Unique birding opportunities through KwaZulu-Natal’s most prolific hotspots

Offering superb accommodation for both the avid watcher, and birding safari tour group, KwaZulu-Natal offers a variety of diverse bird habitats to cater for all the travellers needs. The coastal plain is influenced by the warm Mozambique current, with the result that a number of tropical species push to their southernmost extremity there. Some of these are species absent from the rest of South Africa. Other tropical species spread south on a broader front, sometimes occupying the whole of KwaZulu-Natal. None of these is a South African endemic, but a few are endemic to the coastal plain, just extending into Mozambique. The interior is structurally diverse - forests, woodlands, grasslands, wetlands and it is here the tropical species mingle with species spreading from the western half of Southern Africa.

It is in this KwaZulu-Natal interior that we find the luxurious Umsuluzi Riverside Lodge. Situated in an ideal location for most birding safaris, Riverside Lodge is situated on the banks of the historic Bloukrans River, the site of the notorious Bloukrans Massacre of the Voortrekkers in 1838. Surrounded by typical African bushveld, guests and families are afforded the opportunity to view the surrounding wildlife and prolific bird species that inhabit the surrounding riverside terrain, from the privacy of their own lounges and private decks. Catering for safari groups, the lodge is a haven of luxury with stone walls, comfortable lounges, wildlife paintings and an Anglo-Boer themed pub adding to the ambience of the South African safari experience. Tantalizing three course dinners may be enjoyed in the first class dining area and open air boma, adding to the tranquillity of the African bushveld adventure.

Situated in the Weenen / Colenso area, Umsuluzi has been blessed with an abundant bird life which includes a pair of breeding Blue Cranes, Ground Hornbills, Bald Ibis and the rare Painted Snipe. These are amongst the 250 plus bird species recorded in the area, and with Umsuluzi Game Park conveniently situated between neighbouring Weenen Game Reserve and the Drakensberg, guests have a variety of habitats to choose from, as they embark on a true African safari that is guaranteed to instil memories to last a lifetime. Here, guests have the opportunity to set out on an open Land Rover with qualified guides and explore the reserve and surrounding areas armed with only ones binoculars and bird book.

It is the above birding activities that make for a memorable holidaying experience, however, the cumulative efforts of the affordable accommodation, tantalizing three course meals and the serene birdlife, that will make your holiday travels to the KwaZulu-Natal inland an experience to remember.