Best of Eastern South Africa birding tour
Guide: Rene Rossouw
Summary: This 14-day birding and photography tour, running from January 3rd to January 17th, 2025, showcased the natural beauty and biodiversity of South Africa. Starting in the picturesque town of Underberg and concluding in the lush landscapes of Magoebaskloof, the tour attracted guests from Malaysia and Taiwan eager to explore the region’s rich ecosystems.
Covering a journey of 3,902 kilometers, guests marveled at 346 bird species and 26 mammal species across a variety of habitats. Key destinations included the Sani Pass area, renowned for its montane birdlife; Eshowe and Mtunzini, with their subtropical forests and wetlands; St Lucia, a hub of coastal and estuarine biodiversity; and Mkuze, famous for its birding hotspots. The itinerary also featured Wakkerstroom, a highland grassland paradise; the iconic Kruger National Park, teeming with wildlife; and the verdant Magoebaskloof area, known for its scenic beauty and unique avian species.
Day 1: OR Tambo International Airport to Underberg
This morning began with the arrival of two guests on a very early flight from Singapore. After greeting them, we proceeded to collect the rest of the group from their overnight accommodation, where they had stayed following their arrival the previous day.
While waiting for everyone to assemble, the first birding opportunity of the tour presented itself right in the hotel parking lot. Despite the urban surroundings, the area was alive with activity, and we were able to kick off our birding list with a delightful array of species. Highlights included African Sacred Ibis, Southern Masked Weaver, Cape Robin-Chat, Red-faced Mousebirds, and, of course, the familiar yet ever-present House Sparrow.
This informal start to the day set the tone for the adventure ahead, with even the most unassuming locations proving rich in birding opportunities. It was an excellent warm-up for the exciting journey that awaited.
During our journey to Underberg, we took a brief rest stop that turned out to be a great birding highlight. The group was thrilled to encounter their first vividly colored bird of the trip, the striking Southern Red Bishop male. Excitement reached new heights when a Long-tailed Widowbird made a dramatic entrance, displaying its magnificent, flowing tail feathers in an elegant flight display—a truly unforgettable moment that drew shouts of joy from the group.
Adding to the morning’s growing bird list were sightings of Hadeda Ibis, and Blacksmith Lapwing.
Roadside birds included: Helmeted Guineafowl, Whiskered Tern, Western Cattle Egret, Pied Crow, Glossy Ibis, Pied Starling and African Palm Swift.
A quick stop just before the town of Underberg gave us great views of Drakensberg Prinia Red-throated Wryneck and Cape White-eye.
After a full day of traveling and exploration, we arrived at our overnight accommodation, ready to unwind and recharge. The group enjoyed a well-deserved dinner, savoring a hearty meal that provided the perfect end to a busy day.
Day 2: Sani Pass area
We had an early morning pick up by our local guides. While waiting we had great close-up views of Amethyst Sunbirds feeding on the nectar feeder in the garden. A Black-headed Oriole also posed in the open for fabulous photographic opportunities.
En route to our first stop at a nearby dam, we were fortunate to encounter a family of Blue Cranes beside the road—two elegant adults accompanied by their two youngsters, a heartwarming sight. Adding to the excitement, we spotted a Grey Crowned Crane and a Secretarybird in the distance, their graceful forms unmistakable even from afar.
The stop at the dam proved exceptionally productive, rewarding us with a variety of species. In the surrounding reeds, we recorded Dark-capped Yellow Warbler, Little Rush Warbler, and Common Reed Warbler. Overhead, a Diederik Cuckoo, White-rumped Swift, and Greater Striped Swallow delighted us with brief but exciting flybys. A White-breasted Cormorant also soared by, offering a fleeting yet majestic view.
The dam’s waters introduced us to our first ducks of the trip, including Yellow-billed Duck and Southern Pochard, while the ever-active Little Grebe, Common Moorhen, and Red-knobbed Coot added more activity to the scene.
As we continued a little further along the route, the distinctive call of a Red-chested Cuckoo caught our attention. We decided to stop, and luck was on our side as we were treated to a brief but rewarding sight of the bird in flight. During this stop, we also observed several other exciting species, including White-throated Swallow, Black Cuckoo, Greater Honeyguide (which is not common in the area), and Streaky-headed Seedeater.
