Giraffe adventures at Bellevue
One of the most popular activities for visitors to Bellevue Forest Reserve (near Paterson in the Greater Addo region of South Africa’s Eastern Cape province) is to get up close, on foot, to our magnificent giraffe. Tracking and walking safaris enable a completely different aspect and appreciation for the enormity of these tree-high giants!
It is no wonder the giraffe is seen as iconic among African animals. It’s bizarre and gawky body, stunning patterned hide and soulful long-lashed eyes have earned it millions of fans among animal lovers worldwide. Consider, then, the thrill of looking up towards such a majestic creature from the ground below. There’s really no comparison to being out in the elements, one on one with the animals. This is where you feel the true heartbeat of Africa, connected to her essence.
One of our enthusiastic guests commented after sharing an intimate encounter that involved being eyeballed at close range by a giraffe: “It was a very special moment indeed…it was magical! Looking in her eyes, it was as if she was talking to me…”
Sometimes, as is the nature of wild places, dangers get in the way and things go wrong. Recently, one of our giraffe managed to get itself almost strangled. Luckily we had willing guests and volunteers to lend a hand and help us rescue the poor fellow – without them, it would have been a very different outcome, and we are sure THEY have an incredible story to relate back home about genuine hands-on wildlife work.
Giraffe tracking is just one of many such adventures that you can enjoy at Bellevue. Being a private, family-owned reserve, we are able to tailor outings and experiences to suit your desires and the family or group composition. Our individual attention and commitment is guaranteed to offer you your OWN magical moments – be they with giraffe, buffalo, meerkats or any of the other dozens of African wildlife species found here.
So, next time you plan a trip to the Eastern Cape, Garden Route or Greater Addo region, put aside a couple of days to spend with our gorgeous giraffe. And be prepared to fall in love.
