by Adam Cruickshank (written 27 March 2026)
The endemic Botha’s Lark has long been a target species on our Subtropical South African Birding Tour. Sadly, due to a sharp decline in numbers, it has become increasingly difficult to see in recent years.
At Birding Ecotours, we have always believed that birding should go hand in hand with conservation. We don’t just want to offer world-class tours. We want to play a real role in protecting the birds and habitats that make these experiences possible.
That is why we committed to funding the position of Matthew Orolowitz, the Birding Ecotours Fellow of Grasslands Conservation, in partnership with BirdLife South Africa. His work focuses on protecting Botha’s Lark and other threatened grassland species.
But we didn’t stop there. We partnered with BirdLife South Africa to produce a documentary that tells the story of Botha’s Lark and the conservation work behind it. Working with filmmaker Gerhardus van den Bergh of Tread Films, we have created a film that we believe will bring meaningful awareness to this species and its fragile habitat.
Botha’s Lark in its montane grassland environment.
A special offer with real impact
To celebrate the release of the film, we are offering a limited promotion on our 2026 African set departure tours. Book between 29th March 2026 and 30th June 2026 and:
- Receive 5% off your tour using the code BOTHASLARK
- Help protect Botha’s Lark, as we donate 5% of your booking value to the BirdLife South Africa Botha’s Lark Conservation Project
This offer applies to new bookings only.
This is your chance to experience Africa’s incredible birdlife while directly supporting conservation on the ground.
Where could you go?
We offer one of the most comprehensive selections of African birding tours available, built on years of experience in the field and a deep understanding of the continent’s birds and habitats.
Our Subtropical South African Birding Tour remains one of our most popular trips for good reason. It offers an exceptional diversity of sought-after species and the opportunity to visit the remaining habitat of Botha’s Lark. If you are drawn to the western side of South Africa, our Namaqualand tour combines classic Karoo birding with the world-famous spring wildflower displays, creating one of the most visually rewarding birding experiences on the continent. For a broader South African journey, our Best of Cape Town tour pairs seamlessly with the Subtropical tour, giving you a well-rounded experience across some of the country’s top birding regions.
Beyond South Africa, our Uganda tour delivers one of Africa’s richest birding experiences, combined with unforgettable primate encounters. Our revised Malawi tour has been carefully refined to ensure you experience the very best this underrated destination has to offer.
Birding with purpose
When you travel with Birding Ecotours, your trip does more than deliver exceptional birding. It helps support conservation where it matters most. This campaign gives you a simple way to make a real difference while planning your next adventure.
Watch the film
Take the next step
Explore our 2026 African set departure tours and use the code BOTHASLARK when booking. If you would like guidance on choosing the right tour, contact us at [email protected] and we will gladly help.