When it was time for breakfast, we found a scenic spot to pause and enjoy our meal. Even while dining, the birding continued to impress. We connected with the following species: Willow Warbler, Cape Canary, alongside Cape Batis, African Paradise Flycatcher, Olive Thrush and Cape Weaver. The highlight, however, was a Black Saw-wing, perched conspicuously in a tree, offering us an exceptional view of its sleek form.
Further along we were delighted to find the following special target birds: Malachite Sunbird, Gurneys Sugarbird, Yellow Bishop, Wailing Cisticola, Horus Swift, Cape Rock Thrush, Buff-streaked Chat, Southern Double-collared Sunbird and Cape Grassbird.
Two of our key target species for the day were the elusive Ground Woodpecker and the striking Bush Blackcap. While the Ground Woodpeckers kept their distance, we were fortunate to spot three individuals, offering a rewarding glimpse of these specialized cliff-dwelling birds.
The Bush Blackcap, on the other hand, was far more cooperative. It perched openly, calling melodiously, providing exceptional views for the group. This confiding behavior delighted the photographers, who took full advantage of the opportunity to capture stunning shots of this sought-after species.
Our efforts were further rewarded with sightings of two magnificent raptors. A Long-crested Eagle was spotted perched majestically atop a dead tree; its striking crest silhouetted against the sky. Additionally, we observed a pair of Jackal Buzzards soaring gracefully overhead.
The farm dams provided us with sightings of two more duck species. We were able to observe large numbers of South African Shelducks, along with a few White-backed Ducks, adding further diversity to our list.
As we enjoyed a delicious lunch spread, thoughtfully prepared by our local guides, Stuart and Aldo, we were treated to a display of South African Cliff Swallows soaring above. During our meal, we also spotted Southern Bald Ibis and a Yellow-billed Kite.
Our next target was Wattled Crane. On the way we passed through grassland and had great views of Pale-crowned Cisticola, Zitting Cisticola and an African Marsh Harrier.
The Wattled Cranes remained somewhat distant, as they were keeping a close eye on their chick. Despite their shyness, we were incredibly fortunate to spot these remarkable and endangered birds, making the sighting all the more special.
We concluded our day of birding with two fantastic sightings: two Secretarybirds and then a pair of Grey Crowned Cranes were spotted unusually close, providing photographers with excellent opportunities to capture these majestic birds bathed in the soft, golden light of the afternoon.
Upon arriving at the lodge, I was immediately alerted to the distinctive call of a Purple-crested Turaco. This bird, likely an escapee due to its out-of-range presence, is the only one of its kind in town. The guests were delighted to have the rare opportunity to spot and photograph this stunning bird.
After a delightful dinner at a local hotel, we made our way back to the lodge, where we looked forward to a restful night’s sleep.
Day 3: Underberg to Eshowe
Today was primarily a travel day, with misty and rainy weather greeting us in the morning. Originally, we had planned to do some birding and then depart after breakfast, but instead, we decided to stay in the lodge garden, where we had excellent views of the Sunbirds at the feeder. Alongside the usual Amethyst Sunbirds, a vibrant Malachite Sunbird male joined the scene, adding a splash of color to the morning. It was a perfect way to start the day before continuing on our journey.
With heavy rain forecasted for Eshowe the following day, we decided to head straight to Dlinza Forest for some birding before checking in to our overnight accommodation. We stopped for lunch in the coastal town of Ballito, enjoying views of the ocean. As the clouds began to gather, we quickly wrapped up our meal and made our way out, eager to continue our birding adventure.
We arrived at Dlinza Forest in the midafternoon, where we met our local guide, Sahkamuzi, who had kindly offered to join us early. The area had just experienced a massive storm, and though the weather was still unsettled, we decided to explore the bird hide. There, we enjoyed fantastic views of a Lemon Dove. However, with lightning still in the area, it wasn’t safe to venture outdoors.
As I was dropping the guests off at the accommodation, I heard the distinct call of an African Emerald Cuckoo and was fortunate enough to locate the bird—an exciting way to wrap up the day. With smiles and content hearts, we enjoyed a delicious dinner at a local restaurant before heading to bed, ready for the busy day ahead.
Day 4: Eshowe and Mtunzini
This morning greeted us with heavy mist and rain. After discussing options with our local guide, we decided to head to Mtunzini first, hoping for slightly improved weather conditions there.
