Bird Watching in East Africa, Kenya and Tanzania, provides you with the fastest way to observe a large number of bird species in just a few days. The whole trip is full of surprises and guarantees you an unforgettable experience. If you are lovers of birds, nature, adventures, you like photography or just want to have a good holiday, this place is for you.
Things to do
Bird watching in Kenya
Most tours leave from Nairobi. The first stop is Mount Kenya where you can observe local birds and other animals such as monkeys, antelopes and other mammals. The tour continues through the mountains, where mountain birds are present all day, in addition to pigs, squirrels, mongoose, etc.
Samburu National Reserve
Begin to appear in the savannah, the route takes you to the wooded banks of the Ewaso ng’iro river. Along the way you will encounter countless African birds on your list: crowned plover, crested francolin, red-crested bustard and black belly, palm nut vulture, bateleur, griffon eagle, African mourning dove, Namaqua dove, bird of white head, Fischer starling, tax taita, eastern bird of eastern violet loin and lilac-chest roller. Their names refer to their bright colors and varieties.
Tanzania
Tanzania offers some of the fastest bird watching opportunities in the world. In the famous reserves in northern Tanzania, Tarangire, Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro, for a birdwatcher with binoculars, it’s like being a child in a candy store. With more than 1,000 species of birds and different habitats together, it is possible to see 100 species in one day. Wherever you travel you may need something new for your list, among regional birds.
The imposing and incredible landscape, such as the open plains are home to terrestrial calas, secretory birds, ostriches and different types of egrets, bustards, eagles and vultures. On the other hand, near the water you will find impressive flamingos, hammer, kingfisher, cranes, African ospreys and jacans. Although birds are the main attraction, wildlife observation, including elephants, lions and water buffalo, is also excellent.
How to get there
Most tours depart from Nairobi. In Nairobi, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) is the best airport to go to.
When to go
The birding is good all year-round. However, think about going during the fall, when birds are migrating. Visit Ngulia in Kenya’s Tsavo West National Park, where the birds literally drop from the sky as they seek a place to rest before continuing their journey south.
How long do I go for
Birding safaris can last from a week to a month or more.
Opening and Closing Hours
The tours start from early in the morning, to have the whole day admiring the birds. Some species can also be observed during sunset and at night.
Planning
Don’t forget to start your birding as soon as you step off the plane in Nairobi Tuu inay be able to check pied crow, black kite, and African pied wagtail off your list before you even leave the parking lot. Because some tours are so extensive, it is advisable to book in advance and prepare everything that will take.
Inside Information
You must bring a good pair of binoculars and a guide to the birds of East Africa. Ask your doctor about antimalarial medication. Remember the sunscreen and the insecticide, in addition to comfortable and warm clothes for the nights.
History
There is no doubt that Africa is the favorite places to go on safaris and admire the most amazing animals. In particular, Kenya is an impressive ecotourism industry specializing in bird watching. The tours have always been very complete, guaranteeing you to see at least 500 species of birds without any effort. Without a doubt, this place is a paradise for adventurers and bird admirers. In addition, the rain forest, savannas and landscapes make a difference in this country.
Websites
Other Nearby Attractions
Nairobi National Park
Located just 20 minutes from the center of Nairobi, the National Park is a perfect option to be with family, stroll from the morning and enjoy the landscape of the different types of wild animals to admire. In addition, you can admire animals such as the hippo, hyenas, giraffes, buffalo, black rhino, lions, giraffes and more than 400 species of registered birds. On the other hand, you can take your food to make picnics.
Tanganyika Lake
This is the longest lake in the world, in addition to the second deepest. 46% of this lake is in Tanzania, the rest is divided into 3 other countries. You can take a boat tour, choose between knowing Ujiji or visiting the Gombe Stream National Park and going out to meet the chimpanzee communities that Jane Goodall studied for more than 50 years.
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