6-Day Northern Tanzania Birding: Safari Package for all Budgets

This is a carefully curated, unforgettable 6-day birding journey through Northern Tanzania, where breathtaking landscapes, incredible wildlife, and exceptional birdwatching opportunities await. This safari takes you through iconic parks such as Arusha National Park, Lake Manyara, and the Ngorongoro Crater, blending thrilling game drives with serene birdwatching experiences. Perfect for nature enthusiasts and bird lovers alike, this tour offers an ideal balance of adventure and relaxation.

• Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Arusha National Park
• Day 2: Birding and Canoeing at Lake Duluti, Transfer to Mto wa Mbu
• Day 3: A Day in Lake Manyara National Park
• Day 4: Walking Safari in the Ngorongoro Highlands
• Day 5: Game Drive in the Ngorongoro Crater and Return to Arusha
• Day 6: Departure

Detailed Itinerary: 6-Day Northern Tanzania Birding

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Arusha National Park

During this 6-day Northern Tanzania Birding Tour, your first-day adventure begins as you arrive in Arusha, where you’ll meet your expert guide and transfer to your lodge. After settling in, we set off for an afternoon game drive in Arusha National Park, renowned for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. The Momella Lakes are a haven for flamingos and other waterbirds, while the forested areas may reveal the elusive Narina Trogon. Enjoy spectacular views of Mount Meru and the park’s gentle giraffes.

• Key Highlights: Afternoon game drive, birding at Momella Lakes, Mount Meru vistas.
• Main Destination: Arusha National Park.
• Accommodation: Arusha Planet Lodge (Mid-range lodge in Arusha).
• Meal Plan: All meals included (drinks excluded).

Day 2: Birding and Canoeing at Lake Duluti, Transfer to Mto wa Mbu

Begin the day with a visit to the tranquil Lake Duluti, a crater lake surrounded by lush forest. Glide across its calm waters on a peaceful canoe ride, spotting birds like African fish eagles, kingfishers, and herons. A guided nature walk around the lake will introduce you to the rich flora and fauna of the area. In the afternoon, transfer to the vibrant town of Mto wa Mbu, nestled near Lake Manyara National Park.

• Key Highlights: Canoeing at Lake Duluti, guided nature walk, transfer to Mto wa Mbu.
• Main Destination: Lake Duluti.
• Accommodation: Manyara Safari Lodge (Mid-range lodge on the escarpment above Lake Manyara).
• Meal Plan: All meals included (drinks excluded).

Day 3: A Day in Lake Manyara National Park

After breakfast, head to Lake Manyara National Park, a sanctuary for diverse wildlife and bird species. Known as a birdwatcher’s paradise, the park boasts over 400 recorded species, including flamingos, pelicans, and vibrant bee-eaters. Keep an eye out for elephants, giraffes, and the park’s famous tree-climbing lions during your morning game drive. Pause for a picnic lunch by the lake before resuming your exploration.

• Key Highlights: Game drive, birdwatching, sightings of tree-climbing lions.
• Main Destination: Lake Manyara National Park.
• Accommodation: Country Lodge Karatu (Mid-range lodge near Lake Manyara).
• Meal Plan: All meals included (drinks excluded).

Day 4: Walking Safari in the Ngorongoro Highlands

Travel to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area for a unique walking safari along the crater rim. Led by an experienced guide, this immersive experience offers panoramic views of the crater below and opportunities to spot highland birds such as the cinnamon-chested bee-eater and augur buzzard. Learn about the unique ecosystem and its inhabitants before retreating to your lodge for an evening of relaxation.

• Key Highlights: Walking safari along the crater rim, birding in the highlands, breathtaking views.
• Main Destination: Ngorongoro Highlands.
• Accommodation: Rhino Lodge (Mid-range lodge on the crater rim).
• Meal Plan: All meals included (drinks excluded).

Day 5: Game Drive in the Ngorongoro Crater and Return to Arusha

Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for an unforgettable morning game drive. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is teeming with wildlife, including black rhinos, lions, and zebras. The crater’s lakes and marshes are also home to bird species like the kori bustard and flamingos at Lake Magadi. After lunch, begin your journey back to Arusha, where you’ll spend your final evening.

• Key Highlights: Morning game drive in Ngorongoro Crater, sightings of lions, rhinos, and kori bustards.
• Main Destination: Ngorongoro Crater.
• Accommodation: Arusha Planet Lodge (Mid-range lodge in Arusha).
• Meal Plan: All meals included (drinks excluded).

Day 6: Departure

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before transferring to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure to mark the end of the 6-day Northern Tanzania Birding Safari. If time allows, you may opt to explore Arusha town or shop for souvenirs. This marks the end of your memorable Tanzanian safari.

• Key Highlights: Transfer to the airport; optional Arusha town visit.
• Main Destination: None (departure day).
• Accommodation: None (end of tour).
• Meal Plan: Breakfast and lunch included (dinner excluded).

Bird Species Highlights

• Arusha National Park: Narina Trogon, Flamingos.
• Lake Duluti: African fish eagle, kingfishers, herons.
• Lake Manyara National Park: Flamingos, pelicans, bee-eaters, hornbills.
• Ngorongoro Highlands: cinnamon-chested bee-eater, augur buzzard.
• Ngorongoro Crater: Kori bustard, flamingos.