South Africa: Oct 02—23, 2008

Grassbird — Photo: Jonathan Rossouw

Birding a country of contrasts—from the spectacular scenery of the Cape coastline to the high mountains of the landlocked kingdom of Lesotho, from the lush bush of coastal Zululand to the grasslands of the interior—an easy-paced look at the region's rich birdlife and many endemic birds. While primarily a birding trip, we usually see a good selection of mammals as well.

South Africa is perhaps the most varied country on the continent—hence it's a paradise for the visiting birder. The terrain is scenic and remarkably diverse, with everything from the near-perfect Mediterranean climate of the southwestern Cape to the windy and cold grasslands of the highlands. In between lie acacia bush and shrub desert, wet evergreen forest and steamy tropical scrub, rolling veld, and several unique plant associations.

In many areas birds are remarkably common and easy to see, but even more tantalizing is the high degree of endemism of the avifauna. Over 165 species are found only in Africa south of the Zambezi and Cunene Rivers, and most of them can be seen in South Africa. This tour will focus on these specialties, from Jackass Penguins, Cape Cormorants, Bald Ibis, and Blue Cranes, right on down the checklist through a plethora of larks, thrushes, and warblers. While many of these endemics are obviously related to species in other parts of the continent, a surprising number of them are very distinct forms with small ranges and without close relatives.

This tour is scheduled for the southern springtime, the best time of year for birding the entire country. Many birds will be nesting, the intra-African migrants are arriving on their breeding grounds, and the Cape is especially beautiful with wildflowers at this season. We should find almost 450 species of birds, including almost 100 of the regional endemics and near-endemics, plus many favorite African birds with wider ranges.

Also included is a pelagic trip which will give us access to the incredibly rich bird life in the deep, cold waters off the Cape. The timing of this trip means that we should still see some of the southern ocean species, as well as early arrivals from the northern hemisphere.

While this is not primarily a trip to see mammals, we'll likely spot rhino, giraffe, and a wide array of antelope in the reserves. An added bonus for visitors to South Africa is the great tourism infrastructure. This agricultural and industrial giant is the only truly modern country on the continent. The accommodations, food, roads, and other facilities are generally excellent. In addition, there is a wealth of printed materials on the birds and other aspects of natural history.

Moderate to excellent accommodations; a moderately paced tour with limited, easy walking; travel in comfortable air-conditioned buses; temperatures range from cool/cold to pleasantly warm.