ENDEMIC BIRDS TANZANIA

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!

 

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