Southern Tanzania is less visited than the north, and its birding is excellent. Nyerere’s rivers and lakes, Mikumi’s floodplain and the forests of the Udzungwa Mountains give a wide range of species in one trip.
Nyerere National Park (Selous)
More than 440 species are recorded. Boat safaris on the Rufiji River and its lakes are the highlight: African fish eagles, African skimmers, white-fronted and carmine bee-eaters, palm-nut vultures, goliath herons, open-billed storks and several kingfishers. Böhm’s bee-eater and racket-tailed roller are found in the miombo woodland. Read our Nyerere guide.
Mikumi National Park
About 400 species. The open Mkata floodplain has ground hornbills, bustards, lilac-breasted rollers and yellow-throated longclaws, while the surrounding miombo holds woodland species. Mikumi is a few hours’ drive from Dar es Salaam.
Udzungwa Mountains
The Udzungwa forests are among the most important in Africa for birds. Specials include the Udzungwa forest partridge, discovered by science only in 1991, the rufous-winged sunbird and the Iringa akalat. Trails are steep, and the rarest species need patience and a specialist guide.
When to go
June to October is best for boat and game drives, with birds gathering at water. November to March brings migrants and breeding colours, but some southern camps close in April and May.
Birding tips
- Go out at dawn, when birds are most active.
- Bring 8×42 or 10×42 binoculars and an East Africa field guide or app.
- Ask for a guide with birding experience, and allow time to stop for small birds.
See Nyerere and Ruaha. Start with our beginner’s guide to the birds of Tanzania.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. More than 440 species are recorded, and boat safaris are excellent for river birds.
A rare forest bird found only in the Udzungwa Mountains, first described by science in 1991.
About four to five hours by road.
