Kragga Kamma Game Park is one of Gqeberha’s (formerly Port Elizabeth) most popular nature attractions, offering a remarkable wildlife experience just a short drive from the city center. Unlike large national parks that may require hours or days to explore, Kragga Kamma offers a compact and accessible safari-like environment perfect for day visitors. It is known for its lush vegetation, free-roaming wildlife, and opportunities to view African animals up close in their natural habitat.
Kragga Kamma Game Park is located approximately 20 kilometers from the Gqeberha city center and about 25 kilometers from Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport. It is easily reachable by car, and the drive takes around 20–30 minutes. Visitors can follow Kragga Kamma Road via M15 or take a taxi or Uber for a convenient journey. Self-drive is ideal as it also allows you to explore the park at your own pace.
The weather in Gqeberha is mild and pleasant throughout the year, making Kragga Kamma a great year-round destination. Summers (November to March) are warm with average temperatures ranging from 22°C to 28°C (72°F to 82°F), while winters (June to August) are cooler but still comfortable, ranging between 10°C and 20°C (50°F to 68°F). The area experiences moderate rainfall, mostly in spring and autumn.
The park is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last entry usually allowed around 4:30 PM. It’s recommended to visit in the morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler and animals are more active.
Kragga Kamma Game Park is famous for its unique mix of convenience and wildlife viewing. Unlike many game reserves that require a 4x4 or guided tour, this park allows self-drives in a regular vehicle, making it highly accessible. It is home to a variety of animals including white rhinos, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, buffalo, and various antelope species, all of which roam freely across the park’s open grasslands and forested areas.
The park’s mission focuses on conservation and education, offering up-close encounters that are safe for both animals and visitors. It's also a family-friendly destination with picnic areas, a café, and elevated wooden walkways for viewing animals such as cheetahs and tortoises.
Entry fees are charged per person and per vehicle. Rates may vary depending on age and whether you're a local or international tourist. Discounts are sometimes available for seniors and children. Tickets can be purchased on arrival—online booking is generally not necessary for day visits.
Visitors can opt for:
Amenities include clean restrooms, a coffee shop, and picnic spots. Visitors should allow at least 2–3 hours to enjoy the full experience.
Kragga Kamma Game Park was established to promote conservation and provide easy access to wildlife viewing for city dwellers and tourists. While it doesn’t have historical buildings or ancient architecture, the park is thoughtfully designed to blend into its natural environment. Elevated wooden walkways, thatched observation decks, and eco-friendly facilities reflect a commitment to sustainable tourism.
Over the years, Kragga Kamma has earned a reputation for responsible wildlife management and education. The park plays a role in preserving endangered species, including white rhinos and cheetahs, through carefully managed breeding and protection programs.
1. Wildlife Viewing: Spot rhinos, cheetahs, zebras, giraffes, and more on a relaxing drive through the park.
2. Self-Drive Safari: Drive your own car at your own pace and enjoy the flexibility to stop and observe animals.
3. Guided Game Drives: Take a tour with an experienced ranger to learn about the park’s ecology and animals.
4. Cheetah Viewing Deck: Walk on the elevated wooden boardwalk to observe cheetahs in a special enclosure.
5. Birdwatching: Spot a variety of native birds, especially around waterholes and forest areas.
6. Photography: Capture beautiful images of wildlife in natural settings, especially during golden hours.
7. Picnic and Café: Enjoy a meal or snack at the on-site café or bring your own picnic to enjoy in nature.
- The park spans around 200 hectares and is fully fenced to ensure safety and containment.
- Vehicles of all types, including sedans, can be used for self-drive tours.
- Cheetahs and other animals in rehabilitation programs are monitored in secure areas.
- The park operates without predators like lions, making it safer and more relaxing for self-drives.
- It is privately owned and receives no government funding, relying on visitors to support conservation.
- Bring Binoculars: To better view animals in the distance.
- Visit Early or Late: Animals are more active in the cooler parts of the day.
- Stay Quiet: Keep noise levels down to avoid scaring away animals.
- No Feeding: Never feed animals, for your safety and theirs.
- Photography: Use zoom lenses to capture great wildlife shots without disturbing them.
- Pack Snacks: If you plan to stay for a few hours, bring water and light snacks.
- Follow Rules: Stay in your car during the drive and respect all signage and ranger instructions.