Top 5 Birdwatching Spots on Kariega Game Reserve
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Kariega Game Reserve is located in the abundant wilderness of the Eastern Cape of South Africa. While many of our guests arrive excited to spot South Africa’s famous "Big Five," we’re always thrilled to share another aspect of Kariega that’s just as awe-inspiring: our birdlife. With two tidal estuaries, the Kariega and Bushman’s Rivers, and diverse habitats that range from lush forests to sweeping grassland, it’s no surprise that we’re home to over 300 species of birds.
Birdwatching here at Kariega invites us all to slow down and notice the finer details of our ecosystem. It’s a rewarding experience, whether you’re an avid birder or just curious to see what makes our wilderness so special. To make the most of your birdwatching adventure, we’ve selected our favorite spots for spotting some of Kariega’s most magnificent birds.
Riverines
The Kariega and Bushman’s Rivers are teeming with life, making our riverbanks the perfect habitat for unique bird species. One of our favourite visitors along the water’s edge is the kingfisher. Out of around 100 kingfisher species worldwide, ten make their home in southern Africa, and six species can be seen right here at Kariega. If you’re lucky, you might spot a Giant Kingfisher perched quietly above the river, waiting for the perfect moment to dive with remarkable precision. Kariega is also home to the smallest kingfisher - the African Pygmy Kingfisher.
And that’s just the beginning! Cormorants, African fish eagles, darters, and several duck species are frequent sightings, each adding to our vibrant riverside ecosystem. One rare gem for bird enthusiasts is the elusive African finfoot—a shy, secretive bird that, if spotted, is truly a sight to behold. It’s a bit of a ‘bucket list’ bird for those in the know!
You can look for these incredible birds on our river cruises or from special viewing spots on safari. And while you’re watching the river, keep an eye out for one of our resident hippos making an appearance!
Forests/Canopies
The forests and canopies here are a wonderland for birds. With vines twisting through the undergrowth and towering trees casting cool shadows, it’s an enchanting place for both birds and birders. Experienced birders will admit, forest birding takes a little patience and a good ear. Dense vegetation and limited views make it a challenge to spot tiny birds like the tinkerbird, but you’ll likely hear their rhythmic, metallic ‘tink-tink-tink’ echoing through the trees long before you catch a glimpse of them.
Adding to this natural symphony are the melodies of other birds that resonate throughout the forest, creating an enchanting soundtrack to your journey. The Narina trogon, with its striking colours, is a favourite among guests lucky enough to spot it, as is the graceful, Blue-mantled Crested Flycatcher.
Grasslands
Spotting an elephant herd moving across our grasslands is always a sight to behold, but have you ever noticed the Fork-tailed Drongo perched atop a rhino, picking off insects? Birdwatching in the grasslands of Kariega is a uniquely enriching experience, revealing the smaller puzzle pieces that complete the bigger picture of your safari adventure. If you’re eager to spot the abundant birdlife in this part of Kariega, make sure you head out on safari in the early morning. Birds are more active when it’s cool, especially in the open plains of long grass.
Unlike the dense forests, where birds can be elusive, the grasslands allow for clear views, making it easier to spot them in flight or perched on low shrubs and grass stalks. You might be lucky enough to witness some unforgettable moments up close.
Wayne, one of our experienced Kariega safari guides, recalls one such encounter vividly: 'One sighting that comes to mind quickly was a Martial Eagle catching a guinea fowl—right there, just 20 meters from our vehicle during a game drive.'
Moments like these highlight the drama and excitement of birdwatching in the grasslands. While not every encounter will be as dramatic, you can always rely on spotting familiar faces like the Chat or Cisticola.
You’ve probably seen those iconic images of a Red Billed Oxpecker hitching a ride atop a rhino, and with a decent number of these lively birds residing right here at Kariega, you might be able to snap a beautiful image yourself. The Cape longclaw and Secretary birds are just a few other iconic residents you can spot when exploring the grasslands.
Cliffs
The big cliff faces of Kariega are home to our bigger birds and provide panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Birders eager to practice their bird photography can easily scan the skies and enjoy a wide-angle view of the birds soaring above. This is one of the best places to see the regal Crowned Eagle patrolling the sky, and if you’re lucky, you might witness its impressive hunting skills. We’ve had some remarkable sightings of other raptors, like the rare Black Harrier, the Long-crested Eagle, and the Jackal Buzzard soaring above.
While vultures are rare here, they do sometimes make an appearance. Keep your eyes peeled—you never know when you might spot one of these majestic birds gliding over the cliffs.
Among Our Lodges
One of the simplest pleasures of staying with us at Kariega is that the birdwatching comes right to you. Our lodges blend seamlessly into the natural surroundings, creating the perfect setting for peaceful bird watching without leaving your veranda. We often see Sunbirds, Cape Robin-Chats, and wagtails darting around, which always adds splashes of colour to our everyday views.
If you’re enjoying a relaxing day by the pool, especially at Ukhozi Lodge, look up! You may spot raptors soaring overhead. Because Settlers Drift and River Lodge are near the water, there are frequent sightings of African Fish Eagles and Crowned Hornbills, with Settlers Drift getting special visitors in the form of the elusive Narina Trogon. The River Lodge also has a little watering hole behind the boma, which attracts Three-banded plovers, Blacksmith lapwings, grey herons and a variety of duck species.
Another bird that loves making its way to our lodges is the Knysna Turaco. This is extra special for guests as its vivid plumage, fascinating social structure and unique nesting habits make it a must-see for nature lovers. You’ll see them sneakily making their way to the rooms, which is always a real treat for our guests.
While we love all our little visitors, we do have a favourite around the lodges - the colourful African pygmy kingfisher. How does such a big personality fit into such a small body? It's always lovely to hear its high-pitched, chattering and watch its striking colours dart around the lodges.
Birdwatching at Kariega
One of the best things about birdwatching at Kariega is that you don’t need to be an experienced birder to enjoy the beauty around you. Whether it’s the majestic Crowned Eagle soaring above or the playful Fork-tailed Drongo darting between rhinos, every sighting is a reminder of the incredible wildlife thriving in this protected corner of the Eastern Cape.
You might come for the Big Five, but we’re confident you’ll leave with a few new feathered favourites.
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