The previous night brought significant rainfall, and a light drizzle persisted into the morning. With the roads still very wet, we trekked on foot to our next birding spot in search of the elusive Black Coucal. Our efforts paid off when the bird perched in the open for a while before taking flight. Other notable sightings included the Blue-cheeked Bee-eater, Red-breasted Swallow, Common Quail, Rufous-winged Cisticola, and Yellow-throated Longclaw.
We proceeded to a nearby dam, where a Palmnut Vulture perched prominently on a palm tree directly ahead—an incredible sighting. The dam and its surroundings proved highly productive, adding several species to our list: African Pygmy Geese, White-backed Duck, African Swamphen, African Jacana, Fan-tailed Widowbird, Red-headed Quelea, Thick-billed Weaver, and Yellow Weaver.
Our next destination was Umlalazi Nature Reserve, with roadside sightings along the way including Rufous-naped Lark, African Pipit, and Three-banded Plover.
Upon arriving at the reserve, we spotted several excellent species right in the parking lot, including Violet-backed Starling, Burchell’s Coucal, and Black-backed Puffback. While exploring the reserve, we enjoyed a fantastic view of a Trumpeter Hornbill perched in a tree, preening. Additional sightings included Yellow-bellied Greenbul and Common Sandpiper.
The mangrove boardwalk provided further rewards with two striking sunbirds: Grey Sunbird and Purple-banded Sunbird. A highlight was watching a Goliath Heron take flight with what appeared to be an eel in its grasp, though it moved too quickly for a photo.
Our primary target in this area was the Green Barbet, a species found exclusively in South Africa’s Ongoye Forest, with an estimated population of 200–300 breeding pairs. As we drove into the forest, dense mist rolled in once again. Upon reaching the designated spot, we patiently waited until one of these elusive birds appeared, perching openly for several minutes—a truly rewarding sighting.
We dedicated the afternoon to exploring Dlinza Forest. Despite the rain intensifying, we were fortunate to spot a Spotted Ground Thrush along one of the trails. Afterward, we relaxed with a cup of coffee at the reception area and continued birding from the veranda.
To our surprise, the afternoon turned out to be exceptional. A male and female Narina Trogon flew in and landed in the open, offering excellent photo opportunities. We were also treated to sightings of Grey Cuckooshrike, Dark-backed Weaver, Trumpeter Hornbill, White-eared Barbet, and Black-bellied Starlings—a remarkable variety of species that made for an unforgettable birding session despite the weather.
Day 5: Eshowe to St Lucia
With slightly improved weather this morning, we took the opportunity for a quick birding session before heading to the coast. We enjoyed excellent views of Olive and Collared Sunbirds feeding on mistletoe. A Tambourine Dove made a brief flyby, and the Emerald Cuckoo’s call filled the air once more. We also had great sightings of Cardinal Woodpecker and Sombre Greenbul.
Just before leaving, we spotted a Black-collared Barbet entering a nesting cavity. Moments later, the head of a juvenile bird emerged. We took some time to watch as the adult fed the youngster before continuing on our way.
Our next destination was St Lucia, where we checked into our accommodation near the Gwalagwala Trail. In the lodge garden, a Red-capped Robin-Chat provided delightful entertainment and excellent photographic opportunities for the group. A walk along the trail rewarded us with fantastic views of a Brown Scrub Robin foraging on the path. A Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird made a brief appearance, while the Rudd’s Apalis called persistently but remained elusive. We also had a fleeting glimpse of a Green-backed Camaroptera.
After a quick lunch in town, we took a stroll along the estuary boardwalk and visited the Tern roost. As we drove through the village, we spotted a flock of Crested Guineafowl, one of our target species. At the boardwalk, the group was entertained by a Thick-billed Weaver building its nest and displaying to a female. The walk to the Tern roost proved quite productive, and we encountered several species, including Whimbrel, White-fronted Plover, Yellow-billed Kite, Grey-headed Gull, Swift Tern, Lesser-crested Tern, Sandwich Tern, Common Tern, and Grey Heron.
We concluded our afternoon birding with a walk through the coastal forest, where the group was excited to spot Green Malkoha, African Green Pigeon, and a stunning view of Livingstone’s Turaco in the open. Just before reaching the lodge, a Verreaux’s Eagle-Owl flew across the road in front of the vehicle. Fortunately, it perched nearby, allowing us to step out and enjoy an incredible sighting.
