16 Days Birding Tours and Wildlife Uganda

UGANDA BIRDING AND BIG GAME ANY TIME DEPARTURE TOUR:
This special Tour is fully guided by our Top local bird guide.

Day 1:Arrive Entebbe International Airport, meet and transfer to Hotel ( Bed & Breakfast only ) Over night at the Entebbe Travelers Inn .ACCOMMODATION INFO AT : http://www.entebbetravellersinn.com

Day 2: The Morning will be spent at leisure, recovering from Jet lag and trying to catch up with the local time and weather. The option would be after breakfast visiting the neighboring Entebbe botanical Gardens for Birding or Morning at leisure and afternoon visiting the Botanical gardens.
The gardens house a collection of species of plants of the tropical, sub-tropical and temperate zones, besides several shrubs and other plants regenerated naturally over the years. The collection as of 1998 numbered 309 species, 199 indigenous to Uganda, 122 with known medicinal value and 110 exotic. The gardens are a popular attraction for visitors of which some 40,000 per year are passing through the gates since the rehabilitation in 1998.

We will be birding the trails in the woodlands. Our first birds could include Palm-nut Vulture, Great Blue Turaco, Eastern Gray Plantain-eater, African Pied Hornbill, Splendid Glossy Starling and Orange Weaver.others may include the brown throated weaver¸ golden backed weaver, yellow backed weaver, grey headed gull,long-tailed cormorant, common squacco heron,yellow billedduck, pied kingfisher, giant kingfisher, swamp fly catcher, broad billed roller,black and white casqued hornbill, splendid glossy starling, black headed gonolek,, red chested sunbird, Ross’sturaco, pied hornbill, crowned hornbill, openbilled stork, great reed warbler, sedge warbler,and grey caped warbler . ACCOMMODATION INFO : http://www.entebbetravellersinn.com

Day 3: Today we will drive in the very earliest hours of the morning to the Shoebill wentland.This large wetland is the nearest accessible bird watching site on the shores of Lake Victoria. This is the home of the Shoebill stork. Other special birds on this trail include the African and Lesser Jacana , Blue-breasted Bee-eater, Papyrus Gonolek, White-winged Warbler, other birds in the area include the Pink-backed
Pelican, Long-tailed Cormorant, Goliath Heron, African Fish-Eagle, African Marsh-Harrier, Yellow-billed Duck, African Water Rail, Allen’s Gallinule, Malachite Kingfisher along with slightly more local species such as the Long-toed Plover, Blue-breasted Bee-eater, Blue-headed Coucal, Papyrus Gonolek, Papyrus Canary, Swamp
Flycatcher, White-winged Warbler.African Openbilled Stork, Grey Kestrel, Eastern Grey Plantain-Eater, African Green Pigeon, Black-and-white Shrike flycatcher may be the rare Weyn’s Weaver may be seen on the canoe. After the shoebill excitement,we will drive to back to Kampala and on to Mabira Forest arriving in the late afternoon. The accommodation at Mabira is basic with shared facilities in the heart of the forest. Night at Mabira Eco Basic Bandas

Day 4: To day we will spend the entire day birding in Mabira Forest,birds here include:, Yellow-throated and Speckled Tinkerbirds, Toro Olive Greenbul, Green-tailed Bristlebill, Fire-crested Alethe , Forest Robin, Blue-shouldered and Snowy-crowned Robin Chat, Nahan’s Francolin, Yellow billed Barbet, Jameson’s Wattle-eye, Tit Hylia, Superb Sunbird, White-shouldered Tit, Magpie Manikin, Green Crombec, Hairy-breasted Barbet, Black-throated Apalis, Black-and-white Shrike-Flycatcher, African Paradise Flycatcher, Blue-throated Brown Sunbird, Sabine’s Spinetail, Dusky Long-tailed Cuckoo, Velvet-mantled Drongo, Blue-throated Roller and Purple-throated Cuckoo-shrike. Mammals include Red-tailed and Black-and-white Colobus Monkeys, Bush Duiker and Western Tree Hyrax as well the grey chicked Mangabey. After the forest birding we will drive back to kampala at the Kolping House guest house. Kampala Kolping House is a modern guesthouse providing comfortable accomodation in a tranquil environment on the outskirts of Kampala. Our restaurant and offers buffet and a la carte meals as per your preference. We also have a well stocked bar for patrons to relax and enjoy moments. Professional staff providing quality service ensures that your visit and stay at Kampala Kolping House is always a memorable

