16 Day Northern & Southern Tanzania Birding Safari
Overview
This 16-day Tanzania Birding Safari is a once-in-a-lifetime journey designed to maximize bird diversity across both northern and southern circuits of the country. Starting in Arusha at the base of Mount Meru and ending in Dar es Salaam, the safari brings together the best of Tanzania’s landscapes: the volcanic highlands, soda lakes, Serengeti plains, lush craters, baobab-dotted savannahs, and remote southern wilderness. It is a carefully crafted route that caters to passionate birders seeking endemics, specialties, and iconic African species, while also allowing immersion in Tanzania’s rich wildlife and cultural heritage.
The adventure begins in Arusha with the famed Lark Plains, home to highly localized specials such as the Beesley’s Lark, one of the world’s rarest birds, and continues to Arusha National Park for forest and highland birding with a chance to spot the Hartlaub’s Turaco, Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater, and the striking Tawny Eagle during a walking safari. A visit to Oldonyo Sambu and Lake Natron introduces dry-country specialists, flamingos, and a Maasai cultural experience that enriches the safari beyond birding.
The Serengeti, with its vast plains, provides opportunities to observe raptors, bustards, rollers, and open-country birds alongside the Great Migration and Africa’s most iconic wildlife. The Ngorongoro Crater adds its own checklist of species, including wetland waders and grassland birds, before the journey shifts to the wooded savannahs of Tarangire where flocks of Yellow-collared Lovebirds and raptors abound.
After exploring northern Tanzania, the itinerary transitions south to Ruaha National Park, a wilderness famed for its diversity of raptors, hornbills, and ground-dwelling birds. The baobab-studded landscapes here offer species not easily found elsewhere. From Ruaha, the journey flows into Mikumi National Park with its expansive floodplains rich in storks, ibises, and open savannah species. The safari concludes in Dar es Salaam, having traversed every major habitat type Tanzania has to offer.
With over 1,100 bird species recorded in Tanzania, this route maximizes diversity and delivers chances for both rare lifers and the country’s unique endemics. Beyond birding, it offers exceptional opportunities for big-game viewing and cultural interaction, making it one of the most comprehensive safaris available for birders and nature lovers alike.
Safari Itinerary
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by a Tanzaniatrail representative holding a personalized name tag with our logo. After a short introduction, you will be transferred to your lodge in Arusha to relax and refresh. In the evening, you will meet your safari guide, who will provide a detailed briefing about your trip, covering routes, parks, wildlife highlights, and useful tips, before enjoying dinner at the lodge.
Meals: Not Included
Comfort Accommodation: Masailand Safari Lodge
Premium Accommodation: Ngaresero Lodge
An early start takes you to the famous Lark Plains near Engikaret at the base of Mount Meru. This area is world-renowned for being the last stronghold of the Beesley’s Lark, one of the rarest birds on earth. Other specials of the plains include Short-tailed Lark, Athi Short-toed Lark, and Chestnut-bellied Sandgrouse. Raptors are frequently seen circling, including Eastern Chanting Goshawk and Secretary Bird striding across the grass. The stark beauty of the plains, dotted with Maasai herds and volcanic soils, makes this a rewarding day both scenically and ornithologically.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Comfort Accommodation: Masailand Safari Lodge
Premium Accommodation: Ngaresero Lodge
Today you explore Arusha National Park, a jewel with diverse habitats ranging from montane forests to alkaline lakes. On the forested slopes, you may encounter the brilliant Hartlaub’s Turaco, Silvery-cheeked Hornbill, and Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater. Open areas host Abyssinian Crimsonwing, African Stonechat, and Mountain Buzzard. The Momella Lakes are excellent for waterbirds, often holding Maccoa Duck, Hottentot Teal, and Pink-backed Pelican. A walking safari with an armed ranger provides unique close encounters with birds and mammals alike, giving you the chance to see species at eye level in their natural environment.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Comfort Accommodation: Masailand Safari Lodge
Premium Accommodation: Ngaresero Lodge
After breakfast, you head north toward Oldonyo Sambu, a semi-arid landscape with acacia woodlands and rocky outcrops. Here, look for species such as Red-throated Tit, Fischer’s Lovebird, and Grey-capped Social Weaver. The drive continues to Lake Natron, an otherworldly alkaline lake famous for its millions of flamingos. On arrival, enjoy evening birding for Lesser Flamingo, Greater Flamingo, Chestnut-banded Plover, and other waders that thrive in soda lakes. Overnighting here offers both unique scenery and excellent birding opportunities.