Day 6: St Lucia to Mkuze
This morning, we had a guided walk with our local guide, Ian, who led us through the village along the forest edge in search of more species and photographic opportunities. We added several species to our list, including Olive Sunbird, Yellow-breasted Apalis, Livingstone’s Turaco, and Purple-crested Turaco. A highlight was spotting the beautiful Woodward’s Batis, which had been high on our list. The walk concluded with a Caspian Tern flying overhead.
Our next stop was iSimangaliso Wetland Park, where we arrived after a significant amount of rainfall, leaving pans of water scattered throughout the area. The first bird we spotted upon entering the park was a stunning Brimstone Canary. Along the roadside, we observed Yellow-throated Longclaw, Neddicky, and Rattling Cisticola perched. A stop at one of the pans rewarded us with sightings of Rufous-bellied Heron, Greater Painted-snipe, White-backed Duck, African Jacana, Reed Cormorant, White-faced Whistling Duck, Little Grebe, and Spur-winged Goose.
The group was also excited to see their first mammals, these included Buffalo, Kudu and Zebra.
The following species were also seen: African Pipit, Blue-cheeked Bee-eater, Kittlitz’s Plover, Common Buzzard, Rufous-naped Lark and Hamerkop.
We left the Park to continue our journey to Mkuze.
Day 7: Mkuze Game Reserve
This morning, we made our way to the Mkuze Game Reserve, which is also part of the iSimangaliso Wetland Reserve.
We were greeted at the gate with the call of a Red-chested Cuckoo.
We stopped for breakfast at Emshopi Campsite, where we spent a considerable amount of time birding. During our visit, we connected with a variety of species, including Jacobin Cuckoo, Cape Turtle Dove, Mocking Cliff Chat, Little Swift, Southern Black Flycatcher, Violet-backed Starling, Cardinal Woodpecker, Helmeted Guineafowl, Purple-banded Sunbird, Orange-breasted Bushshrike, Kurrichane Thrush, Yellow-fronted Canary, Lesser Honeyguide, Spotted Flycatcher, and a juvenile Common Scimitarbill.
The first Lilac-breasted Roller of the trip sparked great excitement among the photographers, and flocks of Red-billed Quelea were visible. An open sighting of an African Cuckoo was also enjoyed. On the raptor front, we saw Tawny Eagle, Common Buzzard, Black-winged Kite, Bateleur, Brown Snake Eagle, Martial Eagle, Wahlberg’s Eagle, and a phenomenal eye-level sighting of a pair of Crowned Eagles.
A displaying Pin-tailed Whydah captivated the photographers with an impressive performance. Additional species added included Black-bellied Korhaan, Broad-billed Roller, Pale Flycatcher, Scarlet-chested Sunbird, Little Bee-eater, Woolly-necked Stork, Gorgeous Bushshrike, Emerald-spotted Wood Dove, Red-billed Oxpecker, and Crested Francolin.
The sighting of the day was a Dwarf Bittern that we flushed beside the road, though it hid in the bushes before the photographers could capture any photos.
The group enjoyed seeing new mammals including: White Rhinoceros, Giraffe, Waterbuck, Wildebeest, Zebra, Steenbok, Kudu and Njala.
We made our way back to our hotel and were rewarded with the most beautiful rainbow along the way.
Day 8: Mkuze to Wakkerstroom
We arrived in Wakkerstroom just in time for lunch at the local hotel. On our way to the lodge, we made a stop at the Wetland Reserve, a designated National Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Area.
Our first bird sighting was a stunning Purple Heron. We also observed Yellow-billed Duck, Southern Red Bishop, Cape Wagtail, African Stonechat, Red-knobbed Coot, Common Moorhen, Black-crowned Night Heron, Glossy Ibis, Lesser Striped Swallow, and Common Waxbill.
We added three species of warbler to our list: Lesser Swamp Warbler, Common Reed Warbler, and Little Rush Warbler.
The rest of the afternoon was dedicated to searching for key species in the high-altitude grasslands. On the drive up, we enjoyed excellent views of Mountain Wheatear, Buff-streaked Chat, and Cape Longclaw, along with a brief appearance of a Rufous-breasted Sparrowhawk.