Day 5: After breakfast at the Kolping Guest House, we will drive West words to Lake Mburo National Park. On the way in the country side we will pass by Ugandas Long Horned Ankole cattle near Lake Mburo National Park. On the way we will stop for species such as the Crested and Coqui francolins; Emerald-spotted Wood-Dove; Red-chested, Levaillant’s, Klaas’ and Dideric cuckoos; Blue-naped and Speckled mousebirds; Lilac-breasted Roller; Striped Kingfisher;Green Woodhoopoe; Common Scimitar-bill; Spot-flanked Barbet; Nubian and Bearded woodpeckers,others include the , Lesser Striped, Rufous-chested, Mosque, Red-rumped and White-headed Sawwing; Black Cuckoo-shrike; Red-backed Scrub-Robin; Rattling and Trilling ,Yellowthroated Longclaw; Chinspot Batis; Yellow-billed Oxpecker; African Penduline-Tit; Arrow-marked Babbler;Brubru; Wattled Starling; Greater Blue-eared Glossy-Starling; the African Darter, Water Thicknee,Hammerkop, African Water Rail, Spurwinged
Lapwing, Giant, Pied and Malachite Kingfishers. The park also hosts an array of mammals to include the buffalo, hippopotamus, warthog, Defassa waterbuck, bushbuck, and common duiker. The night will be at the basic Rwonyo Park Bandas.

Day 6: This morning we will drive out explorating the park by car for species such as Francolin, Red-necked Spur fowl,Black-bellied Bustard, African Wattled
Lapwing, Rufous-Naped Lark, Rufouschested Swallow, Yellow-throated Longclaw and Southern Red Bishop. In the afternoon we will go on a water safari by Boat exporing the shore of Lake Mburo. After the Boat cruise,we will return and drive out of the park,birding 7 Big game viewing on the way and on to Mabarara town for dinner and over night at the AGIP Motel Mbarara. Agip Motel, with its excellent location, diverse facilities, quality service and professionalism is the number one stop for anyone going through or stopping in Mbarara. Its friendly and fast service provided by a highly trained staff and its well kept and pleasant rooms make Agip the preferred place for international travellers, holiday makers, local business men, women and families. Agip will leave an imprint in your memory as wonderful place.

Day 7: Out of Mbarara town,driving further West words past the several swampy habitats on the way for birding breaks as we go and on into the higher elevation of Bwindi Impenetrable park and at Ruhija. Ruhiija is the Uganda birding spot that has caused Bwindi to be ranked the best birding spot in Africa by members of African Bird Club.
Roadside birding to Ruhiija provides a good chance of encountering Black Bee-eater, Augur Buzzard, Handsome Francolin, Red-throated Wryneck, Archer’s Robin Chat, Collared Apalis, Bronze Sunbird, Scarce Swift, Black Saw-wing, Cassin’s Grey and White-eyed Slaty Flycatchers, Brown-crowned Tchagra, Toro Olive Greenbul, Black-faced Rufous Warbler, Red-faced Woodland Warbler, Doherty’s, Many-coloured Bush-Shrikes, Ruwenzori Batis, Stripe-breasted Tit, Yellow Bishop, Collared Apalis, Purple-breasted Sunbird, Stripe-breasted Tit, White-naped Raven, Strange and Baglafecht Weaver, Dusky Crimson-Wing, Yellow Bishop, Yellow-bellied Waxbill, Black-and-White Mannikin, the rare Dusky Twinspot, and Streaky Seedeater, Grauer’s Rush Warbler, Lagden’s Bush-Shrike, Dusky and Shelley’s Crimsonwings. Other high elevation species occurring here are Olive Pigeon, White-starred Robin, Cinnamon Bracken Warbler and Mountain Illadopsis. Night at the Trekkers Tavern Cottages. . ACCOMMODATION INFO : http://www.trekkerstavern.com

Day 8: Day Birding in Ruhija

Day 9: Depending on the Option of the day,Today we have the Option of Tracking the Mountains Gorillas or just birding in the morning .Afternoon we will drive out of ruhija area,passing through the neck and on to Buhoma the lower side of Bwindi Impenetrable forest. Night at the Gorilla Resort. ACCOMMODATION INFO : http://www.gorillaresort.com/

