News

Golden Gate Highlands National Park and the Free State Region Honorary Rangers will be hosting their first ever Big Birding Weekend in November 2006. The weekend is the result of collaboration between the park and the Free State Region Honorary Rangers

The weekend is one of many regional events that will raise funds for nature conservation projects within Golden Gate national park and will attract birders from all over South Africa, and spectacular birding opportunities will run along side a cheese and wine, a lucky draw, and interesting talks by experts.

The event will be used to conduct the first official date focused census of birds in the park and offers some really unique opportunities to birders. Among these are the various birding options on offer. Birders can use their own 4×4 on non-public routes. This is a wonderful privilege to get off the beaten track. Another first for this birding weekend is that birders will be able to get out on horseback, or hike. The more conventional options are also available, such as using ones own transport, settling in the rest camp area. There is also the Vulture Restaurant, a prime birding site.

A variety of accommodation will be available. At Glen Reenen Rest Camp one can stay in self-catering Rondawels, Longdawels or Family Cottages. The Highlands Mountain Retreat offers luxury self-catering cottages, and the Golden Gate Protea Hotel offers self-catering family chalets or hotel rooms.

The weekend runs from midday 10 November to the 12 of November. Contact Kevin Christie on 083 406 6148 for further information.