Greetings from the Knysna Elephant Park!

We are proud to have been one of the Garden Route’s premier tourist destinations for the last twenty-one years!

On the 26th of October, we celebrate our 21st Birthday!

The Knysna Elephant Park has dedicated itself to elephants and is both nationally and internationally recognised as one of the best captive elephant facilities in the world. We have even worked towards changing traditionally accepted elephant management to better suit the welfare needs of our elephants. In 2009, a non-profit research unit was started, specifically aimed at improving elephant welfare through science. This is the first, and only, research unit in South Africa, focused primarily on captive elephant welfare.

For the last five years, the African Elephant Research Unit (AERU) has dedicated itself to collecting data that are directly contributing to improving elephant welfare and management at KEP. Researchers from all over the world, volunteers and students are able to monitor and observe the elephants through the day and night, gaining insight into all aspects of elephant life at the Park. These data have led to changes in diet and feeding practices, changes in the way that tourism interactions are conducted, the alteration of stabling facilities, improving handling techniques, amongst others. The Park has taken on board the advice and feedback of the unit, on an almost daily basis, and allowed continual change and upgrade in their management style – always for the sake of the elephants!

We would like to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of you for your support of our wonderful elephants and ongoing endeavours!