Peter Ginn Birding Safaris

Lying between the Outeniqua & Tsitsikamma mountain ranges and the sea, is a beautiful area which is called the Garden Route because to the great variety of flowering plants. This area stretches from Swellendam in the West to Humansdorp in the East.

Much of the area consists of a wave-cut platform about 200m (620 ft.) above sea level. This platform slopes gently up towards the mountains which form a very special backdrop to this area. The platform usually drops sharply down to sea-level. Where the scarp drops directly into the sea, wave erosion has created a rocky shore with steep cliffs. Where the scarp is further away from the sea, we find white sand beaches. This coast is a stronghold for the endemic Black Oystercatcher which may be seen feeding on the rocks or along the water's edge at low tide. The White-fronted Plover also feeds along the water's edge.

This narrow strip of land is part of the Cape Floral Kingdom – the smallest floral kingdom in the world, but with incredible species variety. Many if not most of the plant species in this area are endemic and as a result there are many endemic bird species as well.

White-fronted Plover

White Backed Night Heron

During spring (August to November) when the proteas are flowering, the Cape Sugarbirds nest in the protea bushes. The males with their long flowing tails are especially conspicuous as they proclaim their territory.

Another endemic, the Orange-breasted Sunbird, starts nesting when the Ericas start flowering. Sometimes one can find hundreds of this attractive species in an area of flowering Erica.

This coast is the calving area for the Southern Right Whale. In October and November particularly, whale watching from boats or vantage points above the sea is a very important holiday activity. It not uncommon for visitors to see 5 or more whales from a single lookout. Even more exciting is the presence of a very large variety of smaller whales and dolphins (porpoises) at places like Plettenberg Bay where boat trips may be made out to sea to watch these beautiful animals. The mammal researchers working here have recorded up to 9000 dolphins in a single group!