Sundays River Valley
Following in the footsteps of the mighty elephant meandering through bushveld forests, or exploring five of the seven South Africa Biomes, Sundays River Valley is host to some of the most prolific natural and wildlife resources know to the country and the Big 7 destination. Not to be missed on the outdoor and nature lovers wanderlust list, explore one of the most biologically diverse areas in the world in the area of Sundays River Valley.
Get Out And About and Explore!
Addo Elephant – National Park
Stretching over 180 000 ha, Addo Elephant Park is the third largest game
park in South Africa. Originally a park with just 11 elephants, the park has transformed into a major wildlife sanctuary and is now home to more than 600 elephants as well as lions, black rhinos, buffaloes, hyenas, leopards, zebras and a plentiful variety of antelopes. It’s famous for the Big Seven, the Big Five wild animals plus the Great White Shark and the Southern Right Whale, as well as a huge population of penguins. The main camp features a swimming pool, restaurant, floodlit water hole and different types of accommodation.
There are also amazing options for stays close to the reserve – some in spectacular settings overlooking the magnificent Zuurberg Mountains.
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun: 07h00 – 18h00
Adrenaline Addo
On this hands free 500-metre-long zip line you will experience flight without wings! It is South Africa’s highest, longest and fastest double zip line.
The impressive departure tower, some seventy metres above the Sundays River, is reached via a short raft ride across the river and a 10-minute hike through the indigenous bush. The views from here will take your breath away and when you let go, travelling at average speed of about 60 km/h, the adrenalin kicks in. Heavier riders may even exceed 80km/h!
The built-in automated braking system ensures that your exhilarating flight comes to a smooth stop. Enjoy the ride!
Kirkwood
Kirkwood is situated in the heart of the Sundays River Valley and can be considered the citrus capital of the Eastern Cape. It is hard to believe that this beautiful valley was witness to bloody border wars a mere 200 years ago. A little more than a 100 years ago Afrikaner farmers (Boers) fought for freedom against the British Empire. Kirkwood boasts a fine lookout point with wide vistas over the valley. During the Citrus picking season (April to Sept), tractors with trailers brimming with oranges rumble into town and the local co-operatives come alive with activity. There is a 9 hole golf course in the village of Kirkwood. The Moravian Mission Station built for the Khoi at Enon in 1818 is also a must-see. A pitted gravel road leads to this pastoral village where sacraments are still given in the church with its yellowwood rafters, teak window frames and brass hanging lamps.
Addo
En route to the main entrance and main reception area of the Addo Elephant National Park, on the R335 from Port Elizabeth, lies the quiet hamlet of Addo – encompassing the communities of Hermitage and Sunland. Situated on the southern end of one of the biggest citrus producing areas in South Africa the local community flourishes in the hospitality of a bygone era. Lying at the foot of the Zuurberg Mountains activities are as varied as citrus farm and pack house tours to close encounters with local reptiles and birds of prey as well as winter polo tournaments. Addo is home to award winning spas, restaurants and country houses.
> Addo Elephant National Park
> Longest Double Zipline And Giant SwingÂ
> Hiking Trails
> Blacksmith MuseumÂ
> River SafariÂ
> Horse TrailsÂ
> Quad Biking
> Game DrivesÂ
> Raptor and Reptile Center
Colchester
Colchester is known as the Jewel of the Eastern Cape. The town is situated on the banks of the Sundays River, in between magnificent sand dunes. Various hiking trails area available, and the Addo Elephant Park and local game farms are situated close by. The tidal Sundays River finds its way through villages and the Alexandria Dune Fields, and provides opportunities for fishing, ferries, canoeing and swimming. The dunes are home to various wild animals and over 200 bird species. Only 20 minutes from Port Elizabeth, Colchester is the ideal place to come and relax.
> Addo Elephant National Park
> Ferry Cruise and Sand Sledding
> Quad Biking
> Sundaze
