DESCRIPTION:

The Knysna Elephant Park (est. 1994) was the first facility in South Africa to house and care for orphaned African elephants. Today, it has become a world class facility, having cared for and raised more than forty elephants. These animals include relocated animals, orphaned calves, elephants rescued from culls and ex-circus animals. Some have become part of the resident herd, others have moved onto other reserves and facilities in the Western and Eastern Cape, depending on their personalities, bonds with other animals and welfare needs. 

The present KEP herd numbers nine – the largest domesticated matriarchal herd in the country. Our style of management offers guests the opportunity to get up close and personal with our elephants, on elephant terms. Responsible and educational interactions allow guests to appreciate the awe-inspiring presence of these animals, but still give the elephants the space and freedom to choose where they want to move, what they want to eat and who they want to interact with. There are no fences to spoil the close encounter and our environment encourages elephants to exhibit natural behaviours.

Elephant experiences include Daily Guided Tours (departing from reception every 30 mins), as well as Elephant Walks, Exclusive Safaris, Sundowner Group Packages, as well as Sleepovers in the Elephant Lodge. Our beautiful Lapa offers a unique venue for weddings and other functions. No reservations are necessary for daily tours, but bookings are essential for all other elephant encounters.  

OUR PROGRAMS:

Our daily ‘Be Touched by an Elephant’ Tours leave every half hour, every day, from our reception / visitor’s centre between 08h30 and 16h00. No reservations are necessary! Following a short video, guests are transported to the field where you have the opportunity to interact, feed and walk amongst our herd of African elephants. You also have the opportunity to purchase an ‘elephant snack bucket’ to feed the elephants during your visit. Use the Book Now tab for more info on our exclusive Programs.

Responsible and educational interactions enable guests to appreciate the awe-inspiring presence of these animals, on elephant terms. There are no fences to spoil the close encounter and our environment encourages elephants to exhibit natural behaviours. Guests are welcome to spend as much time as they wish with the elephants – transport returns to reception every half hour. Our herd of elephants play a vital role in closing the gap between man and animal, allowing us to better understand the plight of the African Elephant and that of their peers in the Knysna Forest. Visitors leave the park with a sense of awe for these magnificent animals.

Duration: 45 – 60 minutes