BIRDING & GLAMPING

Bird Watching at Swartvlei & Wilderness National Park

Swartvlei is the largest and deepest lake in the Wilderness National Park, nestled in the Western Cape. Connected to the sea for about half the year, the lake creates a dynamic ecosystem that attracts an incredible diversity of birdlife. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or simply in awe of wild wings, this is your sanctuary.

Follow forest paths through indigenous woodlands, explore pristine beaches, and listen for the chorus of forest and water birds echoing through the trees. For those passionate about birding and glamping in South Africa, this region offers a rare blend of adventure, biodiversity, and stillness.

Slow Down in Sedgefield

Known affectionately as “Slow Town,” Sedgefield is more than a place — it’s a philosophy. With Swartvlei and the Well-Being Sanctuary at its heart, this area is a haven for reflection, connection, and conscious living. Here, we trade speed for soul, and consumerism for community.

We invest in experiences over things, prioritize ethical local business, and embrace environmentally friendly practices that sustain both people and place. From reusing and recycling to supporting indigenous cultures and craftsmanship, Sedgefield encourages mindful travel with a light footprint.

Just a stone’s throw away, the beloved Wild Oats Community Farmers’ Market echoes this ethos — offering a taste of the region’s seasonal abundance. Pair this with hiking, swimming, kayaking, or paragliding, and you have a holistic playground for healthy living.

Birds of the Well-Being Sanctuary

Thousands of birds call this area home, but ten stand out as frequent, stunning visitors to the Well-Being Sanctuary on Swartvlei:

African Fish Eagle

Jackal Buzzard

Marsh Harrier

Pied Kingfisher

Giant Kingfisher

Malachite Kingfisher

Yellow-billed Duck

Common Moorhen

Purple Swamphen

Cape Shoveller

From your tent or the lake’s edge, you may hear the iconic call of the Fish Eagle or spot dazzling sunbirds among the trees. Curious Knysna Loeries (Turacos) frequent the forest canopy, adding flashes of green and crimson to the landscape. Don’t forget your binoculars — quiet observation rewards the soul.

Glamping: Luxury Under the Trees

After a full day of bird watching, swimming, and exploring town, return to the Well-Being Sanctuary and nestle into comfort. Our boutique glamping village invites you to fall asleep to birdsong and wake up to sunlight through canvas and birds in the trees.

Our 5-meter bell tents are airy, elegant, and fully furnished — each featuring king, queen, or single beds with soft cotton bedding, cozy carpets, and plush pillows. Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or small group, you’ll find spacious accommodations to suit your style.

From shady nooks to sunlit glades, every tent has a view — of the tranquil lake, wildflower fields, or our enchanting fairy forest. Nights here are silent but for the waves in the distance and the calls of nocturnal birds. It’s barefoot luxury in its purest form.

Wi-Fi is available on request, and there’s excellent cell service should you need to stay connected. For added comfort, optional tent cleaning, bedding refreshes, and extra linen can be arranged.

Experience Birding and Glamping in South Africa

The Well-Being Sanctuary offers more than a place to stay — it’s a living landscape of connection and calm. Whether you’re here for birds, stillness, or soulful adventure, this sanctuary invites you to tune into nature and return to what matters most.

Book Glamping Tents Here
Frequently Asked Questions Here