Bird watching
One of the finest birding destinations on the continent
Despite Tanzania is one of the finest birding destinations on the continent, though it rarely gets the attention it deserves from travellers focused on the big mammals. Over 1,100 species have been recorded across the country, from the open plains of the Serengeti to the forests of Kilimanjaro’s lower slopes, the soda lakes of the Rift Valley and the coral reefs and mangroves of the Zanzibar coast.
The northern circuit offers exceptional birding alongside its wildlife. Lake Manyara alone records over 400 species and the alkaline shoreline draws flamingos in numbers that shift dramatically with the seasons. Tarangire is among the best parks in East Africa for dry-country species, with raptors, hornbills and the unmistakable ground-nesting birds of the open woodland. The Serengeti’s grasslands support secretary birds, kori bustards and a concentration of eagles that serious birders come specifically to see.
Arusha National Park deserves particular attention. The montane forest on the slopes of Mount Meru holds species found nowhere else on the circuit, and the Momella Lakes bring together waterbirds in a setting that is compact enough to cover thoroughly in a single day.
A dedicated birding safari moves at a different pace to a standard game drive. Stops are longer. Early mornings matter more. The guide needs to know not just where animals are likely to be, but which habitats hold which species at which time of year. We work with guides who have that knowledge and share it in a way that works whether you are an experienced birder with a life list or someone picking up binoculars seriously for the first time.
We are very happy to create your very special birding safari or combine your regular safari with some birding elements.
