The cabins are nestled right in the forest.
The famous forests of Magoebaskloof are world renowned for its birds.
Mountain streams reward anyone doing the hikes on the property.

The venue

  • Forest Bird Lodge in Limpopo is a serene retreat set in the heart of an enchanting evergreen forest. Surrounded by indigenous trees and lush vegetation, the lodge offers a tranquil escape where nature takes center stage. Guests can immerse themselves in the calming sounds of a mountain stream and the vibrant calls of forest birds.

    The setting allows guests to unwind while taking in the peaceful surroundings. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the frequent visits of diverse bird species, while the more adventurous can explore the forest trails that lead to hidden waterfalls and stunning valley views.

    For those seeking activity, a 5 km mountain bike trail winds through the forest, offering a refreshing ride. Forest Bird Lodge is a perfect destination for nature lovers, bird enthusiasts, and anyone looking to escape into a peaceful woodland haven.


The rooms offer great comfort and quality.
The shaded camp sites offer a great camping alternative.
The larger bush camps offer a change for larger groups to share the experience.

Accommodation

  • The Log Cottage has two double bedrooms. Both have lovely views of the outside trees. The canopy of the trees are higher than the upstairs bedroom. The bedrooms are comfortable and elegant giving a feeling of luxury. The bedrooms are both ensuite. The upstairs bedroom a king-size bed that can be made into two single beds. It has both a shower and a slipper bath. The downstairs bedroom has a queen size bed and an ensuite bathroom with a toilet and shower. There is also an outdoor shower.

    The log cabin is a bungalow, built in the forest. It is secluded, giving guests the opportunity to relax and enjoy the bird life around them. It has a large patio where guests can enjoy their breakfast while becoming one with nature. It has two bedrooms ensuite. The one has a bath while the other has a shower. Both bedrooms have their own outdoor showers.

Birding

Many birds are heard in the forest but can be difficult to see in the trees. It is best to look for a bird party and then spend your time following them. The best time for birding is early morning.
Abundance
The special birds to be seen are the Narina Trogon, Chorister Robin, Grey Cuckoo Shrike, Crowned Eagle (soaring above), Cape Parrot, White-starred Robin, Pygmy Kingfisher, Wood owl, Ashy Flycatcher, Green Twinspot, Knysna Turaco and Purple crested Turaco. Other birds seen are Bar-throated Apalis, Cape Batis, Terrestrial Brownbul, Forest Buzzard, Green-backed Camaroptera, Emerald Cuckoo, Klaas’s Cuckoo, Red-chested Cuckoo, Tambourine Dove, Buff-spotted Flufftail (mainly heard at dusk), Blue-mantled Crested Flycatcher, Dusky Flycatcher, Green Pigeon, Puffback, Cape Robin Chat, Collared sunbird, Double-collared Sunbird, Cape white-eye, and Olive woodpecker.

There are walks around the lodge which take visitors through indigenous forests and along mountain streams, where bird parties can be enjoyed. Several trees have been labelled for your enjoyment. A map of the walks can be found in both units. It is best to take a picture of the walk’s map on your phone to guide you around the farm.
Narina Trogon is often considered mythical but does exist here.
Courtesy Patty McGann.
Black-fonted Bushshrike is the trickiest member of the family to twitch.
Courtesy Francesco Veronesi.
This file is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0 Generic license.
One of the hardest warblers to tick, Barratt's Warbler is almost never in the open.
Courtesy Francesco Veronesi.
This file is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0 Generic license.
African Emerald Cuckoo is one of the specials of the area.
Courtesy Bram ter Keurs.
This file is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported International license.
Cape Batis is regularly seen in the area.
Courtesy Matthew Fainman.
This file is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International license.

Facilities and services

Rooms (double and twin)
Hiking
Restaurant across the road
Self catering
Off grid power
Wi-fi

For the birder

Self drive
Birding walks
Local guides available
Self catering only
24 hour entry / exit
Birding from the balcony

Top ticks

Bat Hawk
Narina Trogon
Black-fronted Bushshrike
Barratt's Warbler
Forest Buzzard
White-starred Robin
Cape Parrot
Yellow-streaked Greenbul

Nearby hotspots

Woodbush road
New Agetha plantation
Polokwane game reserve
Debengeni falls
Haenertsburg
Letaba Estates

Recommended accommodation discount