5-Day Northern Circuit Birding Tour
Perfect for birdwatchers of all levels, the 5-Day Northern Circuit Birding Tour covers some of Tanzania’s richest avian habitats—Arusha National Park, Lake Manyara, and Tarangire. From forest canopies to river valleys and alkaline lakes, this journey is guided by expert birding guides and tailored to maximize sightings of both common and rare species. It’s a compact yet rewarding safari for nature lovers with an eye for feathers.
Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
Destinations: Arusha National Park, Lake Manyara, Tarangire National Park
Safari Type: Bird Watching Safari
Starting Point: Arusha, Tanzania
Safari Highlights
Over 400 bird species across 3 parks
Forest, savannah, and wetland habitats
Expert birding guide with field books and scopes
Possible sightings: silvery-cheeked hornbill, crowned eagle, Fischer’s lovebird, pink-backed pelican, and more
Optional wildlife game drives and photography stops
Picnic lunches in birding zones
🗓️ Itinerary Overview
Day 1: Arusha National Park – Montane Forest Birding
Begin with a morning drive to Arusha National Park. Walk through the forest to spot Hartlaub’s turaco, Narina trogon, and crowned eagles. Canoe ride available at Momella Lakes for water birds.
Overnight in Arusha (Birding Lodge).
Day 2: Lake Manyara – Rift Valley Birding
Travel to Lake Manyara National Park. Explore groundwater forests and the lake edge—home to thousands of flamingos, pelicans, and storks. Afternoon birding by the hot springs.
Overnight in Karatu (Lodge near Manyara).
Day 3: Tarangire National Park – Birding Safari
Early drive to Tarangire, a birding paradise with woodlands and riverine zones. Spot yellow-collared lovebirds, red-and-yellow barbets, and martial eagles.
Overnight in Tarangire (Tented Lodge).
Day 4: Full-Day Tarangire Birding
Spend the day tracking species in different zones of the park. Focus on waterbirds, raptors, and endemic species. Optional stop at Silale Swamp.
Overnight in Tarangire.
Day 5: Return to Arusha – Final Spotting
After breakfast, enjoy one last birding walk or short drive before heading back to Arusha for drop-off.
End of tour.
✅ What’s Included
Private birding safari vehicle and expert bird guide
4 nights’ accommodation in birding lodges or tented camps
All meals during safari
Park entry fees and concession charges
Binoculars and birding books (on request)
Bottled water and snacks
❌ What’s Not Included
International flights and visa fees
Travel insurance
Tips for guide and lodge staff
Personal expenses (e.g., drinks, souvenirs)
Optional activities (e.g., canoeing, night walks)