
East South Africa Birding Tour
East South Africa Birding Tour Overview – Explore the best birding in Eastern South Africa
South Africa is a world-class birding destination. Not only is it famous for its cultural diversity, but it also ranks as one of the world’s most biodiverse countries. In fact, South Africa is home to over 840 bird species — that’s nearly 8% of all bird species found worldwide!
On this expertly designed 13-day East South Africa birding tour, you will explore some of the country’s top birdwatching hotspots. The itinerary takes you through a variety of rich habitats, offering birders the chance to see a remarkable range of species.
First, you’ll visit the iconic Kruger National Park, known for its spectacular wildlife and exciting birding. Then, the lush forests of Magoebaskloof await, where forest specials and endemics can be spotted. After that, you’ll continue to northern KwaZulu-Natal, a region celebrated for its wetlands, grasslands, and rare bird species.
This tour is perfect for birdwatchers of all levels. Whether you’re chasing South African endemics or hoping to tick off a few lifers, this journey offers it all. Plus, you’ll enjoy expert local guides, comfortable accommodations, and breathtaking scenery along the way.
Let’s go birding in the east of South Africa!
| Safari starts in Johannesburg and ends in Mtunzini | Comfortable/ Mid-range Accommodation |
| Duration | 13 Days |
| Departure dates | 1 October 2026 **Also available to book as private guided tour |






Top Birds
Blue Korhaan, White-bellied Bustard, Southern Bald Ibis, Rudd’s Lark, Short-clawed and Botha’s Lark, Yellow-breasted Pipit, African Rock Pipit, Cape and Brown-headed Parrot, Knysna Turaco, Purple-crested Turaco, Spotted Thrush, Orange Ground Thrush, Gorgeous Bushshrike, Olive Bushshrike, Narina Trogon.
Top Mammals
African Elephant. African Buffalo, Lion, Leopard, White and Black Rhinoceros.
Highlights and Top attractions
• Kruger National Park – One of the planet’s top wildlife parks.
• Magoebaskloof – Stunning forest beauty and special birds.
• Mkuze – Very special park with the Big Five and over 500 bird species.
• Mtunzini – Beautiful coastal village with incredible nearby forests.






Summary of day to day Itinerary
| Day 1 | Start of tour in Johannesburg, birding in Polokwane and Magoebaskloof |
| Day 2 | Magoebaskloof |
| Day 3 | Magoebaskloof to Kruger National Park |
| Day 4-6 | Kruger National Park |
| Day 7 | Kruger National Park to Wakkerstroom |
| Day 8 | Wakkerstroom |
| Day 9 | Wakkerstroom to Mkuze Game Reserve |
| Day 10 | Mkuze Game Reserve |
| Day 11 | Mkuze Game Reserve to Mtunzini (Amatikulu Reserve) |
| Day 12 | Mtunzini (Ongoye and Dlinza forests) |
| Day 13 & 14 | Mtunzini to King Shaka Airport and Departure |