Bringing Butterflies to Life
Explore, Learn, Conserve
Welcome to the
World of Butterflies
with Steve Woodhall
Butterflies are more than just beautiful creatures – they are living symbols of transformation, resilience, and the delicate balance of nature. Whether you’re a casual nature lover, an aspiring lepidopterist, or a seasoned expert, this is your gateway to exploring the fascinating world of butterflies and moths.
Here, you’ll find a treasure trove of knowledge, from expertly guided butterfly tours and hobbyist courses to an ever-growing collection of books and digital resources. Discover the best locations for butterfly watching, learn how to identify species, and dive into the science and wonder of these incredible insects.
Join us on this journey to observe, learn, and conserve
- because every butterfly has a story to tell.
Explore. Discover. Be Inspired.
Explore the Best Butterfly-Watching Spots
South Africa is home to an incredible diversity of butterflies, from dazzling swallowtails to tiny, hidden gems of the forest. Whether you’re wandering through lush woodlands, exploring open grasslands, or hiking along mountain trails, there’s a world of colour and movement waiting to be discovered.
We’ve curated a list of the top butterfly-watching locations, complete with the species you can expect to see in each area. Whether you’re a photographer, nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, these destinations offer the perfect chance to experience butterflies in their natural habitat.
Harold Johnson Nature Reserve
Kenneth Stainbank Nature Reserve
Curious about what you might see on a tour?
Relive the Magic of Butterfly Adventures
Every butterfly tour is a journey into nature’s hidden wonders, filled with rare sightings, exciting discoveries, and unforgettable moments. Our trip reports capture the highlights from past expeditions, showcasing the incredible species spotted and the breathtaking locations explored.
Take a look at our past adventures and get inspired for your own butterfly-watching experience!
Highfliers butterfly tour
Visit to Lekgalameetse Provincial Park
Butterfly Safari in Limpopo 13 to 24 May 2025
Lim Kiat Hao of Singapore (Kayden)
Joe Thompson and Eduardo Carriazo
Lepidoptera Log
Articles by Steve Woodhall
The Lepidoptera Log is where Steve shares his knowledge, observations, and stories from decades of fieldwork and fascination. Whether you’re new to butterfly watching or a seasoned enthusiast, you’ll find articles here that inform, delight, and deepen your understanding of South Africa’s most beautiful insects.
Garden Butterflies – Spot Them at Home
Curious about which butterflies visit your garden?
The Garden Butterflies section is your guide to the species you’re most likely to see fluttering through your local green spaces. Each entry explores their life cycle, feeding habits, and – most importantly – what plants attract them. Perfect for gardeners, educators, and anyone who wants to bring more butterflies into their lives.
Meet Steve Woodhall
Your Guide to the World of Butterflies
Every butterfly tour is a journey into nature’s hidden wonders, filled with rare sightings, exciting discoveries, and unforgettable moments. Our trip reports capture the highlights from past expeditions, showcasing the incredible species spotted and the breathtaking locations explored.
Take a look at our past adventures and get inspired for your own butterfly-watching experience!