The Sani Pass is a must-do trip for any serious birder, because it provides the only easy access globally to the Drakensberg Rockjumper, Drakensberg Siskin and Mountain Pipit. En route one has the chance, dependent on the season to see difficult-to-find birds such as Barratt’s Warbler, Fan-tailed Grass (Broad-tailed) Warbler and Bush Blackcap, whilst other narrowly distributed endemics such as Gurney’s Sugarbird and Buff-streaked Chat are present. In the alpine zone, several western species such as Grey Tit, Sickle-winged Chat, Layard’s Warbler and Fairy Flycatcher may be found, whilst this is probably the best place to search for the highly endangered Bearded Vulture.
Within easy reach of Himeville/Underberg, there are other habitats such as the mist belt forest, grasslands and wetlands. The forests are home to the rare Cape Parrot and Orange Thrush, and other species such as Chorister Robin, Forest Canary and Yellow-throated Warbler. This general area is home to all three of the southern African crane species (Grey Crowned, Wattled and Blue), the very rare Blue Swallow and the enigmatic seldom-recorded Short-tailed Pipit and Black-rumped Buttonquail.
DEPARTURE TIME Departure approx. 06.00 AM.
RETURN TIME Approximately 4.00 PM – 6.00 PM
We had a wonderful day. We wanted an unhurried, interesting day to enjoy the magnificent views, and that's exactly what we got. Aldo Berutti is an excellent guide. Apart from his internationally known expertise on birds, he is knowledgeable about the plants and the wildlife, well informed about local topical matters both in SA and Lesotho, enthusiastic, and he has a great sense of humour. He was happy to make the day fit our needs; we are not young and didn't want a 6am start. We were not interested in joining the crowd at the Highest Pub in Africa, and the simple but adequate picnic lunch that was provided suited us very well. Aldo was thoughtful in assisting us physically where it was needed, my husband is nearing 90; that was appreciated. A ladder or means of getting more easily into and out of the vehicle would have been useful; Aldo expected that there should have been one but it was missing. Should the opportunity arise we would have no hesitation at all in recommending Roof of Africa to overseas and SA guests visiting KZN. - Jenny
We enjoyed our Sani Pass one day birding tour tremendously. Arrangements were made professionally and comunication was acurate and clear. Our guide Mo was excellent in spotting birds and made it possible for us to see and photograph almost all the birds on our wishlist. He has good sense of humour and kept us entertained all the way. Highly recommended. - CHRIS
An absolutely excellent day. Mo, was an excellent guide and driver (needed !!!). He was also a lovely chap to have met - great sense of humour and very amiable. The drive and views are amazing. The birds superb. 10/10 for everything. - Dave
I received the following from one of the American guests on the trip guided by Mondli and Craig Widdows: I was impressed with our driver/local guide Mondli that day. He was extremely knowledgeable, astute, and energetic- and he was as excited as any of us (if not more so!) when we got crippling, eye level views of an African Rock Pipit. Would recommend him to anyone. - Dave
Brilliant! Fantastic day's birding! Mo was great! - Andrew
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