Tanzania is one of the best birdwatching countries in Africa, with more than 1,000 species recorded. You do not need to be a birder to enjoy them. On a normal safari you will see ostriches, eagles, colourful rollers and flocks of flamingos. This guide covers the birds you are likely to see and where to find the best birding.
Birds you will probably see on safari
| Bird | Where | Look for |
|---|---|---|
| Lilac-breasted roller | Most parks | Bright lilac, blue and green; perched on branches |
| Superb starling | Lodges, parks | Glossy blue-green with an orange belly |
| Ostrich | Serengeti, Ngorongoro | Largest bird on Earth |
| Secretary bird | Serengeti plains | Long legs, crest of quills; hunts snakes |
| Kori bustard | Serengeti, Tarangire | One of the heaviest flying birds |
| Grey crowned crane | Ngorongoro, wetlands | Golden crest, elegant dance |
| Helmeted guineafowl | Everywhere | Spotted, often running across roads |
| Hornbills | Woodland | Large curved bills |
| Vultures | Near kills | Circling overhead |
| Fish eagle | Rivers and lakes | White head, loud call |
| Flamingos | Soda lakes | Pink flocks on the shore |
Special birds of Tanzania
- Fischer’s lovebird: small, colourful parrot of northern Tanzania.
- Yellow-collared lovebird: seen in Tarangire.
- Rufous-tailed weaver: endemic to northern Tanzania.
- Grey-breasted spurfowl: endemic to the Serengeti area.
- Ashy starling: common in Tarangire, found mainly in Tanzania.
- Usambara and Udzungwa forest birds: several endemics in the Eastern Arc mountains.
Best birding parks
| Park | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Tarangire | More than 500 species; lovebirds, hornbills, starlings |
| Lake Manyara | Flamingos, pelicans, storks, forest birds |
| Serengeti | Raptors, bustards, secretary birds |
| Ngorongoro Crater | Crowned cranes, flamingos, raptors |
| Lake Natron | Lesser flamingo breeding |
| Nyerere | Water birds, bee-eaters, skimmers |
| Arusha National Park | Forest birds, turacos, flamingos |
Best time for birds
November to April is the peak season. Migrant birds arrive from Europe and Asia, and many residents breed in their brightest colours. The dry season from June to October is still excellent, especially near water. Read our guide to the best time for a safari in Tanzania.
Tips for beginners
- Bring binoculars. 8×42 or 10×42 are good all-rounders.
- Use an app or field guide for East African birds.
- Ask your guide. Many guides are excellent birders.
- Go early. Birds are most active at dawn.
- Start with the big and colourful, then work down to smaller birds.
- Keep a list. Many guests count 100 species or more on a week-long safari.
Photographing birds
A long lens helps, and a bean bag on the vehicle window keeps it steady. Fast shutter speeds are needed for birds in flight. Read our wildlife photography tips.
Plan a birding safari
The Northern Loop visits Tarangire, Lake Manyara, the Serengeti and the crater. For water birds, Nyerere & Ruaha includes boat safaris. Read about Lake Natron for flamingos and the Ugly Five for vultures and marabou storks.
Frequently asked questions
More than 1,000 species have been recorded, including a number found nowhere else.
November to April, when migrant birds from Europe and Asia arrive and many resident birds breed in bright plumage.
Common sightings include the lilac-breasted roller, superb starling, ostrich, guineafowl, hornbills and several species of vulture and eagle.
