ENDEMIC BIRDS TANZANIA
8 Days Birding Around Iringa
Day 1: Arrival in Iringa
- Arrive at Iringa and check into your accommodation.
- Spend the afternoon birding around the local area to acclimatize and spot common species such as the African Paradise Flycatcher and various weavers.
Day 2: Kiponzero Swamp
- Early morning departure to Kiponzero Swamp.
- Birding activities focusing on wetland species. Look for birds like the locust finch, fuellborn’s longclaw, rosy-throated longclaw, African snipe, gray-rumped swallow, Lesser Jacana, African Marsh Harrier, and various Cisticolas.
- Afternoon return to Iringa for a relaxing evening.
Day 3: Uluti Forest
- Depart early for Uluti Forest.
- Explore the forest trails while searching for forest specials such as the Livingstone’s Turaco, Iringa akalat, white-chested alethe, dapple-throat, swynnerton’s robin, white-winged apalis, rufous-winged sunbird and other endemic species.
- Enjoy a picnic lunch in the forest before continuing birding until late afternoon.
- Return to Iringa for dinner.
Day 4: Kisolanza Farm
- Morning drive to Kisolanza Farm.
- Birding around the farm area where you can find species like the Yellow-browed Seedeater and Uhehe Fiscal.
- Spend time observing both birds and local agricultural practices.
- Overnight stay at Kisolanza Farm.
Day 5: Mufindi Forest
- Depart for Mufindi Forest after breakfast.
- Engage in slow-paced birding throughout the day. Target species include Miombo Warbler, and various sunbirds.
- Take breaks to enjoy the scenic views of the highlands and possibly spot some mammals like Syke’s Monkey or bushbucks.
Day 6: Mufindi Highlands Exploration
- Full day of birding in Mufindi Highlands. Focus on highland specialties such as Iringa Akalat and Livingstone Flycatcher.
- Explore different habitats within the highlands including grasslands and wooded areas.
Day 7: Return to Iringa
- Morning birding session in Mufindi before heading back to Iringa.
- Stop at any promising locations along the way for additional birdwatching opportunities.
Day 8: Departure from Iringa
- Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy a final morning of birdwatching around Iringa or visit local markets before departing.
This itinerary provides a comprehensive exploration of key birding sites around Iringa, ensuring that participants have ample opportunity to observe both endemic and migratory species unique to this region of Tanzania.