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Birding Routes Limpopo

The Limpopo Province, with its vast unexplored areas and diverse habitats, offers one of the most exciting birding destinations in southern Africa. Habitats range from vast tracts of montane grassland to afro-temperate forests, bushveld and wetlands.

The Eastern Escarpment (including Magoebaskloof) and the Soutpansberg mountain range create relief in the landscape which allows for the development of afro-temperate forests. The lowland rivers such as the Limpopo, Levubu and Letaba rivers form corridors for species normally associated with coastal forests. Nylsvley is one of the best known wetlands in South Africa and due to its importance for birds has been declared a RAMSAR site.

Many different kinds of woodland and bushveld types are found within the province hosting an incredible variety of birds. There are a number of species that are easier to find in the Limpopo Province than in the rest of the country. These include Short-clawed Lark, Shelley’s Francolin, Grey-headed Parrot, African Broadbill and Crested Guineafowl.

In addition to this, many Central and East African bird species reach their southern-most distribution here and thus will not be found anywhere else in the country. These include species such as Black-fronted Bushshrike, Arnot’s Chat, Blue-spotted Wood-Dove, Racket-tailed Roller, Senegal Coucal and Tropical Boubou.

The province has three National Parks and numerous provincial and municipal reserves within its borders. Kruger National Park, Mapungubwe and Marakele National Parks are visited by hundreds of birdwatchers every year. Provincial Nature Reserves and Municipal Reserves are important sites for bird conservation. For example, Blouberg Nature Reserve is home to one of the largest Cape Vulture breeding colonies in Southern Africa and Polokwane Nature Reserve has healthy populations of Short-clawed Lark.

Because Limpopo Province has tracts of relatively unexplored habitats as well as its more famous sites, intrepid birders are fortunate to have the opportunity to make exciting discoveries wherever they venture.

This is an ideal destination for both the beginner and the experienced birder. The abundance of birds will always make a short trip to the region well worthwhile. The area boasts 35 Southern African endemics and 48 Southern African near endemics. Over 600 bird species have been recorded in the province, of which 420 are resident. The area offers pleasant and easy bird watching.

The Greater Limpopo Birding Route grew out of the original ‘Soutpansberg-Limpopo Birding Route’. It now consists of four sub-routes:

Capricon-Letaba Birding Route

The Capricorn-Letaba birding route stretches from Polokwane in the west to the Great Letaba River beyond the Letsitele valley in the east. The route runs just a few degrees south of the Tropic of Capricorn, mainly along the R71 road which links the towns of Polokwane, Haenertsburg, Tzaneen and Gravelotte.

An interesting geographical feature of this route is its varying altitude. Polokwane lies on a plateau at approximately 1300 masl, further east lies the escarpment of the Northern Drakensberg and Wolkberg mountain ranges where the altitude reaches 2300masl. The route then drops down into the lowveld where the altitude is approximately 480masl at the Letaba River. These extreme variations in altitude result in a great range of vegetation types within a relatively small area. It is within these diverse habitats that over 500 bird species are to be found.

The open thornveld habitat of the Polokwane plateau supports a great variety of both Bushveld and Kalahari-type birds. Typical species here include Crimson-breasted Shrike, African Wren-Warbler, Short-clawed Lark and Black-faced Waxbill.

Just before reaching the foothills of the Drakensberg and Wolkberg Mountains, one passes through the outcrop strewn Mamabolo Bushveld. These granite inselbergs hold many rock-dwelling species including the northern-most population of Southern Bald Ibis.

In the Northern Drakensberg and Wolkberg sections of the route, birders enjoy vast tracts of montane grassland, which is Blue Swallow territory and houses other sought after species such as Broad-tailed Warbler, Croaking Cisticola and Drakensberg Prinia.

The afro-montane forests of Woodbush and Magoebaskloof offer amongst the best forest birding in the country with specials like Brown Scrub-Robin, Black-fronted Bush Shrike, Barratt’s Warbler, Yellow-streaked Greenbul, and Orange Ground Thrush. While the eastern lower slopes and valleys of Magoebaskloof provide reliable sites for the elusive Bat Hawk and Green Twinspot.

The Tzaneen area is well known for its sub-tropical fruit industry and the interesting mix of lowland habitats here support a wide range of species including Gorgeous Bush-Shrike, White-browed Robin-chat and Purple-crested Turaco.

The Lowveld region around Letsitele and along the Letaba River has habitats including Mopani Woodland where Arnot’s Chat is resident. There are many lowveld rivers with their associated riparion forest habitats where the likes of Greater Blue-eared Starling, Red-billed Buffalo-Weaver, Retz’s Helmet-Shrike and Thick-billed Cuckoo can be found.

This is also one of the prime raptor areas in the region.

We have divided the Capricorn-Letaba Birding Route into four different birding areas (Northern Escarpment, Polokwane, The Lowveld, Tzaneen). Each birding area has its own unique character and set of special bird species. Within each area there is also a variety of accommodation options and birding sites to visit.

Northern Escarpment

This is the route’s mountainous area and is made up by the Wolkberg and Northern Drakensberg mountain ranges, where the altitude reaches 2300 masl. The high annual rainfall of the area results in lush afromontane forest and rolling montane grassland habitats. Unfortunately most of the grasslands have been lost to commercial forestation, but patches of this unique habitat and its diverse inhabitants still occur around Haenertsburg and in the Wolkberg Wilderness Area.

These grasslands support a small population of Blue Swallow, as well as, Gurney’s Sugarbirds, Malachite Sunbirds, Broad-tailed Warbler, Redwinged Francolin and Striped Flufftail. The afromontane forests are amongst the most extensive and beautiful in the country, with the Woodbush, Grootbosch, Swartbosch and Black Forest forming an interconnected band of pristine habitat along the eastern and southern slopes of the escarpment.

In these forests, look out for specials like Cape Parrot, Black-fronted Bush-Shrike, Yellow-streaked Greenbul and African Crowned Eagle.

The Valley covers nearly 100 ha of forest and includes the world-famous Cheerio Gardens with their Azaleas, flowering cherries and crab apples. Interestingly, these exotic gardens attract a remarkable array of forest and mountain birds, and a walk along the well laid out paths may provide sightings of Lemon Dove, White-Starred Robin, Barratt’s Warbler, Orange Ground-Thrush and Green Twinspot. There have even been a few sightings of Bush Blackcap here.

Trails lead through a section of indigenous forest in which the elusive Narina Trogon is regularly spotted. Numerous small dams on the property attract the likes of Half-collared Kingfisher, African Black and White-backed Duck, Purple Heron, and the resident Cape Clawless Otters.

Other activities include trout-fishing, mountain biking and hiking. There are picnic sites and a beautiful tea garden that serves light meals.
Contact

Please contact +27 (0)83 417 1341 for more information.

This spectacular waterfall is a popular picnic site for locals and visitors to the area. Grey Wagtail has often been sighted here. Even if this special is not there, it is worth visiting the Debengeni Falls to see Mountain Wagtail and other forest birds.

After turning off onto the dirt road from the R71, keep a look-out for Red-backed Mannikin, African Firefinch and Swee Waxbill on the road verges.

After about 100m you will cross a small stream; when the water levels are high this is a good spot for Half-collared Kingfisher and African finfoot. On the 3km drive up to the falls look out for Tambourine and Lemon Dove, Chorister Robin-Chat, Blue-mantled Crested-Flycatcher and Yellow-streaked Greenbul in the forests. Rufous-chested Sparrowhawk breed in the vicinity of the falls and Buff-spotted Flufftail and Scaly-trhoatd Honeyguide are often heard calling in the area.

There is picnic facilities and short walking trails along the river. A note of caution: below the falls, the large smooth rock surfaces can be dangerous to walk on, particularly when they are wet.
Directions

If travelling in an easterly direction on the R71, the turnoff to the falls and the Woodbush forest drive is on the left, 12km from the Magoebaskloof Hotel. The entrance point to the falls is a further 3km up the dirt road.

Additional Information

There is an entrance fee in the region of R10 per person.

This spectacular 30km dirt road between Houtbosdorp and Mooketsi drops down over the escarpment through bushveld and riverine habitats. On this road, you will descend about 1000 metres and be treated to fantastic views and an interesting mix of habitats. Verraux’s, Crowned and Long-crested Eagle, Lanner Falcon as well as Horus, Alpine and African Black Swift are often sighted soaring over the valley. The exposed granite boulders along the slopes near the top of the route are home to Cape Rock Thrush, Mocking Cliff Chat, Olive Bush-Shrike, Shelley’s Francolin and Lazy Cisticola. The lower end of the pass has more riverine and tropical bushcveld areas in which African Green-Pigeon, Orange-breasted Bush-Shrike, Purple-crested Turaco, Green-capped Eremomela and White-throated Robin-Chat can be seen. Look out for African Fish Eagle, Great Egret, Purple Heron and various Indigobird and Firefinch species around the farm dams near the bottom of the route.

Directions

From Polokwane follow the R71 and after approximately 20kms, take the slipway to the left at the first traffic light to the University of Limpopo. Continue on this road past Mankweng and then past the University for 27km’s until the tar road ends. Start birding here: follow the dirt road down the escapment to Mooketsi.

If travelling from Polokwane on the R81, 19km after Munnik you will reach Mooketsi, continue past the filling station and shop towards Duiwelskloof/Modjadjiskloof and immediately after the crossing the bridge, turn right to Hotbosdorp on the Kudu’s Valley dirt road. If you are coming from the Duiwelskloof/Modjadjiskloof direction then you will turn left to Houtbosdorp, just before Mooketsi and the bridge.

This scenic trail starts in the village of Haenertsburg and winds through 200 ha of protected afro-montane grasslands with forest patches situated above the village.

The whole trail is 10km but various parts of the trail can be done separately depnding on your fitness level and enthusiasm. It is one of the most easily-accessible pieces of this rare habitat left in the area. Blue Swallows have been encountered here in the past. On the grasslands, you may find Wailing-, Lazy-, Croaking-, Cloud- and Wing-snapping Cisticola. Grass Owl, White-necked Raven, Red-winged Francolin, Yellow Bishop, Dark-capped Yellow and Broad-tailed Warbler and Drakensberg Prinia are present as well as Cape Grassbird. Jackal Buzzard and Long-crested Eagle often hunt over the grassland. The patches of forest have Olive Bush-0Shrike, African Olive-Pigeon, Cape Batis, Terrestrial Brownbul, Yellow-streaked Greenbul and Forest Canary in them.

The trail starts at the Haenertsburg Village Hall (in the main road) –follow the yellow markers or the map that is available at The Elms restaurant (Tel: +27 (0)15 276 4712). For the less energetic, a drive up to the village cemetery (surely the most scenic in the country) will take you into the centre of the grassland. Ask at the Tourism office or any of the businesses in the village how to get there. While in the village, visit the Termite House which displays grassland habitats and acts as an environmental education centre.

Contact: +27 (0)83 746 2239

This 14km dirt road is the best forest birding area in the Limpopo Province, if not the country. The Woodbush Forest Drive winds through pristine afro-montane forests, down into semi-decidious mixed forest along the lower sections of the drive. Cape Parrot, Black-fronted Bush-Shrike, Orange Ground-Thrush, Brown Scrub-Robin, Grey Cuckooshrike, Yellow-streaked Greenbul and Blue-mantled Crested-Flycatcher are simply a few of the specials to be seen on this road. Also look out for African Cuckoo Hawk, Crowned Eagle and African Goshawk. Towards the bottom of the Forest Drive, where the telephone lines cross the road, look out for Eastern Bronze-naped Pigeon, which has been sigted there on a few occasions.

The beautiful Debengeni Waterfalls are also accessible from this road – (see Debengeni Falls). A high-clearance vehicle is recommended and a 4-wheel drive vehicle would be need in wet weather.

Directions

To reach Woodbush Forest Drive, take the R71 from Polokwane past Haenertburg. About 2km past the Magoebaskloof Hotel, turn to the left onto the gravel road to Hotbosdrop/Woodbush. After 2.5km take the right fork to the Woobush Forest Reserve, which passes through stone gateposts. 200 metres after passing the hiker’s huts (2.1km past the previous junction), turn right onto the Woodbush Forest Drive. This road can be birded for about 13km. There are two forks along this road: at the first, stay left and at the second, take the right fork.

Additional Information

There is an entrance fee in the region of R10 per person.

Polokwane

This is the most westerly region of the Capricon-Letaba Birding Route that extends from Polokwane to the Wolkberg and Northern Drakensberg mountain Ranges. The area has an average altitude of 1300 masl and is the driest area of the birding route.

The habitat is characterised by open savannah with scattered Acacia and broadleaved trees and includes the Polokwane Plateau Bushveld and Mamabolo Bushveld vegetation types. Granite outcrops and riverine thickets provide diversity in the vegetation and bird species in this area.

The unique bird species to look out for, amongst almost 350 species in this area, include Short-clawed Lark, Northern Black Korhaan, Kalahari Scrub-Robin and Black-cheeked Waxbill. The dams and associated wetlands here, attract a wide variety of waterfowl and shore birds and regularly produce rarities like Pectoral Sandpiper or Western Marsh-Harrier.

This small bird sanctuary, which consists of three large settling dams, dense reed beds and tall riverine thickets, is always likely to produce an interesting birding surprise or two.

Apart from a good variety of waterfowl, waders and railids, the Acacia thickets are veruy productive and accommodate Grey-backed Camaroptera, Yellow-bellied Greenbul, Terrestrial Brownbul, Yellow-breasted Apalis and many warbler species in the summer months, including Common Whitethroat and Olive-tree; Icterine; Garden; Great Reed Warblers and Eurasion Marsh Warblers. The sahllow ponds on the eatern side of the sanctuary attract a host of waders during middle to late summer with Wood; Marsh; Common and Curlew Sandpipers, Greenshank, Ruff and Little String. Look out for skulking African Snipe and Greater Painted-Snipe. There is a resident pair of African Fish Eagle along with other interesting raptors including Ovambo Sparrowhawk, African Goshawk and African Harrier-Hawk.

No overnight accommodation is available here, but facilities such as lapas, picnic/braai* sites, bird viewing hides and walking trails make this reserve more than worthwhile for a day visit.

Directions

The sanctuary is situated just outside town on the R521 (to Dendron). The turn-off is on the right-hand side just after crossing the Sand River, and is diagonally across from a filling station.

Additional Information

Entry Fee: R12 per person; R15 per vehicle.

Opening Times: 07H00 – 17H00.

Contact

Tel: +27 (0)15 290 2331 (office hours only)
Fax: +27 (0)15 290 2333

Although this reserve is best known as the most reliable site for the isolated eastern population of the Short-clawed Lark, it also provides excellent bushveld, thornveld and grassveld birding.

The extensive road network, walking trails and bird hides expose the visitor to a variety of habitats which hold over 300 bird species.