Meals: Full Board
Comfort Accommodation: African Safari Lake Natron
Premium Accommodation: Ngare Sero – Lake Natron Camp
Lake Natron is not only a birding hotspot but also a cultural and geological wonder. A morning walking safari around the lake allows close observation of flamingos feeding in the shallows, alongside Kittlitz’s Plover, Three-banded Plover, and Avocets. Dry-country birds include Von der Decken’s Hornbill, Black-necked Weaver, and Northern White-crowned Shrike. Later in the day, you will experience Maasai culture through guided village visits, learning about their traditions and coexistence with the land. The combination of exceptional birding and authentic cultural engagement makes this day particularly memorable.
Meals: Full Board
Comfort Accommodation: African Safari Lake Natron
Premium Accommodation: Ngare Sero – Lake Natron Camp
After breakfast, drive into the Serengeti, entering through its northern or central gate depending on conditions. Along the way, watch for dry-country raptors and bustards, with Kori Bustard being particularly common. By afternoon, you arrive in the Serengeti’s sweeping plains, home to both vast herds and diverse birdlife. Look for Secretary Birds striding in the grass, White-headed Vultures, and flocks of Red-capped Larks. Evening birding drives may reveal Montagu’s Harrier or Amur Falcon depending on the season.
Meals: Full Board
Comfort Accommodation: Serenity Camps and Lodges
Premium Accommodation: Serengeti Luxury Retreat
Two full days in the Serengeti allow you to experience its immense bird and mammal diversity. Grassland birds include Rufous-naped Lark, Fischer’s Sparrow-Lark, and Capped Wheatear. Raptors dominate the skies, from Steppe Eagles in migration to resident Bateleur Eagles. Wetland areas hold Black-headed Herons and Abdim’s Storks, while acacia woodlands provide habitat for Red-fronted Barbet, Hildebrandt’s Starling, and Superb Starling. The Serengeti’s birdlife complements its mammals—lion prides, cheetahs, elephants, and wildebeest herds—making every outing a spectacular mixed experience.
Meals: Full Board
Comfort Accommodation: Serenity Camps and Lodges
Premium Accommodation: Serengeti Luxury Retreat
This morning you journey into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” The crater floor is home to abundant birdlife, including Grey Crowned Cranes, Black-winged Stilts, Yellow-billed Storks, and Rosy-throated Longclaws in the grasslands. Water bodies attract African Spoonbills and Maccoa Ducks, while raptors such as Augur Buzzards patrol the crater rim. After a day of birding and wildlife viewing, you ascend and continue to Karatu for an overnight stay.
