Today, head for the birding adventure to Mt. Meru, a haven of diverse habitats teeming with avian treasures. Look out for the majestic Crowned Hawk-Eagle, the vibrant Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater, and the melodious Rüppell’s Robin-Chat.

As you ascend into the misty slopes, listen for the soft calls of elusive forest dwellers like the White-starred Robin and the impeccably dressed Brown Woodland-Warbler.

Mt. Meru’s lush forests are alive with color and sound. Catch a glimpse of the iridescent Hartlaub’s Turaco, marvel at the impressive Silvery-cheeked Hornbill, and watch the forest floor for the flashes of red from the playful Abyssinian Crimsonwing or the secretive Scaly-throated Honeyguide. Each step unveils a new winged wonder in this birder’s paradise.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Moivaro Coffee Plantation Lodge

Comfort Level: Luxury

Our journey takes us around the breathtaking slopes of Mt. Meru to the vast, open Lark Plains—the last sanctuary for the critically endangered Beesley’s Lark. With unwavering focus, we’ll search for these rare Tanzanian endemics, while also encountering a fascinating array of other species. Look out for the Chestnut-bellied and Yellow-throated Sandgrouse, various shrikes, migrant wheatears, pipits, and an assortment of larks that thrive in this unique ecosystem.

Framing the plains are Drepanolobium whistling thorn trees, creating a striking contrast against the distant hills, where vibrant species like the Red-fronted and Black-throated Barbets and the elusive Red-throated Tit find refuge.

In the dense thickets and along the riparian strips, we’ll listen for the calls of the Slate-colored Boubou and Nubian Woodpecker, while flocks of Gray-headed Social-Weavers flit playfully among the branches. With a bit of luck, we may also spot migratory visitors such as the Spotted Flycatcher and the melodious Common Nightingale, adding to the magic of this extraordinary birding adventure.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Moivaro Coffee Plantation Lodge

Comfort Level: Luxury

We’ll set off from Mount Meru in the morning, making our way to Tarangire National Park, a wildlife haven named after the life-giving river that winds through its landscape. This vital water source attracts an array of animals, from towering giraffes and elegant waterbucks to wildebeests, zebras, and the park’s legendary elephant herds.

With over 500 bird species, Tarangire is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, while its rolling hills, ancient baobab trees, and golden grasslands create a breathtaking backdrop. Enjoy a scenic picnic lunch overlooking the river, where wildlife gathers to drink. Afterward, we’ll continue our adventure through the park before arriving at your beautifully secluded lodge, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the African wilderness.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Lake Burunge Baobab Tented Lodge

Comfort Level: Luxury

Spend day 5 and 6 birding in Tarangire National Park. Experience the birding haven of Tarangire National Park, home to northern Tanzania’s unique species like the Yellow-collared Lovebird, long-tailed Ashy Starling, and Northern Pied Babbler. The park's Acacia woodlands host Von der Decken’s and Northern Red-billed Hornbills, Yellow-necked Spurfowl, Black-faced Sandgrouse, and more. Larger birds like the Secretary bird, Southern Ground Hornbill, and Common Ostrich roam the plains, while the Tarangire River attracts water birds like the Saddle-billed Stork and Grey Crowned Crane. Iconic baobabs shelter Mottled Spinetail nests, adding to the park's rich birdlife.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Lake Burunge Baobab Tented Lodge

Comfort Level: Luxury

After departing Tarangire, journey up the dramatic western Rift escarpment, winding through lush agricultural landscapes before entering the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Arrive at your lodge, where you can unwind and soak in breathtaking panoramic views of what is often called the world’s 8th Wonder.

This protected haven is home to over 30,000 mammals, more than 600 bird species, the awe-inspiring crater floor, towering volcanoes, vast plains, serene lakes, lush forests, and the fascinating archaeological site of Olduvai Gorge, all set against the magnificent Great Rift Valley wall.

After a delicious lunch, take a leisurely stroll through the farm to learn about its daily activities, relax in the fragrant gardens, or enjoy the mesmerizing sunset with the Oldeani volcano as your backdrop, as we explore this extraordinary park.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Ngorongoro Farm House

Comfort Level: Luxury

Get ready for a truly unforgettable day as you delve into the mesmerizing beauty of Ngorongoro Crater, a haven surrounded by lush forests and indigenous trees, creating an unspoiled paradise.

