Over 1,100 species, and several found nowhere else
Tanzania has recorded over 1,100 bird species, including around 30 endemics, and habitats ranging from soda lake to montane forest to coastal woodland. A birding itinerary looks quite different from a standard safari route, and the green season that everybody else avoids is the season that matters here.
A serious birding trip usually strings together habitats rather than famous parks. The northern circuit gives you soda lake, acacia woodland and open plain. Adding the Usambara or Udzungwa mountains brings in the Eastern Arc forest endemics, which is the reason most dedicated birders come to Tanzania at all. The coast and Zanzibar add a further set of species again.
Lake Natron, north of Ngorongoro, is the principal breeding site for lesser flamingo in East Africa and is a destination in itself, though the drive is rough and the heat is serious.
Seasons shift year to year. Treat these as a guide and confirm with your operator.
Palearctic and intra African migrants present, resident species in breeding plumage.
Fewer species but easier conditions and better light.
Seven to ten days to cover more than one habitat type.
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