Meals: Full Board
Comfort Accommodation: Karatu Simba Lodge
Premium Accommodation: Kitela Lodge
Leaving Karatu, you drive to Tarangire National Park, a park defined by its iconic baobabs and large elephant herds. Birding here is exceptional, with over 500 species recorded. Expect flocks of the endemic Yellow-collared Lovebird, as well as Ashy Starling, Red-and-yellow Barbet, and Rufous-tailed Weaver. Raptors such as Bateleur and Martial Eagle are common, while wetlands host African Jacanas and Spur-winged Geese. Tarangire’s varied habitats make it a paradise for both birders and wildlife enthusiasts.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: Ang'ata Tarangire Camp
Premium Accommodation: Acacia Tarangire Luxury Camp
Begin the day with a walking safari, an intimate way to experience Tarangire’s habitats. Ground-dwelling birds such as Double-banded Courser, White-bellied Bustard, and Yellow-necked Spurfowl may be observed at close range. A later game drive adds chances for Purple Roller, Grey-headed Kingfisher, and numerous hornbill species. After lunch, you return to Arusha, with birding opportunities along the way. Evening at your lodge offers a chance to review your growing checklist.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Comfort Accommodation: Masailand Safari Lodge
Premium Accommodation: Ngaresero Lodge
Today you fly or drive south to Ruaha, Tanzania’s largest national park and a birding treasure. On arrival, the baobab-studded landscape immediately impresses. Evening birding often reveals White-headed Buffalo-Weavers, Southern Ground Hornbills, and Bare-faced Go-away-birds. The endemic Yellow-collared Lovebird is frequently seen here, alongside numerous raptors circling above the open plains. Ruaha’s remote wilderness ensures a pristine birding experience.
Meals: Full Board
Comfort Accommodation: Asanja Ruaha
Premium Accommodation: Jabali Ridge
Spend the full day birding across Ruaha’s diverse landscapes. The riverbanks provide sightings of Giant Kingfisher, African Fish Eagle, and White-crowned Lapwing. In woodland and savannah areas, look for Racket-tailed Roller, Pale-billed Hornbill, and White-bellied Bustard. Raptors are abundant, with Tawny Eagles, Bateleurs, and African Hawk-Eagles patrolling the skies. Mammal encounters enrich the day, from kudu and elephants to lions resting under baobabs.
Meals: Full Board
Comfort Accommodation: Asanja Ruaha
Premium Accommodation: Jabali Ridge
Today you continue eastward to Mikumi, a park with floodplains reminiscent of the Serengeti. En route, watch for birdlife along river crossings and woodland edges. Upon arrival, an afternoon birding drive introduces you to Dickinson’s Kestrel, Mosque Swallow, and Crowned Lapwing. Wetlands attract flocks of Open-billed Storks and Yellow-billed Storks, alongside ibises and herons. Mikumi is an excellent transition from Ruaha’s rugged wilderness to southern Tanzania’s more open habitats.
Meals: Full Board
Comfort Accommodation: Mantis Lodge & Camping
Premium Accommodation: Camp Bastian Mikumi
Explore Mikumi’s Mkata floodplain and surrounding habitats in depth. Grasslands host Capped Wheatear, Long-tailed Fiscal, and Shelley’s Sunbird, while wetlands provide opportunities for African Openbill, Glossy Ibis, and Black-winged Stilt. Raptors like the Bat Hawk may appear at dusk, while nocturnal species such as Fiery-necked Nightjar call after sunset. Mikumi’s mix of habitats ensures a rewarding full day of birding with excellent photographic opportunities.
Meals: Full Board
Comfort Accommodation: Mantis Lodge & Camping
Premium Accommodation: Camp Bastian Mikumi
After breakfast, begin the final leg of your safari toward Dar es Salaam. The road passes through areas where you may still encounter Lilac-breasted Rollers, Pied Crows, and Black Kites. Depending on your flight schedule, a final birding stop may add a few last species to your list. Arriving in Dar, you connect with your international departure, closing a 16-day journey that has taken you across Tanzania’s most diverse birding landscapes and delivered memories of rare endemics, spectacular sightings, and the joy of exploring Africa’s wild beauty.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
MID-RANGE INCLUDES
- All Meals as per Itinerary
- Airport Transfers
- National Park Fees
- Private 4x4 safari Jeep with pop-up roof
- Professional English-speaking safari guide
- Government taxes and levies
- Soft Drinks & Wines/Beers
MID-RANGE EXCLUDES
- Travel Insurance
- International Flights
- Tipping
- Personal Equipments
- Visa fees
LUXURY INCLUDES
- All Meals as per Itinerary
- VIP airport pick-up and drop-off
- All national park and conservation area fees
- Private 4x4 safari Jeep with pop-up roof
- Professional English-speaking safari guide
- Government taxes and levies
- Soft Drinks & Wines/Beers
- Premium accommodation in high-end lodges or luxury tented camps
LUXURY EXCLUDES
- Travel Insurance
- International Flights
- Tipping
- Personal Equipments
- Visa fees
- Premium wines and spirits (unless specified)
FAQs
Birding in Tanzania is a year-round delight, but the best season is from November to April, when the country welcomes migratory species from Europe and Asia. During this period, many birds are in colorful breeding plumage, and the landscapes are lush and vibrant, offering the perfect backdrop for photography and observation. However, even outside this window, Tanzania’s resident bird population remains active and diverse, especially in forested and wetland areas.
