13 Days Birding in Tanzania
13 Days Birding in Tanzania
This 13 Days Birding in Tanzania Safari traverses Mt. Meru, Tarangire, Ngorongoro, Lake Ndutu, and Serengeti Conservation Areas. Tanzania has over 1,100, of which over 800 species are residents, and about 200 are migrants. There are 22 bird species endemic to Tanzania.
Birding highlights
- Mt. Meru with over 300 bird specie, is famed for its huge cliffs, is home to 13 rivers, and was home to Elsa the lioness of “Born Free” fame.
- Tarangire National Park is known for its huge elephants and giraffes and is a habitat for over 550 bird species.
- Ngorongoro Crater is the cradle of mankind and has over 600 bird species and is the 8th Wonder in the world.
- Lake Ndutu is an alkaline lake in the Southern part of Serengeti Plains and is famed for the Calving Season and excellent birding sessions as well.
- The Serengeti with about 540 bird species and is famed for its highest concentration of wildebeest migration.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
Upon arrival in Arusha, you will then drive to your accommodation in Arusha (approximately a 1.5 hours drive) and then spend the evening relaxing at the hotel. Accommodation at Moivaro Coffee Plantation Lodge.
Day 2: Arusha to Mt. Meru
Today you will head out to Mt. Meru that has a mix of habitats offering sightings of the majestic Crowned Hawk-Eagle, the vibrant Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater, and the melodious Ruppell’s Robin-Chat.
As we ascend to the mist-shrouded slopes, we search for skulking gems such as White-starred Robin and the dapper Brown Woodland-Warbler.
Mt. Meru is renowned for its rich avian diversity. You might also spot the striking Hartlaub’s Turaco with its iridescent feathers and the Silvery-cheeked Hornbill with its distinctive bill. The forest floor is alive with activity, offering glimpses of the playful Abyssinian Crimsonwing and the secretive Scaly-throated Honeyguide. Later head back for accommodation and meals at Elewana Elsa’s Kopje Meru Lodge
Day 3: Birding in Mt. Meru
We’ll journey around the majestic Mt. Meru to reach the lark plains. These grasslands are the last refuge for the critically endangered Beesley’s Larks, and we will dedicate our time to seeking out these rare Tanzanian endemics. Along the way, we’ll also encounter interesting species such as Chestnut-bellied and Yellow-throated Sandgrouse, various shrikes, migrant wheatears, pipits, and a variety of larks.
The plains are bordered by Drepanolobium whistling thorn trees, and the nearby hills are a habitat for species like the Red-fronted and Black-throated Barbets and the Red-throated Tit.
In the thicket habitats and along riparian strips, look out for the Slate-colored Boubou, Nubian Woodpecker, and the sociable Gray-headed Social-Weaver. We may also spot migrant birds such as the Spotted Flycatcher and Common Nightingale.
Accommodation and Meals at Elewana Elsa’s Kopje Meru Lodge
Day 4: To Tarangire National Park
We will depart Mt. Meru in the morning and head directly to Tarangire National Park, named after the river that runs through it which quenches the thirst of a variety of animals, including giraffes, waterbucks, wildebeests, zebras, and elephants.
Tarangire is home to over 500 species of birds and its hilly landscape is dotted with baobabs and diverse grasses. You will enjoy a picnic lunch overlooking the river. We will continue exploring and arrive at your lodge nestled in the park, surrounded by abundant wildlife. Accommodation and Meals at Tarangire Safari Lodge.
Day 5-6: Birding in Tarangire National Park
Immerse yourself in two days of exceptional birding in Tarangire National Park. Keep an eye out for the Yellow-necked Spurfowl, Northern Pied Babbler, Woodland Kingfisher, Pygmy Batis, Southern Grosbeak Canary, Red-throated Tit, White-crowned Shrike, Pygmy Falcon, African Marsh Harrier, White-faced Whistling Duck, Red-billed Hornbill, and Black-headed Heron, among others.
This is also your chance to spot three Tanzanian endemics: the Ashy Starling, the Drabber Rufous-tailed Weaver, and the Yellow-collared Lovebird. Enjoy your stay with comfortable accommodation and meals at Tarangire Safari Lodge.
