A bird watching safari in Africa shows you East Africa from a new angle: the flash of a lilac-breasted roller, a pink cloud of flamingos on a soda lake, a fish eagle calling over the water. Both countries are home to well over 1,000 bird species, from forest specialists to savannah giants, so every game drive and every lodge garden becomes a chance to find something new. Grand World Tours operates in Tanzania, Kenya and Zanzibar, and this guide explains where to go, the best time to travel, what to expect and 10 stunning birds to see.
In this guide
What Is a Bird Watching Safari in Tanzania and Kenya?
A bird watching safari is a wildlife journey planned around birds. You still enjoy game drives and comfortable lodges, but your guide slows down, stops for a distant call and helps you find species that most visitors drive past. Time is spent at lakes, wetlands, forests and open plains, where different habitats bring different birds.
A bird watching safari in Tanzania and Kenya suits keen birders, beginners, photographers and families. You do not need to be an expert. Your guide identifies the birds, and a good pair of binoculars is all you need to get started.
Where to Go for a Bird Watching Safari in Tanzania and Kenya
Tanzania
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Kenya
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Species and sites vary with the season, so we confirm the best places for your dates before we plan your itinerary.
Best Time for a Bird Watching Safari in Tanzania and Kenya
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Early morning is the best time of day, when birds are most active and the light is soft. Tell us which species you hope to see, and we will match your dates to the best season.
What to Expect on Your Bird Watching Safari in Tanzania and Kenya
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Top 10 Stunning Birds to See on a Bird Watching Safari in Tanzania and Kenya
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Sightings are never guaranteed, because birds move with the seasons and the weather. Part of the joy is the search.
Good to Know Before Your Bird Watching Safari in Tanzania and Kenya
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Why Pick Grand World Tours for Your Bird Watching Safari?
Grand World Tours is a Tanzania-based company operating in Tanzania, Kenya and Zanzibar, with trusted partners in Uganda, Namibia and South Africa. Our founder began as a professional safari guide, so we plan every bird watching safari in Tanzania and Kenya around real experience in the field.
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For official information, visit Tanzania National Parks and the Kenya Wildlife Service. To learn about bird conservation, see BirdLife International.
Frequently Asked Questions About a Bird Watching Safari in Tanzania and Kenya
What is a bird watching safari?+
A bird watching safari is a wildlife trip planned around birds, with time at lakes, forests and plains, and a guide who helps you find and identify species.
How many bird species can we see?+
Both countries have well over 1,000 species. On a typical safari, many guests see 100 to 200 species, depending on the season, the route and the time spent birding.
What is the best time for a bird watching safari in Tanzania and Kenya?+
November to April is excellent, with migrants present and many birds in breeding colour. June to October is also good for easy viewing and big game.
Do we need to be experienced birders?+
No. Beginners are very welcome, and your guide will identify the birds and help you learn as you go.
Will we see flamingos?+
Often, but not always. Flamingo numbers change with water levels and the season, so we cannot promise them, but the lakes are beautiful in any case.
What should we bring?+
Binoculars, a field guide, a camera with a telephoto lens, a hat, sunscreen and neutral-coloured clothing. We can advise on the rest.
Can we combine birding with big game?+
Yes. Most of our guests do. A bird watching safari in Tanzania and Kenya works well alongside game drives, and can be added to family, photographic and honeymoon journeys.
How many days do we need?+
We suggest 7 to 10 days to cover several habitats in Tanzania and Kenya at a relaxed pace. Shorter trips can focus on one region.
Plan Your Bird Watching Safari in Tanzania and Kenya
Ready to start your bird watching safari in Tanzania and Kenya? Tell us your dates, your favourite birds and who is travelling, and we will design a journey full of colour and song.
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