Tanzania Birdwatching Tour – 36 Days: Endemics to Iconic Wildlife Safaris
From the lush montane forests of the Eastern Arc Mountains to the arid Somali-Masai biome, the wetlands of the Kilombero Valley, and the iconic savannahs of Serengeti National Park, this 36-Day Tanzania Birding Tour offers an extraordinary journey through the country’s rich and varied ecosystems. Designed for serious birders and nature enthusiasts, the itinerary highlights Tanzania’s avian diversity, landscapes, and cultural experiences.
This tour showcases Tanzania’s exceptional birdlife. Expect thrilling encounters with vividly coloured species such as Turacos, Barbets, and Bush-shrikes. You will also target key endemics, including the Uluguru Bush-shrike, Kilombero Weaver, and the critically endangered Beasley’s Lark, which is found nowhere else on Earth.
While birdwatching remains the core focus, this itinerary ensures plenty of opportunities to observe Tanzania’s large mammals and reptiles. From the giant baobab-dotted plains of Tarangire National Park to the steep escarpments of the Usambara Mountains, the scenery is as impressive as the species list.
Photographers will delight in the golden savannahs and misty forest trails, while cultural visits and scenic drives provide balance and immersion into Tanzanian life.
This expertly guided birding expedition promises a rich checklist, intimate encounters with endemic species, and an immersive exploration of Tanzania’s wild and cultural heritage. Whether you are a seasoned birder or naturalist, this tour delivers unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for one of Africa’s most biodiverse countries
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha for The Tanzania Birdwatching Tour
Our Tanzanian Birding Tour begins with the arrival to Arusha, a vibrant city at the base of Mount Meru and serving as the gateway to Tanzania’s most ventured National Parks. After clearing customs and meeting your guide, you will transfer to your lodge. Here, you can unwind and prepare for the adventures ahead.
The small gardens the lodge offer a tranquil introduction to Tanzania’s birdlife. As you relax, you might spot common yet enchanting species such as Variable Sunbird, Bronze Sunbird, Spotted Morning Thrush, Speckled Mousebird, and the elegant African Paradise Flycatcher.
Day 2: Bird Watching Arusha National Park
Our first full day of birding takes us to the stunning Arusha National Park, also located at the base of Mount Meru. The park is a haven for diverse ecosystems, including montane forests, open grasslands, and the photogenic Momella Lakes. These habitats support a variety of birds and mammals, they ensure an exciting start to a tour.
The forested spots will seek iconic species such as the vibrant Hartlaub’s Turaco, the elusive Narina Trogon, while the moist spots reveal the regional endemic Taveta Golden Weaver. While walking along forested trails, keep an ear out for the calls of Golden-tailed Woodpecker and the mimicry of Rüppell’s Robin-chat.
Later, we will visit the Momella Lakes, excellent spots for waterbirds. Expect sightings of African Jacana, White-backed Duck, Black Crake and perhaps the elegant Lesser Flamingo. Nearby, the open grasslands and bushveld may yield encounters with Crowned Eagle, Broad-billed Roller, and Black Cuckoo-shrike. Before leaving the park, we should enjoy the views of the dramatic Ngurdoto Crater, where you might spot Silvery-cheeked Hornbill, Mountain Wagtail, and Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater.
Day 3: Tanzania Birdwatching Tour to Merelani and Shambalai Swamps
Today, we travel east to the drier habitats of Merelani, a classic Somali-Masai biome that hosts colourful and restricted-range species. The arid scrubland is a hotspot for the magnificent Golden-breasted Starling, a bird whose vibrant plumage is as unforgettable as its swift movements. Other species to expect include the tiny Northern Crombec, Yellow-bellied Eremomela, Somali Bunting, and a variety of sunbirds such as Tsavo Sunbird, Hunter’s Sunbird, and Eastern Violet-backed Sunbird.
In the afternoon, we explore the Shambalai Swamps and the surrounding lake areas. These wetlands offer a contrasting birding experience, where waterbirds like Black Heron, Marsh Sandpiper, and Lesser-masked Weaver abound. Watch as flocks of finches, including Grey-headed Silverbill and Black-faced Waxbill, gather near the water to drink. Raptors like the agile Pygmy Falcon may be seen hunting from patches.
