Photographer: Clayton Burne   Destination: South Africa

 

 

South Africa is a stunning land of contrasts, with rugged coastlines and high mountain peaks overlooking dry, arid landscapes that gradually give way to lush bush and forest habitats. Reflecting the diversity of its landscapes, South Africa hosts melting pot of cultures, all contributing to an enjoyable array of wines and cuisine throughout. It is also the birthplace of our very own Rockjumper Birding Tours which started here 27 years ago in 1998 and is home to many of Rockjumper’s staff and tour guides.

 

Among the slopes and rocky crags of South Africa’s Cape Fold Mountains, the endemic Cape Rockjumper pictured above, can be found. This species is perfectly adapted for leaping and striding between boulders in its rugged habitat. The male is boldly marked, with a deep rufous belly and rump, a striking black throat, and a sharp white moustache, while the female is more subtle with a softer mottled burgundy chest.

 

Unique and full of character, the Cape Rockjumper is a proud symbol of South Africa’s endemic-rich birdlife and a true highlight of any birding adventure.

 

Beyond the striking Cape Rockjumper, South Africa offers wildlife experiences that few places can match. Here, vibrant birdlife meets Africa’s iconic Big Five, with families like the monotypic Secretarybird, Hamerkop, bustards and korhaans being well represented alongside top iconic wildlife like Lion, African Elephant, White and Black Rhinoceros, African Wild Dog, Cheetah and African Leopard!

 

South Africa is also the only place in the world to see both species of Sugarbird, Gurney’s and Cape, as well as both species of Rockjumper, Drakensberg and Cape and over 60 other endemics and near endemics!

 

Enjoy the excellent wine in the vineyards of the Western Cape, with Table Mountain as a backdrop, take a trip up Sani Pass to explore the heights of the Drakensberg Mountain range or visit the Kruger for thrilling birding and wildlife in the wild! All this and more can be enjoyed on our tours below.