Day 10: After an early breakfast, we travel to Queen Elizabeth National Park.
This Park is another with some of the highest biodiversity ratings of any game reserve in the world. Its varied habitat of open savannah, dense papyrus swamps and lakes, makes it one of the richest parks in Africa. Game in the park includes Elephant, a profusion of Hippos, the elusive Giant Forest Hog and handsome Uganda Kob, with occasional Lion and Leopard. Much of the journey will be a game-drive and provide good birding in an open East African Savanna setting. Look out for raptors, Helmeted Guinea Fowl, Red-necked Spurfowl, Barbets, Tinkerbirds, Kingfishers, Bee-eaters, Redchested Cuckoo, Lesser Striped Swallow, Black-lored Babbler, Grey-backed Fiscal-Shrike, Common Fiscal, Sunbirds and more. Mammals will be prominent here. There are many other key bird species in the area: White-faced Whistling & Knob-billed Ducks, African Spoonbill, Open-billed & Saddle-billed Storks, Collared Pratincole, Water Thick-knee, Spur-winged & African Wattled Plovers, African Skimmer, Martial Eagle, Buttonquail, Common Quail, Malachite Kingfisher, Verreaux’s Eagle-Owl, Black Bee-eater, White-tailed Lark,Fan-tailed widow, Black-headed & Papyrus Gonoleks, Carruther’s Cisticolas, Red-chested & Scarlet-chested Sunbirds, Swamp Flycatcher, Grey-capped & White-winged Warblers, Yellow backed & Slender-billed Weavers. Night at the Simba Safari Camp. ACCOMMODATION INFO http://www.ugandalodges.com/simba/index.php

Day 11: This morning we are scheduled for a boat trip.Another highlight of the tour is the launch trip on the Kazinga Channel, which allows a close approach to African Buffalo and Hippopotamus, as well as numerous waterbirds. Amongst many others, we hope to find GreatCormorant; two species of pelicans; African Openbill; Saddle-billed Stork; Glossy Ibis This boating bonanza allows you to view wildlife from the water whilst floating down the Kazinga Channel which joins Lake Edward and Lake George. Bloats of hippos, tribes of crocodiles and abundant birdlife, its banks also host herds of elephants and hordes of other wildlife. After all the excitement, we will drive around Queen Elizabeth and then on to the old and royal town of Fort portal . We will stay at th Rwenzori Guest House,this is run by a Dutch/English couple.It’s a comfortable place with a friendly and quiet atmosphere. It has five spacious rooms and one family room en suit. All rooms

are provided with hot and cold running, a shower, toilet, emergency lights and a private veranda over looking the garden.

Day 12: This is another exciting day,visiting the Chimpanzees!!! After an early breakfast, we will drive to Kibale forest National Park. Kibale is an extensive National Park, c760 sq.km, at an altitude of c.4,000ft’, protecting a large block of rainforest that offers excellent birding. It harbors the greatest variety and concentration of primates found anywhere in East Africa and is famous for its Chimpanzees. The Morning is scheduled for a Chimps Tracking, the last of the Great Apes on the Tour.

In the afternoon,we will drive to the eastern edge of the park into the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a protected area situated in Magombe Swamp. Different trails are available to encounter a variety of birds (137 species), primates and butterflies. The revenue entirely supports the local community of Bigodi Village.
Possible birds include: African Crowned-Eagle, Afep Pigeon, Red winged Francolin, Black-billed Turaco, Narina Trogon, Black Bee-eater, White-headed Wood Hoopoe, Yellowrumped Tinkerbird, Grey-winged Robin-chat, African Broadbill, Willcock’s & Thick-billed Honey guides, Cassin’s Honeybird, Mountain Wagtail, Velvet-mantled Drongo, Petit’s Cuckoo-Shrike, Joyful &Honey guide Greenbuls, Banded Prinia, Masked Apalis, Black-and-white Flycatcher, Pink-footed Puffback,Chestnut-winged Starling, Superb, Green-headed & Green-throated Sunbirds, Dark-backed Weaver.
After the birding in the wetland, we will return to fortportal town, for Dinner and over night.