Day 4: Birding Tour to the Engikaret Lark Plains
One of the most anticipated locations on this Tanzania Birding Tour Itinerary is the Engikaret Lark Plains. This unique volcanic ash habitat provides critical breeding grounds for the critically endangered Beasley’s Lark. Early this morning, we walk through the plains, scanning for this localised species and other larks, including Red-capped Lark, Sentinel Lark, and Fawn-coloured Lark.
The gullies and acacia scrub surrounding the plains are equally rewarding. We will search for Lyne’s Cisticola, Long-billed Pipit, and nesting resident species such as White-fronted Bee-eater and Abyssinian Wheatear. Sandgrouse, including Chestnut-bellied Sandgrouse, are frequently encountered in this arid environment. The day offers excellent opportunities to appreciate the specialised birdlife adapted to this harsh yet beautiful habitat.
Day 5: Birding to Same and Afternoon at Mkomanzi National Park
After breakfast, we will drive to Same in South Pare, stopping at birding hotspots along the way.
In the afternoon, we will explore the edges of Mkomanzi National Park, a lesser-known dry-country birding haven. Here, we will target species such as the secretive Friedmann’s Lark, the striking Hartlaub’s Bustard, and the elegant Temminck’s Courser. Among the scrub, we will look for Bare-eyed Thrush, Eastern Paradise Whydah, and Yellow-throated Sandgrouse.
Day 6: Birding Mkomanzi National Park
Mkomanzi National Park offers a wealth of dry-country birding and scenic landscapes dominated by acacia scrub and open plains. The morning begins with a search for some of the park’s iconic species. One of the highlights will be the vibrant Vulturine Guineafowl, often seen in small flocks, along with Bare-eyed Thrush and the diminutive Pygmy Falcon perched atop thorny acacia trees.
Raptors like the agile Lanner Falcon, African Hawk-Eagle, Pearl-spotted Owlet and soaring Martial Eagle are also possible sightings.
Day 7: Tanzania Birding Tour to South Pare – Chome Forest Reserve and Transfer to West Usambara Mountains
This morning, we ascend to Chome Forest Reserve in the South Pare Mountains. Known for its restricted-range species, the reserve’s evergreen forests are a birder’s paradise. Our primary target will be the elusive South Pare White-eye, a Tanzania national endemic. Along the forest trails, listen for the calls of Usambara Double-collared Sunbird, Yellow-throated Woodland Warbler, the musical Black-fronted Bushshrike and Bar-throated Apalis among others, which inhabit the dense undergrowth.
As we venture deeper, keep an eye out for the shy Usambara Thrush, as well as Brown Woodland Warbler and Mountain Yellow Warbler. The forest edges are excellent for spotting Sulphur-breasted Bushshrike, Mountain Wagtail and Yellow-bellied Waxbill.
After a productive morning, we will transfer to the West Usambara Mountains, where the cool montane climate and lush landscapes await our arrival.
Day 8 & 9: Birding Magamba Forest
Over the next two days, we will explore Magamba Forest, one of the richest birding sites in the West Usambara Mountains. This recovering forest offers diverse habitats, from bracken-covered clearings to dense evergreen thickets. The forest is home to several sought-after species, including White-chested Alethe and the notorious Spot-throat whose distinctive call often gives away its presence in the undergrowth.
Search for the rare Usambara Akalat, known for its skulking behavior, and look for mixed flocks containing Stripe-faced Greenbul, Usambara Greenbul, and Moustached Tinkerbird. Other highlights include the endemic Usambara Weaver, African Tailorbird, and Fulleborn’s Sooty Boubou.
