Best of the East Birding

Begin the Best of the East birding tour arriving in Johannesburg and driving Polokwane. At the Polokwane Game Reserve, search for birds such as the Short-clawed Lark, Northern Black Korhaan, and Barred Wren-warbler, along with mammals like Plains Zebra and Giraffe. Next, head to Magoebaskloof, nestled in a lush forest. Birdwatching here offers views of the Green Twinspot, Swee Waxbill, and Chorister Robin-chat. Conclude the day with dinner and listen for the African Wood Owl's call.

Bramasole Guesthouse

Kruger

After breakfast, set off on a birding excursion in lush forests to spot any missed species. Travel southeast through scenic mountain passes, stopping for birding and lunch. Arrive at Kruger National Park’s Orpen Gate, a top birding destination with nearly 520 species, including the Kori Bustard and Southern Ground Hornbill. Reach Satara Rest Camp in the late afternoon, enjoy dinner on the verandah, and relax under the stars before preparing for the days ahead.

Satara Rest Camp

A full day is dedicated to exploring the southern part of Kruger. The area around Skukuza boasts diverse habitats. The riverbanks also teem with birdlife, and rare species like the African Finfoot have been observed here. Birdwatching is highly rewarding, with chances to see species like Bearded Scrub Robin, Green-backed Camaroptera, Grey Tit-flycatcher, Black-headed Oriole, and Retz’s Helmetshrike. Late afternoon at Skukuza allows for relaxation and a hearty dinner.

Skukuza Rest Camp

Kruger

After a final birding session around camp and breakfast, drive south to exit Kruger NP and head to Wakkerstroom, a five-hour journey with a lunch stop en route. Wakkerstroom is home to 13 endemic or near-endemic bird species and 33 southern African endemics. Target species are: African Rail, African Snipe, South African Cliff Swallow and Red-chested Flufftail. Check-in is at accommodation near Wakkerstroom. Dinner is followed by a restful night for the next day’s adventures.

Forellenhof Guest Farm

The journey heads southeast to Mkuze Game Reserve arriving mid to late afternoon. Mkuze's varied habitats host a wide range of bird species like the Pink-throated Twinspot, Gorgeous Bushshrike, and Neergaard’s Sunbird. After a day of birdwatching and wildlife viewing, head to nearby accommodations for a meal and discussion on trip highlights and future birding adventures, before a restful night's sleep.

Ghost Mountain Inn

After breakfast, head south to Mtunzini, arriving around lunchtime to explore this scenic town. In the afternoon, search for the elusive Palm-nut Vulture near the Raphia Palm Monument. Then, visit Amatikulu Nature Reserve, a 2,100-hectare area with diverse habitats and over 300 bird species. Key birds include Swamp Nightjar, Black Coucal, and White-fronted Bee-eater. Return to accommodation in the evening for dinner, a trip list update, and a well-deserved rest.

Birds of Paradise B&B

On the final morning, enjoy a quick coffee before heading to Umlalazi Nature Reserve for one last birdwatching outing. This 10-square-kilometer (4-square-mile) coastal reserve, with its dune forests, lakes, and lagoon, provides excellent opportunities to spot the African Finfoot and Mangrove Kingfisher. After breakfast, head south to King Shaka International Airport, approximately an hour north of Durban. Say your farewells and board your onward flight.