As you drop down the ridge, scan the prominent plain ahead for large terrestrial species like Denham’s Bustard, Secretarybird and Southern Black Korhaan. This area is also favoured by hunting Black Harriers.

The road turns to meet the Breede River, and passes a thick tangle of thorny riparian vegetation. This habitat is favoured by Cardinal Woodpecker, Southern Tchagra, Southern Boubou and Bar-throated Apalis.

On reaching the four-way junction (-34.0725, 20.4550) turn north (towards the mountains) and continue on until the turnoff for the viewpoint (-34.0574, 20.4646). Here you will be able to look back over the plains for further chances of the above-mentioned species.

Continuing east, you pass the old park reception (-34.0555, 20.4730) and onto another plain. The roadside vegetation is excellent for Cloud Cisticola and the distinct Agulhas Plains form of Cape Clapper Lark (once a separate species). Less common is Agulhas Long-billed Lark. Small coveys of Grey-winged Francolin are also possible. The areas of restios are home to Fynbos Buttonquails but this species is nearly impossible to see.

This route ends up back at the afore-mentioned four-way junction (-34.0725, 20.4550) where you can retrace your route to the junction at the reception. From here is worth heading south (away from the mountains) and down to the Die Stroom picnic site (-34.0761, 20.4304) which overlooks the Breede River. Giant Kingfisher and African Black Duck are known inhabit this section of river. The aloe-lined ridge just across the river is favoured by Southern Black Korhaan.

Key species:

Black Harrier, Denham’s Bustard, Agulhas Long-billed Lark, Cloud Cisticola, Cape Clapper Lark, Secreatarybird, Southern Black Korhaan