The higher elevations of the forest may yield sightings of Red-faced Crimsonwing, Mountain Buzzard, and White-tailed Crested Flycatcher. During breaks, enjoy the scenic views of the Usambara valleys and hills
Day 10: Tanzania BirdWatching Tour to Amani Forest Reserve with a Stop at Zigi Forest
We will depart the West Usambara Mountains and make our way to the Amani Forest Reserve in the East Usambara Mountains. Nearly there, we will stop at Zigi Forest, a bird-rich low-land evergreen forest. This stop provides excellent opportunities to spot species like Chestnut-fronted Helmetshrike, Green-headed Oriole, and the colourful Fischer’s Turaco. The forest also harbors Uluguru Violet-backed Sunbird, Pale Batis, and the vocal Forest Weaver, whose distinct pale bill is a key identification feature.
Upon arriving at Amani, we should enjoy one of Tanzania’s most biodiverse forests. Here, lankier trees like Albizia provide perches for Banded Sunbird, Amani Sunbird, Purple-banded Sunbird, Long-billed Tailorbird and the elusive Kretschmer’s Longbill. The evening offers an opportunity to explore the area’s lush gardens, where Lizard Buzzard, Green-backed Camaroptera, and Zanzibar Boubou may be easily encountered.
Day 11: Birding Amani Forest Reserve
The Amani Forest Reserve is a wonderful forest habitat of the Eastern Arc Mountains, boasting a mix of montane and lowland forests. We will spend the entire day exploring its rich habitats, focusing on the reserve’s unique endemics and regional specialties.
Start the morning with a search for the dazzling Amani Sunbird, often seen feeding in flowering trees. In the dense undergrowth, we will listen for the calls of the secretive Kretschmer’s Longbill and the melodic Tanzania Illadopsis. Moving deeper into the forest, the vast canopy might reveal the shy Kenrick’s Starling, while Square-tailed Drongo and Pale Batis forage in the mid-story.
The reserve’s fruiting trees are magnets for species like the vibrant Green-headed Oriole, Fischer’s Turaco, and Red-tailed Ant-Thrush. Around clearings, we may see Green Malkoha and Blue-spotted Wood-dove among others. The birding experience is enhanced by the forest’s serene ambiance and lush greenery.
Evening Activity: With a bit of luck, you might hear the nocturnal calls of the rare Usambara Eagle-Owl and African Wood Owl, and Chameleon ventures fascinate travelers.
Day 12: Tanzania Birding Tour to Morogoro
Today, we leave the Amani Forest Reserve and travel to Morogoro, passing through scenic landscapes and coastal habitats nearly all the way. En route, make a brief stop at additional birding spots to target species like Eastern Nicator, Lowland Tiny Greenbul, and the stunning Böhm’s Bee-eater. We should also find Chin-spot Batis, White-browed Coucal, African Harrier-Hawk and Yellow-bellied Greenbul among others.
As we approach Morogoro, the transition to drier landscapes is evident, and cultivated fields may reveal perched atop tall trees.
Day 13: Birding Tegetero Forest in the Uluguru Mountains
Tegetero Forest, in the heart of the Uluguru Mountains, offers a challenging yet rewarding birding experience. The day begins with a drive from Morogoro to the forest’s edge, where cultivated areas provide initial birding opportunities. Here, we may encounter Bertram’s Weaver, Little Spotted Woodpecker, and Moustached Grass Warbler.
Once in the forest, our efforts will focus on spotting the rare and striking Uluguru Bush-shrike, endemic to these mountains. Other highlights include the territorial Orange Ground Thrush and African Broadbill, often detected by their distinctive calls. The canopy harbors Loveridge’s Sunbird, a high-priority endemic, while the undergrowth shelters Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird and Cabanis’s Bunting among others
Day 14: Tanzania Birdwatching Tour to Bunduki Forest in the Uluguru Mountains
Bunduki Forest, located on the northern slopes of the Uluguru Mountains, provides access to higher elevations and unique birding opportunities. We do an equally lengthy drive in the morning as the previous day to the Bunduki Forest Campsite. Starting at the campsite, we should find Mountain Wagtail, Bar-tailed and Narina Trogons, and the local subspecies of Red-capped Forest Warbler (African Tailorbird).
As we ascend into the forest, the melodic calls of the Uluguru Greenbul will guide us to its preferred habitat. Mixed flocks may contain species like Forest Batis, Mrs. Moreau’s Warbler, and the lively Olive-flanked Robin-Chat.
