Free State (East) – Harrismith
About the Birding
From Harrismith there are a number of gravel roads radiating out (notably those north of Harrismith off the R722), and a drive along any of these should reveal a good selection of highland birds. Birds to look out for in the surrounding countryside include Blue and Grey-crowned Crane, White-bellied Korhaan (occasionally in winter), Southern Bald Ibis, Ant-eating Chat and Pied Starling, and Blue Korhaan.
About the Birding Site
Harrismith lies equidistant from Johannesburg and Durban along the N3 highway. One of the larger towns in the region, Harrismith is a great stepping stone from which to explore the highland areas of the Drakensberg escarpment: Sterkfontein Dam Nature Reserve, Golden Gate Highlands National Park and Royal Natal National Park.
Other Related Information
Directions:
Turnoff to the R722 from the N3: -28.239556, 29.119889
Harrismith: -28.275417, 29.123944
Recommended accommodation nearby:
Rose Garden Manor House, Harrismith – local birder David Weaver; +27 (0)83 303 4230
No Birder Friendly Establishments are currently available in the area.