Day 7:Tarangire to Ngorongoro Crater
After leaving Tarangire, drive up the western Rift escarpment, wind through some pleasant agricultural areas, then enter the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Arrive at the lodge for relaxation and take in spectacular panoramic views of what might be the world’s famous 8th Wonder.
The protected area is home to over 30,000 Mammals, over 600 Bird species, the gigantic earth fracture, crater floor, volcanoes, plains, lakes, forests, the archaeological site of Olduvai Gorge, and the Great Rift Valley wall.
After lunch, take a walk around the farm to learn about the daily activities, relax in the fragrant gardens or enjoy the spectacular sunsets with the Oldeani volcano as a background. Accommodation and Meals at Ngorongoro Farm House.
Day 8: Birding in Ngorongoro Crater
Days 9-10: Birding in Ndutu
Today we head to the northern part of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, where it merges with the Serengeti, the Ndutu Area is a birdwatcher’s dream. This captivating region, characterized by its Acacia woodlands, alkaline lakes, and swamps, offers a rich tapestry of habitats that attract a diverse array of bird species.
The woodlands harbor Rufous Chatterer, Cardinal and Bearded Woodpeckers, Black-faced Babbler, and Green Woodhoopoe. The Ndutu Area is also renowned for its seasonal wildlife spectacles. Depending on the time of year and recent rains, you might witness the calving season of the wildebeest.
This dramatic event attracts vast numbers of female wildebeest and their young, creating a vibrant and dynamic backdrop for birding. Accommodation and Meals at Ndutu Safari Lodge.
Day 11: To Serengeti National Park
After a relaxed breakfast, we will start our journey to the Serengeti National Park which spans over 14,000 km². The name Serengeti comes from a Maasai word meaning ‘endless plains’ and this park is home to the ‘big five’; Rhinoceros, Elephant, Leopard, Buffalo, and Lion. It is home to about 540 bird species.
After check-in, you will head out for a birding session. The park is also the homeland of the amazing Lilac-breasted roller and the 3 endangered Tanzanian species: Grey-rumped spurfowl, Fischer’s lovebird, and the babbler-like Rufous-tailed weaver. Accommodation and Meals at Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge.
Day 12: Birding Serengeti National Park
After a hearty breakfast, immerse yourself in a day of exceptional birdwatching in the iconic Serengeti National Park. As you explore this vast landscape, keep your eyes peeled for a stunning array of avian species, including the vibrant Usambiro Barbet, the striking Red-billed Hornbill, and the elusive Karamoja Apalis. Marvel at the colorful Schalow’s Turaco and the distinctive Hildebrandt’s Francolin.
Other highlights of the day include sightings of the Black-headed Gonolek, Black-backed Cisticola, and the majestic Kori Bustard. Watch for the graceful Secretary Bird and the Pale Chanting Goshawk, as well as the Magpie Shrike and Brown-crowned Tchagra. Look out for the unique Abyssinian Scimitarbill, the charming Capped Wheatear, and the striking Wattled Starling. The Silverbird may also make an appearance, adding to the day’s diverse birding experience.
Accommodation and Meals at Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge
Day 13: Arusha National Park – Departure
Head back to Arusha for lunch and thereafter onward for a departure flight back home at the end of the 13 days of Birding in Tanzania.
Included in the 13 Days Birding in Tanzania
- Ground transportation in a safari customized 4WD with gasoline/fuel,
- Mineral water in the vehicle,
- Services of an English speaking Driver/guide,
- Accommodation as shown at the lodges mentioned in the itinerary,
- Meals as shown (B-breakfast, L-lunch, D-dinner),
- All Park Entrance Fees
Excluded in the 13 Days Birding in Tanzania
- International Airfares; Excess baggage charges;
- Tanzania Entry Visa Fees
- Beverages, Communications charges (telephone, fax, internet), Laundry, etc.;
- Tips, and Gratuities for your Driver/guide and Hotels staff,
- Optional activities unless specified as included,
- Any other services not expressly shown in the itinerary or indicated as included.