The cool montane climate and scenic views over the Morogoro region add to the magical experience of birding Bunduki Forest.
Day 15: Birdwatching to Gairo
After a final morning in Morogoro, we will head west to Gairo, a key transit point for exploring the Ukaguru Mountains. En route, we will make targeted birding stops in semi-arid habitats, where we should expect species such as Tabora Cisticola, Western Miombo Sunbird, and Fawn-breasted Waxbill.
Day 16: Birding the Ukaguru Mountains
The Ukaguru Mountains are one of the Eastern Arc’s lesser-birded ranges, offering unique opportunities to observe rare endemics in a peaceful setting. This morning, we will a scenic drive from Gairo into the Ukaguru highlands provided a clear weather, passing through grasslands and cultivated areas.
We will for search for Uhehe Fiscal, Rubeho Warbler, a striking target species of the region. The forest edges are very much loved by Chapin’s Apalis, Yellow-throated Mountain Greenbul, and the localised subspecies of African Hill Babbler. In the higher montane zones, we will search for the elusive Rubeho Akalat, often found skulking in the dense undergrowth.
The grasslands at the forest’s edge provide habitat for Yellow-bellied Greenbul, Moreau’s Sunbird, and flocks of Slender-billed Starlings. As we descend in the afternoon, the expansive views of the Ukaguru range create the perfect backdrop for a reflective birding session.
Day 17: Tanzania Birding Adventure to Mikumi
Leaving Gairo, we will travel south to Mikumi National Park, transitioning from montane habitats to open woodlands and savannah. Along the way, targeted birding stops will include cultivated areas and acacia-rich habitats, where species like Hoffman’s Sunbird, Black-winged Bishop, and Purple-crested Turaco may be found.
Upon arrival in Mikumi, the afternoon will be spent exploring the park’s famous Miombo woodlands. Here, we should encounter specialized residents like Arnot’s Chat, Pale-billed Hornbill, Miombo Blue-eared Starling, and Speckle-throated Woodpecker. These woodlands are also home to Common Scimitarbill, Green Woodhoopoe, and Stierling’s Wren-warbler.
Day 18: Birding Mikumi National Park
Mikumi National Park is a birding paradise, combining excellent wildlife viewing with a diversity of bird species. We will start early, searching for morning activity around waterholes and open plains. Highlights may include Collared Palm Thrush, Red-necked Falcon, and Zebra Waxbill.
The park’s wetter areas are ideal for spotting waterbirds such as Greater Painted Snipe, Collared Pratincole, and Water Thick-knee. Open grasslands often host Croaking Cisticola, Piping Cisticola, and several individuals of Capped Wheatears. Raptors such as Martial Eagle and Bateleur are frequently seen soaring overhead.
Day 19: Birding to Kilombero and Udzungwa National Park
Morning Birding Mikumi National Park and after Lunch Transfer to Kilombero
Day 20: Birding in Kilombero
The Kilombero Valley is a birding hotspot, home to some of Tanzania’s most recently described endemic species. Begin the day searching for Kilombero Weaver, White-tailed Cisticola, and Kilombero Cisticola in the wetlands. These grasslands also attract a variety of other species, including Lesser Seed-cracker,African Marsh Harrier, and Fawn-coloured Waxbill.
Later, visit Udzungwa National Park, known for its lush forested slopes and high diversity of birds. Our primary target will be the rare Livingstone’s Flycatcher, whose warbler-like behavior can make it a challenge to observe. Other highlights might include the Red-eyed race of Kretschmer’s Longbill, African Goshawk, the White-lined form of the White-eared Barbet, Lesser Swamp Warbler, Little Spotted Woodpecker, Collared and Olive Sunbirds, African Black, African Palm and White-rumped Swifts
The Udzungwa Red Colobus and Sanje Mangabey are usually great sightings for this location during our Tanzania Birdwatching Tour
Day 21: Morning Birding in Kilombero and Transfer to Iringa City
Begin the day with a final morning birding session in the Kilombero Valley. We intend to look for what might have missed the previous days and also get a much better feel of the entire surrounding.
