Colour. Variety. Wonder.

Bird Watching

You can tell by the chorus of the birdsong that greets you on arrival at Grootbos, that bird watching here will be out of the ordinary. With 26 species that are endemic to the region, you’re sure to record more than a few rare sightings.

A unique coastal birding hotspot

With 118 different bird species, Grootbos is uniquely positioned to offer both avid birders and curious novices a rich and varied birding experience. Glimpse the vivid orange of a Sunbird’s breast, see a Cape Sugarbird sipping on nectar or spot a rare Black Harrier.

Cool Afromontane forests, the rocky coastline and serene estuaries provide a magnificent backdrop to our birding outings. Our experienced guides will share fascinating facts while helping you spot rare and endemic birds feeding and breeding in these different ecosystems. Visit our botanical art gallery and discover the relationships between plants and birds in intricate detail as depicted in the exquisite botanical artworks of the Grootbos Florilegium.

  • Go on a dedicated birding tour, walk a short trail or simply spot birds from your suite.
  • Look out for the Black Harrier, Knysna Woodpecker, Southern Tchagra and Cape Rock Thrush.
  • Up-to-date bird lists and bird books are available.

From Our Expert Guides

Jo de Villiers
"Immerse yourself in the diversity of the fynbos bird life"

The Grootbos Florilegium

FLORILEGIUM (flôrəˈlējēəm).
A collection of illustrations featuring plants from a specific garden or region.

Where Nature Meets Art

Discover the Grootbos Florilegium, a unique collection of botanical illustrations by a collaboration of local and international artists. The collection depicts the rare, endangered and charismatic plants found on the Grootbos reserve and surrounding regions. What makes these artworks even more distinctive is the inclusion of insects, pollinators and other creatures associated with the flora.

Testimonials

South Africa's best by the Sea. Loads of amazing plants and birds to learn about

Amanda Branson - Australia

Magnificent, the fynbos and the wonderful array of birds is any birdwatchers paradise not to mention the flora.

Nicolette Bosch - South Africa

Grootbos hit the nail on the head. We enjoyed their outings of bird watching.

Michael Perry - United States

Amazing few days in glamorous wilderness resort.

Niamh G - United Kingdom
Enjoy the warmth of our hospitality

Grootbos Foundation and global recognition

Grootbos is a world leader in sustainable tourism and has been awarded some of the highest international accolades possible, making us one of only a handful of lodges to achieve this.

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A UNIQUE SOUTH AFRICAN EXPERIENCE

Grootbos invites you to experience our country's most precious floral biome and marine wilderness like never before. Enjoy unique guided experiences while being treated to five-star luxury at our lodges and villas. We offer South African residents an exclusive discounted rate and additional benefits. 

What's new at Grootbos - New Garden Lodge and Florilegium

The last year has been a busy one at Grootbos. We rebuilt our beloved Garden Lodge entirely and re-opened it in April 2022. We also officially launched the Grootbos Florilegium - Africa's first contemporary florilegium - which is a collection of botanical illustrations created by local and international artists, depicting the charismatic plants found on our reserve and the surrounding regions.

Click below to learn more about these exciting developments.

See New Garden Lodge See Florilegium