Gorah Elephant Camp’s historic farmhouse dates back to 1856. Miraculously it survived the Anglo-Boer war and today this gracious homestead, now surrounded by eleven luxury tented suites – glamping South Africa, safari style – is part of the only private concession within the world-renowned Addo Elephant National Park, home to the densest population of elephants on earth.
Built near a natural spring known as ‘de Goras’ the lodge has witnessed centuries of game passing through, not unlike the perfect safari scene at the waterhole in front of the deep wraparound veranda today.
One of the first questions travellers ask when booking a South African safari is: what wildlife can I expect to see? Game viewing at Gorah Elephant Camp is legendary. Guests regularly witness herds of elephants, buffalo, warthogs, and a variety of antelope from the camp’s veranda or waterhole.
Before you’ve even finished your cup of tea, you’re likely to have seen a herd of elephant visit for a deep drink, while a skittish warthog keeps its mother on the move. In fact, many a candlelit dinner has ended with a rush outside to witness a spectacular night sighting at the waterhole followed by the excitement of a lone buffalo roaming through the unfenced camp.
Game drives depart twice daily and are led by knowledgeable, experienced rangers, offering up-close encounters with elephants, lions, leopards, and other members of the Big Five in their natural habitat.
Gorah is a perfect safari for families. Whether out on a game drive or on a guided walk – following in the footsteps of those who came before, discovering the stories of Gorah’s early settlers and the rhythms of life in the bush – the guides take special care to connect with children, sharing the secrets of tracking animals, identifying bird calls, or explaining the delicate balance of the ecosystem.
A spectacular, secluded bush hideaway
Wondering what it’s like to stay at Gorah Elephant Camp? Staying at Gorah is a retreat space that blends luxury and the romantic mystique of an authentic safari in bygone eras.
Guests sleep in elegant tented suites – safari hideaways with all the comforts of a five-star lodge, dine on gourmet cuisine, and enjoy high tea and game drives, all from a historic 1856 farmhouse surrounded by wildlife in an unfenced setting.
You might begin your day by quietly observing a passing herd of elephant while being served breakfast on the veranda of the stately Colonial manor house.
In the afternoons, the comforting smell of freshly baked apple tart and high-tea treats eclipses the nostalgic scent of paraffin lanterns, candlewax and furniture polish.
Silver platters and trays are filled with chef’s delights before the game drive and the clatter of teacups and chatter rises as stories are shared and acquaintances made.
Wonder what the food is like at Gorah? Dinner is an occasion in itself, served in the elegant dining room of the old farmhouse. Under the guidance of Head Chef Richard West, each meal is a celebration of the landscape. His culinary philosophy blends sustainability and creativity, using locally sourced ingredients to craft refined dishes that reflect a true sense of place. Each plate tells a story: flavourful, elegant and deeply connected to the surrounding bush.
Menus change daily and highlight seasonal produce and bold, rooted flavours, paired with exceptional South African wines. From the comforting warmth of a slow-cooked stew to the freshness of a herb-laced salad, every element is thoughtfully chosen to complement your safari experience.