Day 13: Today we have a relatively long drive to Masindi via the Budongo forest on a dirt road,when in Budongo,we will have a quick visit through the Budongo Forest where species such as the Cassin’s Hawk- eagle , Nahan’s Francolin, Cassin’s sabine’s spinnetails , Chocolate-backed ,blue-breasted and African dwarf Kingfishers , piping Horn bill , Red sided Broadbill , Green- breasted Pitta , puvel’s Illadopsis , spotted Greenbul ,Fire-crested Alethe , Black-eared ground thrush , Black-capped Apalis , brown -crowned Eremomela, Grey and yellow longbills , yellow footed Flaycatcher , Ituri batis , Jameson’s wattle-eye, Chestnut- capped , Flaycatcher , Brown Twinspot and Grey- headed Olive backlight. may be spotted. We will then drive on to Nyabyeya Forestry College Rest house. The accommodation is basic but with private facilities in the room .

Day 14: After an early Breakfast, we will drive again to the Budongo forest doing the famous Royal Mile.Today our birding will be centered on the well-known “The Royal Mile,”a wide forestry track considered to be the country’s premier forest birding locality. Among the numerous specials we hope to find include: Tambourine Dove; Yellowbill, Chocolate-backed, Blue-breasted and Dwarf; the huge White-thighed Hornbill; Yellow-spotted, Hairy-breasted and Yellow-billed barbets, Western Black-headed Oriole;Green Hylia; Gray and Yellow longbills; the rarely encountered Uganda Wood-Warbler; Gray, Buff-throated, Black-throated, and the stunning Black-capped apalises; Rufous-crowned Eremomela; Chestnut-capped Flycatcher; Purple-headed Glossy- Starling; Little Green, Green, Collared, After Lunch,at our accommodation,we will drive to Murchison Falls National Park via the spectacular butiaba escarpment with starning views of Lake albert. Evening at the Red Chilli Rest House. ACCOMMODATION INFO
http://www.redchillihideaway.com/paraa.htm

Day 15: This is our Last big Game viewing destination in Uganda on the Tour .

The earth literally trembles at Murchison Falls, one of the world’s most powerful flows of natural water fall.
A variety of unique habitats and lots of superb birds make a visit to Murchinson Falls National Park a must for every birder.The dry woodlands,are an excellent area to look for Shikra, Grey Headed Kingfisher; Red throated Bee-Eater and Bar-breasted Firefinch.
Definitely One of the highlights of a visit to Murchisons falls National park is the launch trip from Paraa to the foot of Murchison Falls,here: Hippos and crocodiles are abundant, and you will see elephants, buffaloes, waterbucks at close ranges. The Game drive will also offer avariety of game and woodland birds too.Should we miss the morning Boat,we will schedule for the afternoon boat.

Murchison Falls offers variety of bird life ranging from the giant Goliath heron to Grey, Purple and Striated (or Green-backed) Herons, others birds will include the Little Bittern,, Saddle-billed Stork, White-faced Whistling Duck,, Knob-billed Duck, African Marsh Harrier, Black Crake, African Jacana, Senegal Thick-knee, Long-toed and Spur-winged Plovers, Rock Pratincole, Blue-headed Coucal, Pied and Malachite Kingfishers, beautiful Red-throated Bee-eaters, Lesser Swamp Warbler Swamp Flycatcher and copper sunbird,.other possibilities will include:Shikra, Little Sparrowhawk, Crested Francolin,Blue-spotted and Black-billed Wood Doves, Diederik, Black, Black-and-white and Levaillant’s Cuckoos, Senegal and White-browed Coucals, Little and White-rumped Swifts, Blue-breasted, Madagascar and Swallow-tailed Bee-eaters, Broad-billed Roller, Common Scimitarbill, Black-billed Barbet, Cardinal Woodpecker, Greater Honeyguide, Sooty Chat, Moustached Grass-Warbler, Marsh Tchagra, Sulphur-breasted Bush Shrike, Yellow-mantled Widowbird, Black, Black-winged Red and Northern Red Bishops, Cardinal and Red-billed Queleas, and Yellow-fronted Canary. ACCOMMODATION INFO http://www.redchillihideaway.com/paraa.htm

Day 16: Drive to Kampala via the might Top of the Murchison falls, and evening Flight out.

15 Days Birding and Wildlife Safari Kenya

KENYA BIRDING AND BIG GAME ANY TIME DEPARTURE TOUR:

This special Tour is fully guided by our Top local bird guide.

