Eastern Cape Escape: Meerkat Mob Mornings At Gorah Elephant Camp

Always on the lookout for unique, magical safari experiences, The Sandton Times ventured to the under-explored Eastern Cape for an unforgettable adventure at Gorah Elephant Camp.

Indulge in a bygone era of safari luxury with Gorah’s timeless charm and authentic African ambiance.
At Gorah Elephant Camp, a gin and tonic on the terrace comes with front-row seats to unmatched wildlife encounters.
From tented suites to candlelit dinners, Gorah exudes elegance in the heart of the wild.
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Tucked within one of South Africa’s most captivating game parks, Addo Elephant National Park, Gorah Elephant Camp delivers a safari experience that’s both deeply authentic and luxuriously modern. Here, amidst rolling landscapes, herds of elephants, and the rare chance to sit with meerkats at dawn, Gorah promises a stay like no other.

Gorah Elephant Camp is located in the heart of Addo Elephant National Park, a historic reserve established in 1931 when the park’s elephant population had dwindled to just less than a dozen. Today, the park proudly protects over 600 elephants, making it home to the densest elephant population on earth. Beyond its famous herds, Addo is also a haven for Cape buffalo, black rhinos, lions, and an incredible array of antelope and bird species. Addo’s unique ecosystem is also home to the flightless dung beetle, found almost exclusively here, adding an unusual twist to the region’s rich biodiversity.

For any nature lover, Addo offers boundless experiences. Whether it’s observing a matriarchal herd of elephants at the waterhole or sighting a lion basking under the sun, every encounter is a testament to the wonders of the African bush. And nestled at the centre of this wildlife treasure trove lies Gorah Elephant Camp, a private concession that feels like stepping into another world – one where adventure and elegance converge.

Only 70km from Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), Gorah Elephant Camp is easily accessible but feels far removed from the bustle of city life. The camp’s luxury tented suites are a tribute to the golden era of safari, with vintage charm and high-end comforts blending seamlessly. Each tent offers a unique mix of old-world safari style and modern amenities, with features like bespoke body products, a complimentary in-tent bar, and solar-powered facilities – all thoughtfully designed to minimize environmental impact whilst providing a comfortable stay. Under thatched canopies and on private decks, guests can unwind and revel in the sights and sounds of the bushveld around them – even with a served sunrise coffee and canapes at dawn.

Gorah’s 11 luxurious tents transport you to an era of classic safari adventure. However, this is no ordinary camping. Each suite speaks to the elegance of old-world safaris while ensuring the highest level of comfort. Inside each suite, you’ll find a charming vintage field bar cupboard stocked with local favourites, a nod to safari days of the past and a reminder of the lodge’s commitment to crafting a one-of-a-kind experience.

The excitement of a Gorah safari begins with its expertly guided game drives. Set within a 5’000-hectare private concession, these excursions provide exclusive, uncrowded access to some of Addo’s most pristine wilderness. Led by seasoned guides who share their knowledge and passion for the bush, guests can traverse the terrain in open safari vehicles in search of elephants, lions, rhinos, and more. Each sighting brings the thrill of discovery, with an unmatched sense of immersion in the wild.

For those keen on a slower pace, Gorah also offers guided bush walks, allowing a more intimate exploration of Addo’s ecosystem. These walks uncover the smaller, often overlooked wonders of the bush, from fascinating plants to rare or unusual sightings – each encounter reveals new aspects of the natural world!

One of the most remarkable experiences Gorah afforded us was a sunrise sit-down with a mob of meerkats. With the guidance of a seasoned ranger, we took a seat just meters away from the meerkats’ bolthole home, avoiding disturbance or any interaction. Watching these curious creatures emerge one by one at dawn, preparing for a day of foraging and sunbathing, is a mesmerizing experience. The silence, the fresh scent of the morning air, and the calm of watching meerkats scout for their morning hunt is an experience that captures the serenity and marvel of African wildlife.

At Gorah Elephant Camp, dining is as memorable as the game drives. The meals, made from seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients, are a feast for the senses. Dinner in the Manor House, served by candlelight with gleaming silverware, is a refined and nostalgic affair, reminding guests of a bygone era of safari dining. The culinary team caters to all dietary needs, ensuring every meal is both a sensory delight and a personalised experience. From the silver-service high tea to evening turndowns with sweet treats, each detail adds to the atmosphere of elegance and charm.

Gorah Elephant Camp is steeped in a rich history that dates back centuries. The original farmhouse, still standing at the heart of the camp, has survived generations of change. Once a crucial water source for wildlife, indigenous Khoi people, and early farmers, Gorah has evolved into a haven of luxury while retaining its historical roots. As you sip afternoon tea on the manor’s veranda, watching elephants wander near the watering hole, you feel connected to a place where history and nature coexist beautifully.

The manor’s patio overlooks a waterhole that attracts a steady stream of wildlife, making for a spectacular “sofa safari” experience. Simply lounging on the veranda with a gin and tonic in hand, you’ll witness the daily dramas of life in the bush unfold just steps away.

Gorah Elephant Camp is more than a destination – it’s an experience that invites travellers to slow down, reconnect with nature, and savour the timeless spirit of Africa. Whether you’re arriving by car or flying into nearby Port Elizabeth, the journey to Gorah is a small price to pay for the experiences that await.