Tanzania has recorded approximately 1,130 bird species, the third-longest national bird list covered by the African Bird Club region, reflecting habitats ranging from the Eastern Arc Mountains’ ancient cloud forest to the open plains of the Serengeti, Rift Valley lakes and the Indian Ocean coast and islands.
Key facts
- Approximately 1,130 recorded species — the third-longest list in the African Bird Club region
- The Eastern Arc Mountains (Udzungwa, Usambara, Uluguru, Pare, Rubeho) hold numerous endemic and near-endemic species found nowhere else
- Endemics include the Udzungwa Forest Partridge, Grey-breasted Spurfowl and Pemba Green Pigeon (found only on Pemba Island, Zanzibar)
- Lake Manyara National Park is renowned for waterbirds and flamingos
Top birding sites
Eastern Arc Mountains — Tanzania’s premier endemic birding region, led by Udzungwa National Park, home to the Udzungwa Forest Partridge and a long list of forest specialists found in no other country. Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Conservation Area — classic savanna birding alongside the wildlife, including the range-restricted Fischer’s Lovebird. Lake Manyara National Park — a renowned waterbird site, with flamingos, the endemic Ashy Starling and Usambiro Barbet. Pemba Island — the only place in the world to see the Pemba Green Pigeon and several other island endemics.
Star species
The Udzungwa Forest Partridge and Grey-breasted Spurfowl are among Africa’s most sought-after endemics, alongside Fischer’s Lovebird on the northern plains, the Ashy Starling and Usambiro Barbet at Lake Manyara, and the Pemba Green Pigeon on the Zanzibar archipelago.
When to go
Birding is rewarding year-round; November to April brings Palearctic migrants to the northern parks and coincides with the Serengeti’s green season, while the Eastern Arc endemics are resident and can be sought at any time of year.
Plan your Tanzania birding safari
Birding can be combined with a northern circuit wildlife safari or a dedicated Eastern Arc Mountains and Zanzibar itinerary. Visit Plan My African Safari, message us on WhatsApp at +256 701 243 304, or email [email protected], or see our wider Birding Safaris page for bookable itineraries.