Localized species found here include:

  • Northern Black Korhaan,
  • Shelley’s Francolin,
  • Double-banded Courser,
  • Burchell’s Sandgrouse,
  • Bushveld Pipit,
  • Great Sparrow,
  • Chestnut-vented Tit-Babbler,
  • African Wren-Warbler and
  • Tinkling Cisticola.

Raptors are also well represented here with:

  • African Hawk-Eagle,
  • Black-chested Snake-Eagle,
  • Secretarybird,
  • Wahlberg’s Eagle,
  • Greater Kestrel and
  • Gabar Goshawk.

All of which breed in the reserve.

The Short-clawed Lark is best found where the main loop cuts through areas of short grassland with scattered shrubs. Listen for its high-pitched whistle and scan the tops of the broad-leaved Gymposporia shrubs and Acacia trees.

Directions

From the N1 south of Polokwane, turn onto the Tzaneen bypass road (R71/R81). Turn right onto the Silicon Road at the second intersection and travel for another 800m. The reserve entrance is on the right.

From Polokwane itself, travel along Dorp Street in a southerly direction, passing the sports stadium and golf course until the road becomes Silicon Road.

Additional Information

At the reserve’s entrance gate there is a neat camping ground, caravan park and comfortable chalet accommodation. A self-catering guest house is also situated within the reserve.

Opening Times: 07H00 – 16H30

Contact

Tel: +27(0)15 290-2331 (office hours only)
Fax: +27(0)15 290-2333

The Thabapashwa Hiking and Mountain Bike Trails lie in a unique mountain range between Polokwane and Mokopane. The 2000ha farm is dominated by huge granite outcrops and provides a range of habitats. There is a combination of thornveld and broadleafed woodland as well as riverine areas along a couple of small streams that run through the farm.

The unusual habitat has provided for interesting sightings. The rocky outcrops and mountains are home to two pairs of Verraux’s Eagle, Lanner and Peregrine Falcon, Rock Kestrel and Cape Eagle Owl. Shelly’s Francolin, Striped Pipit, Cape Rock Thrush and Mountain Chat are also seen in the rocky areas of the farm. Other specials include Ovambo Sparrowhawk, Secretarybird, White bellied Korhaan and Freckled Nightjar.

The accommodation on the farm is varied and complements the beautiful scenery by being built into and around the big boulders. The Dome Rock Camp can accommodate 26 in 5 huts each with its own boma and wash-up area.

This provincial nature reserve was originally proclaimed in order to protect the Turfloop Dam an its associated wetland habitats. It has now also become a protected breeding site for the northernmost population of the Southern Bald Ibis. It falls within the Mamabolo vegetation-type and has many granite outcrops which are typical of this habitat. The dam itself has fluctuating water levels depending on local rainfall, so conditions change seasonally. The dam has an open shoreline with some exposed mudflats in the summer, a feature which has probably led to this site having provided the odd vagrat wader, with species such as Ruddy Turnstone, Pectoral, Green, Broad-billed and Terek Sandpiper having been seen here over the pas few years. The more common wetland species to be found here include Great-crested Grebe, Southern Pochard, Fulvous Duck, Hottentot Teal, Cape Shoveler and Maccoa Duck. The rocky island in the dam is an important breeding site for White-breasted Cormorant, Black-headed Heron, African Sacred Ibis, Yellow-billed Egret and African Spoonbill.

Directions

To get to this reserve take the R71 out of Polokwane and travel for just over 20km. At this point turn left at the traffic lights towards the University of Limpopo. Travel for 7.3km and look for an obscure turn-off to the right opposite two general dealer stores. Travel down this gravel road, passing several houses on the left until reaching the nature reserve fence. Turn left here; the entrance gate is a few hundred metres further on. Once through the gate, keep to the left track to the dam. From the east, the turn-off is 15.4km from the Woodbush/Magoebaskloof T-junction.

Additional Information

Entry Fee: R10 per person and R20 per vehicle.

Opening Times: 07H00 – 17H00.

Contact

Tel: +27 (0)15 276-1131

The Lowveld

This is the most easternly section of the Capricon-Letaba Birding Route with an altitude of less than 650masl. In this area, with its Mopani woodland and sour bushveld, there is a host of birds not found anywhere else on the route. Special birds like Arnot’s Chat, White-breasted Cuckooshrike, Thick-billed Cuckoo and Stierling’s Wren-Warbler can be found here.

More common species like Greater Blue-eared Starling, Woodland Kingfisher and White-crested Helmet Shrike will also only be found in this area of the Capricon-Letaba Birding Route. The Proximity to the larger conservation areas of the lowveld also makes this area good for the larger birds like raptors and storks. White-headed and Hooded Vulture and Bateleur Eagle are examples of the birds that you should continuously be scanning the sky for. The riverine areas along the Letaba River act as a conduit, drawing birds like White-backed Night-Heron, Saddle-billed Stork and African Openbill Stork into the area.

This provincial nature reserve, which includes the Eiland Holiday Resort, has many of the lowveld’s best qualities including fine tracts of Mopane and red bush-willow woodland, riverine forest, saline patches and doleritic ridges. A stretch of 10 km of the great Letaba River forms the northern boundary of the reserve.

The special here is Arnot’s Chat, which is best looked for in the mature Mopane woodland along the tourist drive in the main portion of the reserve. Other lowveld birds of interest in the reserve include Greater Blue-eared Starling, Red and Southern Yellow-billed Hornbills, Red-billed Buffalo-Weaver, Bennett’s Woodpecker, Southern White-crowned Shrike and Siterling’s Wren-Warbler. The trails that runs along the river is good for Retz’s Helmet Shrike, Thick-billed Cuckoo (summer), Brown-headed Parrot, Yellow-throated Petronia and Red-headed Weaver.

There is good camping and chalet accommodation at the Eiland Holiday Resort and a rustic trail camp within the reserve itself.

Contact
Website: www.coachhouse.co.za
Please contact +27 (0)83 417 1341 for more information.

This reserve on the escarpment of the Drakensberg, between Tzaneen and the Able Erasmus pass, has spectacular forest and rolling grasslands. There are historical records of Blue Swallows in the grassland, and this is a good site to see Black Saw-wing Swallow and other montane grassland species like Wing-snapping; Croaking and Wailing Cisticola, Denham’s Bustard, Cape Rock-Thrush, Buff-Streaked Chat, Broad-tailed Warbler and Malachite Sunbird. The forested gorges hold Cape Parrot, Red-capped Robin-Chat, White-starred Robin, African Emerald Cuckoo and Yellow-throated Woodland-Warbler to mention a few. The Reserve has various cottages that can be rented and there is also a camp site.

Contact

Tel: +27 (0)15 345 1693

This 45km route descends the Drakenberg Mountains following the Magabane river starting at Mafefe about 60km south of Polokwane and ends at Ofcolaco after travelling through the Lekgalameetse Nature Reserve. The road is a 4×4 track for about 15km that takes you through riverine habitat offering a variety of bushveld birds, as well as Cape Vulture, Verraux’s Eagle and Rock Kestrel. It then becomes a tar road that leads through the Grasslands of the Downs, in the Lekgalameetse Nature Reserve, look out for Cloud, Wing-snapping and Croaking Cisticola as well as Gurney’s Sugarbirds, and Malachite Sunbirds. As you head down the escarpment you will travel through forests that hold Cape Parrot, White-starred Robin and Orange Ground Thrush. Once in the lowveld look out for bushveld birds like Gre-headed Bush-Shrike, Emerald-spotted Wood-Dove and White-browed Scrub-Robin. The route takes a full day to compete if birded slowly and an entrance fee is required to be paid at the Lekgalameetse Nature Reserve.

Directions

From Polokwane take the R37 south, after about 67km turn left to Mafefe. Once in the village of Mafefe, after about 40km, follow the road straight and follow the river, this will take you onto the Orie Baragwanath pass. A high clearance vehicle is needed and enquire about the road conditions after heavy rain.

Guides can be contacted through the booking office number:

Cell: +27 (0)83 294 1013

This is a well-situated refreshing roadside stop along the R71 between Tzaneen and Phalaborwa as it is situated right on the banks of the Letaba River under shady trees. It has a pub and restaurant which serves breakfasts and light meals. The river and riverine vegetation support Goliath and Purple Heron, Little Egret, Thick-billed Weaver, African Jacana and Red-faced Cisticola while the tropical gardens hold White-browed and Red-capped Robin-Chat, Woodland Kingfisher, Purple Indigobird and Red-backed Mannikin.

Directions

The turn-off to The Junction is at the Letsitele filling station, on the right just before crossing the river 30km from Tzaneen. Follow the signs from there.

Contact

Tel: +27 (0)15 345 1693

Tzaneen

This area encompasses the lower reaches of the Wolkberg and Northern Drakensberg mountain ranges and the hot sub-tropical regions around the Tzaneen Dam. The altitude in this area ranges from 900masl to about 650masl, with the habitat changing from afromontane to semi-deciduous forest and lush tropical vegetation. Various rivers that originate in the escarpment flow into the Tzaneen dam, the largest body of water on the route, with the Letaba River being the most dominant and flowing out of the dam through the area.

This area is alive with birds; watch out for Purple-crested Turaco, African Green Pigeon, White-browed Robin-Chat, Broadbilled Roller and Half-collared Kingfisher. This area also has the highest concentration of confirmed Bat Hawk breeding sites in the country, with four nests. In this transition zone, between the afromontane and the true lowveld bushveld, birders have a chance of finding all sorts of surprise birds. Historical recordings of Blue-throated Sunbird and Blue-spotted Wood Dove exist for this area.

This provincial nature reserve, which includes the Eiland Holiday Resort, has many of the lowveld’s best qualities including fine tracts of Mopane and red bush-willow woodland, riverine forest, saline patches and doleritic ridges. A stretch of 10 km of the great Letaba River forms the northern boundary of the reserve.

The special here is Arnot’s Chat, which is best looked for in the mature Mopane woodland along the tourist drive in the main portion of the reserve. Other lowveld birds of interest in the reserve include Greater Blue-eared Starling, Red and Southern Yellow-billed Hornbills, Red-billed Buffalo-Weaver, Bennett’s Woodpecker, Southern White-crowned Shrike and Siterling’s Wren-Warbler. The trails that runs along the river is good for Retz’s Helmet Shrike, Thick-billed Cuckoo (summer), Brown-headed Parrot, Yellow-throated Petronia and Red-headed Weaver.

There is good camping and chalet accommodation at the Eiland Holiday Resort and a rustic trail camp within the reserve itself.

Contact
Website: www.coachhouse.co.za
Please contact +27 (0)83 417 1341 for more information.

Kings Walden is renowned for its beautiful Victorian gardens set on the edge of the escarpment with stunning views out over the Lowveld. This is an enchanting guest house to stay at or simply to spend time in the gardens. Sitated on the Agatha escarpment above Tzaneen, this property attract a mix of subtropical and montane bird species.

A trail through a patch of indigenous forest has Yellow-streaked Greenbul, Blue-mantled Crested-Flycatcher, Purple-crested Turaco, Collared Sunbird as well as White-browed and Red-capped Robin-Chat. The extensive gardens host African Firefinch, Greater and Southern Double-collared sunbird, Cape Batis, Black Cuckooshrike and Tambourine Dove. A patent scan over the escarpment’s edge can produce sightings of soaring raptors like Cape and White-backed vulture, African Harrier-Hawk and several eagle species.

The lodge is close to a Bat Hawk nesting site and the beautiful Rooikat Trail. Ask for directions at the lodge reception.

There are 5 en-suite rooms and full catering can be arrange with Tana and David Hilton-Barber. Each room has a fireplace and TV. The gardens are open to the public and tea and scones are served on the terraces. Picnics can be ordered by prior arrangement.

Contact
Website: www.kingswalden.co.za
For more information, phone +27 (0)83 417 1341

Kruger to Canyons Birding Route

The majority of birders actively plan birding trips to areas where they can either see a large quantity of birds in a short space of time or mega rarities that would not easily be seen elsewhere. The Kruger to Canyons Birding Route offers both these highlights and a captivating wildlife experience to visiting birders.

Contained within the Kruger to Canyons Birding Route are 10 Provincial nature reserves, the world’s largest collection of privately owned nature reserves and the world famous Kruger National Park. The route includes three vegetative biomes namely Montane Grassland, Afro-montane Forest, Savanna and a fascinating vegetation unit of Northern Escarpment Afromontane Fynbos with strong links to that of the Fynbos Biome which is restricted to the Western Cape.

This diverse range of habitats provides home to a total of 76 bird families and a staggering 510 species of which 8 are endemic to the region. The Lowveld is a raptor watchers dream destination with approximately 85% of South Africa’s raptors being concentrated in this region. The fantastic road infrastructure and a well established tourism industry, offering accommodation in unparalleled surroundings, provides birders with an excellent platform from which to explore the area.

The route starts at Graskop and the top of the Blyde River Canyon from where it meanders along the course of the panoramic Canyon before plunging down through the Abel Erasmus Pass, the only known breeding site of the rare Taita Falcon in South Africa, and into the Lowveld. The drop in altitude from 1730 to 250 meters above sea level gives rise to a multitude of breathtaking views of a Tufa waterfall, wooded valleys and the expanse of open savanna below.

Once down in the Lowveld the route reaches the town of Hoedspruit where a number of different birding opportunities are presented. The Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve, which includes the Swadini Dam, offers a wide variety of typical bushveld bird species and also includes African Finfoot, White-backed Night Heron and Green Twinspot.

Mariepskop, which is one of the best kept birding secrets in South Africa, is largely dominated by Afro-montane Forest, but also includes a piece of Northern Escarpment Afromontane Fynbos habitat at the summit. Exploring both habitats assures a treasured day’s birding with species such as Orange Ground Thrush, Black-fronted Bush-shrike, Red-necked Spurfowl and Gurney’s Sugarbird.

Alternatively one can continue on to the town of Phalaborwa, which as well as offering a diverse range of bushveld birding, has a number of wetlands which is uncharacteristic of the area. The region offers some fantastic bird species such as White-crowned Lapwing, Pel’s Fishing Owl and Saddle-billed Stork. Phalaborwa is also a gateway to the central section of the Kruger National Park which has been rated as one of the top birding destinations in Southern Africa with a species list exceeding 500 species.

The rest camps of Mopani, Letaba, Olifants and Satara with their fantastic mixture of bushveld and riparian habitat birding anchor the Kruger to Canyons Birding Route. Look out for species such as African Barred Owlet, Southern Ground Hornbill, Collared Pratincole and Yellow-billed Oxpecker.

The Kruger to Canyons Birding Route offers an amazing and diverse number of species within three different biomes supported by well-maintained infrastructure and world-class accommodation options catering specifically for birders.

