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

You begin your adventure in Arusha National Park, where moss-draped forests and Momella Lakes teem with life. You 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, you return to Arusha, your checklist already rich with montane endemics.

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

At dawn, you drive to Lark Plains, a critical habitat for the critically endangered Beesley’s lark—found nowhere else on Earth. You watch Fischer’s sparrow-larks perform aerial displays and spot Capped wheatears perched on termite mounds. After a picnic under acacias, you explore Maasai Bomas for Grey-capped social weavers and the striking Rosy-patched bushshrike. You then transfer to Tarangire, where elephants greet you at sunset.

Day 3: Tarangire NP

You spend a full day in Tarangire, where baobabs tower over elephant herds. Target Yellow-collared lovebirds dart between palm trees and Rufous-tailed weavers build bottle-shaped nests. Keep your binoculars ready for raptors: Bateleurs soar overhead, while African fish eagles patrol the Tarangire River. In the afternoon, you 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. You 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. This park is a haven for unique birds and flocks that paint the skies.

Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater – Birds

The Ngorongoro Crater is a UNESCO World Heritage Site teeming with wildlife. You spot African water rails and Golden-winged sunbirds sipping nectar from lobelias. You watch Secretary birds stalk through the savannah and Kori bustards—Africa’s heaviest flying bird—strut near hippo pools. You return to your lodge, where a crackling fireplace and Swahili-inspired dishes await.

Day 6: Endoro Trail – Highland Treasures

You conclude your safari with a guided walk along the Endoro Trail in Ngorongoro’s highlands. An armed ranger leads you through misty forests where you will hear Hartlaub’s turacos call eerily, and see 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, you return to Arusha, your camera brimming with feathered memories and echoes of the wild.

Some Of Target Species

Arusha NPLark PlainsTarangireNgorongoro
Taveta Golden WeaverBeasley’s Lark (endemic)Yellow-collared LovebirdGolden-winged Sunbird
Hartlaub’s TuracoFischer’s Sparrow-LarkRufous-tailed WeaverSecretary Bird
Bar-tailed TrogonRosy-patched BushshrikeAshy StarlingKori Bustard
Broad-ringed White-EyeRed-capped LarkSilvery-cheeked HornbillTacazze Sunbird

Safari Included

Safari Excluded

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.

View More Birding Itineraries