Tanzania Safaris
Birding in Tanzania
Tanzania is a premier birding destination, and home to over 1,150 bird species, including numerous endemics, migratory birds, and rare species found across its diverse landscapes, making birding in Tanzania a must for bird enthusiasts.
Birding Habitats in Tanzania
Ranging from savannas in the Serengeti and Tarangire, home to raptors and grassland species, to wetlands and lakes like Manyara and Victoria, where large flocks of flamingos and water birds thrive. The Eastern Arc Mountains and Udzungwa forests shelter rare montane species, while the coastal and island habitats of Zanzibar and Pemba host seabirds and endemics like the Pemba Green Pigeon. The Rufiji River and Selous Game Reserve provide excellent wetland birding, including the elusive Pel’s Fishing Owl.
Best birding seasons in Tanzania
Tanzania offers excellent birding year-round, but the best seasons depend on whether you’re targeting migratory birds or resident species.
November–April (Peak Birding Season & Migratory Birds)
This is the peak birding season when migratory birds from Europe and North Africa arrive, and many resident species are in breeding plumage, making identification easier. This period is also ideal for wetland birding, with large flocks of flamingos, pelicans, and waders in lakes like Manyara and Natron
June–October (Dry Season)
The dry season is perfect for spotting resident species, especially in savannas like the Serengeti and Tarangire, where birds are more concentrated around water sources.
Popular Birding Safaris in Tanzania
Top Birding Destinations in Tanzania
Tanzania has the highest number of Important Bird Areas, over 80 IBAs. Our carefully organized destinations in Tanzania take you to these (IBAs) and numerous national parks ideal for birdwatching and provide a unique habitat for rare and sought-after birds, making the must-visit locations for serious birders including:
Serengeti National Park
With over 500 species, it is best for savanna species and raptors like the Kori Bustard and Secretary Bird.
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Home to Lesser Flamingos & Jackson’s Widowbird.
Lake Manyara National Park
A wetland hotspot with flamingos, pelicans, & raptors.
Tarangire National Park
It has over 550 birds; it’s great for Tanzanian endemics like Yellow-collared Lovebirds.
Udzungwa Mountains
A montane paradise for Udzungwa Forest Partridge.
Ruaha National Park
It boasts the highest species record at 570 and is home to dryland species like the Barred Go-Away bird.
Pemba & Zanzibar Islands
Coastal birding with Pemba Green Pigeon & Mangrove Kingfisher.
Amani Nature Reserve
Biodiversity hotspot for Usambara Eagle-Owl.
Lake Natron
Vital flamingo breeding ground with thousands at a time.
Birding Safari in Tanzania
Marspec Birding and Wildlife Safaris utilizes its birding expertise to develop and implement birding in Tanzania safaris. These tours are well thought through and customized to clients’ interests and satisfaction. We ensure all aspects are checked and aligned for the best birding experience in Tanzania.
Tanzania Birding Infrastructure
Tanzania has a well-developed birding infrastructure, making it one of the best birdwatching destinations in Africa. The country offers:
- specialized birding lodges
- professional guides
- accessible birding trails in national parks, reserves, and wetlands
Our birding safaris optimize the use of the infrastructure to ensure a beyond-expectation-satisfying experience.
Birding Adventures
Marspec Birding and Wildlife Safaris utilizes its birding expertise to develop and implement birding in Kenya safaris, which are well thought through and customized to clients’ interests and satisfaction. We ensure all aspects are checked and aligned for the best birding experience in Kenya.
Bird Conservation in Tanzania
Deforestation, climate change, and habitat destruction pose risks to birdlife. Conservation groups like the Wildlife Conservation Society of Tanzania (WCST) and Nature Tanzania continue to play a crucial role in protecting Tanzania’s birds. Several small organizations and community-based groups play a crucial role in bird conservation across Tanzania. These organizations focus on habitat protection, research, awareness, and community involvement to safeguard bird species, including endangered and endemic birds. Supporting small conservation organizations in Tanzania can be done in various ways, including financial donations, volunteering, spreading awareness, and eco-tourism. Our birding in Tanzania and wildlife safaris present our clients with opportunities to contribute to conservation efforts – grab it and save a bird!
