At the eastern end of the Garden Route lies the Tsitsikamma National Park, incorporating a stretch of coastline altogether more rugged than that of the Wilderness region. Excellent forest birding — arguably the best along the Garden Route — is easily accessible in the park’s western De Vasselot section. Here, large tracts of pristine forest surround the strikingly picturesque coastal village of Nature’s Valley. To reach the latter, follow the N2 national road east of Plettenberg Bay for 28 km, and turn south onto the R102 just before the toll gate. The road winds down the densely forested Grootrivier Pass for 12 km before reaching the coast and Nature’s Valley village. Continue a few hundred metres past the village and park at the De Vasselot campsite, where you need to obtain a permit at the National Parks office. The Grootrivier Trail, looping a gentle 4.5 km around the forested Groot River lagoon, offers convenient access to fine forest birding. The marked trail begins on the eastern side of the Groot River bridge, a minute’s walk further along the tar road. African Finfoot occurs scarcely along this stretch of river: from the bridge, carefully scan overhanging vegetation at the river edges, and check the series of pools between the river and the campsite. Half-collared Kingfisher is also occasionally seen here. All the forest species listed on p.118 for Wilderness National Park occur commonly close to this bridge. Additionally, at Nature’s Valley there is an increased likelihood of encountering Crowned Eagle, Little Sparrowhawk, Emerald Cuckoo (summer), Scaly-throated Honeyguide, Knysna Woodpecker and Starred Robin. At night, you are likely to hear Wood Owl and Buff-spotted Flufftail, although the latter is notoriously difficult to see (see Cape Peninsula / Constantia Greenbelts for some tips).

Beyond De Vasselot and east of Nature’s Valley, the R102 winds up the spectacular Bloukrans Pass, which provides a good vantage point from which to scan for Crowned Eagle. Victorin’s Warbler (p.73*) occurs in the dense fynbos at the roadside. Shortly before the R102 rejoins the N2 national road there is a sawmill, adjacent to the road, where Black-winged Plover is occasionally seen.