Tanzania is one of Africa’s premier birding destinations, boasting over 1,100 recorded species. Depending on your itinerary length and locations visited, a well-planned birding safari can yield sightings of 300 to 500 species. From colorful bee-eaters and turacos to large eagles and elusive forest birds, the range is impressive—suitable for both checklist birders and photographers alike.
Yes! Our birding safaris are led by seasoned guides with specialized knowledge in ornithology. Whether it’s identifying birds by song, behavior, or plumage, our guides are equipped with field guides, checklists, and scopes to enhance your experience. For those who wish, we can arrange private safaris with ornithologist-level experts for in-depth educational experiences.
Absolutely. We can combine birdwatching with general wildlife viewing for mixed-interest groups, couples, or families. Our guides tailor the experience to balance both interests.
Yes. All our birding safaris include regional bird checklists, binoculars (if needed), and field guidebooks. Our guides also bring spotting scopes and apps for sound identification. Whether you're keeping a detailed log or just enjoying the beauty of the birds, you'll be well-supported with the tools you need.
Absolutely. Whether you’re chasing lifers like the Shoebill, Silvery-cheeked Hornbill, or Uluguru Bushshrike, we can craft a fully personalized birding safari based on your target list. Just let us know your top species, and we’ll create a route that maximizes your chances while balancing comfort, photography, and adventure.
Absolutely. Birding safaris in Tanzania are designed to be inclusive, informative, and relaxed. Whether you're new to birdwatching or an experienced birder, our guides will match the pace to your comfort and curiosity. We offer gentle introductions to bird ID, plenty of time to observe, and detailed explanations to help you build confidence and enjoyment in the field.
Of course! We often design birding safaris that balance wildlife game viewing with birdwatching, so everyone enjoys the experience. For non-birders, there are breathtaking landscapes, cultural visits, and sightings of Africa’s iconic animals like lions, elephants, and giraffes. These blended itineraries make it easy for couples or families to travel together without compromising interests.
For a satisfying birding experience, we recommend a minimum of 7 to 12 days. This allows you to explore multiple habitats—from wetlands and woodlands to mountains and open plains. Serious birders may opt for 14+ days to target endemics and rare species. We can tailor the trip length based on your interests, availability, and birding goals.
A birding safari places greater emphasis on slow travel and attention to detail. Rather than rushing to spot the Big Five, birding safaris involve quiet observation, early morning starts, and time in more diverse microhabitats. However, you’ll still encounter abundant mammals—especially in parks like Serengeti and Tarangire—so it’s the best of both worlds for nature lovers.
Definitely! Tanzania is ideal for bird photography, with plenty of light, open landscapes, and cooperative species. Our guides understand how to position the vehicle and approach birds slowly to avoid disturbance. We also offer special photography safaris with private vehicles and optional photography coaching.
Giving Back Through Every Journey
At Tanzaniatrail, we believe that travel should create lasting memories and make a positive difference. That’s why 1% of every safari package you book goes directly back to local communities in Tanzania. We regularly visit and support orphanages and community centers, and our dream is to establish a dedicated children’s home under Tanzaniatrail’s care. When you travel with us, you’re not only exploring Tanzania’s beauty — you’re also helping provide education, food, and brighter futures for vulnerable children. Your adventure changes lives. Travel with purpose.