Abel Erasmus Pass

The California Tribal area is not really a bird site but is one of the most reliable places at which to encounter Southern Bald Ibis on the route. As you drive through the Abel Erasmus Pass you will come up to a large flat area just before you descend down towards Tswenyane and the Strydom Tunnel. Scan the overgrazed grasslands on either side of the road and you will often pick up a flock of Southern Bald Ibis. The area is also good for raptors and one can often see Cape Vultures in the mid morning as they start foraging from the nearby Cape Vulture Colony at Manoutsa.

 

Directions

The California Tribal area is situated about 5 km before the Strydom Tunnel on the R527 between Hoedspruit and Orighstad. Traveling from Orighstad drive up and through the Abel Erasmus pass and down towards the Strydom Tunnel. California is the large township area juts before the village of Tswenyane.

The R527 road which meanders through the Abel Erasmus Pass and the Strydom Tunnel offers some of the best raptor birding on the route. Sheer cliffs hem the road in and provide roosting sites for a number of different species whilst thickly wooded valleys offer a different habitat type supporting a wide range of species. A number of lay byes near the pass offer an opportunity to scan the cliffs and forests. Species to look out for include the extremely rare Taita Falcon, Verreuxs Eagle, Verreuxs Eagle Owl, Cape Eagle Owl, Cape Vulture African Harrier Hawk, European Honey Buzzard, Wahlberg’s Eagle, Lanner and Peregrine Falcon. Whilst the emphasis is on raptor viewing there are a number of other species including Rock Martin, Cinnamon-breasted Bunting, Cape Rock Thrush, Mocking Cliff-chat and Striped Pipit which can be seen.

Contact

Michael Kumako, a community bird guide, operates on the Abel Erasmus Pass and can assist you in finding some of the specials with emphasis placed on the rare Taita Falcons. Michael has kindly been sponsored a Bushnell Spotting Scope from the Inkwazi Bird Club for your viewing convenience. You can contact him directly on +27 (0)79 261 1559.

Blyde River Canyon

God’s Window is known for its amazing views from the top of the Drakensberg escarpment over the Lowveld. On a clear day it is possible to see over the Kruger National Park in the west onto the Lebombo mountains on the border with Mozambique. Besides the wonderful views there is a small patch of Afro-montane mist belt forest which receives a very high precipitation. The forest has a high diversity of flowering plants that in turn attract a variety of different bird species. Of the nectar-feeders you can find Gurney’s Sugarbird, Greater double-collared, Southern double-collared, Collared and Malachite sunbirds. You can also find Spectacled Weaver, Cape Canary, Sombre Greenbul and several robin species. The lookout point is a fantastic spot to watch for raptors especially in the mid morning as they start to make use of thermals. This spot is well worthwhile visiting for an hour or two but can get quite busy during the weekends. It is advisable to come on a weekday or to visit early in the morning. There are some stepped paths laid out that lead through the forest and past the various viewpoints.

Directions
Coming on the R532 towards Graskop you have to turn left onto the R534 that makes a little loop and then comes back to the R532. Once on the R534 there is a sign on the left after a few km to the parking lot at God’s window.

Three Rondavels lookout site is dominated by montane grassland which host a number of high altitude species not found elsewhere on the route. Species include Wing-Snapping Cisticola, Wailing Cisticola, Levaillant’s Cisticola, Broad-Tailed Warbler, Croaking Cisticola, Drakensberg Prinia, Cape Rock Thrush, Buff-Streaked Chat, Familiar Chat, Mocking-Cliff Chats. In addition, the lookout is a fantastic area to look for raptors. Species which can be located here including Cape Vulture, Verreaux’s Eagle, Rock Kestrel, Lanner and Peregrine Falcon.

Directions
Access to the Three Rondavels look out site is from the R532 approximately 15km from the R36 turnoff to Orighstad and Hoedspruit. Drive past the access gate and on towards the parking area.

The Swadini Dam is situated at the mouth of the Blyde River Canyon. The dam is fairly steep sided but yields specials such as African Finfoot, White-backed Night Heron, Half collared Kingfisher, Malachite Kingfisher, Giant Kingfisher, African Black Duck and the occasional Bat Hawk. There are a number of fantastic trails and birding opportunities in the vicinity of the dam and surroundings.
The waterfall walking trail is fantastic for forest species such as Narina Trogon, Chorister Robin-chat, Green Twinspot, Scaly-throated Honeyguide, Yellow-streaked Greenbul and Cape Batis.

Directions
Traveling from Hoedspruit or the Strydom tunnel on the R527 turn onto the R531 heading south towards Kampersrus. Approximately 2km before the turnoff to Kampersrus is a tar road to the right. Directions to the dam are signposted. Drive up to the gate, past the Aventura resort and on to the dam.

Contact
Abednigo Mahbela, a community bird guide, operates within the Swadini Dam area of the Blyde River Canyon and can assist you in finding some of the specials. You can contact him directly on +27 (0)72 382 1846.

The site is situated on afromontane grasslands similar to the area at the Three Rondavels lookout point. Typical birds encounters include Wing-snapping Cisticola, Wailing Cisticola, Zitting Cisticola, Yellow- throated Longclaw, Cape and African Wagtail, Buff-streaked and Familiar Chat, Stonechat, Drakensberg Prinia, Southern Red and Yellow bishops. The area is best visited during summer when bird activity is at its highest especially in the grasslands surrounding the site.

Directions
Access to the Bourke’s Luck Potholes is from the R532. Drive up to the entry gate (an entrance fee is payable) Drive past the access gate and on towards the parking area.

Hoedspruit

The Manoutsa Vulture Colony, situated on the cliffs of the Drakensberg Escarpment, holds up to 660 pairs of the vulnerable Cape Vulture making it the fourth largest colony in the world. Whilst the vultures are the main attraction, the site is also a good location to view other raptors such as Verreaux’s Eagle, Cape Eagle Owl and the different falcons.

Directions
The colony is situated on the Manoutsa farm which can be accessed from the R527. The farm is situated on the escarpment side of the road approximately 1km to the west of the R36 turnoff. Pass through the gate and drive 5km along a dirt road to the farmhouse. The vulture colony is situated approximately an hours walk/climb from the house although it can be viewed from behind the house.

Contact Details

Richard (Farm Owner)Tel: +27 (0)15 795 5045

Please contact the farm owner prior to entering the property.

Hippo Pools Resort is situated on the banks of the Olifants River and includes riverine habitat and mixed bushveld. A number of different raptor species occur in the area including the elusive Pel’s Fishing Owl which is confirmed as occurring on the property. Typical bushveld species found here include Retz’s and White Helmet Shrikes, Chinspot Batis, Green wood hoopoe, Greater Honeyguide, Olive Bush Shrike, Golden tailed and Bearded Woodpeckers.

Directions

Hippo Pools Resort is situated 22km to the north of Hoedspruit on the R40 road to Phalaborwa. Travel 22km along the R40 until the Hippo Pools Resort turnoff on the left. Follow signposts.

Contact

Tel: +27 (0)15 793 2088 Fax: +27 (0)86 623 6364 Cel: +27 (0)82 499 7374 Please contact the landowners prior to making a visit to the site.

Kruger National Park

The Kruger National Park covers 19,685 kilometers and is the 10th largest game reserve in the world. It has 3000 kilometres of road, 23 rest camps and a host of excellent picnic sites, walking trails, 4×4 routes, hides and massive dams.

A remarkable new initiative involving the Kruger National Park is the creation of a fence free park that allows animals to migrate freely across national borders. In May 2002, Kruger, Coutada 16 (in Mozambique) and Gonarezhou (in Zimbabwe) formally merged into the 35 000 square kilometre Greater Limpopo Transfrontier Park, one of the largest game reserves in the world.

The big game viewing in Kruger rivals that of any reserve in Africa with large elephant buffalo and lion populations being relatively easily seen. Every year over a million visitors tally up in the region of 520 bird species.

Birding is best in the summer months (November to March) with the arrival of summer migrants but a remarkable amount of birds can be seen in the winter months (May – July). Birding is fantastic throughout the park but the northern area is host to a number of species that are on the edge of their southernmost range and do not occur elsewhere in South Africa. A birding trip to Kruger National Park should be on the agenda of any birder in South Africa.

Letaba Rest Camp is situated on the banks of the Letaba River within Mopani dominated savanna. The camp is approximately 60km from Phalaborwa Gate and 80km to the north of Satara Rest Camp.

The camp is well spread out with the highlight being a paved footpath which runs along the northern perimeter through broad leaved riparian vegetation and then back along roads skirting the southern perimeter of the camp offering the chance to see a number of species within the confines of the camp as well as out on the Letaba River floodplain. Look out for Gabar Goshawk along the riverside path as well as a number of camp residents such as Red Headed Weaver, Palm Swifts, Bearded Robins and Grey Hooded Bush Shrikes.

 

The floodplain of the Letaba River hosts a high number of water birds whilst a number of roads emanating from the camp run alongside the Letaba River and through riparian vegetation offering first class birding. Birds to look out for in the camp include Grey rumped and Pearl breasted swallow, Green capped Eromomela, Bennett’s and Bearded Woodpecker, Orange Breasted and Grey Headed Bush Shrike. Listen for commotion in the rest camp and it will probably be birds mobbing a Pearl Spotted Owlet.

The Letaba River Rd (S47) is normally good for birding as is the S46 which runs past the Engelhardt Dam. Carmine bee eaters are normally found on the Letaba River Crossing on the H1-6.

Contact

Letaba Rest Camp
Tel: +27 (0)13 735 6636/7
Fax: +27 (0)13 735 6662
Cel: +27 (0)82 802 1255
E-Mail: leratok@sanparks.org, lollyn@sanparks.org, davidmol@sanparks.org

Mopani Rest Camp is a relatively new rest camp situated in the central/northern portion of the park in the relatively less active Mopani woodland area. The camp itself is attractively situated on a hillside overlooking the pioneer Dam.

On the dam the larger waterbirds are common including White breasted cormorant, Reed cormorant, Grey and Goliath Heron and African darter. A trail meanders from the restaurant area down to the fenceline and back around to rear end of the camp – this walk can be very productive in the early morning hours. The nearby Mooiplaas picnic site is a good spot to look for Verreaux’s Eagle Owl – enquire with staff as to its whereabouts. The nearby Nshawu dam has Kittlitz’s Plover while Collared Pratincole and Caspian Plover have been recorded there.

 

The surrounding savanna plains are less interesting but support Red crested Korhaan, Black bellied Bustard, Crowned Lapwing and Chestnut backed sparrowlark. As with most birding in the park one will probably benefit from driving on roads which meander along river course in this case the H1-6 south and S142 which runs from east to west.

Contact

Mopani Rest Camp
Tel: +27 (0)13 735 6535/6
Fax: +27 (0)13 735 6547
Cel: +27 (0)82 802 1113
E-Mail: garthh@sanparks.org, christave@sanparks.org, sollys@sanparks.org

The Olifants Rest Camp is situated on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Olifants River and surrounding Mopani dominated woodland.

A number of species can be easily found within the camp including Red winged starling, Yellow bellied greenbul, Mocking cliff chat and a number of different sunbirds. There are a number of look out points which are ideal for watching raptors as they catch updrafts. Raptors which can be seen include Gabar Goshawk, Eurasian Hobby, Crowned Eagle and the occasional Bat Hawk.

The Olifants River floodplain below the camp hosts a number of waterbirds including White crowned lapwing and Black winged stilts.

 

The S92 gravel road down to Balule is often good for birding as S91. If one continues past Balule down to Satara one is often finds swarms of Red Billed Quelea and flocks of raptors waiting for an easy meal.

Contact

Olifants Rest Camp
Tel: +27 (0)13 735 6606/7
Fax: +27 (0)13 735 6609
Cel: +27 (0)82 888 6563
E-Mail: phutin@sanparks.org, mphomu@sanparks.org, patiencem@sanparks.org

The Satara Rest Camp is situated in Knob thorn and Marula dominated open savanna and offers a wide range of bushveld and grassland bird species including Kori Bustard, Southern Ground Hornbill, Harlequin Quail, Kurrichane Buttonquail and Secretary Bird A couple of hours walking around the camp itself can yield a surprisingly high number of species including Bennett’s Woodpecker, Red-billed Buffalo Weaver, Woodland Kingfisher, Burchell’s Starling, Groundscraper Thrush.

The camp is host to a couple of pairs of African Scops Owlet which are easily located after dark by following their distinctive call. Pearl spotted owls can also be found within the camp. It is often worthwhile having a look at the large Fever tree in front of the Several perennial rivers occur in the area with the riparian vegetation alongside the N’wanetsi River on the H1-3 road providing fantastic birding.

The night drive offered at Satara offers one the opportunity to see various different owl species including Wood Owl, Spotted Eagle Owl and Verreaux’s Eagle Owl as well as different nightjar species. The nearby N’semani dam on the H7 road is often frequented by a wide variety of water birds including Saddle-billed Stork, Crown and Blacksmith Lapwing and White Faced Duck. Raptors are abundant in the area including Brown and Black-chested Snake Eagle, Lizard Buzzard, Martial Eagle and Steppe Eagle.

Contact

Satara Rest Camp
Tel: +27 (0)13 735 6306/7
Fax: +27 (0)13 735 6304
Cel: +27 (0)82 802 1209
E-Mail: gordonr@sanparks.org, nhlanhlat@sanparks.org

Letsitele

This small provincial park is an attractive birding spot because of (self-guided) walking opportunities in the absence of dangerous game. The dominant vegetation type in the reserve is Lowveld savanna with tall stands of mopane and riverine forest along the Great Letaba River that borders the reserve in the north. Along the river you can find Green-Capped Eremomela, Brown-headed Parrot and a number of kingfisher, bee-eater and heron species. The rest of the reserve contains the usual bushveld species such as White-crested helmet-shrike, Black-headed oriole, Long-billed crombec, Crested Barbet and some rarer species such as Retz’s Helmet-Shrike and Grey Tit-Flycatcher. There are various well sign-posted hiking trails ranging in distance from 3 to 11 km. The trails lead past some seasonal pans with bird hides. A 32 km circular drive that covers most of the reserve is also available as well as a small museum on local culture. There is a shady picnic area outside the museum. Payment of a small fee is required for admission, hiking trails and the drive.

Directions

Coming on the R71 from Tzaneen towards Phalaborwa you need to go a little past Letsitele and turn left towards Hans Merensky Nature Reserve and Eiland. Make sure you do not take the turnoff to Giyani (R529) that is a few km back. Once you have taken the turnoff follow the road for 30 km until you reach Hans Merensky Nature Reserve. A few km past the gate you will find the offices (the start of the hiking trails) and museum on you right.

