By Keegan Stewart
Set in the lush Sabie Valley, AfriCamps at Mackers in Hazyview is home to over 200 bird species, from the elusive African Finfoot to the vibrant Narina Trogon. With diverse habitats and a scenic 2km Sabie River trail, it’s a must-visit for birding enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Our birding guide, Keegan Stewart, shares his expert insights. Keep reading and make the most of your birdwatching adventure at AfriCamps at Mackers!
What makes Mackers the perfect birding spot?

Africamps at Mackers is set on a beautiful 29.5-hectare farm in the lush Sabie Valley, an area known for its rich biodiversity and incredible birdlife. The farm’s vegetation is a mix of riverine forest, dense thickets, and woodland, creating a haven for a wide variety of bird species. This habitat is particularly special because it provides an abundance of food, water, and shelter, attracting both resident and migratory birds.

A highlight of the property is the 2km “Adventure” hiking trail along the Sabie River, a prime birdwatching route where many sought-after species can be spotted. The riverine habitat, with its overhanging trees, reeds, and sandy banks, is ideal for species that thrive near water. Meanwhile, the surrounding woodlands support a variety of canopy-dwelling and understory birds.

Rarities and specials found on the property
• African Finfoot – A highly elusive bird often seen skimming across the water’s edge.
• Half-collared Kingfisher – A striking blue-and-orange kingfisher that prefers clear streams and rivers.
• Knysna Turaco – A beautifully colored green and red bird, more often heard than seen as it moves through the treetops.
• Green Twinspot – A small, secretive finch that inhabits dense undergrowth.
• Narina Trogon – A breathtakingly vibrant bird found in the forested sections of the farm.
• Grey Cuckooshrike – A scarce, soft-grey bird that blends seamlessly into the woodland canopy.
• Scaly-throated Honeyguide – A specialist bird known for its association with beehives.
• Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird – A tiny, colorful barbet that produces a repetitive ticking call from the forest edges.
• Lemon Dove – A shy forest species that forages on the ground in shaded areas.


Best Times for Birding
Birdwatching at Africamps at Mackers is a rewarding experience year-round, but each season brings unique opportunities.

Summer (September – March): The Best Time for Migratory Birds
Summer is the most active and diverse season for birding on the farm. With the arrival of migratory species from Europe and other parts of Africa, bird numbers swell, and the farm comes alive with birds in full breeding plumage, courtship displays, and nesting activity. The lush green vegetation and abundant insect life make it an ideal feeding ground.
• Species such as Diederik Cuckoo, African Paradise Flycatcher, and Violet-backed Starling can be spotted during this period.
• The African Finfoot and Half-collared Kingfisher are more active along the Sabie River, taking advantage of higher water levels and increased fish and crab activity.
• The Narina Trogon and Green Twinspot can be seen deep in the forested areas, especially after rain, when insect activity is high.
Winter (April – August): A Time for Secretive and Resident Species
During the cooler, dry season, birding becomes more focused and rewarding in different ways. With less dense vegetation and reduced water sources, many birds concentrate around the Sabie River and permanent water sources, making them easier to spot.
• The Knysna Turaco and Grey Cuckooshrike becomes more visible in the quieter, leafless canopy as they move around in search of fruiting trees.
• The Scaly-throated Honeyguide is more likely to be heard and seen, calling persistently from tree canopies.
• Raptors, including African Fish Eagles and Crowned Eagles, are often seen soaring over the valley, taking advantage of the clear, crisp winter air.


Early mornings are great for birding, as flocks gather in the warming sun, especially along the 2km hiking trail along the Sabie River.

Whether visiting in summer for the excitement of migratory arrivals or in winter for closer encounters with rare resident species, Africamps at Mackers offers an unparalleled birding experience in the Sabie Valley. Keep your binoculars ready—you never know what rare species might appear!



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