We also spotted Blue Cranes and a distant Denham’s Bustard. The highlight of the afternoon was a Yellow-breasted Pipit. Sentinel Rock Thrush and Ant-eating Chats perched openly on the fence, while a Jackal Buzzard soared above. On our way back to the lodge, we also encountered Cape Grassbird.
Day 9: Wakkerstroom
After a heavy downpour the night before, we began our birding at the lodge while waiting for the road to dry. Sunbirds were busy feeding in the garden, and a White-throated Swallow was attending to chicks in the nest on the veranda. A Diederik Cuckoo was being chased by the Weavers it had targeted for parasitism.
Once the road had dried enough, we set out. Long-tailed Widowbirds were displaying along the roadside. We also spotted Black-headed Heron and Grey Crowned Crane. A flock of South African Cliff Swallows was gathering mud for their nests at a puddle in the road, providing fantastic photographic opportunities for the group.
The area had received so much rain that water was everywhere, with Whiskered Terns flying over the flooded pans. During our drive, we encountered several species, including Pale-crowned Cisticola, Zitting Cisticola, Levaillant’s Cisticola, Banded Marten, African and Plain-backed Pipit, Yellow-crowned Bishop, Spike-heeled Lark, Southern Masked Weaver, Red-billed Teal, African Spoonbill, Black-throated Canary, Cape Shoveler, African Marsh Harrier, and Cuckoo Finch.
Our final target for the day was the White-bellied Korhaan. These birds were quite skittish due to having a chick with them, but we were fortunate enough to catch a distant glimpse.
Thus, our day in Wakkerstroom ended on a high note.
Day 10: Wakkerstroom to Kruger National Park
After a delicious breakfast, we set out for a long drive. We arrived at a very wet Kruger Park, with another big storm approaching.
Lady luck was on our side for mammals this afternoon. Just 100 meters inside the gate, we spotted a Lioness stalking Impala. After observing her for a while, we continued our search for birds. The ever-present Rattling Cisticola greeted us with its call, and we also saw Red-crested Korhaan, Grey Go-away-bird, Magpie Shrike, White-backed Vulture, White-rumped Swift, and Laughing Dove.
We received word of a Leopard sighting and quickly headed in that direction. The group was thrilled to see this magnificent cat, though it remained partially hidden and made only a brief appearance before disappearing into the bush.
We headed to Berg-en-Dal Rest Camp and managed to see a few more species before the light faded. They were: Wahlberg’s Eagle, Kurrichane Thrush and Lesser-striped Swallow. By now it was raining again and we hoped for a break in the weather tomorrow.
Day 11: Kruger National Park
The rain persisted throughout the night, with a brief reprieve at dawn that allowed for a short walk within the camp. During the walk, the distinct call of an African Barred Owlet echoed through the area, but despite our efforts, the elusive bird remained out of sight. However, the morning proved fruitful for birding, as we recorded several notable species. These included the Sombre Greenbul, Water Thick-knee Black-headed Oriole. Additionally, we spotted Black-backed Puffback, Woodland Kingfisher. Other highlights included the Crested Barbet, Natal Spurfowl, Emerald-spotted Wood Dove, and Dark-capped Bulbul.
We went on an early drive before returning to camp for breakfast. With the rain resuming, vultures could be seen perched prominently along the roadside, offering photographers excellent opportunities to capture close-up views of White-backed and Hooded Vultures. Amid the drizzle, a thoroughly soaked Red-crested Korhaan emerged into a clearing, calling out and captivating the group. Additional sightings included Brown Snake Eagle, Lilac-breasted Roller, Cape Turtle Dove, Red-billed Oxpecker and Yellow-throated Longclaw. Despite the rain, the drive delivered an array of memorable bird encounters.
While crossing the strong flowing Matjulu River, we were treated to excellent sightings of several remarkable bird species. Among them were Saddle-billed Stork and Black Stork, both striking in their contrasting plumage. Numerous Little Egrets foraged along the water’s edge, accompanied by a Reed Cormorant perched nearby. There were also Blacksmith Lapwings and African Wattled Lapwings, Green-backed Heron, and a Burchell’s Starling.