The Lekgalameetse (“The place of much water”) Nature Reserve sits at the base of the Drakensberg Escarpment between Tzaneen and the Able Erasmus pass and is known for its spectacular forests and rolling grasslands. The reserve is approximately 18 700 hectares in total. There are historical records of Blue Swallows in the grassland, and this is a good site to see Black Saw-wing Swallow and other montane grassland species like Wing-snapping; Croaking and Wailing Cisticola, Denham’s Bustard, Cape Rock Thrush, Buff-Streaked Chat, Broadtailed Warbler and Malachite Sunbird. The forested gorges hold Cape Parrot, Red-capped Robin Chat, White-starred Robin, African Emerald Cuckoo and Yellow-throated Woodland Warbler to mention a few. The Reserve has various cottages that can be rented out and there is also a camp site.

 

Directions

Lekgalameetse Nature Reserve is situated approximately halfway between the Strydom Tunnel and Tzaneen. Coming from the tunnel turn left off theR555 onto the R36 to Tzaneen. Travel on the R36 from Diphuti, past the Makutsi Conservancy. Turn off the R36 towards Trichardtsdal. Pass through Trichardtsdal and Lekgalameetse Nature Reserve is approximately 8km further along. Drive into the reserve and report in at the information office.

Mariepskop

The Mariepskop Nature Reserve is located against the slopes and on top of the Drakensberg escarpment. The relatively small area on top of the escarpment (± 2000 m above sea level) is unique due to patches of fynbos, a biome normally only found in the cape regions. This small and isolated pocket of fynbos harbours an extraordinary diversity of plant species that attract birds that are hard to see elsewhere on the Birding Route such as Gurney’s sugarbird, Greater double-collared sunbird and Cape canary. Going up to Mariepskop will take you through three different biomes: bushveld, montane forest and fynbos. Because of the great variety of habitats present over a relatively short distance, this area can be highly rewarding for birding. Along the dirt road towards Mariepskop raptors such as African hawk-eagle are often perched on the power lines along the road. On the way up to Mariepskop the disturbed areas are good for Red-collared widowbird, Pin-tailed whydah, Southern red bishop, Cape white-eye and Steppe buzzard. Around the Forestry Office and adjoining forest you can find African olive-pigeon, Knysna turaco, Grey-headed bush-shrike, Olive woodpecker, Sombre greenbul, Bar-throated apalis, Southern boubou and if you are patient enough even Buff-spotted flufftail.

At the Forestry Office, you can obtain a permit to visit the fynbos area on top of the escarpment. An obligatory guide will accompany you to the top to show you around and give information about the area, flora and fauna. There are a variety of hiking trails of varying distances and difficulty available. All the trails start at the Forestry Office, where a booklet with information about the various trails is available. The walks are all mostly guided walks and a small fee for the guide is to be paid at the Forestry Office. Accommodation is available in two well equipped and very affordable chalets that both sleep up to 5 people. Bookings can be made through the Forestry Office. The stunning location of the picnic spot on the Blyde River makes it worthwhile visiting. A small entrance fee is charged. The forest surrounding the picnic spot is endemic and offers some good birding opportunities. Along the river several heron species and other water birds such as African black duck can be found.

Directions

Coming on the R40 from Phalaborwa or Hoedspruit, you take the R531 towards Orighstad on the right hand side. Immediately after you have turned onto the R531 you pass under a bridge and you the Klaserie1stop is on your left. Take the left turn towards the Klaserie1stop and take the first dirt road on your right. Follow this road to the foot of the mountain and keep following the signs to the Forestry Office.

Contact

Mariepskop Forestry Office
Tel: +27 (0)15 7932581/3

Thabelo Sekome is a community bird guide that operates at Mariepskop. He knows the area exceptionally well and can help you find specials such as the Orange Ground-Thrush. You can contact him directly on + 27 (0)84 955 2975.
IMPORTANT: The dirt road from the foot of the mountain to the DWAF office is not very well maintained and therefore a vehicle with high ground clearance is strongly recommended.

Phalaborwa

The Ba-Phalaborwa Nursery Dam is a sewage and storm water catchment dam that blocks overflow from entering the Kruger National Park water system. A fantastic bird hide is located on site.

The dam is a good spot to spend some time viewing a number of the more common water bird species. Greater Painted Snipe, Little Bittern and Dwarf Bittern are special bird species to look out for. Egyptian geese, Little grebes, Greenshank, Common and Wood sandpipers, Green backed heron, African pied kingfisher and White breasted cormorant are typical of the species that can easily be ticked off at the dam. An African Fish Eagle can normally be seen within close proximity to the dam.

The surrounding area is mixed mopane woodland thornveld ,which is good for bushveld birds. The close proximity of the nursery and associated trees also attracts a number of birds. Birders must note that care needs to be exercised as there is a resident 3.5 meter crocodile in the dam. A female hippo and calf also utilise the dam on an infrequent basis.

Directions

Coming in to Phalaborwa from Gravelotte on the R71, turn right into Copper Street at the last set of traffic lights before you enter the Kruger National Park. Follow this road to the next Stop street and turn left. The Ba- Phalaborwa Municipality Nursery is 50 meters down the road. Enter through the gate and follow the road to the left of the office buildings with the dam on the left side of the property.

Contact Details

Idah Lesufi, a community bird guide, is resident at the neighbouring Sefapane Lodge and Safari’s (Birder Friendly Establishment) and offers a comprehensive birding walk at both properties, which generally produces a phenomenal species count. You can contact her on + 27 (0)72 088 2617.

The Sasavona bird hide is situated near Lulekani and offers a wide variety of Bushveld and water birds. The mass of water present during the summer months fast disappear as mid-winter approaches transforming the site into a mosaic of puddles and ponds. Yellow-billed Stork, African Spoonbill, Grey, Purple and Goliath Herons frequent the site. Other birds commonly seen are Orange Breasted Bush-shrike, Southern Boubou, Little Grebe, Pied, Malachite and Giant Kingfishers, Common and Wood Sandpiper, Three-banded Plover and Common Greenshank

Directions

Leaving Phalaborwa to Gravelotte on the R71, turn right to follow the Lulekani sign board. Follow this road until you find a Sasavona Guest House sign on your left. Immediately turn right onto a gravel track and enter through the first gate on your right hand side. Follow the road over the dam wall and continue until you reach the bird hide.

 

Contact

Morris Ngwenyama is a local community bird guide which operates in Lulekani. Contact him directly on + 27 (0)72 499 5823.

The Selati River Bridge just outside Phalaborwa is an ideal spot to stop on the way to Shona Longa Resort or to the Olifants River Barrage. A number of kingfisher species can be seen including Giant and Pied as well as bee eaters such as Little and White fronted.

The riverine vegetation can often yields different wader species depending on the including Black crake, African snipe, Greenshank and Marsh sandpiper. A number of different swift and swallow species are normally present at the bridge.

 

The bushveld type vegetation which lines the riparian vegetation of the Selati River contains typical bushveld species including Lilac Breasted Rollers, Southern Yellow Billed Hornbill, Sabota Lark, Cinnamon and Gold Breasted Buntings and the different waxbill species. Look out for Pearl Spotted Owlets which are fairly easily seen in the area as well as the characteristic Bateleur and Yellow Billed Kites.

Directions

Travel on the Hendrick van Eck (main road through Phalaborwa towards Phalaborwa Gate, Kruger National Park). At the second set of lights in town turn right into Lekker Breek Street and then left into Essenhout Street. At the traffic lights turn right into Selati Rd. Travel on the Selati Rd through two stop streets (Post office and then police station will be on you right hand side). Travel along the road and through the Foskor complex. The road will turn from tar into a dirt road. Travel for approximately 5km on the dirt road which then turns into tar again. The Selati River Bridge is a further 2km on.

The Silonque Road which takes one out of Phalaborwa to two Masorini Bush Lodge (Birder Friendly Establishment) provides a good opportunity for raptor viewing and general birding. The nearby rubbish dump (signposted off the Silonque Road) is a fantastic spot to lookout for Marabou Storks and White Backed Vulture. The road out to Silonque is ideal for raptors including Brown and Black Chested Snake Eagle, Steppe Eagle, Lesser Spotted and Tawny Eagles. A number of the more common bushveld species can be seen by traveling slowly along the road including Woodland Kingfisher, Emerald Spotted Wood-dove, Burchell’s Coucal, Magpie Shrike as well as various waxbill, starlings, bee-eaters and hornbill species.

Directions

Coming in on the R71 at the first stop street in town turn left onto Spekboom Street. Spekboom Street turns into Silonque Rd. Drive slowly down the raod until the end (approx 8kms)

We will be putting meat down again about 08h00 on Saturday and weather dependant the birds should start gathering immediately as usual. Some weeks the food is gone by 09h00 and other weeks you might still get lucky in early afternoon.

Bring the family or guests and enjoy some potentially great birding, it only costs R30/person and it all helps to provide suitable carcasses for the birds. A refundable deposit of R100 will be required as well as your entrance fee of R30/person. No need to phone & make a booking!

The Grietjie Private Nature Reserve is home to the Kruger to Canyons Birding Route Vulture Restaurant. It is situated 20 km south of Phalaborwa and is easily accessible and open to the public.

 

The Vulture Restaurant is surrounded by Lowveld Rugged Mopaneveld and offers some exciting Bushveld birding. Please note that the viewing hide is situated in a potentially dangerous game area (Big Five included). For your own safety, do not leave the demarcated area. Carcasses are deposited on Saturday mornings and the best viewing will therefore be on the Saturday morning from 08:00 until Saturday afternoon. Reservations for birdwatching groups and tours can be arranged on alternative days of the week through Ian Owtram ian@antares.co.za or cellphone +27(0)83 268 8281. A maintenance fee of ZAR 30 will be charged at the Grietjie Private Nature Reserve entrance gate. A ZAR 100 deposit will be requested for the viewing hide key. Please insist on a receipt.

Special birds that can be viewed at the Vulture Restaurant include Cape Vulture, White Headed Vulture, White Backed Vulture, Hooded Vulture, Lappet-faced Vulture, Dark Chanting Goshawk, Bateleur, Tawny Eagle, Orange Breasted Bush Shrike, Grey Headed Bush Shrike and Marabou Stork.

Directions

Travel south from Phalaborwa on the R40 towards Hoedspruit. After approximately 20 km take the Grietjie turn off onto a gravel road and travel until you hit the Grietjie Private Nature Reserve main entrance gate. Once inside, continue straight and across the four-way Stop. Continue straight and take note as the Vulture Restaurant sign will be on your right hand side.

Contact

Ian Owtram
Tel: +27 (0)15 769 6006
Mobile: + 27 (0) 83 268 8281
E-mail: ianowtram@spamarrest.com

If any of you would like to make a donation to assist with the running of this facility and enable us to continue with our conservation efforts of these birds our bank details are:

Grietjie Vulture Restaurant
ABSA bank
Phalaborwa branch, code 334352
Current A/C No. 4073881528

Soutpansberg-Limpopo Birding Route

The Soutpansberg Mountains and the Limpopo River Valley host over 540 bird species. This tremendous variety of birds makes this a very rewarding birding destination.

Due to a high number of resident species, all year round there is an abundance of birds to see. A visit to the area in winter or summer will always be productive.

The Soutpanberg-Limpopo Birding Route is situated in the northern-most part of the Limpopo Province. This area includes the northern part of the Kruger National Park, Mapungubwe National Park, Venda and the Soutpansberg Mountain Range.

There are a number of very special birds found on the Soutpansberg-Limpopo Birding Route. The Soutpansberg Mountains have well-developed tracts of indigenous forests in which species such as Blue-spotted Wood-Dove, African Broadbill, Eastern Nicator, Gorgeous Bush-Shrike, Orange Ground-Thrush, Crested Guineafowl and Crowned Eagle can be found.

To the north of the mountain in Arid Mountain Bushveld vegetation Pink-throated Twinspot and Crowned Hornbill are found. The only known patch of Brachystegia Woodland in South Africa is found in this area and species such as Southern Hyliota have been seen here.

Baobab country to the north is home to Mottled Spinetail and the lowland river systems have Lemon-breasted Canary, Pel’s Fishing Owl and White-fronted Plover on them.

The western part of the region, towards the Mogalakwena River, is dry with a Kalahari element, thus species such as Southern Pied Babbler, Kori Bustard, Swallow-tailed Bee-eater and Southern Pale Chanting Goshawk is found.

We have divided the Soutpansberg-Limpopo Birding Route into nine different birding areas. Each birding area has its own unique character and set of special bird species. Within each area there is also a variety of accommodation options and birding sites to visit.

Albasini Dam / Levubu

The Albasini Dam is the biggest waterbody in this area. From the north one can visit the Department of Water Affairs Picnic Site which has a fair bit of waterfront and an extensive piece of sour bushveld (see box for details). Birding around the dam is best done by boat. Birds such as White backed Night-Heron and African Finfoot can often be seen on the dam. There are also many other water birds to be found on the dam and birding here is always rewarding. The vegetation around the dam also offers good birding.

Levubu is a sub-tropical fruit farming area. The little town of Levubu itself is the centre of this area and caters for the farming community in the district. The area is has two major rivers, the Lotonyanda River and the Levhubu river. Both are fringed by Lowveld Riverine Forest and Semi-deciduous Mixed Forest and are alive with birds. Access to the rivers is difficult as much of this area is under private ownership.

The area has an impressive species total of over 300 birds. It abounds with Purple-crested Turaco and African Green-Pigeon. The African Paradise-Flycatcher is a common visitor in the summer and look out for Grey-headed Parrot, which is in the area from August to November.

The Department of Water Affairs owns an extensive part of the water frontage on the dam. This can be reached quite easily through the main gate, near the dam wall. From this point on should look out for Osprey in summer as they are often near this end of the dam. The normal array of waterbirds such as White-breasted Cormorant, Green-backed Heron and African Darter can be seen here, but best of all is the large tract of sour bushveld criss-crossed by numerous roads which you can drive or walk along. Here you will find plenty of bushveld birds and will be able to push up your species total for your trip. This is one of the few places in the region that you can find Yellow-throated Longclaw.

Directions

Take the R524 east from Makhado (Louis Trichardt); 21 km out of town turn right down the gravel road marked “Albasini”. The picnic site is 2.5 km further on, on the right. Just through the entrance gate take a sharp turn right and find your way along the roads. Please note that the best birding on the dam is done by boat trip organized by Shiluvari on the southern side of the Dam.

Additional Information

Entry fee: R5 per person; R15 per vehicle.
Opening times: 07H00 – 18H00

There is a large Mobola Plum tree (Parinari Curatellifolia) right outside the Levubu Post Office. During the early summer months (Aug-Nov) Grey-headed Parrots often feed in this tree during the day. If you are in the Levubu area spend some time around the tree and you may be lucky. They can sometimes be seen flying over the rugby fields, just to the north of the post office.

Directions

Take the 2nd Levubu turn-off from the Makhado (Louis Trichardt)/Punda Maria road (R524). After 4.6 km you will reach a T-junction, turn left towards “Levubu Oos”. The Post Office is 2 km on, on the LHS, just before the Primary School (and before the next T-junction).

