South Africa: Wakkerstroom Extension

Blue Crane © Neil Bradfield/Shutterstock

On this optional extension we will seek special endemic birds such as Southern Bald Ibis, Blue Bustard, and Ground Woodpecker.

The final swing of our South Africa tour is an optional extension to the temperate grasslands around the tiny community of Wakkerstroom, yet another hotspot of avian endemism. Here we will seek the such gems as the spectacular Southern Bald Ibis; elegant Blue and Gray crowned-cranes; Denham's and Blue bustards; Ground Woodpecker; and a number of threatened and range-restricted endemic larks, chats, and pipits. Scattered wetlands and pans offer a variety of waterfowl and other waterbirds, including the possibility of a skulking Red-chested Flufftail or African Rail. Relict patches of forest dot the area, offering the chance of birds such as Bush Blackcap, Barratt's Warbler, and a variety of robin-chats, woodpeckers, and bush-shrikes. Our visit also offers the chance of several new mammals, including family groups of the charismatic Meerkats of television fame.

An added bonus of a visit to South Africa is the great infrastructure for tourism. This agricultural and industrial giant is the only truly modern country on the continent, and the accommodations, food, and other facilities are excellent, while health problems are almost non-existent. Expert local leadership, an extensive system of parks and reserves, and a wealth of printed materials on the birds and other aspects of natural history add to the pleasure of visiting this unique part of the continent.