30 Days Birding Tanzanian endemics

Day 1-2: Arusha

• Arrive in Arusha, the gateway to the Southern Highlands.
• Visit Arusha National Park to see various wildlife species, including giraffes, zebras, and colobus monkeys.
• Explore the Momela Lakes and enjoy picturesque views of Mount Meru.

Day 3-4: Tarangire National Park

• Head to Tarangire National Park, known for its large elephant populations.
• Witness the unique baobab trees and diverse birdlife.
• Look out for special bird species like Yellow-collared Lovebird, Ashy Starling, and Rufous-tailed Weaver.

Day 5-7: Ngorongoro Conservation Area

• Visit the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to a variety of wildlife, including the Big Five.
• Explore the highlands surrounding the crater, where you might spot species like Mountain Reedbuck and Malachite Sunbird.

Day 8-10: Udzungwa Mountains National Park

• Travel to the Udzungwa Mountains, a biodiversity hotspot with numerous endemic species.
• Hike through lush forests, discovering unique flora and fauna, such as the Udzungwa Partridge, Iringa Red Colobus, and Sanje Mangabey.

Day 11-12: Ruaha National Park

• Journey to Ruaha National Park, known for its rugged landscapes and diverse wildlife.
• Keep an eye out for the African Hunting Dog and Greater Kudu.
• Enjoy game drives and explore the Great Ruaha River, a prime wildlife viewing area.

Day 13-14: Mikumi National Park

• Travel to Mikumi National Park, which serves as a transition between the Southern Highlands and the coastal ecosystems.
• Encounter species like Lichtenstein’s Hartebeest and African Wild Dog.
• Enjoy a mix of game drives and leisure time, taking in the beauty of the region.

Throughout your journey, you’ll have the opportunity to see a wide variety of bird species, some of which are endemic to the Southern Highlands. Some notable endemic and specialty birds you might encounter include the Udzungwa Forest Partridge, Moreau’s Sunbird, Kipengere Seedeater, and the Njombe Cisticola.