This is the only reliable place in South Africa to find Blue-spotted Wood-dove, one of our region’s top 10 birds. Other species found on and around the dam are African Pygmy Goose, Horus Swift, Dark-capped Yellow Warbler, Red-backed Manakins and Lesser Moorhen. This private farm dam is magical. A bird hide has been built on the dam and trails have been laid out around the dam.

Directions

From the R524, 21 km east out of Makhado (Louis Trichardt), turn left into the property “Royal Macadamia”. As you turn off the main road, keep right. Pass the Macadamia nut orchard (on you left) and banana plantation (on your right) and 800m on, park your car next to the bat box (just before crossing the dam wall). Find your way around the dams following the paths. The soil bank, just across the wall, is used by Horus Swifts. The Blue-spotted Wood-dove is usually found on the northern side of the dams. If you are there after hours then look around the pack sheds just to the west of the dam for the dove.

Additional Information

The owner of the property kindly allows birdwatchers to visit his dam free of charge. Please respect his privacy and his property.

Bandelierkop

This area is not quite as dry as the other bushveld areas in the region, as it falls between the open flats to the west and the wetter areas to the east. Mixed Bushveld dominates the vegetation. A wide variety of warblers, waxbills, widowfinches and robins can be seen here. Orange-winged Pytilia and even Short-clawed Lark have been seen in the southeastern part of this area.

Last Post is situated in a beautiful range of hills, which form the transition between Sweet Bushveld and Lowveld. The property has a variety of habitat types and high biological diversity. Both plant and bird populations will be of interest to any naturalist.

The Nature Reserve is situated on the Bandelierskop Geological Complex with an undulating landscape and deep kloofs. Walking is the best way to explore the area, as the bird life is a feast. Purple-crested Turaco, Gorgeous Bush-shrike, Wahlbergs and African Hawk-eagles, Black-headed Oriole, Scarlet-chested Sunbird and Bennett’s Woodpecker are familiar sights. In the valley Orange-winged Pytilia has often been seen.

There are two accommodation options available. Camp Mocking Chat is situated high above a gorge with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. It is a rustic yet comfortable camp with wooden decks and a swimming pool and braai area. The Camp can sleep 18 people in three en-suite stone and thatch cottages and three canvas tents on wooden decks with shared ablutions.

Camping facilities are available at ‘Emerald Spot’ Ten Camp where there are ablution facilities, a braai area, lapa and three tents on wooden decks. Facilities are both self-catering and catered on request. Guided walks and drives are also available.

Birding courses can be arranged for larger groups.

Contact Information

Website: www.lastpost.co.za

Eastern Limpopo River Valley

The Eastern Limpopo River Valley is the area that stretches from Crooks Corner in the Kruger National Park to Musina. Much of the river is not as accessible as the Western part (described below).

However access to the river itself is possible if organized in advance through the concession area in the northernmost part of Kruger and through other private farms that border on the river (see boxes for details).

On the river one can find the two largest owls in Southern Africa: Pel’s Fishing-Owl and the Verreaux’s Eagle-Owl.

The river also provides a corridor for the Trumpeter Hornbill and Lemon-breasted Canary. The wide-open sandy river bottom is ideal habitat for the White-fronted Plover, Ruff, Marsh Sandpiper, Comb Duck, Spur-winged Goose and Saddle-billed Stork. One often sees the Bateleur, Lappet-faced Vulture and African Hawk-Eagle soaring in the skies above the river valley. The gallery forest on the banks of the river has Meyer’s Parrot, Thick-billed Cuckoo, Trumpeter Hornbill, Retz’s Helmet-shrike and Black-throated Wattle-eye.

If you do not stay at one of the accommodation establishments, then you will spend much of your time travelling through Mopane Woodland or Mixed Bushveld. An interesting road to travel is the Malaladrift/Musina road that follows the Limpopo River, crossing a number of its tributaries and passing through small patches of farmland. Take the drive slowly, stopping frequently along the way, and you will find it rewarding.

Pafuri River Camp is a private tented tree house camp on the banks of the Mutale River, situated 3 km from the Pafuri Gate of Kruger Park. The camp is an ideal base from which to explore Northern Kruger, Makuya Nature Reserve and Venda. Commonly seen specials include Wattle-eyed Flycatcher, Yellow White-eye, Lemon-breasted Canary, Grey-headed Parrot, Mottled Spinetail and African Finfoot.

Less common but still seen occasionally are Dickinson’s Kestrel, Thick-billed Cuckoo, Pel’s Fishing Owl, Golden-backed Pytilia, Racket-tailed Roller, Yellow-billed Oxpecker, White-backed Night-heron, Narina Trogon and Eastern Nicator.

The atmosphere is informal and relaxed, so enjoy a drink next to the pool, or watch the sun go down from Sunset Ridge. Enjoy the freedom of Africa from their Main Camp, Bush Camp or River Campsites.

Fully equipped and serviced rooms and kitchens, campsites, braai facilities, lapa / restaurant, swimming pool, tea and coffee, laundry, open parking, fridge in room, linen and towels supplied.

Contact Information

Website: www.pafuri.co.za

Eastern Soutpansberg Mountains

Timber plantations, nut orchards and avocado orchards dominate the land use in the Eastern Soutpansberg. Yet nestled in between the agricultural lands are some of the best birdwatching sites in the region. In this area one finds three forest types: Afrotemperate Mistbelt Forest, Semi-deciduous Scrub Forest and Semi-deciduous Mixed Forest.

On the upper reaches of the mountain there are a few patches of Afromontane Grasslands forming a mosaic between the forest pockets. Most of these forests are easily accessible and fall within State Land. Birds like Gorgeous Bush-Shrike, Green Twinspot and African Broadbill are mostly found in the Semi-deciduous forest types and Yellow-streaked Greenbul, White-starred Robin, Orange Ground Thrush, Knysna Turaco and Scaly-throated Honeyguide are mostly found in the Mist-belt forests.

Many species are common in all forest types such as Narina Trogon, Chorister Robin-Chat and Crested Guineafowl.The Muirhead Dams (see box for details) is the best place to find Blue-spotted Wood-Dove.

An easily accessible Afro-temperate Mist-belt forest with a picnic site and short trails. This is an old birders haunt and the birding is good. Listen out for the resident Scaly-throated Honeyguide in the picnic site. This is the best place to fin White-starred Robin and Yellow-streaked Greenbul.

A short (20 minutes) circular walk starts from the picnic site (Follow footprints which start from the road 10 metres before the boom gate at the picnic site, opposite the pine compartment).

Directions

In Makhado (Louis Trichardt), take Krogh Steret due north, towards the mountain. Krogh Street becomes Forestry Road and takes you straight to the Hangklip Pantation gate. From here follow the main road and sign boards to the Picknic Site. It is about 8km from the gate to the Picnic Site

Additional Information

Entry-fee is: R10 per vehicle, and R5 per person.

The Wyllie’s Poort Tunnels, about 20km north of Makhado (Louis Trichardt), are worth a stop. From the viewing/parking area between the two tunnels you can pick up Drakensberg Prinia and Mocking Cliff-Chats in the rocky gorge below and Short-toed Rock Thrush hopping above the tunnels. A pair of Verraux’s Eagles are usually seen soaring in the sky above.

Remember you are on the N1 with heavy traffic so take care!

This is the most reliable site for African Broadbill. The best time to hear the Broadbill is just before dawn and just after dusk. They can be heard for longer periods during the day in the summer months. Other species often seen here are Scaly-throated Honeyguide, Eastern Nicator, Narina Trogon, Gorgeous Bush-Shrike, Green Twinspot and Red-faced Cisticola.

The vegetation is semi-deciduous scrub forest which is a low canopy forest with a mix of woodland, riverine and Afro-montane tree species. This is a forest type that has recently spread across Soutpansberg and has unfortunately replaced much of the mixed grasslands that used to cover the mountains 100 years ago. The birding is nonetheless very good.

Directions

Take the R524 (Thohoyandou/Punda Maria road) from Makhado. 15.8 Kilometres after leaving Makhado (Louis Trichardt) you will see a sign: ‘Welgevonden’ (in red letters). Turn left onto this gravel road and drive 4.1 kilometres. Here, at the end of a Macadamia nut orchard, is a small concealed track that runs steeply down to the left into a thick patch of forest. Park at this point if the road looks wet. The track goes on 300m before reaching a small parking area an picnic site. Two marked trails have been laid out leading from the parking spot. One trail leads you up the Luvuhu River and the other up on of its tributaries. Both trails go past the Crowned Eagle nest which is situated in the pine compartment. There is also a picnic site consisting fo chairs and tables. Enjoy the birding: Roodewal is one of my favourite sites.

Contact Information

Erina Lombaard
Tel: +27 (0)83 452 2091

Additional Information

NB! There is a boom on the road to the forest which opens in the morning and closes in the evening.

If you are planning a very early start at the forest you will need to make arrangements for the boom to be opened with Erina Lombard.

Entabeni Forest is an Afro-temperate Mist-belt Forest situated on the Entabeni Plantation. The forest boast good specials such as Orange Ground Thrush, Black-fronted Bush-Shrike, White-starred Robin, Green Twinspot, Knysna Turaco, Scaly-throated Honeyguide, Yellow-streaked Greenbul, Collared Sunbird and Brown Scrub-Robin. The forest is extensive, but only parts of it are easily accessible. A main forestry road passed through one patch of the forest and close to another. The road is used by forestry vehicles, so drive carefully.

Directions

About 35 kilometres out of Makhado (Louis Trichardt) on the R524 turn onto the road marked Entabeni. Drive along this road to the gate. There are no signboards, so set your odometer. (NB 0km: gate, 1km: turn right. 2.5km: turn left). The first site is 9 kilometres from the gate and the second is 11 kilometres.

Birding in the first forest patch is done along the road, as there are no paths into the forest here. It is recommended that you go onto the second site. Turn right at the triangle intersection, 9.9 kilometres from the gate. Look out for a track to your left 250 metres on. This track is marked by a “Private No Entry” sign. Take the track anyway and another 250 metres on where the pine compartment ends and the road enters indigenous forest. Park your vehicle here and walk along the road ahead.

The Orange Thrush is seen at the first stream and the Black-fronted Bush-Shrike a little further on. It will take you about 30 minutes to drive from the R524 to the forests.

Do not try to find the picnic site as you might get lost. On you way up, look out for Aryes’ Hawk-Eagle and Bat Hawk at dusk.

Additional Information

Entry fee: R5 per person; R10 per vehicle.

Kruger National Park (North)

The eastern tip of the Soutpansberg mountains ends near Punda Maria in the Kruger National Park. Habitats in this northern section of Kruger are surprisingly diverse. The low-lying hills around Punda Maria are home to Crowned Hornbill, Mosque Swallow and Eastern Nicator. Tall Mopane and broad-leafed woodland expanding out from the base of these hills holds specials like White-breasted Cuckooshrike, Arnot’s Chat and Racket-tailed Roller. In damp, low-lying areas Senegal Coucal, Black Coucal and Little Bittern can be seen.

One of the most exciting areas in which to bird is up in the north, along the Levubu river. Here specials such as Pel’s Fishing Owl, White-crowned Lapwing, Bohm’s and Mottled Spinetail, Black-throated Wattle-eye and Lemon-breasted Canary are to be found. This is the best area to find Dickinson’s Kestrel. Scarce species found in the past here include Sooty Falcon and River Warbler.

The northern part of the park, previously closed to the public, has now opened up as a concession area, allowing access to the Limpopo River itself. You will need to book with Wilderness Safaris to get into this area. Recommended drives are the Mahonie Loop (S99), S60 and S61, S58 and S52 near Shingwedzi. Try to do an early morning visit to the Levubu River Bridge and Pafuri Picnic Site up near Crooks Corner. Detailed maps and park information can be found at the park gates and on the SANParks website www.sanparks.org

Wilderness Safaris’ Pafuri Camp is situated along the Luvuvhu River in the far northern Kruger National Park. The camp lies within the community owned Makuleke Concession and consists of 24,000 ha of very diverse landscape between the Limpopo and Luvuvhu Rivers. This area has long been recognized as the most diverse within the entire Kruger and in an area just more than 1% the size of the park contains approximately 75% of its bio-diversity.

The location in extreme north eastern South Africa, and in such a diverse area, has resulted in a bird list of approximately 400 birds with some of the local specials being Pel’s Fishing Owl, Three-banded Courser, Meves’s Starling, Tropical Boubou, Black-throated Wattle-eye, Grey-headed Parrot, Mottled and Bohm’s Spinetail, White-breasted Cuckooshrike, Bat Hawk and Racket-tailed Roller.

The camp consists of 20 luxury tents (en-suite with indoor and outdoor showers) located in dense riverine forest along the Luvuvhu River. Activities in the concession include twice daily game drives or walks to legendary sites such as Crooks’ Corner, Lanner Gorge, the Limpopo pans and the Fever Tree forests.

There is also the opportunity to explore rock art, Stone Age and Iron Age sites. Game viewing is very good with regular sightings of high profile species like elephant, buffalo, white rhino, lion and leopard, while regional specials such as elad, nyala, Sharpe’s grysbok and yellow-spotted rock dassie are also present.

Each tent overlook the Luvuvhu River, as do the camp’s two swimming pools and well appointed public area. Hearty meals of high quality are served here or in a boma. Rates are available on a fully-inclusive, Dinner or B&B basis.

North Eastern Venda

Northeastern Venda stretches from Thohoyandou across to the Kruger National Park boundary and up north to the Limpopo valley.The vegetation type that dominates the North Eastern Venda area is Arid Mountain Bushveld and Mopane Woodland. Along all the major rivers one will find Lowveld Riverine Forest with elements of Semi-deciduous Forest. This is also the area where the isolated patch of Brachystegia Woodland is found.

This area is relatively poorly known, as the roads are bad and the area is quite remote, but has in the past come up with the most interesting birds. Look out for Southern Hyliota, Crowned Hornbill, Pink-throated Twinspot, Blue-spotted Wood-Dove. More common species are: White-browed Scrub-Robin, Bearded Scrub-Robin, White-crested Helmet-Shrike and Golden-breasted Bunting. At the Sagole Big Tree there is a chance of seeing Mottled Spinetail and some out-of-range Miombo specials at the Gundani Brachystegia Woodland.

Golwe Picnic and Campsite is a large shady site situated in a secluded valley in Venda off the Masisi Road. At dawn one can hear African Broadbill around the campsite. Other special birds are Pink-throated Twinspot, Scaly-throated Honeyguide and Crowned Hornbill.

Marked circular trails lead from the campsite up the valley and to a waterfall. The campsite offers a convenient base from which to visit Mpaphuli Cycad Reserve, Makhuya Park and the Gundani Brachystegia Woodland. We recommend booking Christopher Nethonzhe, who is the local site guide (BirdLife-SA accredited) to guide you along the trails.

Golwe is owned and run by members of the Vhurivhuri Community. All proceeds go towards the development of the community and supporting unemployed people in the village.

The campsite has ablution facilities with hot water and flushing toilets, braai stands, picnic tables and four camp sites. Firewood is available to buy. Traditional catering can be arranged prior to the visit. The area is multifunctional and can accommodate people who want to have open air meetings and parties. The site is accessible to 2-wheel drive vehicles and 4×4 caravans.

Directions
From the south

Turn off the R524 towards Thohoyandou. Drive through Thohoyandou to Sibasa and straight on to the T-junction indicating Donald Fraser Hospital (left) and Masisi (right). Go right towards Masisi. Continue towards Masisi for another 37 km. Turn off the road towards Lambani/Gunda and follow the signboards to the site for another 1.8 km.

From the north

Turn off the R525 at Masis towards the Tshikondeni Mine. Do not take the left turn to the mine but continue straight on towards Sibasa/Thohoyandou for another approximate 25 km. The site is sign posted off this road to your right.

From Punda Maria

Driving towards Punda Maria, turn left at the cross road towards Minga and Lambani (right goes to Mpahophe and Makuleke). Follow the tar road for about 3 km, turn left to cross the Levuvhu river (through a gate). Carry on straight (where the road changes to a dirt road) for about 4 km and turn right at Lambani/ Gunda road. Follow the road (passing a sign to Deanwe, left, after about 1 km) and ignore the small, unsigned roads turning off to both directions. After about 8 km Lambani turns off left, but carry on straight towards Gunda and Vhurivhuri for about another 10 km after which there is a sign to Golew that turns of left. Golwe is about 25 km from the tar road to Punda Maria of which about 20 km is dirt road accessible to a slow driving 2×4 vehicle.

Contact Information

Christopher Nethonzhe
Community Representative
Cel: +27 (0)76 302 9383

Ernest
Community Representative
Cel: +27 (0)76 196 3691

Additional Information

Booking are not required, but notice of your arrival is appreciated.

Entry fee: R5 per adult (day visit); R5 per vehicle; R30 per adult (camping)

This is the only known patch of Miombo (Brachystegia) woodland in South Africa. Miombo woodland is common in Zimbabwe and further north.

A number of bird specials associated with Miombo have been seen here. These are White-breasted Cuckooshrike and Southern Hyliota. Frequently seen are Pink-throated Twinspot. If you are lucky you might find Blue-spotted Wood-dove. There are unconfirmed reports of Red-throated Twinspot and Spotted Creeper (so please send reports of sightings of these species).

A charming campsite has been opened at the woodland, funded by the Jensen Charity Foundation and facilitated by the birding route. The campsite will assist the community derive economic benefit from tourism, especially avi-tourism. The people who manage the campsite lie in the village and are otherwise unemployed. All proceeds go directly into maintenance of the campsite and into a community fund.

There are hot/cold showers, flush toilets, firewood for sale and six cleared tent sites. It can get hot, so use the late afternoon and early morning to bird. There is a marked trail into the woodland and thus 4×4’s are not required. However do be careful in the campsite as the area is very sandy. If you do get stuck the camp assistants will help push you out.

Directions
From the South

Turn off the R524 towards Thohoyandou. Drive through Thohoyandou to Sibasa and straight on to the T-junction indicating Donald Fraiser Hospital (left) and Masisi (right). Go towards Masisi. Continue on this road for 12 km and turn left towards Tengwe. Continue for 5.1 km until and turn right towards Mutale. Continue for 21 km until you see the signboard to Gundani to your right. From this turn off it is 3 km to the campsite. It will take about 45 minutes from Thoyoyandou.
From the North (Pafuri/Musina)

Turn off the R525 and get onto a road that runs past Sagole Spa and the Big Tree. West of the Big Tree is a road to the south marked ‘Sibasa’. Take this road, past Shakadza, to where the tar road begins. Follow the tar road until you see the signboard to Gundani, indicating left.

Contact Information

John Thavhanyedza
Community Representative
Cel: +27 (0)72 222 9154

Vho-Musanda Miranda
Community Representative
Cel: +27 (0)72 214 0258

Additional Information

Booking are not required, but notice of your arrival is appreciated.

Entry fee: R5 per adult (day visit); R5 per vehicle; R30 per adult (camping)

This tree has been recorded as the largest Boabab tree in the world. This is the best place to see Mottled Spinetail in the late evening and early morning. It is on communal land with relatively poor roads. If you do plan to wait for birds, make sure you are confident to drive back in the dark to your accommodation. The closest places to stay are Gundani Mutsiwa Campsite and Pafuri River Camp.

If arranged in advance, staff from Pafuri River Camp can take you to the tree. There has been some effort made by the authorities to formalise access to the tree by building a good gravel road to the site and by putting a fence around the tree and entrance fees are now required. The signage to the tree has improved over the last few years.

Directions

From the R525 follow signs to Sagole Spa (Tshipise). The tree is west of Sagole Spa and is marked off the “Mutele B – Folovhodwe” road with a signboard reading “Big Tree”. If you get lost, just ask for directions.

From the Gundani Mutsiwa Campsite go north towards Muswodi. When you reach a T-junction turn right towards Sagole Spa and continue until you see the sign board to the “Big Tree”. There are usually hordes of children selling Boabab Pods. Buy a few as it is a poor area and then ask them to leave you in peace.

Additional Information

To organize a late visit phone Simon: +27 (0)76 405-0949

North Western Flats

Due to its proximity to the Kalahari, this is the driest area of the region. It is well worth the visit as it offers some very special birding and species one would not easily find in other parts of the region. Species such as the Southern Pied Babbler, Kalahari Scrub-Robin, Grey-backed Sparrowlarks, Swallow-tailed Bee-eater, Kori Bustard, Burchell’s Sandgrouse and Southern Pale Chanting Goshawk are found here.

The Mogalakwena River is the main river in this region and is fringed by Lowveld Riverine Forest offering cool relief to the dry surroundings. Birds to be found on the river include a wide variety of Cuckoos, Owls and Bee-eaters. The Verreaux’s Eagle-Owl and, if you are lucky, Pel’s Fishing-Owl can also be found.

The Woodland and is broken by extensive patches of Acacia thickets in the low lying parts and Commiphera dominated vegetation on the rocky outcrops. Gallery Forest on the riverbank is home to Woodland Kingfisher, African Mourning Dove, Broad-billed Roller, Senegal Coucal, Meve’s Starling and Pel’s Fishing-Owl. On the plains on either side of the river are Swainson’s Spurfowl, Red-crested Korhaan, Southern Ground Hornbill and Secretarybird.

The 4,000 ha Makulu Makete Reserve straddles the meandering Mogalakwena River just south of its confluence with the Limpopo. Whilst the reserve holds interesting species characteristic of the drier west, the Mogalakwena River, and the massive trees lining its banks, provide a rich habitat for many additional species more likely to be found in wetter areas such as Collared Sunbird, Spectacled Weaver and a variety of cuckoos and kingfishers.

Larger birds such as Verreaux’s Eagle-owl, Black Stork and Saddle-billed Stork are usually to be found along the river whilst the drier bush country, which holds an impressive collection of Boababs, has White-faced Scops-owl, Kori Bustard, Southern Pied Babbler, Crimson-breasted Shrike, African Wren-warbler, Great Spotted Cuckoo and Swallow-tailed Bee-eater. The magnificent Madia Pala and Kremetartkop hills dominate the landscape and are home to Verreaux’s Eagles and Cape Rock-Thrush. Groups of birders have recorded nearly 200 species for a weekend and over 250 species for the property.

Facilities for birders include the services of trained guides on walking trails, horse trails and game drives using open game viewing vehicles. An experienced resident ecologist is at hand to interpret, entertain and inform you with illustrated lectures on local ecology.

Lulu’s Camp has five campsites under large shady trees on the banks of the Mogalakwena River. This camp has hot/cold water ablutions, communal kitchen, braai stands and a swimming pool.

Contact Information

Website: www.makulumakete.com

Mogalakwena is a 4-star lodge which offers a luxurious African experience. From the deck of the lodge one is able to view up to 25 species in a sitting, including African Finfoot, Black Crake, and Dwarf Bittern as wells as many kingfishers and herons. There are resident Southern Pied Babbler and Crimson-breasted Shrike and many colourful waxbills, such as Black-faced-, Blue- and Violet-eared Waxbills.

The lodge offers game drives, wildlife walks, fishing and horseback riding. Guests are able to visit the Craft Art Development Foundation where one can see the Pedi women producing a variety of crafts. The lodge offers a variety of cultural excursions including the cultural heritage site at Mapungubwe National Park and wildlife excursions to Botswana.

Mogalakwena River Lodge has a central lodge with four rooms, swimming pool, dining and open lounge areas. The four private chalets have exquisite views and privacy. This exclusive lodge caters for 16 guests in eight double rooms with en-suite facilities. Transfers and fly-in safaris are available on request.

Contact Information

Website: www.mogalakwena.com

Langjan is conveniently placed on the road between Vivo and Alldays, making it an easy stop to and from the Limpopo Valley or Alldays. The reserve became known to the birding world in 1989 when an Egyptian Vulture was spotted here. It has been seen since, but it is not a regular visitor.

The reserve has a bird list of over 260 species. A Kalahari floristic element influences the typical Bushveld vegetation in this area. Thus species such as Marico Flycatcher, Kalahari Scrub-robin, Acacia Pied Barbet and Southern Pale Chanting Goshawk are commonly seen here. Other birds likely to be seen are Red-crested Korhaan, Magpie Shrike, Chestnut-vented Tit-babbler, Emerald-Spotted Wood-dove, Namaqua Dove, Lesser Grey Shrike and Blue Waxbill.

The reserve is criss-crossed by a series of roads, but note that some roads are very sandy and require 4×4 vehicles. There are no hiking trails, but walking is allowed.

Directions

The reserve is located on the R524 between Vivo and Alldays.

Contact Information

Tel: +27 (0)15 593 0126

Additional Information

Entrance fee: R10 per adult, R5 per child, R20 per vehicle.
Opening hours are: 07H30 to 16H00.

The reserve covers a wide variety of habitats including a small Sycamore fig forest and wetland that has a resident flock of Crested Guineafowl and is visited by Greater Painted Snipe in the summer.

The reserve boasts over 270 species among which are Grey Tit-flycatcher, Red-backed Shrike, Crimson-breasted Shrike, Kalahari Scrub-robin and Southern White-faced Scops-owl. It’s also home to a significant breeding colony of Cape Vultures, numbering 500 breeding pairs.

The highlight of the reserve is its “Vulture Restaurant” where, from a hide, you can see Cape Vulture, Lappet-faced Vulture, Hooded Vulture, White-headed Vulture and White-backed Vulture. The “Restaurant” is best visited in the winter months. Seeing these vulture at close quarters is an experience not to be missed.

 

Directions

To get to the reserve turn west towards Bachum at the cross-roads in Vivo. About 8.6 km down this road turn right towards Kromhoek. The reserve is another 8.4 km down this road on the LHS.

Contact Information

Tel: +27 (0)15 563 0702
Cell: +27 (0)83 251 9071

Additional Information

For a visit please phone the reserve office for arrangements. You can get a map and a general information leaflet at the office.
Opening hours are: 06H00 to 19H00.
High-clearance vehicles are recommended.

Western Limpopo River Valley

The western part of the Limpopo River Valley stretches from Musina to Platjan opposite Botswana. There are a great number of access points to the river, the easiest being through Mapungubwe National Park. Mapungubwe is situated opposite the Shashe River confluence and offers visitors a number of birding facilities (see box for details). Various private farms on both sides of the border (see boxes for details) offer excellent birding along the Limpopo River.

A visit to the Den Staat wetlands, which is one of the best water-bird sites in the country, can be organized if you stay at one of the private establishments in the area (see boxes for details). In the Tuli area of Botswana you can also book onto guided wilderness trails, which will give you the best of the birding and the wildlife of the area (see box for details).

Two habitat types dominate the Limpopo valley; these are Lowveld Riverine Forest and Mopane Woodland. On the plains, around the river the area is dominated by Mopane Woodland and is broken by extensive Woodland and is broken by extensive patches of Acacia thickets in the low lying parts and Commiphera dominated vegetation on the rocky outcrops.

Gallery Forest on the riverbank is home to Woodland Kingfisher, African Mourning Dove, Broad-billed Roller, Senegal Coucal, Meve’s Starling and Pel’s Fishing-Owl. On the plains on either side of the river are Swainson’s Spurfowl, Red-crested Korhaan, Southern Ground Hornbill and Secretarybird.

Ratho is on the banks of the Limpopo River just west of Pont Drift. The stand of large Nyalaberry trees at the homestead is the most reliable stakeout for Pel’s Fishing Owl in the region. The farm has vast tracts of open bushveld and sandstone hills at the Vulture restaurant. You will have wonderful views of Lappet-faced Vulture, Cape Vulture and other raptors. Ask your hosts when they will be feeding the vultures.

Around the irrigated fields, look out for Montagu’s Harrier and Grey-backed and Chestnut-backed Sparrowlarks. Ratho is well positioned for day visits to the new Mapungubwe National Park, The Den Staat Wetlands and to the Tuli Block in Botswana.

Accommodation consists of one tented camp and two camp sites. The tented camp is on the banks of the Limpopo River. It has a fully equipped kitchen with electricity, hot water and ablution facilities. Meals can be provided on request. Mopane Camp is up in the hills and has wonderful views of the surrounding landscape. This camp site is equipped with drinking water and ablution facilities. Ana Boom camp site is in the Limpopo River and you should come fully equipped.

A guided visit to the Rakwena Crocodile Farm can be arranged to see, close up, hatchling & adult crocodiles.

Contact Information

Website: www.ratho.co.za

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced birder, you have to visit the Mapungubwe National Park. The abundance of birdlife is quite spectacular and there are lots of specials to find. There are two large hides in the bushveld habitat and one on the Limpopo River. A Tree Top walkway through the forest canopy on the banks of the Limpopo River has also been developed especially for bird watching. All hides are wheelchair-friendly.

There is a great number and variety of archaeological sites. These date from early Stone Age and Iron Age to the present. Most notable of the sites is Mapungubwe Hill whose artefacts reflect one of the most complex social and political entities in Africa during the eighth and ninth centuries. Guided night drives are offered, and for an additional fee the park also offers an eco-route, a self-drive route through some of the remoter parts of the park, and a guided trail into a limited motorised zone.

The park offers a number of self-catering accommodation options:

Leokwe Rest Camp (14 units)
Limpopo Forest Tented Camp (7 units)
Tshugulu Lodge (sleeps 12)

Contact Information

Website: www.sanparks.org/parks/Mapungubwe

Tuli Wilderness Trails have a concession in the Northern Tuli Game Reserve. The area has a wide range of habitats, from riverine forest on the Limpopo River to alluvial flood plains and basalt ridges. The western side of the reserve is criss-crossed by countless dry riverbeds and stunning sandstone ridges that rise 100 ft above the Motloutse River allowing awesome views of the surrounding landscape.

