20-Day Itinerary for Endemic Birds in Southern Tanzania
Day 1: Arrival in Dar es Salaam
- Arrive at Julius Nyerere International Airport.
- Transfer to your hotel and relax after your journey.
- Overnight stay in Dar es Salaam.
Day 2: Dar es Salaam to Mikumi National Park
- Early morning departure to Mikumi National Park.
- Birding along the way, looking for species such as the African Fish Eagle and various weavers.
- Afternoon game drive in Mikumi, focusing on birdwatching opportunities.
- Overnight at a lodge within or near the park.
Day 3: Mikumi National Park
- Full day of birding in Mikumi National Park.
- Target species include the Yellow-collared Lovebird, Rufous-tailed Weaver, and Grey-breasted Spurfowl.
- Explore different habitats including grasslands and wetlands for diverse birdlife.
- Overnight at the same lodge.
Day 4: Mikumi to Udzungwa Mountains
- Depart from Mikumi and head towards Udzungwa Mountains National Park.
- Birding en route, with potential sightings of various raptors and endemic species.
- Arrive at Udzungwa and settle into your accommodation.
- Evening birdwatching around the lodge area.
- Overnight stay near Udzungwa.
Day 5: Udzungwa Mountains
- Full day of exploring Udzungwa’s montane forests.
- Focus on endemic birds such as the Udzungwa Forest Partridge and Iringa Red-billed Hornbill.
- Guided hikes through the forest will enhance birdwatching opportunities.
- Overnight at the same lodge.
Day 6: Udzungwa to Selous Game Reserve
- Morning birdwatching before departing for Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park).
- Afternoon boat safari on the Rufiji River, observing waterbirds like herons and kingfishers.
- Overnight stay at a lodge or tented camp in Selous.
Day 7: Selous Game Reserve
- Full day of game drives focused on both wildlife and birds.
- Look for species such as African Skimmer, White-crowned Lapwing, and various storks.
- Evening birdwatching session near water bodies.
- Overnight at the same lodge or camp.
Day 8: Selous to Ruaha National Park
- Depart from Selous early morning for Ruaha National Park.
- Birdwatch along the way; expect sightings of raptors and other savanna birds.
- Arrive in Ruaha by afternoon; settle into your accommodation.
- Evening game drive focusing on nocturnal birds.
- Overnight stay in Ruaha.
Day 9: Ruaha National Park
- Full day dedicated to exploring Ruaha’s diverse ecosystems.
- Target endemic species such as the Ruaha Red-billed Hornbill and other unique avifauna.
- Enjoy a mix of game drives and walking safaris for varied experiences.
- Overnight at the same lodge or camp.
Day 10: Ruaha to Kitulo National Park
- Depart from Ruaha towards Kitulo National Park, known for its stunning wildflower displays and unique birdlife.
- Birdwatch during transit; look out for any interesting species along roadsides.
- Arrive at Kitulo by afternoon; explore nearby areas for evening bird activity.
- Overnight stay near Kitulo.
Days 11–12: Kitulo National Park
- Spend two full days exploring Kitulo’s montane grasslands and forests.
- Focus on endemic birds like the Kitulo Bush Warbler and other highland specialties.
- Engage in guided walks through diverse habitats while keeping an eye out for butterflies too!
- Overnight stays at local accommodations.
Days 13–14: Kitulo to Mbeya Region
- Travel from Kitulo to Mbeya region with stops for birdwatching along scenic routes.
- Explore local wetlands that attract migratory birds during this time of year.
- Stay overnight in Mbeya area while continuing your search for endemics.
Days 15–16: Mbeya Region Exploration
- Spend two days exploring various habitats around Mbeya, including forests, grasslands, and lakeside areas.
- Target species may include Lesser Seedcracker, African Blue Flycatcher, among others unique to this region.
- Engage with local guides who can provide insights into lesser-known spots rich with avian life!
- Overnight stays in Mbeya area accommodations.
Days 17–18: Return Journey to Dar es Salaam via Iringa
- Begin your return journey towards Dar es Salaam with a stopover in Iringa region known for its scenic landscapes & potential bird sightings!
- Continue spotting endemic birds along routes back toward urban areas while enjoying views of rural Tanzania!
- Stay overnight en route back towards Dar es Salaam!
Days 19–20: Final Days in Dar es Salaam & Departure
- Spend your last days relaxing or visiting local attractions while keeping an eye out for city-dwelling birds like Palm Swifts & House Sparrows!
- Prepare for departure from Julius Nyerere International Airport after concluding this memorable trip focused on Tanzania’s endemic avifauna!