Kruger and Magoebaskloof

7 days—Birding in the forest and bush offers a rich blend of species, from elusive canopy dwellers to bold ground foragers, creating a wonderful experience

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$2055 USD

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Safari summary

Birding in Kruger National Park and the Magoebaskloof forests offers two distinct yet equally captivating experiences. In Kruger, vast bushveld and savanna landscapes are alive with diverse bird life. Here, you can spot iconic species like the Southern Ground Hornbill, Lilac-breasted Roller, and Saddle-billed Stork, often alongside big game. The park’s open spaces and waterholes make for excellent viewing opportunities, especially on early morning or late afternoon drives.

In contrast, the Magoebaskloof forests, nestled in the misty mountains of Limpopo, provide a lush, green haven for more elusive and forest-dwelling species. Towering trees and dense canopies shelter birds like the Cape Parrot, Black-fronted Bushshrike, Narina Trogon, and Knysna Turaco. The forests’ cool, tranquil atmosphere creates a serene bird watching environment, perfect for both seasoned birders and nature enthusiasts. Exploring both regions gives you a rich, varied birding experience in South Africa.

About this tour

	Tour type	Custom, tailor-made, private
	Main focus	Game drives
	Activity level	Easy activity
	Best months	All months
	Countries	South Africa
	Parks	Kruger

Fine details

Safari highlights

Bird watching—with professional guide

What’s included?

Accommodation
Airport transfers
Park fees
Private vehicle and driver

What’s not included?

Alcoholic beverages
All drinks
Hot air balloons
Internal flights
International flights
Laundry
Premium alcoholic beverages
Spa treatments
Tips and gratuities
Visas

Itinerary

Johannesburg to Magoebaskloof

Upon arrival at the airport, your dedicated guide will warmly greet you. As you journey to your overnight lodge in the picturesque Magoebaskloof area, you may make a few stops to explore birding opportunities along the way. If time permits, enjoy a leisurely birding walk in the lodge's beautiful gardens during the afternoon. Afterward, savor a delicious dinner and unwind for a restful night, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the Magoebaskloof region.

Bramasole Guesthouse

Magoebaskloof

Prepare for a full day of birding in Magoebaskloof. After an early breakfast, explore Woodbush Forest Reserve to seek out the endangered Cape Parrot, Narina Trogon, Black-fronted Bushshrike, African Emerald Cuckoo and Orange Ground Thrush. After lunch, we continue our search for for Bat Hawk, Red-backed Mannikin, and Blue-spotted Wood Dove. Return to the lodge for dinner and a restful night, enjoying the day’s birding highlights.

Bramasole Guesthouse

Magoebaskloof to Kruger

Kruger

After breakfast, you'll head to the renowned Kruger National Park. As soon as you enter this wilderness, your birding safari begins. With over 500 bird species recorded in the park, keep an eye out for various Hornbills, Kori Bustard, the Common Ostrich, and Secretarybird. After checking in, enjoy some free time before a late afternoon game drive, where you might spot mammals like Elephant, Buffalo, Giraffe, Zebra, and Impala. Meals and overnight accommodation will be at the rest camp.

Satara Rest Camp

Kruger National Park

Kruger

Enjoy a full day of birding starting with an early coffee at camp before heading out at sunrise. Look out for big cats like Lion and Leopard, and focus on spotting Raptors such as Martial Eagle, Tawny Eagle, and four Vulture species: Lappet-faced, White-backed, Hooded, and White-headed. Scan the plains for Black-bellied Bustard, African Pipit Swainson's Spurfowl, , and Temminck's Courser. Return to the rest camp for meals and enjoy your dinner under the African sky before bed.

Satara Rest Camp

Kruger National Park

Kruger

Get an early start as you head south to your next overnight stop, with birding opportunities along the way. As the habitat changes, you'll encounter more bird species, such as the African Green Pigeon, Purple-crested Turaco, and Woodpeckers. After checking in, you may have time to explore the camp or visit the shop. This afternoon, enjoy another drive, with meals at picnic sites or the rest camp. Listen for Owls in the evening. Overnight at Skukuza Rest Camp.

Skukuza Rest Camp

Kruger National Park

Kruger

On your last full day, enjoy morning coffee before heading out at sunrise. Bird along the Sabie River, searching for Saddle-billed Stork, Goliath Heron, Giant, Malachite, and Pied Kingfishers, and African Fish Eagle. You'll also spot Black-collared and Lilac-breasted Rollers, Crested Barbets, and White-fronted Be-eaters. Meals will be at picnic spots or the rest camp. In the evening, savor your final dinner in the Reserve, soaking up the bush sounds and the African sky before a restful night.

Skukuza Rest Camp

Kruger National Park to Nelspruit

Kruger

After enjoying breakfast at the rest camp, you will be transferred to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport. Reflect on the memorable experiences of your stay as you make your way to the airport for your onward flight.

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