It is a rich wildlife area, lion are common, elephant are abundant and there are cheetah, leopard, hyena and many plains game species. Birding is excellent with over 250 species recorded in the Tuli Block.

Tuli Wilderness Trails have three campsites operating:

  • Musth Camp is the luxury safari style tented camp consisting of five twin units with en-suite bathrooms and a central self-catering kitchen/dining room area.
  • Mohave Bush Camp is more rustic with four mopane pole-and-thatch huts sleeping 12 people in total. Mohave has outdoor communal bathrooms and a central kitchen/lapa area.
  • Rutt Camp is a movable tented camp, which is used for the Wilderness Trails.

Craig and Sandy, who own and run the operation, have many years of experience in the eco-tourism industry and Craig is a knowledgeable guide.

Contact Information

Website: www.tulitrails.com

This De Beer’s property is situated adjacent to the Mapungubwe National Park. The 33,000 ha reserve is dominated by mopane woodland and has beautiful riverine forests and sandstone cliffs in the north. Over 400 species have been recorded in the reserve including Meyer’s Parrot, Meve’s Starling, Senegal Coucal and Tropical Boubou.

The lodge is called Little Much, can accommodate 17 people in three luxury air-conditioned chalets or in three separate air-conditioned double rooms. The central lodge has a fully equipped kitchen and an open dining and recreation area with a pub, swimming pool and camp fire. Guests can choose to be self-catering or fully-catered.

The lodge is set amongst the sandstone outcrops of the area and birds often seen around the camp include African Green Pigeon, Meyer’s Parrot, Black-faxed Waxbill and Grey-backed Camaroptera.

The reserve has a trained bird guide who can take guests to the local birding hotspots in the area or for walks in the reserve. You can also go Wild Dog tracking and have a chance of seeing elephant, white and black rhino and a variety of antelope species on the reserve.
Contact Information

Website: www.diamondroute.co.za

Western Soutpansberg Mountains

This area has spectacular mountain scenery and it is one of the most beautiful parts of the region. When you stay at one of the establishments here you can relax, breathe deeply and enjoy your seclusion from the world. The vegetation is a dominated by Arid Mountain Bushveld with patches of Afrotemperate Forest, Sour Bushveld and Afromontain Grasslands.

All the establishments in this area have marked trails through the mountains, which you can do by yourself or be guided by your hosts. The area is also worth visiting for its special wildlife, which includes Leopards, Samango Monkeys and Red Duiker. The wide variety of habitat types allows for good birding. The area has a number of breeding African Crowned Eagle. The mountain tops are good areas to see Gurney’s Sugarbird and Malachite Sunbird. It is worth looking out for Red-chested Flufftail here.

Buzzard Mountain Retreat was one of the first privately owned areas in the Soutpansberg to become known to the birding fraternity, and it is still one of the best known birding spots in this area. It is situated on the southern slopes and top of the mountain.

Habitat varies from Sweet Mixed Bushveld to afro-temperate mist-belt forest to afro-montane grasslands with proteas where Cape Rock Thrush, Cape Grassbird, Malachite Sunbird, and Gurney’s Sugarbird are found. From the high cliffs, overlooking the mountains one get excellent views of a variety of raptors especially falcons. Look out for Lanner and Peregrine Falcon, Verreaux’s Eagle and Jackal Buzzard.

Before descending from the cliffs keep a sharp eye out for the Cape Eagle-owls as they live on this rocky plateau. Walk along the trails through the forest below the cliffs and look out for Orange-winged Pytilia, Green Twinspot, Lemon Dove, Forest Buzzard and Aryer’s Hawk-Eagle to name just a few.

The very affordable accommodation consists of fully equipped self-catering stone cottages and basic wooden cabins for camping. Day visits must be booked in advance.

Medike Mountain Reserve is nestled deep in the Sand River Gorge in the heart of the Soutpansberg Mountains. Marietjie and Hannes Underhay, the owners, have a deep love and a broad knowledge of the natural history of the Soutpansberg.

The best way to savour Medike’s rich ecological diversity is on foot. More than 30 km of marked hiking trails meander through forested kloofs, rugged gorges, waterfalls, archaeological sites and mountain streams. The diversity of natural habitats (afro-temperate forest, woodlands, riverine forest, montane grassland and arid mountain bushveld) found on Medike affords a large variety of fauna and flora.

Nearly 200 bird species have been identified, including the Crested Guineafowl, Peregrine Falcon, Lanner Falcon, African Crowned Eagle, Eastern Nicator and the Narina Trogon. Other bird specials include the African Fish-eagle, Osprey, Gorgeous Bush-shrike, Little Sparrow-hawk, Gabar Goshawk, Purple Crested and Knysna Turacos.

Accommodation is fully equipped self-catering, with the option of meals.

  • Murango Boulder Cottage sleeps seven and is built into boulders on the banks of the Sand River.
  • Dzhiawolala Pioneer Cottage sleeps seven and is a restored old trading post, dating from the 1930’s.
  • Masianoke Log Cabin sleeps four and is nestled in the mountainside with a wooden deck overlooking the cliffs of the Sand River Gorge.

Waterberg-Nylsvley Birding Route

The Waterberg-Nylsvei Birding Route covers the vast Waterberg mountains and the surrounding areas. It contains the largest inland flood plain in South Africa, the largest Cape Vulture breeding colony in the country, four provincial reserves and over 150 000 hectares of other private reserves. This area is the only place in the Limpopo Province where you can see the rare Yellow-throated Sandgrouse, as well as the Blue Crane, Barrow’s Korhaan and Stanley’s Bustards, while enjoying vast wide open spaces and spectacular scenery. The area has the added attraction of being close to Gauteng and the O.R.Tambo International Airport, and it is in a Malaria-free part of the province.

The key attraction of the WNBR is the spectacular Nylsvei floodplain when it is in flood. This 16 000 hectare floodplain, which floods every 3 to 4 years, has been registered as a RAMSAR site due to the importance it has for waterfowl in South Africa.

Of the 365 bird species recorded in the Nylsvei area, 104 are water birds and, of those, 87 breed here in the wet years. Specials to look out for include Little; Dwarf and Eurasian Bittern, 15 species of duck and goose, Allen’s Gallinule, Lesser Moorhen as well as seven species of Crake and Rail, to mention a few.

Besides the waterbirds, the bushveld surrounding Nylsvei also offers great birding, with 8 species of Owl being recorded and a chance of seeing the spectacular Orange-breasted Bushshrike and Crimson-breasted Shrike amongst the 200 other bushveld species found here.

The Waterberg Mountains hold a host of suprises for birders with White-backed Night Heron and Finfoot found along the Mogol and Phalala rivers, as well as Blue Crane, Barrow’s Korhaan, Stanley’s Bustard and Eastern Clapper Lark being found on the Plateau. There are over 485 breeding pairs of Cape Vulture in the Marakele National Park. Gurney’s Sugarbirds, Buff-streaked Chat and Striped Pipit are found on the top of the highest peak in the Waterberg which is accessible to sedan vehicles via a concrete road.

The north-eastern escarpment of the Waterberg has the most spectacular scenery on the route and the Masebe Provincial reserve and the Telekishi community trail in this area offer the best chance of seeing Verraux’s Eagle, African Hawk Eagle, Lanner Falcon and Rock Kestrel as well as Short-toed Rock Thrush.

The south-western part of the route is the main stake-out for Yellow-throated Sandgrouse in the country. The hundreds of kilometres of Limpopo River along the Botswana border are largely unexplored and hold Pied Babblers, Sociable Weavers, Black-cheeked Waxbill and a host of other birds usually only encountered in the western part of Southern Africa. There are also Pel’s Fishing Owl, Meyer’s Parrot, Great Sparrow and a host of other surprises for birders in this vast and unexplored area. The Mokolo dam, Doorndraai dam and D’Nyala Provincial reserves are interesting, unexplored birding sites, adding wetland habitats amongst the vast bushveld areas of this fantastic Birding Route.

We have divided the Waterberg-Nylsvlei Birding Route into four different birding areas. Each birding area has its own unique character and set of special bird species. Within each area there is also a variety of accommodation options and birding sites to visit.

Arid West

The habitat in this area is mainly mixed bushveld with a distinct Kalahari flavour to it, and many of the bird species reflect this as well. Kalahari Scrub-robin, Pied Babbler, Yellow-throated Sandgrouse and Marico Flycatchers are all found in this area. The major feature of the area is the Limpopo River and its tributaries. This area has not been extensively birded but many raptors like Lapper-faced Vulture, Tawny Eagle, African Hawk-eagle and Wahlberg’s Eagle are known to breed here. There are also reports of Pel’s Fishing Owls and White-backed Night-heron along the Limpopo. Burchell’s Sandgrouse are common here and other birds like Great Sparrow, Black-cheeked Waxbill and Violet-eared Waxbill can be found here as well.

This small reserve, that is owned by the Anglo-Platinum mine, is one of the best places in the country to see the Yellow-throated Sandgrouse. Access is arranged via a mine employee, Jannie Willemse, who guides visitors to a waterhole where the birds come and drink.

Additional Information

The best time to see the birds is around 10H00 in the morning.

The farm roads around the Koedoeskop between the R510 and the R511 up to Thabazimbi offer some excellent birding. Yellow-throated Sandgrouse can be seen in this area from the roads by scanning the black cotton soils. There is good general birding along this road with White and Abdim’s Storks, African Quail Finch, Amur Falcon and many more.

During summer the woodland is alive with the sounds of several species such as Red-chested, Striped, Jacobin and Diderick Cuckoo, Woodland Kingfisher and European Bee-eater. Also look out for Brown-crowned Tchagra and Grey-headed Kingfisher. Extensive reedbeds along the river have good numbers of White-winged Widows and Southern Red and Yellow Bishops.

A series of irrigation dams on the northern (right hand) side of the road are home to Lesser Swamp-Warblers and Levaillant’s Cisticola that are easy to locate due to the sparse vegetation cover. The dams are surrounded by cultivated fields which attract species such as Comb (Knob-billed) Ducks, White-faced Ducks and Spur-winged Geese.

Directions

To access these roads, turn left off the R511 to Koedoeskop about 30km south of Thabazimbi. Head straight on this road for 1.2 kilometres until you get to the bridge over the Crocodile river.

This is the closest part of the province to Gauteng being only 90 km from Pretoria. It offers good bushveld and broadleaved woodland birding as well as a good diversity of water birds.

Goliath and Black Heron, Comb Duck and White-backed Duck can be seen on the dam as well as a host of waders including Wood and Common Sandpipers. The acacia woodland holds Barred Wren-warbler, Fairy Flycatcher, Cape Penduline-tit and in the broad-leaved woodland look out for Coqui Francolin, Great Sparrow and Flappet Lark. Various rarities have been found here as well, with Greater Frigatebird and Golden Pipit boosting the reserve lists.

Directions

Take the N1 north and take the Hammanskraal off ramp and follow the signs to Rust de Winter.

This dirt road follows the Pienaars River and after about 15 km end at the Kgomo Kgomo floodplain where the Pienaars, Plat and Tshwane rivers meet. The habitat along the road is mostly Acacia woodland with areas of grasslands. This area is renowned for the variety of warblers that can be found here, Barred-, Wren-, Olive-tree-, Marsh-, Great-reed and Icterine Warblers are found here as well as Common White-throat, River Warbler and even Thrush Nightingale.

You may also find Tinkling Cisticola, Pied Babbler and Crimson-breasted Shrike here. The grassland around the Kgomo Kgomo area has Blue-cheeked Bee-eater, Kittlitz’s Plover, Chestnut-backed Sparrow Lark and African Quailfinch. When the floodplain inundates it attracts Black-, Goliath and Purple Heron as well as Yellow-billed Stork, Allen’s Gallinule, Lesser Moorhen and Corn-, Ballion’s and African Crake.

Directions

Take the Rust de Winer / Pienaarsrivier off-ramp and turn west. Drive to the T-junction with the R101 and turn right. After 1 km turn left onto a dirt road to Zaagkuilsdrift. In very wet years the roads around the flood plain get inundated and are sometimes impassable for a week or two.

This 23,500 ha reserve is in the south western corner of the province. There is a good mix of habitats and the reserve has a bird list of over 300 species. There are Kalahari habitats that are home to Koi Bustards, Red-crested and Black Korhaan, Secretarybird and Harlequin Quail. This is also one of the few places where Bateleur have been recorded to breed outside the Kruger National Park. There is a breeding population of White-backed Vulture. Yellow-throated Sandgrouse have been sighted close to the reserve and should occur here together with the Double-Banded, Burchell’s and Namaqua Sandgrouse that are regularly seen here.

The reserve has a variety of game including black rhino. There is a variety of self-catering accommodation options at Atherstone.

Directions

The reserve is 160 km from Thabazimbi on the Oosermoed road.

Additional Information

Website: www.golimpopo.com

This 8,000 ha reserve is 10 km out of Lephalale and has a small floodplain of the Tambotie River. The rest of the reserve is made up of broad-leaved woodland and acacia bushveld.

In wet years, the flood plain attracts a host of water birds with the Comb Duck, Little Bittern, Lesser Moorhen and Painted Snipe being recorded. The rest of the reserve has regular sightings of Double-banded Sandgrouse and the occasional Burchell’s Sandgrouse. Owls, cuckoos and kingfishers are all well represented and six species of Bee-eater occur – this is one of the best spots to find the erratic Swallow-tailed Bee-eater.

The reserve offers fully equipped self-catering log cabins and is in the process of being upgraded. The self-drive loop with its spectacular wetland hides is well worth doing.

Additional Information

Website: www.golimpopo.com

Nylsvley Floodplain

This area covers about 16,000 ha from Modimolle to the west of Mokopane, on the Springbok Flats below the Waterberg. The habitat is dominated by the biggest seasonal flood plain in South Africa surrounded by mainly thornveld and a few patches of broad-leaved woodland. The Nyl River floods every 2 to 3 years and is then one of the biggest water bird breeding areas in South Africa. In the dry years the bushveld birding still makes this a worthwhile stop for birders.

This reserve holds a large dam in the foothills of the Waterberg between Mookgophong (Naboomspruit) and Mokopane (Potgietersrus). There is a variety of habitats in the reserve with wooded hills, savannah bushveld, open plains and broad-leaved woodland making up the majority of the habitat other than the dam and its well-vegetated banks.

The reserve has a good complement of raptors with Martial Eagle, African Hawk-eagle and African Fish-eagle all breeding here. This is one of the few places in the country where Garganey has been recorded, and Osprey is regularly seen here in summer. Coqui and Shelley’s Franklin are also often seen and heard, and Freckled Nightjar and Mocking Chat are found in the hills. More than 12 species of shrike occur here as well as Yellow-throated Petronia and Orange-breasted Waxbill.