After a productive morning birding, we will transfer to Iringa, a highland city, hidden in the mountains. The drive passes through diverse terrains, from rocky outcrops to dry grasslands. Birding stops en route will give opportunities to find species like Striped Pipit, Jameson’s Firefinch, and Yellow-throated Longclaw.
Day 22: Birding Kidabaga Forest and Transfer to Kisolanza
The Kidabaga Forest, which is enroute to the Udzungwa Scarp, offers a mix of montane forest and highland grasslands species, making it an excellent location for rare species. Start early to explore this unique habitat, with targets including the Forest Double-collared Sunbird, Black-lored Cisticola, and Churring Cisticola.
The surrounding grasslands provide opportunities to find Marsh Tchagra, Angola Swallow, and Yellow-browed Seedeater. Near the forest edge, we may encounter African Hill Babbler and Fawn-breasted Waxbill. As we explore further, we keep an eye out for the stunning Uhehe Fiscal, a distinctive regional form with a white supercilium.
Day 23: Birding the Old Farm House and Kiponzelo Grasslands
We enjoy a peaceful morning birding around the Old Farm House. The lodge’s gardens and surrounding scrub are frequented by species such as the uncommon Whyte’s Barbet, Western Miombo Sunbird, Lesser Jacana, and Reichard’s Seedeater. Flocks of Fawn-breasted Waxbill and Tabora Cisticola may also be seen foraging in the open areas.
Later, visit the Kiponzelo Grasslands and marshes for more targeted birding. Highlights of the area include the striking Fulleborn’s Longclaw, Lesser Jacana, Yellow-billed Ducks, Marsh Tchagra, and Red-capped Lark. In good season, raptors such as the Booted Eagle and Crowned Eagle soar above the grasslands. On a good day, we should see the elusive species like the Short-tailed Pipit and Pale-crowned Cisticola
As dusk approaches, we shall attempt African Grass Owl, normally, they glide silently around.
Day 24: Transfer to Ruaha National Park
Today, we visit Ruaha National Park, one of Tanzania’s largest and most diverse parks. The journey to Ruaha takes us through scenic woodlands, with opportunities for en-route birding. We look for species like Cinnamon-breasted Bunting, Ashy Starling and Tanzania Red-billed Hornbill, and Mocking Cliff-chat along the way.
Upon arrival, we settle into our lodge and enjoy an introductory birding session around the park’s edges. Expect to see Ashy Starling, Tanzanian Red-billed Hornbill, and Grey-capped Social Weaver. The rich wildlife of Ruaha, including large mammals and birds of prey will lead to an exciting stay.
Day 25: Birding Ruaha National Park
Spend the entire day exploring Ruaha National Park, known for its dramatic landscapes and excellent birding. Begin with an early morning game drive through the park’s varied habitats, from dry riverbeds to open savannahs and baobab-studded plains. Prime targets include Red-necked Falcon and Violet-tipped Courser.
The park’s woodland areas are home to Arnot’s Chat, Bare-eyed Thrush, and Southern Ground Hornbill, while the open plains provide opportunities to spot Buff-crested Bustard and Temminck’s Courser. Large birds of prey and scavengers like Tawny Eagle, Brown and Black Snake-Eagles, Lapped-faced, White-headed and White-backed Vultures, and the elegant Secretary Bird.
This morning of our Tanzania Birdwatching Tour, we explore areas near the Great Ruaha River, where waterbirds such as African Fish Eagle, Yellow-billed Stork, and African Spoonbill are abundant. We keep an eye out for the impressive Pel’s Fishing Owl, often found roosting along the riverbanks.
Day 26: Morning Bird watching in Ruaha and Transfer to Dodoma City
We begin the day with a final birding session in Ruaha National Park, taking advantage of the morning’s cooler temperatures to explore new habitats. We focus on any species we may have missed, such as the striking Grey-capped Social Weaver, Red-necked Spurfowl, Ashy Starling, and the localised Tanzanian Red-billed Hornbill. Raptors like Osprey, Verreaux’s Eagle, Verreaux’s Eagle Owl and Common Ostrich should also appear as they begin their morning patrols.
