Tanzania’s coast is overlooked by most birders, but it holds species you will not see on safari: coastal forest birds, mangrove specialists and shorebirds that migrate from the Arctic.
Dar es Salaam
The Pugu Hills and Kazimzumbwi forest reserves, less than an hour from the city, protect remnants of coastal forest. Look for east coast akalat, green barbet, southern banded snake eagle and various sunbirds and greenbuls. On the city shore, mudflats at low tide attract waders, gulls and terns.
Bagamoyo
The historic town north of Dar has mangroves, the Ruvu River estuary and wide mudflats. Waders such as whimbrel, greater sand plover and terek sandpiper feed here, alongside herons, kingfishers and, at times, crab plovers. Combine a morning’s birding with the town’s history.
Zanzibar
- Jozani Forest: Fischer’s turaco, sunbirds, crowned hornbill and other coastal forest species. Read about Jozani Forest.
- Shores and sandbanks: crab plovers, terns and waders, especially on the east coast at low tide.
- Mangroves: mangrove kingfisher in the cooler months.
When to go
Palearctic migrant waders are present from about September to April. Forest birding is best in the early morning before the heat.
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.
Add a birding morning to a beach stay on Zanzibar. Start with our beginner’s guide to the birds of Tanzania.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, especially in Jozani Forest and on shores and sandbanks with waders and crab plovers.
The Pugu Hills and Kazimzumbwi forest reserves, and coastal mudflats at low tide.
From about September, staying until around April.