During breakfast, we enjoyed watching Red-billed Buffalo Weavers busily constructing their intricate nests. At the water’s edge in front of the restaurant, we spotted a Lesser Moorhen—a delightful and unexpected find. Additionally, a flock of White-faced Whistling Ducks were also present.
We continued our journey northward to Skukuza Rest Camp, with the group buzzing with excitement at spotting the first hornbills of the trip. We enjoyed excellent views of both Southern Red-billed and Southern Yellow-billed Hornbills.
As we were still departing the camp, the distinctive call of an Eastern Nicator caught my attention. We quickly jumped out, scanning the tops of the tall trees, and after a brief search, I managed to locate this elusive bird. Adding to the excitement, a Bearded Woodpecker made a surprise appearance nearby.
Just outside the camp, we were treated to a spectacular sight as three Southern Ground Hornbills flew across the road, followed shortly by a sighting of an African Grey Hornbill. The drive proved incredibly productive, with additional highlights including Jacobin Cuckoo, Golden-breasted Bunting, and Eurasian Hobby. Along the water’s edge, we saw Great Egret and a Western Cattle Egret, while the trees and air were alive with the movements of a White-bellied Sunbird, Pied Kingfisher, and a majestic Bateleur. Other notable sightings included Chinspot Batis, Black-crowned Tchagra, a flock of Red-billed Queleas, and a Long-tailed Paradise Whydah gracefully gliding through the air.
After a brief stop at Afsaal picnic site for lunch, we were rewarded with more exceptional sightings. Among them were European Roller, Barn Swallow, Arrow-marked Babbler, and Black-chested Snake Eagle. A particularly unexpected highlight was the sighting of seven Yellow-billed Egrets, not common in Kruger National Park.
We also recorded sightings of a Little Grebe, White-winged Widowbird, Levaillant’s Cuckoo, and Long-billed Crombec. The highlight for photographers was a Southern Carmine Bee-eater perched prominently on a dead tree stump, offering an excellent opportunity for striking shots.
Upon arriving at Skukuza Rest Camp, it was time to check in. Some guests chose to embark on an optional night drive from the camp, which turned out to be an enjoyable and memorable experience.
Day 12: Kruger National Park
Early this morning, we took a walk within the camp, hoping to spot some owls. While the owls eluded us, we did observe several notable species, including the Dusky Indigobird, Black-collared Barbet, Bronze Mannikin, and Speckled Mousebird.
With plans to travel north to Satara, we set out to assess the road conditions, as some rivers were in flood. Unfortunately, the low-water bridges were impassable, forcing us to adjust our plans. We returned to Skukuza and enjoyed an early breakfast instead.
Due to inaccessible roads within the park, our route was altered. We exited Kruger National Park at Kruger Gate and traveled outside the park to re-enter through Orpen Gate. Along the way, we encountered several species, including the White-browed Scrub Robin, Yellow-fronted Canary, Red-backed Shrike, Crowned Hornbill, Brubru, and a pair of Black Cuckooshrikes, providing an excellent opportunity to observe the distinct differences between the male and female birds.
We returned to the park around noon and enjoyed a picnic lunch at Orpen Rest Camp. A Brown-headed Parrot called from a nearby tree, offering excellent photographic opportunities as it perched openly and low. We also spotted a Marico Sunbird, Chinspot Batis, and Burchell’s Starling.
The Orpen tar road looked stunning, with lush green grass and water-filled pans. These pans proved productive, yielding sightings of Black-winged Stilt, Red-billed Teal, and Knob-billed Duck. Other notable birds included the Marabou Stork, Woolly-necked Stork, Yellow-billed Kite, Brown-crowned Tchagra, and Purple Roller.
We also observed a Lesser Kestrel soaring above the grass and, a little further along, an African Goshawk perched on its nest. Magpie Shrikes provided fantastic photo opportunities with their long tails.
Upon arriving at Satara Rest Camp, the light was perfect for photography, and we found ourselves once again stuck in the parking lot photographing African Mourning Dove, Southern Yellow-billed Hornbill, Red-billed Hornbill, and Marico Sunbird.
After checking in and enjoying a delicious dinner, we retired for the evening, preparing for an early start the next day.
Day 13: Kruger National Park to Magoebaskloof.
After several cloudy and rainy days, this morning began with a breathtaking sunrise, the sky ablaze with vibrant orange clouds. To our luck, a Giraffe appeared, offering incredible photo opportunities.
