Birding Safaris in Tanzania: A Paradise for Twitchers

Tanzania, a jewel in East Africa, is not only a world-renowned safari destination for its incredible mammal migrations and predator sightings but also a true birding paradise, attracting “twitchers” (serious birdwatchers) and casual enthusiasts alike. With over 1,100 recorded bird species, including numerous endemics and near-endemics, Tanzania offers a diverse range of habitats supporting a spectacular array of avian life, from vibrant savanna birds to rare forest dwellers and aquatic specialists.

Here’s why Tanzania is a top choice for birding safaris and where to go:

Why Tanzania for Birding?

• Exceptional Species Diversity: Tanzania’s vast size and varied ecosystems – including vast savannahs, dense forests, wetlands, mountains, and the Indian Ocean coastline – create a mosaic of habitats supporting an immense number of bird species.
• Endemic and Near-Endemic Birds: Tanzania boasts a significant number of endemic species (found nowhere else) and near-endemics, particularly in its Eastern Arc Mountains (like the Usambara and Udzungwa Ranges).
• Spectacular Migrations: During the Palearctic (European and Asian) migratory season, many species flock to Tanzania, boosting bird numbers and adding to the diversity.
• Combined Wildlife Experience: Unlike pure birding destinations, a birding safari in Tanzania allows you to combine world-class birdwatching with phenomenal mammal safaris, offering a holistic wildlife experience.
• Iconic Landscapes: Birding takes place against breathtaking backdrops, from the plains of the Serengeti to the slopes of Kilimanjaro and the shores of Lake Victoria.

Best Birding Destinations in Tanzania:

1. Northern Circuit Parks: These iconic safari parks are also excellent for birding.

   • Tarangire National Park: Known for its enormous baobab trees and large elephant herds, Tarangire is also a superb birding destination with over 550 recorded species. Highlights include various raptors, hornbills, barbets, and a high density of ground birds like the Kori Bustard. The swampy areas attract various waterbirds.
   • Lake Manyara National Park: Despite its relatively small size, Lake Manyara boasts over 400 bird species. Its alkaline lake often hosts thousands of flamingos (Lesser and Greater), pelicans, storks, and other waterbirds. The groundwater forest is home to various forest species, while raptors soar above the Rift Valley escarpment.
   • Ngorongoro Conservation Area: The diverse habitats within and around the Ngorongoro Crater support a wide range of birds (over 500 species). The Crater floor’s Lake Magadi attracts flamingos and other waders, while the montane forests are home to forest birds like turacos and raptors.
   • Serengeti National Park: While famous for the Great Migration, the Serengeti also offers outstanding birding with over 500 species. Its vast plains are excellent for raptors, bustards, secretary birds, and various grassland species. The riverine forests add different species like kingfishers and rollers.

2. Rift Valley Soda Lakes (Flamingo Hotspots):

   • Lake Natron: This remote and dramatic alkaline lake is the most significant breeding ground for Lesser Flamingos in Africa, hosting millions. While access can be challenging, the spectacle of massed flamingos is unparalleled.
   • Lake Eyasi: A seasonal lake near Ngorongoro, Lake Eyasi attracts a variety of waterbirds, including flamingos, especially during the wetter months.

3. Southern Circuit Parks: These parks offer excellent birding in a less crowded, more wild setting.

   • Ruaha National Park: Tanzania’s largest national park is a birding hotspot with over 570 species due to its unique convergence of northern and southern African birdlife. Highlights include localized species like the Ruaha Red-billed Hornbill, giant eagles, and various dry-country birds. The Great Ruaha River attracts many water-associated species.
   • Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve): This immense park, with its vast wetlands, rivers, and woodlands, is a paradise for waterbirds and boasts over 440 species. It’s an excellent place for Pel’s Fishing Owl, African Skimmer, various kingfishers, and a high density of raptors. Boat safaris on the Rufiji River are superb for birdwatching.

4. Forest and Mountain Habitats (Endemics and Forest Birds):

   • Usambara Mountains: Part of the ancient Eastern Arc Mountains, the Usambaras are a biodiversity hotspot, particularly for endemic forest birds like the Usambara Weaver, Usambara Akalat, and Usambara Thrush. Birding here involves guided forest walks.
   • Udzungwa Mountains National Park: Another critical Eastern Arc forest, renowned for its high endemism, including the Udzungwa Forest Partridge and other rare forest species. It also offers beautiful hiking trails and waterfalls.
   • Mount Kilimanjaro (Afromontane Forests): The lower and montane forest slopes of Kilimanjaro are excellent for montane forest birds, including turacos, barbets, and various sunbirds, often seen during trekking expeditions.
   • Amani Nature Reserve (Eastern Usambaras): A small but incredibly important forest reserve known for its high concentration of rare and endemic birds.

Best Time for Birding Safaris in Tanzania:

The “Green Season” or “Wet Season” (roughly November to April) is generally considered the best time for birdwatching in Tanzania.

• Migratory Birds: Palearctic and intra-African migrants are present, significantly boosting bird numbers.
• Breeding Plumage: Resident species are often in their vibrant breeding plumage, making them easier to identify and photograph.
• Lush Landscapes: The countryside is green and beautiful, offering stunning backdrops, though some roads can become muddy.
• Fewer Crowds & Lower Prices: This is generally the low tourist season, meaning fewer visitors and more competitive prices for accommodation and safaris.

While mammal viewing might be slightly more challenging due to thicker vegetation, the avian rewards during the green season are immense, making Tanzania a truly spectacular destination for birding enthusiasts.