Your Home Away from Home in Colchester, Eastern Cape
Welcome to Happy Jackal Guest House
Experience warm South African hospitality at Happy Jackal Guest House, a charming 4-star establishment nestled in Colchester, near the beautiful Sundays River and the renowned Addo Elephant National Park.
Whether you're travelling as a couple, a family, a group of friends or on business, we offer comfortable accommodation, friendly service and unforgettable experiences in one of the Eastern Cape's most beautiful regions.
From exciting wildlife safaris and scenic river cruises to relaxing days beside the swimming pool, Happy Jackal is the perfect base for discovering the natural beauty and adventures of the Addo area.
Our Story
Happy Jackal's story began in the 2000s when former owners Liz and Peter Davenport discovered Colchester while travelling on holiday. They fell in love with the area's rolling sand dunes, the beautiful Sundays River, peaceful beaches and close proximity to Addo Elephant National Park.
Inspired by the friendly personality of Liz's little dog, whose jackal-like appearance and constant smile captured her heart, the name Happy Jackal was born. The establishment was registered in 2011 and developed into a welcoming 4-star guest house.
In 2024, the property was purchased by Charl Hanekom, a cattle dairy farmer who also owns a hunting farm. Looking for a worthwhile investment supported by a trustworthy, dedicated team, Charl found the perfect opportunity at Happy Jackal.
Today, the guest house continues to welcome travellers with a focus on comfort, personal service and memorable guest experiences.
Meet Our Wonderful Team
Our dedicated team is at the heart of everything we do. We take pride in creating a friendly, comfortable environment where guests feel welcome and well cared for throughout their stay.
Suzette – Mrs Happy Jackal
Since 2018, Suzette has been the heart and soul of Happy Jackal. Known for her professionalism, kindness and attention to detail, she goes the extra mile to ensure guests enjoy a comfortable and memorable holiday.
From organising activities to assisting with special requests, Suzette helps make every stay feel personal.
Tim – Nature Site Guide
Since October 2020, Tim has been sharing his passion for nature and the outdoors with our guests.
A talented all-rounder, skilled handyman and experienced nature site guide, he brings the bushveld to life on guided game drives and helps visitors discover the wonders of the region.
- Vuyokazi – Kitchen Team
- Rayline – Housekeeper
- Salmone – Laundry Housekeeper
- Erin – Housekeeper
- Chanda - Housekeeper
- Michael – Gardener and Outdoor Transformation Specialist
Comfortable Accommodation for Every Traveller
At Happy Jackal, we offer a range of accommodation options to suit couples, families and larger groups. Choose from our main guest house rooms, self-catering rooms, family cottages and spacious private houses.
Main Lodge Accommodation – Breakfast Included
Our five main lodge rooms offer comfortable accommodation with breakfast included. All rooms feature Wi-Fi, making them ideal for guests who appreciate convenience and a welcoming atmosphere.
Lion Room
A ground-floor room with a king-size bed convertible to twin beds, air conditioning, Google Android TV, a coffee station and a patio overlooking the Sundays River.
Buffalo Room
A comfortable ground-floor room featuring a convertible king-size bed, air conditioning, Google Android TV, a coffee station and river views.
Leopard Room
A cosy ground-floor room with a convertible king-size bed, air conditioning, Google Android TV, a coffee station and a patio overlooking the river.
Elephant Room
An upstairs luxury room with a convertible king-size bed, Nespresso machine, Google Android TV and a small patio with river views.
Rhino Room
A spacious upstairs luxury room with a convertible king-size bed, Nespresso machine, Google Android TV and a large patio overlooking the river.
Please note: Children under 13 are not permitted in the five main lodge rooms.
Self-Catering Accommodation – Flexibility and Comfort
Our self-catering units are ideal for guests who prefer the freedom to prepare their own meals. Breakfast is not included but can be arranged in advance at an additional cost.
Mongoose Room
A flexible room with a king-size bed and a single bed, convertible to three twin beds. Includes a kitchenette, Google Android TV and a full bathroom.
Leopard Tortoise Cottage
A family-friendly cottage with two bedrooms, a queen-size bed and twin beds, an open-plan lounge and kitchen, a gas stove, a full bathroom and an outdoor thatched patio with an uncovered braai area. Includes Wi-Fi, Google Android TV, private parking and a separate entrance.
Jackal House
A spacious double-storey self-catering home featuring an open-plan lounge and dining area, a large kitchen with a gas stove, three bedrooms, two upstairs balconies, two bathrooms plus a guest toilet, an outdoor braai area, Wi-Fi, Google Android TV, private parking and its own entrance.
Kudu Studio
Kudu Studio features an open-plan lounge and kitchenette, offering a comfortable and relaxing space. The studio includes one comfortable king-size bed and a bathroom with a separate shower, bath, and toilet.
Guests can enjoy a small private yard and convenient on-site parking. The studio is approximately a two-minute walk along the riverfront to the main lodge, allowing easy access to the lodge’s facilities.
