10-Day Birding Safaris Eastern Tanzania

Day 1: Arrival in Arusha

• Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to your lodge in Arusha. Spend the day relaxing and birdwatching around the lodge grounds, where you may spot species such as African Black Duck and Silvery-cheeked Hornbill.

Day 2: Arusha National Park

• Depart for Arusha National Park early in the morning. Explore the park’s diverse habitats, including montane forests and savannahs. Look for birds like the Bar-tailed Trogon, Grey-crowned Crane, and various sunbirds. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature.

Day 3: Tarangire National Park

• Travel to Tarangire National Park, known for its large elephant herds and baobab trees. Birdwatching highlights include the Ashy Starling, Yellow-collared Lovebird, and various raptors. Spend the night at a lodge within or near the park.

Day 4: Tarangire National Park

• Continue exploring Tarangire with a full day of birding. Focus on different areas of the park to maximize your sightings. Look for species such as the Rufous-tailed Weaver and various migratory birds depending on the season.

Day 5: Lake Manyara National Park

• Head to Lake Manyara National Park, famous for its diverse ecosystems ranging from wetlands to woodlands. Birdwatchers can expect to see flamingos, pelicans, and many other waterfowl along with forest species like the Great Blue Turaco.

Day 6: Ngorongoro Crater

• Travel to Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site. While primarily known for its wildlife, birdwatchers can find unique species here such as the Kori Bustard and various raptors soaring above. Overnight at a lodge overlooking the crater.

Day 7: Ngorongoro Highlands

• Spend another day in the Ngorongoro region focusing on highland birds. Explore areas around Empakaai Crater or Olmoti Crater where you can find endemic species like the Usambara Eagle-Owl and other montane birds.

Day 8: Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park)

• Depart for Selous Game Reserve (now Nyerere National Park), one of Africa’s largest protected areas. The reserve is home to numerous bird species including African Fish Eagles and various kingfishers along riversides.

Day 9: Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park)

• Enjoy a full day of birding in Selous with options for boat safaris on the Rufiji River where you can observe aquatic birds as well as mammals. Look out for rare sightings such as Pel’s Fishing Owl.

Day 10: Departure from Dar es Salaam

• After breakfast, travel to Dar es Salaam for your departure flight or extend your trip with an optional visit to Pemba Island or Zanzibar if time allows.

This itinerary provides a comprehensive experience of Eastern Tanzania’s rich avifauna while allowing ample time to enjoy each location’s unique landscapes and ecosystems.