​Embark on a feathered adventure with The Safari Club, the premier birding day tour options in Johannesburg. With a passion for avian exploration, our expert guides lead immersive excursions, offering unparalleled opportunities to spot a diverse array of bird species in their natural habitats. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a curious novice, our carefully crafted tours cater to all levels of enthusiasts. From the majestic raptors soaring overhead to the vibrant plumage of indigenous songbirds, each excursion promises unforgettable encounters with South Africa’s rich birdlife. Join us for an unforgettable journey into the heart of Africa’s avian wonders.

 

Tour Summary

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Experience the hidden gem of Mongena Game Reserve, just two hours from Johannesburg, on our exhilarating Johannesburg birding day tour. This vast game reserve is not only home to the Big Five but has some of the best birding on the outskirts of Johannesburg. A concession nestled within the Dinokeng Game Reserve, this area is known as a biome-transition zone. Hosting Kalahari Thornveld, Broad-leafed Woodland and Bushveld. Throw in a diverse network of river systems and multiple man-made and natural lakes, and you have a recipe for birding success!

 

Birding in the Kalahari Thornveld consistently produces Crimson-breasted Shrike, Southern-pied Babbler, Kalahari Scrub-Robin, Violet-eared Waxbill, Shaft-tailed Whydah and more. As you transition into the Bushveld habitat, you’re likely to encounter Southern Black Flycatcher, Orange-breasted Bush-Shrike, Southern Boubou, White-throated Robin-Chat, Golde-tailed Woodpeck and Greater Honeyguide. The wetland systems host an array of exciting species such as Half-collared Kingfisher, African Finfoot, Black Heron, African Jacana, African Swamphen, White-backed Duck and the list goes on.

 

And don’t forget about the large mammals that call Dinokeng home. The Big Five (Lion, Leopard, Black- and White Rhino, African Elephant and African Buffalo) often make an appearance on our birding day trips as well as a host of more common mammals such as Southern Giraffe, Blue Wildebeest, Greater Kudu, Plains Zebra, Red-hartebeest and more.

 

A Birding Day Tour To Dinokeng Game Reserve isn’t just exciting it’s an all-out adventure.

 

Morning – Mongena Private Concession (within Dinokeng Game Reserve):

 

Detailed day Itinerary

 

After an early collection from The Safari Club Guest Lodge, we start our birding day tour by making our way north out of the city to Dinokeng Game Reserve. Our short 2-hour drive ensures that we arrive at the Mongena Private Game Lodge concession as the dawn chorus serenades the waking African bush.

 

Some of the first species that we’re likely to encounter as we enter the game reserve include Lilac-breasted Roller, African Wattled Lapwing, Magpie Shrike, Black-winged Kite, Little Swift and White-browed Scrub-Robin. As we enter the Mongena concession, we’ll transfer to our Open Safari Vehicle of an unobstructed view, as the clear Kalahari habitat makes itself prevalent with species such as Southern Pied Babbler, Crimson-breasted Shrike, Burchell’s Starling, Barred Wren-Warbler, Kalahari Scrub-Robin, Shaft-tailed Whydah, Scaly-feathered Weaver, Ashy Tit and Violet-eared Waxbill.

 

We’ll take our time, exploring the Acacia Thronveld thoroughly before moving on to some of the wetland systems within the reserve as the morning heats up. Around the water we’ll be looking for Goliath- and Black Heron, Blue-cheeked Bee-eater, Half-collared-, Giant- and Pied Kingfisher, African Jacana, White-backed Duck, African Swamphen, Black Crake, African Rail, African Snipe and more.

 

Afternoon – Mongena Private Concession (within Dinokeng Game Reserve)

 

After a “birdy” morning session, we’ll take a break at Mongena’s Kingfisher Restaurant to enjoy a well-deserved brunch/lunch and something to drink. But don’t think birding stops, as we enjoy our meal we can also enjoy views of Southern-masked-, Lesser-masked- and Village Weaver, Malachite Kingfisher, Yellow-billed Egret, Cardinal Woodpecker, Crested Barbet, Red-billed Buffalo-Weaver, Red-winged Starling and the resident Black-chested Snake Eagle.

 

The afternoon will be spent in the Bushveld area of the reserve, focusing on species such as Greater Honeyguide, African Grey-, Southern Yellow-billed- and Southern Red-billed Hornbill, White-browed Sparrow-Weaver, Great Sparrow, Red-headed Finch, Purple Roller, Bennett’s Woodpecker, Flappet Lark, Cape Penduline-Tit, Yellow-throated Bush Sparrow, Double-banded Sandgrouse, Golden-breasted Bunting and loads more.

 

As our day draws to a close, we take the 2-hour drive back to The Safari Club, reflecting on the day’s success, sharing stories and discussing the bird of the day on this Johannesburg Birding Day Tour.

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Birding & Safari Day Tours Pricing Structure

 

2-3pax = R 6500.00 p/p

4-5pax = R 5166.00p/p

6-8pax = R 4000.00 p/p

 

Included

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Professional Birding Safari Guide

Return transfers from The Safari Club Guest Lodge to Mongena

Open Safari Vehicle

Mongena Concession Conservation Levy

Dinokeng Game Reserve Conservation Fee

Tea/Coffee & Water On Drive

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Excluded

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Meals

Alcoholic/Soft Drinks

 

About our Specialist Professional Guides

 

With over a decade of experience as a professional bird and safari guides, Our professional guides bring a wealth of knowledge and passion to every guiding experience. Proudly qualified and registered with the South African tourism board, ensuring that they meet the highest standards of expertise and professionalism.

 

Our journey in the field of birding and wildlife guiding spans more than 17 years, during which we have had the privilege of exploring the diverse avian landscapes of Africa and North America. From the rich birding hotspots of Kruger National Park to the varied ecosystems across the continents, our travels have deepened our appreciation for the natural world and its inhabitants.

 

In addition to extensive birding experience, we have honed our skills as safari guides in the renowned Kruger National Park and other South African wildlife parks, where we have led countless safaris, providing guests with unforgettable encounters with Africa's magnificent wildlife.

 

Whether you're seeking an immersive birding adventure or a thrilling safari experience, we are dedicated to delivering exceptional and personalized tours that capture the essence of Africa's natural beauty.

 

Wiam & Team will leave lasting impressions long after the African dust has settled in your heart.