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Walking On The Shoulders Of Giants
Elephant-Back Safaris South Africa
Up-close-and-personal with African elephants
© Transfrontiers Walking Safaris
Did you know?
Elephants are right or left 'handed'. The tusk on their favoured side wears out faster.
Most people in this world have not even had the opportunity to see a live elephant. Here in South Africa though, not only can you see these magnificent creatures, but you can get up close and personal and even ride on one.
Elephant Back Safaris are something that a few choice venues in South Africa offer. The idea is one that is growing rapidly in popularity as people seek to recapture the ancient mystique of riding through the bush on an elephant, spotting wildlife and gaining a view and insight into the wild like none other before.
Game viewing on elephant-back provides a unique opportunity of getting really close to wildlife. This is because the smell of the elephants overpowers that of the scent of people. Other animals like rhino, giraffe and buck are not scared off by the scent of humans nearby. As such you can get way closer to game than you'd ever imagined possible.
For such a safari, the elephants are prepared with a comfortable saddle and as passenger you are seated behind an experienced elephant handler. The actual safari will normally last around an hour and 30 minutes. It may take you a while to get used to the sensation of the elephants motion, but once you do, the experience is incredible.
Many game reserves in South Africa also provide the unique opportunity to walk along with the elephants as you move through the velds and forests. In addition, elephant rides at most game reserves are well catered for.
The most popular Elephant-back Safari's are to be found near the Addo Elephant National Park in the Eastern Cape and The Magaliesberg Elephant Sanctuary in North West province. But you can also enquire at many other game reserves in South Africa about this unique experience.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
Addo Elephant Back Safaris
Tel: +27 42 235 1400
res@addoelephantbacksafaris.co.za
Elephant Sanctuary
Tel: +27 (12) 258 0423
Email: elephantsanctuary@mweb.co.za
Pilanesberg Elephant-Back Safaris
Tel: +014 552 5020
Email: adventures@gametrac.co.za
Camp Jabulani
Tel: +27 (0) 15 793 1256
Fax: +27 (0) 15 793 1261
Email: campjabulani@campjabulani.com
Knysna Elephant Park
Tel: +27 (0) 44 532 7732
Fax: +27 (0) 44 532 7763
How to get here
Elephant Safari organisations are easily accessible by car and 4X4
What will it cost
An elephant safari will vary in cost according to duration and location but start at approx R875 up to R2 000, depending on what is included.
Length of stay
An elephant encounter usually takes a few hours.
What to pack
Wear long trousers or jeans as well as comfortable walking shoes or trainers. In summer, bring along light rain gear, and in winter an extra jacket. Remember binoculars and camera, hat and sunblock.
Where to stay
Accommodation is often available at or near to the elephant safari.