Zebra Studio
A comfortable self-catering unit with one open-plan bedroom lounge, kitchenette, full bathroom, approximately a two-minute walk along the riverfront to the main lodge.
Giraffe Suite
A self-catering room with a king-size bed convertible to twin beds, a kitchenette, Google Android TV and a full bathroom.
All self-catering units offer Wi-Fi. Breakfast can be ordered in advance at an additional cost.
Discover Addo Elephant National Park
A visit to the area would not be complete without exploring Addo Elephant National Park, one of South Africa's most celebrated wildlife destinations.
Join our two accredited nature site guides for a full-day guided game drive in an open game-viewing vehicle. With a guide who knows the park's roads and wildlife-viewing areas, you can relax and enjoy the experience while learning about the animals and their natural environment.
Look out for elephants, buffalo, lions, antelope and an incredible variety of birdlife. Our guided full-day experience includes the park entrance fee and a light packed lunch, with departure after breakfast and a return between approximately 4 pm and 6 pm.
We can also arrange game drives at Schotia Private Game Reserve, offering another exciting opportunity to discover African wildlife.
Game drives and other activities must be booked in advance. Prices and availability are confirmed when booking.
Exciting Activities and Local Attractions
Happy Jackal is ideally situated for guests who want to combine relaxation with adventure. Our team can help you arrange memorable experiences throughout the region.
Sundays River Boat Cruises
Discover the beautiful Sundays River on a relaxing boat cruise. Enjoy scenic views, explore the spectacular sand dunes and learn about the river's fascinating history and wildlife from your skipper.
Day cruises generally last two to two-and-a-half hours, while sunset cruises run for approximately three to three-and-a-half hours. The sunset cruise includes a dinner.
Sandboarding
Experience the thrill of sliding down the region's impressive Alexandria sand dunes. Sandboarding is a fun activity for adventurous visitors and a wonderful way to enjoy the area's unique landscape.
Beach Days and Fishing
Enjoy a relaxing day at the private beach at Pearson Park Resort. Stroll along the sandy shoreline, take a refreshing swim, enjoy a romantic walk, or try your luck at catching a big fish.
Please note: A day fee is payable at the entrance. Guests wishing to fish must bring a valid fishing licence.
Swimming Pool and Relaxation
Sometimes the best holiday activity is doing absolutely nothing. Relax beside our solar-heated swimming pool at the lapa, enjoy the peaceful surroundings or gather with family and friends around the outdoor braai.
Private Jetty and Birdwatching
Our private jetty offers a convenient spot for guests with boats, while the bird hide provides opportunities to observe the area's birdlife. With a little luck, you may even spot an otter along the river.
Activities are popular and should be booked in advance. Some experiences require direct payment to the activity operator.
Delicious Food and Warm Hospitality
At Happy Jackal, good food is part of the experience. Our main lodge guests enjoy breakfast included in their stay, while self-catering guests can order breakfast in advance for an additional fee.
Breakfast at Happy Jackal
Start your day with a delicious breakfast featuring fresh ingredients and a welcoming atmosphere. Guests often praise our home-baked bread, homemade jams, fresh fruit form our self grown trees and hearty cooked breakfasts.
Local Is Lekker! We also welcome non-accommodation guests for breakfast, with special offers available periodically.
Breakfast bookings are essential. Please contact us in advance to reserve your table.
- Breakfast: 7:00 am – 9:00 am
- Light lunch: Available by arrangement at an additional cost.
- Dinner: A set three-course menu is available at an additional cost.
- Braai and spitbraai: Available for tour groups by arrangement.
- Picnic baskets: Available by advance request for guests planning self-drive excursions into Addo Elephant National Park.
Please note that breakfast service ends at 9:00 am. Guests are also requested to observe the 10:00 am check-out time so our team can prepare the accommodation for incoming visitors.
Explore the Sundays River and Colchester
Happy Jackal is surrounded by natural attractions that make Colchester such a special destination. Explore the rolling dunes, enjoy river activities, discover beautiful stretches of beach and experience the peaceful scenery of the Eastern Cape.
Everything you need for a convenient stay is close by, including a SPAR supermarket, a bottle store, two local restaurants, and a fuel station.
Whether you are visiting for a wildlife safari, a relaxing family holiday, a romantic getaway or a group adventure, our team is ready to help you make the most of your time here.
Guest Experiences That Speak for Themselves
Our guests often describe Happy Jackal as a welcoming place where they feel at home. Visitors appreciate the comfortable rooms, delicious breakfasts and dinners, friendly staff, organised activities and the beautiful river setting.
From families enjoying boat trips and game drives to international visitors discovering Addo for the first time, we are proud to create experiences that guests remember long after they leave.
Your Home Away from Home
At Happy Jackal Guest House, we believe hospitality is about more than providing a place to sleep. It is about making people feel welcome, helping them discover the beauty of the region and creating special memories along the way.
Whether you are joining us for a safari, exploring the Sundays River, relaxing beside the pool or enjoying a delicious breakfast or dinner, we look forward to welcoming you with genuine South African hospitality.
