Accommodation in South Africa recommended for birdwatching enthusiasts

South Africa is home to around 850 recorded bird species, of which approximately 725 are resident species (some of which are annual visitors). Impressively, about 50 endemic species are found in South Africa. These numbers mean that this country is a veritable hub for bird watchers and avian enthusiasts from all over the world.

Birder friendly accommodation establishments are committed to the conservation of birdlife and their natural habitats, and aim to showcase a large variety of birds for their guests. Many of the establishments offer flexible meal times, or are even willing to pack a lunch for guests that are spending the day in the bush, behind a pair of binoculars or a camera. In addition, they are knowledgeable and equipped to advise their guests on local birds, the best spots in which to find them, and where to collect an up-to-date birding guide.

Some of the best birding is in or near to the many game reserves and parks that pepper South Africa. There are also interesting species around the wetlands and coastlines, the forests and at the higher altitudes of the mountain ranges. Exploring the length and breadth of this country is sure to be most rewarding for those who want to see and photograph an impressive variety of bird species.

Did you know? Birders from around the world come to South Africa to experience the great variety of typically African birds, migrants, endangered, and endemic birds.

Popular safari accommodation

View Birder-Friendly Lodges by Province

Western Cape

 Pictured: Avian Leisure in Simons Town, Cape Town
In the towns and surrounding countryside of the Western Cape, bird life abounds. This province is renowned for its beautiful landscapes and habitats which attract hundreds of bird species. The accommodation in the area caters to the bird wa...

Garden Route

 Pictured: Fynbos Ridge Country House in Plettenberg Bay
Mountain ranges laden with forests plummet to the Indian Ocean shores, making for a spectacular backdrop against which to partake in some world-class bird watching. The birder friendly accommodation here ranges from eco-friendly tree houses...

Eastern Cape

 Pictured: Addo Dung Beetle Guest Farm in Addo
The Eastern Cape is a natural treasure trove of bird species, thanks to the varied habitats and pretty landscapes that include mountains, rolling hills, bushveld and gorgeous beaches. Marine and terrestrial species are complemented by impre...

KwaZulu Natal

 Pictured: Sani Valley Lodge in Sani Pass, Drakensberg
Situated in the magnificent mountains and forests of KwaZulu Natal, birder friendly accommodation options in this province are an ideal base from which to embark on some memorable bird watching and photography. These range from opulent game...

Gauteng

 Pictured: Budmarsh Private Lodge in Magaliesburg
The countryside around Johannesburg and Pretoria belies the bustling metropolises within these cities' borders. It is alive with fauna and flora, and a breathtaking variety of avian species. Birder friendly accommodation is found in areas l...

Mpumalanga

 Pictured: Rhino Walking Safaris in Kruger Park
Green valleys, towering mountain ranges and gorgeous escarpments make Mpumalanga a fantastic birding spot for beginners as well as experienced birders. Birder friendly establishments try to ensure that each sojourn into the countryside is w...

Limpopo

 Pictured: Madi a Thavha Mountain Lodge in Louis Trichardt
The birder friendly establishments in Limpopo range from secluded lodges on lakes to luxurious 4-star lodges in nature reserves. From these comfortable lodgings, bird watchers can embark on adventures into the bush, in search of the wonderf...

North West Province

 Pictured: Morubisi Bush Lodge near Hartbeespoort Dam
Best known as the home of Rustenburg and the glitzy Sun City, the North West Province is also the habitat of choice for many species of birds. Birding safaris are sure to yield some excellent sightings and even better photographs. After a d...

Free State

 Pictured: Amohela Ho Spitskop in Clocolan
The sprawling landscapes of the pristine Free State are prime bird watching spots, and welcome a number of different avian varieties. The birder friendly lodges in this province offer birding advice and facilities, making them convenient st...

Northern Cape

 Pictured: New Holme Karoo Guestfarm in Hanover
The magical province of the Northern Cape holds out so much promise for its natural variety, thanks to its multifaceted countryside, which makes for the ideal habitat for many bird species. Here, the accommodation is plentiful, and some of ...

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Related Pages

South Africa boasts a huge collection of wildlife regions and game parks - both public and private - encompassing every possible landscape from deserts to forests, mountains to coast, teeming with wildlife species - including Africa’s Big 5: Leopard, Lion, Buffalo, Elephant and Rhinoceros.

Bird Watching in South Africa

South Africa affords an incredible selection of bird watching opportunities. From man made aviaries, to birding in the bush, South Africa offers the bird watching experience of a life time. Most of the country lies in rather temperate climes, some of it in the ...

South Africa's Birdlife

Of the approximate 850 recorded bird species in the country, around 725 are resident birds (or, at least, annual visitors). An impressive 50 avian species can only be found in South Africa, giving birders a prime opportunity to spot something very special ...

View all birder friendly accommodation by province, indicated with red markers on the map below.
Blue markers show some popular birders' lodges around the country.

Birdwatching enthusiasts can enjoy their favourite past time while on holiday in our beautiful country

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