Days 1-2: Arusha & Lake Duluti – A Warm Welcome to Birdwatching
Your adventure begins in Arusha, where you will be greeted and transferred to the serene Lake Duluti. This tranquil setting is perfect for spotting a variety of bird species, including the striking Hartlaub’s turaco and the colorful African fish eagle. Spend your days exploring the lush forests and lakeshores, where your expert guide will help you identify the diverse avian life. In the evenings, enjoy discussions about Tanzania’s birdlife and the unique ecosystems you will encounter throughout your journey.
Key Species: Hartlaub’s turaco (endemic), African fish eagle, Malachite kingfisher
Meals:
Day 1: Dinner included
Day 2: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included
Days 3-4: Tarangire National Park – The Land of Giants
Travel to Tarangire National Park, renowned for its iconic baobab trees and large elephant herds. This park is a haven for birdwatchers, offering sightings of the impressive kori bustard, the heaviest flying bird in Africa, and flocks of vibrant yellow-collared lovebirds. The Tarangire River attracts a variety of waterbirds, including goliath herons and saddle-billed storks, providing ample opportunities for exciting birdwatching experiences.
Key Species: Kori bustard, Yellow-collared lovebird (endemic), Southern ground hornbill
Meals:
Day 3: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included
Day 4: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included
Days 5-6: Ngorongoro Crater – A Natural Wonder
Next, descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts a unique ecosystem teeming with wildlife. Here, you will have the chance to spot rare species such as the Karamoja apalis and the rufous-tailed weaver. The crater floor is also home to large flocks of flamingos, ostriches, and various migratory birds, all set against the stunning backdrop of the volcanic landscape.
Key Species: Karamoja apalis, Rufous-tailed weaver, Lesser flamingo
Meals:
Day 5: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included
Day 6: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included
Days 7-8: Lake Manyara National Park – A Birdwatcher’s Paradise
Spend two days exploring Lake Manyara National Park, known for its incredible bird diversity. With over 400 species recorded, this park is a must-visit for bird enthusiasts. Walk along the lakeshore to spot pink-backed pelicans, grey crowned cranes, and thousands of flamingos. The groundwater forest is home to elusive species like the Narina trogon and silvery-cheeked hornbill, providing a rich variety of birdwatching opportunities.
Key Species: Grey crowned crane, Silvery-cheeked hornbill, Narina trogon
Meals:
Day 7: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included
Day 8: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included
Days 9-10: Eastern Arc Mountains – Specialty Birds Await
Conclude your birdwatching safari in the lush Eastern Arc Mountains, a biodiversity hotspot. Here, you will search for endemic species such as the Usambara eagle-owl and Amani sunbird, as well as the elusive Kretschmer’s longbill. The rich forests and diverse habitats of this region offer a unique opportunity to complete your bird checklist while enjoying the stunning scenery.
Key Species: Usambara eagle-owl (endemic), Amani sunbird (endemic), Kretschmer’s longbill
Meals:
Day 9: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included
Day 10: Breakfast included