Ruaha, in central-southern Tanzania, is where East and southern African birds meet, giving it one of the longest bird lists of any Tanzanian park. To the south, the Kitulo Plateau offers a completely different high-altitude grassland.
Ruaha National Park
More than 570 species are recorded. The Tanzanian red-billed hornbill is found only in Tanzania and is common here. Other highlights include ashy starling, yellow-collared lovebird, crested barbet, racket-tailed roller and many raptors, from bateleurs to martial eagles. The Great Ruaha River adds herons, storks, kingfishers and bee-eaters. Read our Ruaha guide.
Usangu wetlands
The Usangu wetlands, now part of Ruaha National Park, are a huge seasonal swamp that feeds the Great Ruaha River. In the wet season they attract waterbirds in large numbers. Access is limited, so arrange it in advance.
Kitulo Plateau
Kitulo National Park sits at about 2,600 metres in the Southern Highlands. Known as the “Serengeti of flowers” for its orchids, it is also a key site for grassland birds such as Denham’s bustard, mountain marsh widowbird and the Kipengere seedeater. In the southern summer it hosts the endangered blue swallow.
When to go
| Area | Best time |
|---|---|
| Ruaha | November–April for migrants; June–October for easier game viewing |
| Kitulo | December–April for flowers and breeding birds |
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 the Ruaha fly-in safari. Start with our beginner’s guide to the birds of Tanzania.
Frequently asked questions
The Tanzanian red-billed hornbill is found only in Tanzania and is common in Ruaha.
More than 570 species have been recorded.
Orchids and wildflowers, and rare grassland birds such as Denham’s bustard and the blue swallow.
