Our Choices of Fantastic Birding Areas in South Africa
South Africa has numerous nature reserves and game reserves, which are home to a diverse range of wildlife, including countless bird species. Many of them cater exclusively to avid bird-watchers, ensuring that their experience is as enjoyable as possible. Bird hides, pathways through their natural habitat, and skilled guides who can identify more elusive species and point them out are all possible in these fantastic birding areas in South Africa.
The variety of endemic and endangered bird species in South Africa attracts many avian enthusiasts. The indigenous species can be found throughout the country’s countryside and environments, including grasslands, mountains, and even barren deserts. We’ve put together a list of top birding areas in South Africa.
01. The Western Cape
Birding Areas in South Africa
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The Western Cape is one of the world’s top tourist attractions and is also a great place to go bird-watching. Because of the province’s natural beauty and wealth, it is home to a diverse range of wildlife and vegetation and is often considered one of the top birding areas in South Africa. The Orange-breasted Sunbird, Cape Siskin, Protea Seedeater, Cape Sugarbird, Cape Rockjumper, Knysna Warbler, and Hottentot Buttonquail are some of the endemic birds found here. The experience is rounded out by a plethora of birder-friendly lodging choices in Cape Town. The West Coast National Park is home to wading species from the Arctic breeding areas. Furthermore, Boulders Beach National Park in Simonstown has a fascinating African Penguin colony.
02. Mpumalanga
Birding Areas in South Africa
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The Lowveld, a low-lying tropical region dominated by the Kruger National Park and bordered by the Drakensberg escarpment, is located in Mpumalanga. This entire area is home to a diverse range of South African wildlife, including a plethora of unique bird species. Many raptor species may be found here, and seeing them in their natural habitat is always exciting. The Martial Eagle, Brown Snake Eagle, African Hawk-Eagle, Tawny Eagle, Walhberg’s Eagle, Steppe Eagle, and Lesser Spotted Eagle are among these species.
03. KwaZulu-Natal
Birding Areas in South Africa
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KwaZulu-Natal’s subtropical environment provides an ideal habitat for a variety of fascinating bird species. The lush vegetation and tropical abundance of the province’s northeast region are notably rich in beautiful bird species. The landscapes are home to a variety of birds, including the Knysna Turaco, Palm-nut Vulture, Neergaard’s Sunbird, Rudd’s Apalis, African Broadbill, Woodward’s Barbet, Delegorgue’s Pigeon, Livingstone’s Turacos, and the Southern Banded Snake Eagle. The Zululand Birding Route is centred on Eshowe, which is home to the Dlinza Forest. This woodland features a boardwalk that leads to the canopy, where visitors can see Delegorgue’s Pigeon, Grey Cuckooshrike, Crowned Eagle, and Spotted Ground Thrush.
