” my husband whispers excitedly. It’s a chilly night and we’re huddled on the porch of our luxurious tent. From somewhere (up a tree?) our guide Colin is shining his torch in their direction. Having failed to spot any during our earlier game drive, Colin went to great lengths (or heights) to ensure we would not miss out on these majestic animals: a perfect example of the level of personalised service that epitomises Gorah.
The historic homestead, in the heart of Addo Elephant Park and only 1 hour’s drive from Port Elizabeth, has been brought bang up to date with contemporary creature comforts and the 11 vast, stilted tents offer the ultimate in camping deluxe. Preheated beds, little chocolate elephants on your pillow, fresh lemonade by the pool and lavish silver-service feasts - this really is safari in style.
The real treat, however, lies in the game viewing - and you don't even need to bounce about in an open-sided vehicle (though it is quite fun). Nothing beats the serenity of sipping gin & tonics on the old-style veranda of the main lodge, overlooking the scenic waterhole, and quietly observing herds of elephants and buffalos passing by. Truly magical.
Highs
- The proximity of the waterhole and the sheer variety and density of animals trotting through the open camp
- The exhilarating feeling that only a rather thin sheet of canvas separates you from lions and friends at night
- The private game drive with our knowledgeable and wildly entertaining guide Colin
- The delicious Amarula-infused hot chocolate served at the end of our chilly evening game drive
- Addo is home to the densest elephant population on earth, as well as rhinos, lions, even leopards - and it remains malaria-free
Lows
- The pool area is a bit bland, but who comes here to lie by the pool? A quick dip in between game drives will suffice
- There's no electricity in the tents, but this in no way dampens the sense of luxury - quite the opposite
- The tents are close to each other, so be discreet or your neighbours might avoid you at breakfast
- There are no massages or beauty treatments on offer
- All this magic comes at a price and Gorah is expensive with a capital E. However, the memories are bound to last a lifetime, so don’t hesitate to remortgage your house (or visit in low season)
Best time to go
Summer (October-March) is the prime season, with daytime temperatures in the mid 20s C (very comfortable). But Addo is a year-round park and Gorah does its level best to keep you warm and cosy in the "green" season (June-September) - which can be quite rainy and drop to below 10C at night.
Our top tips
Bring a camera, sunscreen, a sun hat, mosquito repellent and warm, comfortable clothes (it can get chilly at night) for the game drives, as well as something a bit more sophisticated for evenings in the elegant dining room.
Location
The 5,000-hectare private concession of Gorah Elephant Camp is located in the heart of the Addo Elephant National Park. It is 75km northeast of Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape, South Africa.
By Air
Port Elizabeth Airport (75km) is the nearest major domestic airport. For international flights use Johannesburg or Cape Town, then take an internal flight. Alternatively, charter flights are available from all major centres (e.g. Plettenberg Bay), to a landing strip 20 minutes' drive from the lodge. Click on the links below for airlines serving these airports.
From the Airport
Gorah can arrange an airport transfer (see rates), but most people hire their own vehicle - 4WDs are recommended in the rainy season.
By Car
For car hire, see our car rental recommendations. There is quite a bit of unpaved road on the way to Gorah, but the team will valet your car for you during your stay.
Detailed directions will be sent to you when you book through our site.
More on getting to South Africa and getting around
Airports:
- Port Elizabeth 75.0 km PLZ
- Cape Town International Airport 805.0 km CPT
Other:
- Beach 50.0 km
- Shops 85.0 km
- Restaurant 85.0 km