Doorndraai dam has been a favourite for fishermen in the area for years and birders are only now starting to discover this beautiful reserve. Walking is allowed and there is lots of general game to be seen as well.
There is a camp site on the reserve.

Directions
Take the Sterk Rivier road off the R101 between Mookgophong (Naboomspruit) and Mokopane (Potgietersrus), after 17 km turn left on to a dirt road, the reserve is 5 km down this road.

Contact
Website: http://www.wildliferesorts.co.za/limpopo-resorts/waterberg/doorndraai-wildlife-camp.html

This farm is 40 km’s from Nylsvley on the banks of the Nyl River near Mokopane. The farm has a large dam that provides permanent water along the Nyl River floodplain. Other than the thornveld woodland around the dam, there is reeded river and marshland habitat.

Even in a dry seaon, the pan is bursting with Red-billed Teal, Yellow-billed Duck, Knob-billed Duck, Spur-wing Goose, Sacred Ibis, White-face Duck, Fish Eagle, resident Maccoa Duck, as well as a host of sandpipers, plovers, coots, herons, warblers, cisticolas and spoonbills. The woodland around the dam is good for Chestnut-vented Ti-babbler, Barred Wren-warbler and Crimson-breasted Shrike.

Additional Information

To organize a visit to this amazing dam, please make prior arrangement on +27 (0)82 920 1741 or +27 (0)15 491 9400.

This RAMSAR site is a unique seasonal flood plain that is the largest and most intact in the country. It is surrounded by typical bushveld savannah. The area has over 365 bird species recorded, with 104 of these being water birds.

The flood plain is inundated every 2-4 years and when it floods, several rare and endangered water birds breed here. All three of the bittern species occur and breed here and all of the southern African herons have been recorded here. The largest recorded breeding concentrations in South Africa of Great Egret, Black Heron, Squacco Heron and Black-crowned Night-Heron occur at Nylsvley. Streaky-breasted Flufftail have been recorded here. Striped Crake and Lesser Moorhen and Allan’s Gallinule breed here. Pygmy Goose, White-backed Duck and Comb Duck are some of the 15 duck and goose species that occur in the wet years.

In the dry years, the area is still a prime birding destination. Common Whitethroat, Garden Warbler, Olive-tree Warbler and Tinkling Cisticola all occur here. There is a large concentration of Pearl-spotted Owlet along with seven other owl species. This is a birding stop not to be missed.

There is a camp site and accommodation in the reserve as well as a variety of Birder Friendly accommodation around the reserve and in Modimolle and Mookgophong (Naboomspruit), less than half an hour’s drive away.

Directions

The reserve is accessed via the R101 between Modimolle and Mookgophong by taking the Boukenhout turning, the reserve gate is 8 km down this road on the left just after the railway line.

Contact

Website: www.golimpopo.co.za
For bookings please contact +27 (0)15 293 3611/2.

Waterberg Fringes

This is the area surrounding the Waterberg Mountains to the south and west; an ecotone between the Waterberg broad-leaved woodlands and the drier arid western thornveld. As a result of this crossover of habitats it can be very productive; it is one of the best to look for White-bellied Korhaan and Meyer’s Parrot. The south of this area along the PIenaar’s River is a great site for River Warbler towards the end of summer and for Pied Babbler and Tinkling Cisticola all year round. The smaller flood plains in the D’Nyala Nature Reserve and at Kgomo Kgomo also hold a good range of breeding waterbirds in wet years. The Mokolo Dam is also a good site to search for the rare White-backed Night-Heron.

This reserve in the far north-eastern part of the Waterberg has some of the most amazing scenery anywhere in the province. There is a spectacular escarpment of red sandstone cliffs and a host of lone-standing mesas. The reserve is just over 4000 ha and the habitats are mainly deciduous broad-leaved woodland.

The main birding attraction of the reserve is the raptors. There are four pairs of Verreaux’s Eagles breeding on the cliffs as well as African Hawk Eagle, African Harrier Hawk, Lanner Falcon and Rock Kestrel. Lizard Buzzard and Brown- and Black-chested Snake Eagles are also found here.

The other interesting species found her include Retz’s Helmet-Shrike, Grey Tit-flycatcher and Short-toed Rock-thrush.

Directions

The reserve is reached from the R518 between Melkrivier and Marken or by taking the R11 north from Mokpane. After 90 km turn left to Sagole onto a gravel road and after 20 km turn left to Masebe. The gate is on your left after 2 km.

Additional Information

There is an Ivory Route camp in the reserve.

Telekishi Community close to Masebe have started a three hour trail that takes in various archaeological sites and traverses the escarpment. The guides have been FAGASA trained as site cultural guides and are going to be trained in birding as well.

The trail starts in the flood plain area of the Matlabas River with its related birds and heads up the escarpment to the broad-leaved woodlands on the top of the Waterberg Plateau.

There is a pair of Verreaux’s Eagle nesting along the trail and African Hawk-eagle and Lanner Falcon are also regularly seen. Spotted Eagle-owl, Barn Owl, and Peal-spotted Owlet are also regularly sighted.

This is a good option for birders who enjoy doing a bit of walking and like to interact and support the local communities and learn about the culture and history of the area while birding.

Additional Information

For more information and bookings contact Malisela Chokwe at +27 (0)83 612 7845 or Oldrich on +27(0)83 274 5000.

This little town is run as a suburb of Thabazimbi but is located in the bushveld, 40 km from the town, surrounded by a game reserve. It is freely accessible to the public through a manned gate. A network of roads, which get you off the main road and into great bushveld habitat and good birding, can be explored. Orange-breasted Bush-shrike, Arrow-marked Babbler, Lizard Buzzard and Shikra are often seen.

This convenient refreshment stop offers a birding hotspot in the restaurant garden, especially if you are a photographer as the birds allow you to get close to them. Within the gardens, several breeding pairs of African Paradise-flycatchers are nesting in summer as well as nesting Amethyst Sunbird. During the evening, African Scops-owls can be heard calling around the restaurant area. There is also an entertaining group of Banded Mongoose which frequents the gardens.

Additional Information

For more information call Leon on +27 (0)14 735 0955.

This project was set up in 1999 on Mabula to harvest wild second chicks, that always die in the nest, for hand-rearing, and on fledging release them with the existing group to learn to forage, about predators and the complicated social structure of these co-operative breeders, before released into areas where this important flagship species of the savannah biome is now extinct.

Southern Ground Hornbills live in co-operative breeding groups of between two and twelve birds, with one alpha breeding pair. The remainder of the groups are made up of predominantly adult male helpers and immature hornbills from the previous years. Ground Hornbills have an average breeding rate of one chick per group reared to fledging every nine years, defending a territory of an average of 100 square kilometres. There are the largest and estimated to be the longest-lived hornbills, reaching between 50-60 years of age, and the slowest to breed.

Additional Information

To visit the project you need to phone in advance and work through Mabula Game Reserve. Contact with the birds is limited to prevent them losing their fear of humans.

Project Website: http://www.mabulagroundhornbillconservationproject.org.za

Waterberg Plateau

This area is defined by the Waterberg Mountains that stretches over a fairly large area and include a very diverse set of habitats that include montane grassland up to 2,000m, bushveld areas, broad-leaved woodland, rocky hills and wooded valleys along permanent rivers. This results in a very diverse bird list and to find specific species it is necessary to get into the micro-habitats within the area. For example the top of Marakele has montane species like Buff-streaked Chat, Gurney’s Sugarbirds and Cape Rock-thrush, while the bottom of the same park has bushveld species like Southern Boubou and White-helmet Shrike.

The grassland on the higher parts of the mountains have Blue Crane, Denham’s Bustard and a range of Cisticolas. The rivers of the Waterberg are good places to look for African Finfoot, White-backed Duck and African Black Duck. The predominant vegetation of the Waterberg is deciduous broad-leaved woodland. This habitat can be very productive in summer and you should look out for Black Flycatcher, Grey Penduline-Tit, White-crested Helmet-shrike and Yellow-bellied Greenbul.

This wonderful national park is 30 kilometres north-east of Thabazimbi and covers 45,000 ha of the Southern Waterberg. This huge area is not all accessible to the public, but the parts that are hold a fantastic variety of birds.

The cliffs have the largest Cape Vulture breeding colony in the country and there is access to the highest point of the Waterberg via a concrete road. On top of the peak, you can find Gurney’s Sugarbird, Malachite Sunbird, Buff-streaked Chat and many other high-altitude specialists.

The rest of the park is dominated by bushveld and patches of broad-leaved woodland and riverine habitats. You can see Pied Babbler, Crimson-breasted Shrike, Red-crested Korhaan, Kori Bustard and Secretarybird at Kwagga’s Vlakte, a separate piece of the park where the campsite and tented camp is situated.

There are many raptors in the park with Booted Eagle, Peregrine Falcon and Cuckoo Hawk being some of the more notable. The banks of the Matlabas and Sterkstroom Rivers and the dams in the park have a variety of water bird and you may see Half-collared Kingfisher, African Darter or Red-faced Cisticola in the reeds.

There are elephant, black and white rhino and general game in the park, so walking is not permitted without an armed ranger-guide. The park has a variety of accommodation options, from camping to tented and bush camps.

Additional Information

Website: www.sanparks.org/parks/mapungubwe

This 2,000 ha conservancy in the Waterberg mountains has a wide range of habitats, from wetlands to cliffs, it can all be found on this property. The majority of the area is covered by broad-leaved woodlands, but there are a number of small streams and two perennial rivers with wetland areas that attract Blue Crane, Secretarybird, Common Quail and a host of other grassland birds. The raptors are well represented with Lizard Buzzard, Little Sparrowhawk, Spotted Eagle Owl and Cape Vulture being seen here often.

There is a hide placed on one of the small dams that attracts Black Crake, Yellow-billed Duck and Moorhen, but this property has been under-birded and many specials bay be found in the vast tracts of wilderness. There are over 70 km of hiking trails on the farm and a host of small self-catering cabins that provide basic but comfortable accommodation.

The Palala River can be birded from this point where it is dammed by a weir to the west of the bridge. Sunrise and early mornings is the best time to do birding in this area especially if looking for African Finfoot and Little Bittern. Scanning the sandbanks will reveal the resident group of Water Thick-knees and African Wattled Lapwings while Green-backed Heron might be found within the adjoining reed-beds. Keep a look out for Black Crakes, African Pygmy Goose, African Fish-eagle and Giant Kingfisher.

The surrounding woodlands towards the south of the bridge are well represented with a variety of typical bushveld species like African Pygmy Kingfisher, Yellow-fronted Tinkerbird, Orange-breasted and Grey-headed Bush-Shrikes, Grey-tit (Fantailed) Flycatcher, African Firefinch and Little Sparrowhawk.

During the summer months watch out for Long-tailed Paradise- and Pin-tailed Whydah as well as Purple Indigobird. Scanning the wooded bank to the east of the bridge might produce Black Sparrowhawk, especially if one happens to be there later in the afternoon.

Directions

From Vaalwater take the Melkrivier turn-off and follow the road for 40 km. Turn left onto a dirt road at the Melkrivier School and Rhino Museum signboards. Follow the road for 5.9 km and turn right still following the Rhino Museum boards. Follow the road for 5.7 km, past the Rhino Museum until reaching the bridge.

This is the over-wintering area of between 40 and 60 Blue Cranes. The area is mainly montane grasslands and besides Blue Cranes you can see Denham’s Bustards, White-bellied Korhaan, Short-toed Rock-thrush, Buff-streaked Chat, Wailing Cisticola and many more. The cranes gather on private farms and are monitored by the provincial officials who can organize outing to see the birds.

You can also travel through the area on the public dirt roads and have good roadside birding. The recommended route is turn left at the second Alma turning on the R33 when travelling from Modimolle to Vaalwater, just after a small school. Follow this road for about 10 km to a T junction; here turn left to Alma. Continue through Alma to Rankin’s Pass and turn right towards the mountain. This road will take you back to Alma. About 7 km along this road is a farmer Jan de Beer, who will allow access onto his farm with prior arrangement.
Call +27 (0)14 721 0833 or +27 (0)82 903 2483 to organize access to his farm.

Please note that these roads are not always maintained correctly so a vehicle with some clearance is recommended and after rain a 4×4 is sometimes needed.

If you want to know where the Blue Cranes are between May and August, phone Joseph Heymans, the District Biodiversity Monitor on +27(0)82 807 6741 and he may be able to organize an outing onto the private farm lands where the cranes gather in winter.

This private cattle farm is the breeding area for a pair of Blue Cranes. This vast farm is mainly covered by tall montane grasslands. Other than Blue Crane there is a good chance of seeing Denham’s Bustard, White-bellied Korhaan and the Common Quail. There are also three species of pipit and five species of cisticola to be found here. The cranes are on the farm from September to March.

The farmer, John Malovich, allows birders on his farm if you book with him in advance. He will either give you directions or send someone with you to show you around. There are two strict rules on the farm – No Smoking, as fires are a big problem and “If a gate is closed, you must close it behind you. If it is open, leave it open”. The farm is at the top of the Bokpoort pass near the source of the Palala River, you will get directions from John when you organize a visit. To organize an outing on this beautiful farm, call John on +27 (0)83 661 8823.

This small dam, just north of Mookgophong, is covered with water-lilies and so provides a perfect habitat for Pygmy Goose. They have been recorded here a few times.

There are two bridges here and some nice reed beds that host a number of swallow, swift and martin species, other species to be seen here include White-backed Duck, African Fish-eagle, Purple Heron and Purple Swamp-hen. Look out for Giant Kingisher, Great Crested Grebe and Zitting Cisticola here as well.

Directions

From Mookophong take the R520 out of Mookophong. You will turn left at the most northern traffic light in the town. After 11 km, turn left at the T-junction. After less than 1 km, turn right on the Marken road. The dam is on the right along this road, just before the pass where the road crosses the Sterk River.

This 2,000 ha conservancy in the Waterberg mountains has a wide range of habitats, from wetlands to cliffs, it can all be found on this property. The majority of the area is covered by broad-leaved woodlands, but there are a number of small streams and two perennial rivers with wetland areas that attract Blue Crane, Secretarybird, Common Quail and a host of other grassland birds. The raptors are well represented with Lizard Buzzard, Little Sparrowhawk, Spotted Eagle Owl and Cape Vulture being seen here often.

There is a hide placed on one of the small dams that attracts Black Crake, Yellow-billed Duck and Moorhen, but this property has been under-birded and many specials bay be found in the vast tracts of wilderness. There are over 70 km of hiking trails on the farm and a host of small self-catering cabins that provide basic but comfortable accommodation.

Additional Information

Website: www.waterberg.co.za

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