6-Day Northern Tanzania Birding Safari

Arusha NP, Tarangire, Lake Manyara & Ngorongoro Crater

Classic Birding Expirence

Overview:

This 6-day birding safari is a symphony of feathers and wilderness, blending Tanzania’s iconic parks with hidden avian gems. From the misty montane forests of Arusha National Park to the golden grasslands of Tarangire and the soda Ngorongoro Crater, this journey is designed for birders who crave diversity—both in species and landscapes. With expert guides, small-group intimacy (max 6 guests), and strategic routing, you’ll tick off endemics, dry-country specials, and the Big Five, all while supporting eco-conscious travel.

Day To Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arusha National Park – Montane Forest Jewels

Begin your adventure in Arusha NP, where moss-draped forests and Momella Lakes teem with life. Trek under fig trees to spot the iridescent Hartlaub’s Turaco flashing its crimson wings, while Taveta Golden Weavers craft nests over tranquil waters. Listen for the melodic trill of the African Moustached Warbler and scan shadowy glades for the elusive Bar-tailed Trogon other species. As dusk falls, return to Arusha, your checklist already rich with montane endemics.

Day 2: Lark Plains – Quest for Beasley’s Lark

At dawn, drive to Lark Plains, a critical habitat for the critically endangered Beasley’s Lark—found nowhere else on Earth. Watch Fischer’s Sparrow-Larks perform aerial displays and spot Capped Wheatears perched on termite mounds. After a picnic under acacias, explore Maasai Bomas for Grey-capped Social Weavers and the striking Rosy-patched Bushshrike. Transfer to Tarangire, where elephants greet you at sunset.

Day 3: Tarangire NP

Spend a full day in Tarangire, where baobabs tower over elephant herds. Target Yellow-collared Lovebirds darting between palm trees and Rufous-tailed Weavers building bottle-shaped nests. Keep binoculars ready for raptors: Bateleurs soar overhead, while African Fish Eagles patrol the Tarangire River. In the afternoon, have a quick break for lunch before you continue birding.

Day 4: Lake Manyara – Avian Spectacle

Birding in Lake Manyara National Park is an unforgettable adventure, where over 400 bird species thrive in a stunning mix of landscapes—sparkling alkaline lakes, lush forests, and open savannahs. Spot iconic birds like the vibrant Grey-headed Kingfisher, the soaring Egyptian Vulture, and the majestic African Fish Eagle, or marvel at the unique Silvery-cheeked Hornbill. The park is a haven for unique birds and flocks painting the skies.

Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater – Birds

The Ngorongoro Crater is a UNESCO World Heritage Site teeming with wildlife. Spot African Water Rail and Golden-winged Sunbirds sipping nectar from lobelias. Watch Secretary Birds stalk through the savannah and Kori Bustards—Africa’s heaviest flying bird—strut near hippo pools. Return to your lodge, where a crackling fireplace and Swahili-inspired dishes await.

Day 6: Endoro Trail – Highland Treasures

Conclude your safari with a guided walk along the Endoro Trail in Ngorongoro’s highlands. An armed ranger leads you through misty forests where Hartlaub’s Turacos call eerily, and Tacazze and Variable Sunbirds, White-browed Robin-Chat, Hunter’s Cisticola, Olive Sunbird, Abyssinian Crimsonwing, Bar-tailed Trogon, and many more After a farewell lunch, return to Arusha, your camera brimming with feathered memories and the echoes of the wild.

Some Of Target Species

Arusha NP	Lark Plains	Tarangire	Ngorongoro
Taveta Golden Weaver	Beasley’s Lark (endemic)	Yellow-collared Lovebird	Golden-winged Sunbird
Hartlaub’s Turaco	Fischer’s Sparrow-Lark	Rufous-tailed Weaver	Secretary Bird
Bar-tailed Trogon	Rosy-patched Bushshrike	Ashy Starling	Kori Bustard
Broad-ringed White-Eye	Red-capped Lark	Silvery-cheeked Hornbill	Tacazze Sunbird

Safari Included

Park entry fees for national reserves (Serengeti, Ngorongoro, etc.).
Guided game drives with experienced drivers/guides.
Accommodation (lodges, tented camps, or safari tents).
Meals (often full-board: breakfast, lunch, dinner).
Transportation (4x4 safari vehicle between parks).

Safari Excluded

International flights and visas.
Travel insurance (medical/evacuation coverage).
Tips for guides, drivers, or camp staff.
Optional activities (hot-air balloon rides, cultural village visits).
Personal expenses (souvenirs, alcohol, laundry).

What Makes This Safari Uniquely “You”

450+ Species Possible: Target endemics like the Yellow-collared Lovebird and rarities like Beasley’s Lark.
Dual Focus: Birds and Big Five – lions, elephants, and leopards share the spotlight.
Exclusive Access: Private birding walks in Ngorongoro’s highlands (Endoro Trail).
Conservation-Driven: 5% of profits fund Lark Plains habitat conservation.