These verdant forests provide a home to a variety of stunning birds, including the Narina Trogon, Moustached Tinkerbird, and both Pallid and Scaly-throated Honeyguides. Keep an eye out for the African Broadbill, Purple-throated Cuckooshrike, Black-fronted Bushshrike, Blue-mantled Crested Flycatcher, and Brown-headed Apalis.

You'll also encounter the Grey-capped Warbler, Black-headed Mountain Greenbul, Brown Woodland Warbler, and African Hill Babbler, along with the Mbulu White-eye, Grey-headed Nigrita, and the Red-throated Twinspot. In the skies above, you might spot Ayres’s Hawk-Eagle, Black Sparrowhawk, Augur Buzzard, and Nyanza Swift. Don’t miss the prehistoric Schalow’s Turaco, with its stunning presence.

On the crater floor, the open terrain and sandy tracks offer an opportunity to witness Ngorongoro's endemic species such as the Rufous-tailed Weaver, Livingstone’s Turaco, and Jackson’s Widowbird. The striking Grey-crowned Cranes, Northern Anteater Chat, and other colorful species like Fischer's Sparrow-Lark and Capped Wheatear are also here. Additionally, be on the lookout for majestic birds of prey, including the Augur Buzzard and the Long-crested Eagle.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Ngorongoro Farm House

Comfort Level: Luxury

Today, we journey to the northern reaches of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, where it seamlessly blends into the Serengeti. Welcome to the Ndutu Area, a true paradise for birdwatchers. This enchanting region, with its Acacia woodlands, alkaline lakes, and expansive swamps, creates a rich mosaic of habitats that draw in a diverse array of bird species.

The woodlands are home to striking species such as the Rufous Chatterer, Cardinal and Bearded Woodpeckers, Black-faced Babbler, and Green Woodhoopoe. Beyond the birdlife, the Ndutu Area is renowned for its seasonal wildlife spectacles. Depending on the time of year and rainfall patterns, you may find yourself in the heart of the dramatic wildebeest calving season.

This incredible event sees thousands of female wildebeest and their newborn calves filling the plains, offering a dynamic and thrilling backdrop to your birding adventure.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Ndutu Safari Lodge

Comfort Level: Midrange

After a leisurely breakfast, we'll embark on our journey to the vast Serengeti National Park, a breathtaking expanse covering over 14,000 km². Known as the "endless plains," Serengeti derives its name from the Maasai language, capturing the essence of its boundless beauty. This iconic park is a sanctuary for the legendary Big Five—Rhinoceros, Elephant, Leopard, Buffalo, and Lion—and is home to an impressive 540 bird species.

Upon arrival and check-in, you'll set out on a birding adventure. The Serengeti is also the proud home of the stunning Lilac-breasted Roller, as well as three endangered Tanzanian species: the Grey-rumped Spurfowl, Fischer's Lovebird, and the babbler-like Rufous-tailed Weaver.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge.

Comfort Level: Luxury

Start your day with a satisfying breakfast, then embark on an unforgettable birdwatching adventure in the iconic Serengeti National Park. As you explore this expansive landscape, keep your eyes trained on the skies and surroundings for a stunning variety of avian wonders. Spot the vibrant Usambiro Barbet, the striking Red-billed Hornbill, and the elusive Karamoja Apalis. Be captivated by the colorful Schalow’s Turaco and the distinctive Hildebrandt’s Francolin, adding to the park’s extraordinary birdlife.

Throughout the day, you may encounter the Black-headed Gonolek, Black-backed Cisticola, and the majestic Kori Bustard. Watch for the graceful Secretary Bird and the Pale Chanting Goshawk in flight, alongside the energetic Magpie Shrike and the Brown-crowned Tchagra. The unique Abyssinian Scimitarbill, charming Capped Wheatear, and striking Wattled Starling will surely capture your attention. You might even spot the stunning Silverbird, further enhancing this unparalleled birding experience.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge.

Comfort Level: Luxury

The journey by road from Serengeti National Park to Arusha takes approximately 6 hours. As you depart the Serengeti, you’ll pass through the picturesque Ngorongoro Highlands, with sweeping views of savannahs, rural villages, and wildlife such as zebras and giraffes. The landscape shifts from the open plains of the Serengeti to the lush, fertile hills near Arusha, offering a scenic and diverse drive that highlights Tanzania’s natural beauty.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Moivaro Coffee Plantation Lodge.

Comfort Level: Luxury

Depending on your flight schedule, you may have a city tour in Arusha before heading to the airport for your onward flight back home at the end of the Birding in Tanzania Safari