After a hopefully productive morning, we depart Ruaha and begin our journey toward Dodoma, Tanzania’s capital city.
Day 27: Birding to Babati with a Stop at Kondoa Lake
We leave Dodoma early for the drive to Babati. En route, stop at Kondoa Lake, a small but productive wetland that attracts waterbirds and waders. We will look for species like Pink-backed Pelican, African Spoonbill, and Yellow-billed Stork. The lake’s reed edges may also harbor Malachite Kingfisher, Red-knobbed Coot, Knob–billed Duck, Lesser and Common Moorhens, and the occasional Little Bittern. A brief stop at a small wetland near Dodoma might reveal White-backed Duck, Striated Heron, and Lesser Moorhen.
Day 28: Tanzania Birdwatching Tour, Photography to Nou Forest and Transfer to Tarangire National Park
Start the day with a visit to Nou Forest in the Mbulu Mountains. This high-elevation forest is a haven for montane bird species, including the endemic Mbulu White-eye, Olive-flanked Robin-Chat, and Brown Woodland Warbler. Mixed flocks may contain Mountain Yellow Warbler, Bar-throated Apalis, and the distinctive Black-throated Wattle-eye. One of the day’s highlights should the Oriole Finch, Evergreen Forest Warbler, Delegorgue’s Pigeon and the Abyssinian Thrush among others. The skies here host Swallows and Swifts in impressive numbers depending on the season.
In the afternoon, we transfer to Tarangire National Park, stopping for occasional roadside birding in search forCape Wagtail, Familiar Chat, and Striped Pipit.
Day 29: Birding Tarangire National Park
We spend the entire day exploring Tarangire National Park, renowned for its rich birdlife and large herds of elephants. We begin with a drive through open savannahs, scanning for species like Yellow-collared Lovebird, Rufous-tailed Weaver, White-headed Buffalo Weaver and Red-billed Buffalo Weaver. The park’s characteristic baobabs often host flocks of Swahili Sparrow and Pale White-eye.
As the day warms up, we visit the riverine areas, where waterbirds like Great Egret, Yellow-billed Egret, Yellow-throated and Chestnut-banded Sandgrouse are common. We keep an eye out for Double-banded Courser and bustards such as White-bellied Bustard and Buff-crested Bustard. Raptors like the Wahlberg’s Eagle and Eastern and Dark Chanting Goshawk are also frequently seen soaring overhead.
Day 30: Morning Birding in Tarangire and Transfer to Karatu
We spend the morning birding the quieter areas of Tarangire National Park and look for the colourful Red-and-yellow Barbet, the vocal D’Arnaud’s Barbet, the agile Banded Parisoma, Yellow-breasted Apalis, Eastern Grey Woodpecker, Green-winged Pytilia and African Scops-Owl day roosts
In the afternoon, we transfer to Karatu, a charming town on the edge of the Ngorongoro Wildlife Reserve.
Day 31: Tanzania Birdwatching Tour and Wildlife Drive to the Ngorongoro Crater
We start the day with a birding wildlife drive in the world-famous Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The descent into the Ngorongoro Crater provides dramatic scenery and exceptional wildlife and birding opportunities. The crater’s varied habitats, from grassy plains to freshwater lakes, attract several wildlife species.
Key targets include Pectoral-patch Cisticola, and the stunning Chestnut-banded Plover, which forages along the shores of Lake Magadi. Waterbirds such as Western Little, African Great and Yellow-billed Egrets, Hadada, African Sacred Glossy Ibises, Cape and Blue-billed TealS, Red-billed, Fulvous and White-faced Whistling Ducks, Great Egret love it here. Whereas the open plains may reveal species like Usambiro Barbet, Capped Wheatear, and Lynne’s Cisticola.
In the afternoon, we return to Karatu on our continuing Tanzania Birdwatching Tour
Day 32: Birding Endoro Forest and Transfer to Serengeti National Park
Beyond the crater, we explore the Endoro Forest for montane species this morning. We will seek the elusive Purple-throated Cuckooshrike, Bar-breasted Apalis, Schalow’s Turaco, Pallid Honeyguide, and the rare White-tailed Crested Flycatcher.
