12 Days Unforgettable Birding Adventure

 Nyumba Ya Mungu Dam, Mkomazi National, South Pare, West Usambara, Amani Nature Reserve and Ushongo Beach Pangani.

HIGHLIGHT

Embark on an extraordinary 12 -day birding journey through some of Tanzania’s most unique and biodiverse regions, from the expansive savannahs of the north to the lush forests of the East Usambara mountains to Pangani coastal forest. This trip promises a blend of spectacular landscapes and rare, endemic bird species, ideal for avid birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. 

This birding trip is designed for enthusiasts looking for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore Tanzania’s avian wonders. Whether you're a seasoned birder or an enthusiastic nature lover, this journey will exceed your expectations. Book your spot today and embark on the birding adventure of a lifetime!

Arrival Day 1: Kilimanjaro Airport to Duluti Forest 

Birding guide will meet you at Kilimanjaro International Airport upon arrival. Enjoy a warm welcome and a brief overview of your days ahead. After a quick introduction to your guide, head towards Duluti Forest, a scenic 60-minute drive from the airport. During the journey, your guide will share information about the area and introduce you to the birds you might expect to encounter Look out for elusive species like the Crested Guineafowl, Eastern Bronze-naped Pigeon, and African Crowned Eagle. Keep an eye on the treetops for Grey-headed Bushshrike, Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird, and perhaps the stunning Purple-crested Turaco. 

Picnic lunch: Enjoy a well-deserved lunch break in the heart of Duluti Forest. Your guide will set up a picnic in a peaceful spot within the forest, surrounded by the sounds of nature. Enjoy a selection of local dishes while soaking in the atmosphere of the forest.

After a fulfilling day of birding, your guide will take you to the Lodge for overnight. FB Accomodation

Day 2: Arusha to Mkomazi National Park & Nyumba Ya Mungu Dam

Begin your adventure with a scenic drive from Arusha, enjoying a packed lunch en route. After arriving in Mwanga at noon, take a break and refuel with a delicious lunch before heading to the breathtaking Nyumba Ya Mungu Dam. Here, you’ll witness an array of waterfowl and explore the unique birds of the northern savannah woodland, offering a truly magical birding experience. In the evening, you’ll head to Same for an overnight stay at the Elephant Motel or Johnson Villers./Mkomazi Bandas 80 USD BB, 10 - 30

FB accommodation at Elephant Motel.

Day 3: Full-Day Birding at Mkomazi National Park

After an early breakfast, set off to Mkomazi National Park, just 5 km away from your accommodation. Spend the entire day exploring the park’s diverse ecosystems, home to a variety of savannah and wetland birds. Mkomazi is a birding hotspot, offering opportunities to spot rare species such as the Somali Courser and the Secretarybird. Return to the Elephant Motel for a comfortable overnight stay. FB

Day 4: South Pare Mountains and Magamba Forest

This morning, we’ll drive to the stunning Shengena Forest in the South Pare Mountains. This area is known for its endemic species, including the elusive South Pare White-eye. After birding here for half the day, we’ll return to Same for a delicious lunch before heading towards the magical Magamba Forest in the Usambara mountains. Overnight at the Mullers Mountains Lodge or Magamba Forest Camp, surrounded by the forest’s natural beauty.

FB Accomodation at Grewals campsite inside Magamba nature reserve. /Mullers Lodge

Day 5 - 6: Usambara Mountains & Magamba Forest Birding

Spend two full days birding in the enchanting Magamba Forest. This biodiverse forest is home to several endemic species of the Usambara range, including the Usambara Thrush and the striking Usambara Weaver. With only short breaks for lunch, you’ll be immersed in the tranquil beauty of the forest and its captivating birdlife. Your nights will be spent at the Magamba Forest Camp, where you’ll be lulled to sleep by the sounds of the forest.

FB Accomodation at Grewals campsite inside Magamba nature reserve. / Mullers lodge

Day 7: Amani Nature Reserve - East Usambara Mountains

After breakfast, we head to Amani Nature Reserve, a gem nestled in the East Usambara Mountains. You’ll stop in Muheza for lunch before arriving at your accommodation within the reserve. This afternoon, embark on your first birding session at Amani, where you can encounter rare species such as the Amani Sunbird and the Long-billed Wabbler. After dinner, enjoy a night birding excursion to search for the elusive Usambara Eagle Owl and other nocturnal creatures.

FB Accomodation at Amani nature campsite or TFS rest house.

Day 8 -9: Full Days at Amani Nature Reserve

Over the next two days, you’ll immerse yourself in the diverse birdlife of Amani Nature Reserve. This region is a haven for endemic and endangered species, including the East Usambara Hyliota and the striking Usambara Batis. With a break for lunch at the rest house, you’ll spend the afternoons chasing elusive lifers and soaking in the serene atmosphere of this untouched paradise. In the evenings, enjoy the calm of the reserve as you prepare for more birding adventures.

FB Accomodation at Amani nature campsite or TFS rest house.

Day 10: Coastal Birding at Ushongo Beach

On Day 10, you’ll make your way towards the coastal paradise of Ushongo, home to stunning beaches and incredible birdlife. After a stop for lunch at Ushongo Bunders Resort, spend the afternoon birding along the coast, where you can spot shorebirds and other coastal species. In the evening, enjoy dinner and a peaceful overnight stay at Ushongo Bunders Resort, where you can relax by the beach.

FB at Ushongo Bandas & Resort

Day 11: Coastal Relaxation & Birding

Today, enjoy a half-day of birding before taking the rest of the day to unwind at the beach. You can cool off with a swim or simply relax by the ocean. After a leisurely lunch, you’ll have time to reflect on your incredible birding experiences, and perhaps even spot some birds along the shoreline. In the evening, enjoy a lovely dinner at the resort, recounting your birding adventures.

FB at Ushongo Bandas Resort

Day 12: Return to Arusha

After breakfast, we’ll begin the journey back to Arusha, where you’ll have the chance to reflect on your incredible 12-day birding adventure. From the spectacular forests and mountains to the coastal plains, you’ll leave with memories of rare species, beautiful landscapes, and a deeper connection with nature.