Ndumo Game Reserve is a birder's holy grail in the far north of the Route22 route, set where the Pongola and Usuthu rivers spread into a maze of pans and floodplain. With more than 430 recorded bird species, tropical specials found almost nowhere else in South Africa draw birdwatchers from across the world.
World-class birdwatching
Ndumo's fever-tree forests and pans — including the beautiful Nyamithi Pan — host an astonishing bird list of 430+ species, including many tropical and East African species at the southern edge of their range. Guided walks and drives get you to the best hides and viewpoints.
Wildlife & the pans
The reserve teems with hippos and crocodiles, and holds rhino, nyala, giraffe and plenty of plains game. The reflective pans ringed by fever trees are among the most photogenic scenes in Zululand.
Accommodation & visiting
Ndumo has a modest rest camp and guided-tour options; many visitors combine it with Tembe nearby. Access can involve gravel roads, so plan ahead — the Route22 directory lists stays and guides for the northern reserves.
Planning a visit to Ndumo Game Reserve?
Find lodges, camps, tours and activities near Ndumo Game Reserve in the Route22 directory — or list your own business on the route.