We will later drive towards the Serengeti National Park and arrive at in the afternoon.
Days 33 & 34: Tanzania Birdwatching Tour and Wildlife Viewing in Serengeti National Park
Over the next two days, we should enjoy Serengeti’s unparalleled birding and wildlife experiences. The park’s expansive plains, kopjes, and riverine habitats support a staggering diversity of birdlife. Making the destination a world celebrated; especially for the very large populations of Blue Wildebeests and Plains Zebras
In addition to our growing birding list, we will look for Grey-crested Helmet-shrike, Grey-breasted Spurfowl, Tanzanian Red-billed Hornbill, and the localised Masai Apalis. The plains themselves are excellent for larks and pipits, with potential sightings of Kittlitz’s Plover, Plain-backed and the African Pipit.
Morning and afternoon game drives will focus on key targets, including Grey-capped Social Weaver, Hildebrandt’s Starling, and the vocal Rufous-tailed Weaver. The woodlands may yield the colourful Fischer’s Lovebird, White-headed Barbet, Scarlet-chested Sunbird, Bronze Sunbird, Kenya Rufous Sparrow, Yellow-throated Sandgrouse, while the open plains host iconic species like Kori Bustard, Crowned Lapwing, and the striking Secretarybird.
Scavengers are plentiful in the Serengeti, with frequent sightings of White-backed Vulture, Rüppell’s Griffon Vulture, and Lappet-faced Vulture. Smaller species like the Pygmy Falcon and African Scops Owl may also be encountered.
The sheer scale and beauty of the Serengeti makes these days unforgettable, with opportunities to combine exceptional birding with views of large mammals, including lions, cheetahs, gazelles and other antelope species, and elephants.
Day 35: Transfer to Arusha
After breakfast, we bid farewell to the Serengeti and begin our transfer to Arusha.
Day 36: Departure After the Tanzania Birdwatching Tour
This expedition does not only deepen our appreciation for Tanzania’s avifauna but also its rich ecosystems and cultural heritage. As we reflect on the sights, sounds, and experiences of this adventure, we return home with unforgettable connections to the wild places that qualify Tanzania a true birder’s paradise.
The Avian Safaris team, hopes this 36 Day Tanzania Birdwatching Adventure inspires a lifelong love for conservation and exploration.
Conservation Note
At Avian Safaris, we are deeply committed to promoting sustainable and responsible birding tourism across Tanzania. This 36-day birdwatching adventure not only achieves the region’s remarkable avian biodiversity but also contributes to the long-term protection of critical habitats and species. We actively support conservation initiatives, collaborate with local communities, and uphold eco-friendly practices throughout the tour. Your participation directly aids in safeguarding endangered species, preserving delicate ecosystems, and empowering local people to benefit from conservation-focused tourism. Together, we can ensure Tanzania’s birdlife thrives for future generations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the best time for birdwatching in Tanzania?
The prime birdwatching season in Tanzania is from September to April when migratory birds from Europe and Asia are present. However, resident species can be observed year-round.
2. What level of fitness is required for this 36-day birding tour?
Moderate fitness is recommended. Most birding walks are leisurely, but some areas involve hiking on uneven terrain, especially in forest reserves and national parks.
3. Are binoculars and spotting scopes provided?
We recommend bringing your own binoculars for the best experience. Our guides carry spotting scopes to enhance distant views, particularly in open habitats.
4. What type of accommodation is provided on this tour?
The tour includes a mix of comfortable lodges, tented camps, and eco-lodges selected for their proximity to birding hotspots. All accommodations offer basic amenities and ensure an authentic bush experience.
5. Will I be able to photograph birds during the tour?
Absolutely! The tour is ideal for bird photography. Our expert guides position you for optimal shots while respecting wildlife and their habitats.
6. Can I customise the birding itinerary?
Yes! We offer flexibility to customise the itinerary to suit specific birding targets or special interests such as photography, mammal safaris, or cultural visits.
Black-fronted Bushshrike (Chlorophoneus nigrifrons). A striking bird with its vibrant yellow plumage and black mask, captured during one of our Tanzania Birdwatching Safaris[/caption]
