Tanzania, a country blessed with diverse landscapes and rich biodiversity, stands as a paradise for birdwatchers from around the globe.
Boasting over 1,100 recorded bird species – an impressive 10% of the world’s total – Tanzania offers an unparalleled birding experience that caters to both novice enthusiasts and seasoned ornithologists alike.
In this post, we’ll take you on a journey through Tanzania’s prime birdwatching locations, sharing insights from our team’s regular visits to these hotspots.
Whether you’re planning your first birdwatching safari or returning for more avian adventures, this article will serve as your ultimate resource for birding in Tanzania.
Birdwatching Hotspots in Tanzania
The Northern Circuit: Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Northern Lakes
The northern circuit of Tanzania is renowned for its spectacular wildlife, and it doesn’t disappoint when it comes to birdlife either.
Serengeti National Park: Home to over 500 bird species, including the endemic Grey-breasted spurfowl and the striking Secretary bird. Look out for raptors like the Martial Eagle and Bateleur.
Ngorongoro Conservation Area: The crater floor hosts numerous water birds, including Greater and Lesser Flamingos. The surrounding highlands are home to species like the Schalow’s Turaco and Golden-winged Sunbird.
Lake Natron: This alkaline lake is a crucial breeding site for Lesser Flamingos. The surrounding area is excellent for spotting desert-adapted species.
Eastern Arc Mountains: Mkomazi NP, Pare and Usambara Mountains
The Eastern Arc Mountains are a biodiversity hotspot, home to numerous endemic species.
Mkomazi National Park: Look for dry country specials like the Vulturine Guineafowl and Somali Ostrich.
Pare and Usambara Mountains: These ancient mountains host several endemic species, including the Usambara Akalat and Usambara Weaver.
Northern Highlands: Arusha, Kilimanjaro, Longido, and North Pare
The northern highlands offer a mix of montane and savanna species.
- Arusha National Park: The diverse habitats here support a wide range of species, from waterfowl at the Momella Lakes to forest birds like the Hartlaub’s Turaco.
- Mount Kilimanjaro: The mountain’s slopes are home to species like the Malachite Sunbird and the elusive Abbott’s Starling.
Central-Northern Tanzania: Lake Manyara, Tarangire, and the Maasai Steppe
This region offers excellent birding opportunities in diverse habitats.
Lake Manyara National Park:
Famous for its tree-climbing lions, but equally impressive for birds. Look for the Pink-backed Pelican and African Spoonbill.
Tarangire National Park:
Known for large elephant herds, it’s also great for birding. The Kori Bustard and Yellow-collared Lovebird are highlights.
There are more than 500 species of birds in Tarangire. The most distinctive and eye-catching are, of course, Common Ostriches (Struthio camelus) and Kori Bustards (Ardeotis kori).
The Maasai Steppe.
The Maasai Steppe is a vast semi-arid grassland covering about 3,000,000 hectares in Tanzania, situated between several national parks and mountain ranges. This plateau, traditionally used by the Maasai for cattle grazing, is characterized by its dry climate, sparse vegetation, and occasional low mountains and hills. Despite the challenging environment, the steppe is home to a diverse array of bird species adapted to arid conditions.
Notable birds in the Maasai Steppe include large nesting colonies of Black-headed Weavers, the striking Vulturine Guineafowl, and various species adapted to water-scarce environments such as Acacia Tits and Scaly Chatterers.
The rocky hills host species like the Rock-loving Cisticola and Mocking Cliff Chat, while several eagle species patrol the skies. The steppe also serves as an important wintering ground for migratory birds from Eurasia and other parts of Africa, including European Rollers and Jacobin Cuckoos.
Despite its challenging conditions, the Maasai Steppe supports a rich avian biodiversity, including some strikingly beautiful species like the Golden Pipit.
Southern Tanzania: Selous, Nyerere, Mikumi, and Udzungwa Mountains
The southern circuit is less visited but offers rewarding birding experiences.
Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park): One of Africa’s largest protected areas, it’s home to the rare Palm-nut Vulture and Pel’s Fishing Owl.
Udzungwa Mountains National Park: Part of the Eastern Arc Mountains, it hosts several endemic species like the Udzungwa Forest Partridge.
Coastal Tanzania: Dar es Salaam, Bagamoyo, and Zanzibar
The coast offers a different set of species, including many marine birds.
Dar es Salaam: The city’s coastline and nearby wetlands are good for waders and terns. Visit Pugu Hills for forest species.
Zanzibar: The spice island is home to several endemic subspecies, including the Zanzibar Red Bishop.
Southern Coast: Mafia Island and South Coast
The southern coast is less explored but offers excellent birding opportunities.
Mafia Island: Great for seabirds and coastal species. Look for the Crab Plover and various tern species.
Southern Highlands: Ruaha, Usangu and the Kitulo Plateau
This region offers a mix of miombo woodland and highland species.
Ruaha National Park: Home to over 570 bird species, including the Tanzanian Red-billed Hornbill and Ashy Starling.
Kitulo Plateau: Known as the “Serengeti of Flowers,” it’s also excellent for highland birds like the Dendropicos griseocephalus and the rare Blue Swallow.
Western Tanzania: Katavi, Lake Rukwa, and Lake Tanganyika
The remote western region offers unique birding experiences.
Katavi National Park: Less visited but rich in birdlife. Look for the African Skimmer and Shoebill.
Lake Tanganyika: The world’s longest freshwater lake hosts numerous waterbirds and surrounding forests are home to many Central African species.
Best Time for Birdwatching in Tanzania
While Tanzania offers year-round birding opportunities, the best time depends on your specific interests:
- November to April: This is the wet season and the best time for migratory birds from Europe and North Africa. Many resident species are in breeding plumage.
- June to October: The dry season is excellent for general wildlife viewing and makes birding easier as vegetation is less dense.
Birdwatching Tips for Tanzania
- Hire a local guide: Their knowledge of bird calls and habitats is invaluable.
- Bring good optics: A sturdy pair of binoculars is essential. A spotting scope can be useful in open areas.
- Dress appropriately: Wear neutral colors and comfortable, sturdy shoes.
- Stay hydrated: Tanzania can be hot, especially during the dry season.
- Contribute to citizen science: Consider using eBird to log your sightings and contribute to bird conservation efforts.
Conservation and Responsible Birdwatching
As birdwatchers, we have a responsibility to protect the environments we enjoy. Always follow park rules, don’t disturb nesting sites, and consider supporting local conservation efforts.
Conclusion
Tanzania’s incredible diversity of habitats – from coastal mangroves to alpine meadows, from baobab-studded savannas to montane forests – creates a birdwatcher’s paradise.
With over 1,100 species to discover, including numerous endemics and near-endemics, Tanzania offers a lifetime of birding adventures.
Whether you’re marveling at flamingos on Lake Natron, searching for endemics in the Usambara Mountains, or enjoying the spectacle of millions of migrating birds arriving in the Serengeti, birdwatching in Tanzania is an experience you’ll never forget.
So pack your binoculars, bring your bird guide, and prepare for an unforgettable avian adventure in one of Africa’s premier birding destinations!
