Birdwatching Safari

South Africa is home to around 850 species of birds. 50 bird species are endemic to the country, meaning they can only be found here. Over 700 bird species (approximately 725) are resident to Southern Africa (including annual migrating birds).

The months to visit South Africa for birdwatching is during the spring and summer months, from October through February.

During this time, many migratory bird species (from Europe, Northern Africa, and Asia) return to South Africa, almost doubling the bird populations in some areas. This time of year also marks the start of the breeding season, so many of the resident bird species are in full colour and more active, too

In our experience, the best time for birdwatching is in the early hours of the morning, just before dawn breaks. In South Africa, this is usually between 06h00 and 08h00. 

Most of the birds in South Africa are diurnal, this means they’re active during the day and asleep during the night. For bird photographers and avian tourists, the best times for sighting birds are in the early morning (at dawn) and the late afternoon, when the day cools and the birds become more active as they prepare to roost for the night.

The best time for birding in South Africa and birdwatching safari tours is between October and March, when migratory birds return to the Southern Hemisphere for the summer.

However, only about 100 of South Africa’s 850 bird species migrate annually, so avid birders and those looking to see native species can still experience spectacular bird sightings throughout the year, no matter the month or season. 

Yes, more than 100 migratory birds species have been identified and recorded in South Africa. This includes birds that migrate across the continent, as well as much further — between Southern Africa, Europe, and Asia.

Some of the most famous examples of birds that migrate between South Africa and Europe are: the European Stork, the European Roller, the Purple Heron, the Black-winged Kite, the European Bee-eater, and many more.

The Big 6 Birds the largest and most impressive birds you can sight in Southern Africa. Scattered in various regions and unique habitats across the country, they are: the Saddle-billed Stork, the Martial Eagle, the Pel’s Fishing Owl, the Ground Hornbill, the Lappet-faced Vulture and the Kori Bustard. 

South Africa has a temperate and subtropical climate, and with an impressive habitat diversity, it’s no surprise that birds rather like it here. Whilst you can see many bird species in just about any location in the country, the most popular birding ‘hot spots’ in South Africa are:

• Kruger National Park
• Isimangaliso Wetland Park
• The Succulent Karoo 
• The Drakensberg Mountains
• The Klein Karoo 
• Tsitsikamma National Park 
• West Coast Nature Reserve

The Western Cape has over 203 recorded species of birds. Common bird sightings in the province are: