The Garden Route is for the birds... and birders

Avitourism is the fastest growing outdoor leisure activity in the USA, where birders number in the tens of millions. They spend upwards of $20 billion dollars per year on this pastime. Average yearly spending by active birders is between $1,500 and $3,400, with travel being the major expenditure. So with our rich birdlife, it’s not surprising that South Africa is becoming a birding destination of note.

An African Darter leisurely sunning himself on a comfortable perch at the water''s edge

One of the most prolific birding regions in this country is the Garden Route which links the Western and Eastern Cape.  The Garden Route offers a diverse range of habitats and is home to around 300 species of birds, close on 30 of which are endemic to the Southern Cape.

The tiny Cape Batis is regularly encountered throughout the forest. Pairs keep in contact through a variety of piping calls.

It boasts a variety of scenic routes, formal bird hides, three National Parks and numerous Cape Nature reserves – plenty to keep keen birders, bird photographers and wildlife appreciationists happy.

The elusive Half-collared Kingfisher along the quiet backwaters of a stream

Many nature lovers and birders go one of the guided birding experiences on the Garden Route Trail. These allow one to explore forest, wetland, dune, Fynbos, estuary, riverine, montane and coastal regions without having to travel vast distances. The rich and abundant birdlife on show include colourful Sunbirds, African Real, the Knysna Turaco and Narina Trogon.

A Chorister Robin-chat reveals itself amongst the dense foliage of the forest understorey

Central to the Garden Route is a lake system comprising 5 lakes - ideal locations for waterfowl and waders, Kingfishers and African Fish Eagles.

The common Cape White-eyes move through the forest in small family groups

Garden Route guest house

If you enjoy creature comforts opt for our many Garden Route accommodation options like one of our 26 Knysna guest houses and B&Bs.

We love 5 star Villa Afrikana, perched high above the town of Knysna overlooking the renowned Knysna Heads and Lagoon.

Hosts Rossano and Bianca have years of experience in the hospitality industry and provide attentive, personal service. Delicious breakfasts and light meals are freshly prepared and enjoyed from the privacy of your balcony, dining room or pool deck whilst admiring the view. If you enjoy creature comforts opt for our many Garden Route accommodation options like one of our 26 Knysna guest houses and B&Bs.

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