Bird Watching in and near Durban

Shongweni Dam

Shongweni Dam and Game Reserve is home to over 220 species of birds - amazing bird watching for the keen birder- a particularly large number considering the proximity to Durban. This is due to the excellent variety of habitat types. ... more

With thousands of species spread over multitudes of habitats, it would be impossible to summarize the full richness that bird watching in South Africa has to offer. From coastal areas to dense forests to tropical locations and wetlands, each area of the country offers a unique experience to enthusiastic birders.

The northern coast of Kwa-Zulu Natal offers some of the most varied species in the country. The wetlands in this area are a World Heritage Site and there are over 350 species of birds that frequent the area. In nearby Sodwana, the wetlands extend to Kosi Bay on the border with Mozambique and offer some of the best coastal wetland environments.

Alexander Bay and the nearby Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park boast around 280 species, with several species of raptor and other birds of prey.

If you would prefer to birdwatch among the lions, head to Sabie and the Kruger National Park to combine your birding with game viewing. The private game reserves of the Sabi Sands offer seclusion, but it is Kruger, with its 500 species, some found nowhere else in South Africa, that provides the best viewing. Be on the lookout for the “Big 6” of birding: the Saddle-billed Stork, Kori Bustard, Martial Eagle, Lappet-faced Vulture, Pel's fishing Owl and Ground Hornbill.

Other areas of the country known for their fascinating birding include Arniston, Cape Town, Dullstroom, Graskop, Hluhluwe, Harrismith, Langebaan, Lambert's Bay, Newcastle, Pretoria, Wilderness and Winterton.

Everywhere you go, be on the lookout for the Blue Crane, South Africa's national bird.