We set out on a drive before returning to camp for breakfast, with the sunlight finally providing ideal conditions for photography. During the outing, we observed a variety of birds, including the Cinnamon-breasted Bunting, Red-faced Mousebird, Zitting Cisticola, Black-bellied Korhaan, Red-breasted Swallow, Wattled Starling, Great Spotted Cuckoo, and Grey Heron.
As we were driving, we spotted a bird flying low over the grass, and two of us simultaneously exclaimed, “That looks like a Bittern!” To our surprise, the bird landed briefly atop a bush right next to our vehicle before flying off. It turned out to be an unexpected sighting of a Dwarf Bittern.
The morning concluded with a fantastic view of a male Lion resting by the roadside, after which we headed back to camp for a well-deserved breakfast.
It was time to depart the park, and we made our way back toward Orpen Gate. Along the route, we spotted a Dusky Lark on the road, a not so common sighting for the area. We also had an excellent view of a Lesser Spotted Eagle perched nearby.
A Purple Roller feeding a juvenile provided great photo opportunities for the photographers. Our final sighting before leaving the park was a Common Ostrich, marking the perfect end to our visit.
We had lunch in Hoedspruit while watching Red-headed Weaver building nests in a tree outside the restaurant.
The drive to Magoebaskloof was smooth, and we arrived at our hotel in the late afternoon. After checking in, we gathered for a brief walk through the forest and the hotel grounds before dinner. The heat made the forest quite quiet, but we managed to spot a Chorister Robin-Chat.
The highlight of the day was a pair of Knysna Turacos feeding on a fruiting bush, a sight the group greatly appreciated. We also added Bar-throated Apalis, Southern Double-collared Sunbird and Spectacled Weaver to our list, and the day concluded with a Black Sparrowhawk soaring overhead.
Day 14: Magoebaskloof and surrounding areas
It came as no surprise when we woke to thick mist and rain on our last full day of the tour. Once again, we had to remain flexible with our plans.
We met our local guide, David, who suggested we head toward Polokwane, where the weather was more favorable. It turned out to be a great decision, as we had a fantastic morning of birding.
Our list expanded with some excellent sightings, including Crimson-breasted Shrike, Kalahari Scrub Robin, White-browed Sparrow-Weaver, Scaly-feathered Finch, Namaqua Dove, and Barred Wren-Warbler.
The group was thrilled to see a Shaft-tailed Whydah in flight, which provided some excellent photo opportunities.
Other notable birds included Burnt-necked Eremomela, Cape Penduline Tit, Sabota Lark, Acacia Pied Barbet, Chestnut-vented Tit-babbler, Marico Flycatcher, and Great Sparrow.
The Short-clawed Lark proved elusive, repeatedly flying to different bushes, but we finally managed to get great views of it.
We made our way back toward Magoebaskloof, only to be greeted by heavy rain. A quick coffee stop on the mountain pass provided the group with more excellent views of Knysna Turaco and African Olive Pigeon. We continued down to Tzaneen in search of Bat Hawk, which we found despite the pouring rain. With conditions worsening, we decided to slowly head back to our hotel, as birding was becoming nearly impossible.
As we approached the hotel entrance road, the rain eased slightly, and we stopped at a wetland area. Here, we enjoyed good views of a Yellow-crowned Bishop and a juvenile Olive Bushshrike. While attempting to locate the Barratt’s Warbler, which was calling loudly, we stumbled upon another warbler nearby. To our surprise, we had found a Garden Warbler, the perfect bird to end our tour on.
Dinner marked the perfect conclusion to an unforgettable journey, filled with camaraderie and shared memories. A highlight of the evening was indulging in traditional Taiwanese pineapple cake, a thoughtful treat brought by our guests to celebrate the occasion.
Day 15: Magoebaskloof to Johannesburg
After an early final breakfast, we headed to OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg. Some guests prepared to bboard flights home, while others continued their adventure with a few days of birding in Cape Town.
A heartfelt thank you goes to Nature Travel Birding for their seamless organization, ensuring every aspect of the tour ran effortlessly. Gratitude also extends to our local guides, whose in-depth knowledge and passion for the region enriched our experience, turning every moment into an opportunity to learn and connect with the local environment.