ITINERARY AT A GLANCE:

Day 1: Arrive Nairobi at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. Meet and Transfer to parkside Hotel Nairobi. The Nairobi Parkside hotel is a bed & Breakfast accommodation which has 50 exquisite appointed rooms comprising singles,doubles,tripples and superior rooms all with their own bathrooms ( Bed & Break fast basis only )

Day 2: After Breakfast, drive to Nairobi National park join in the Nairobi National Park Bird walk which should introduce you the Kenyan commoner birds and other forest species that may be difficult on the rest of the tour. After the walk, will continue our exploration into the park for birding & big game viewing. From the mammal point of view, the park offers an opportunity for spotting the Big Five hence Lion, Rhino,Buffalo,Elephant and Leopard with luck.
Birding is excellent in the park ranging from water birds to woodland and acacia species such as the Great Egret,Comorants,Ostrich,white belied bustard,Fischers lovebirds anf while bellied goaway birds. Evening return to the Hotel in Nairobi( Bed & Break fast included)

Day 3: Depart Nairobi for Thika, rest of the day birding the grounds around Thika Blue posts. Thika offers an opportunity to view some of the few coastal species that penetrate into the main land following the River Tana. With luck,these may include the Trumpeter Hornbill, Brown Hooded Kingfisher, Zanzibar Sombre Green-bull and African Golden Weaver,Ayres Hawk Eagle , African green pigeon, Eastern bronze napped pigeon, Purple Crested Turaco, Green headed sunbird and Black cuckoo shrike
In the afternoon, we will drive out of Thika to Wajee bird sanctuary. Wajee is the home of the Endemic Kenyan Hindes Barbler. We will arrive at Wajee in the late evening. Accommodation at wajee is basic but offers excellent viewing for the Kenyan endemic and endangered Hindes barbler .Wajee Nature Park:
http://www.wajeenaturepark.com/pages/index.php

Day 4: Morning birding at Wajee till about Lunch Hours and then Drive out of Wajee into Naromoru near Mount Kenya, the day will be spent around the Naromoru River lodge grounds, birding.Naromoru River lodge grounds is home to several Mt Kenya specialities to include: Eastern double collared sunbird, Alpine swift, Black Chested snake eagle, Narina Trogon, Scaly throated honey guide, Mountain Wagtail, White headed wood hoopoe, African Black Duck, Grey Cuckoo shrike and Yellow-bellied waxbill. Naro Moru River Lodge is located at 2,155 meters ( 7,100 ft), tucked into the side of Mount Kenya, 16 km south of the Equator, in a 10-hectare (20-acre), stream-fed enclave of peace and serenity.
The Lodge consists of 34 rooms, twelve self-catering cottages and a campsite. The 34 rooms have private baths, generous fireplaces, and overlook the Naro Moru River. Guests have a chance to unwind at any one of the two restaurants or bars on the grounds.
The Lodge has a heated swimming pool, two tennis courts, one squash court and a sauna to unwind from the long hikes that are possible on the extensive grounds.
In addition there are ample opportunities to go trout fishing, bird watching, mountain biking or horseback riding.

Day 5: We are scheduled to have a day trip to Mt Kenya, birding the slopes of Mt Kenya and return to Naromoru for the night. The drive up Mt Kenya should reward us with some of the following species,Hartlaub’s Turaco, Brown-Hooded Kingfisher, Giant Kingfisher, Grey-olive Greenbul, Zanzibar Sombre Greenbul, Brown-backed Scrub-Robin, Black-Throated Wattle-eye, Singing, Red faced, Winding, Rattling, Croaking Cisiticolas, Mountain Yellow Warbler, African-moustached Warbler, Broad-tailed Warbler, African Golden Weaver, Yellow-crowned Bishop, African Fire finch, Yellow-bellied Waxbill, and Abyssinian Crimson wing.Green Ibis, Long-crested Eagle, Mountain and Augur Buzzards, Rofous-breasted Sparrow hawk, Red-fronted Parrot, Red-throated Wryneck, Common Stone-chat, Kenrick’s and Waller’s Starlings, Oriole Finch, Montane White-eye, African Hill Babbler, Montane Greenbul, White-headed Hoopoe, Grey , Black-throated, Black-headed, Chestnut-throated Apalises, Green, Olive, and Eastern Bronze-naped Pigeons, Lemon, and Tambourine Doves, Moustached Green Tinker bird, White-headed and White-eared Barbets, Scarce and Alpine Swifts, Eastern and Northern Double-collared sunbirds, Green Headed, Golden- winged and Tacazze sunbirds among more common species. Evening back at Naromoru River Lodge.

Day 6: Today we will drive out of Mt Kenya area into the Arid North east of Kenya at Samburu National reserve. Over night at Samburu Lodge near the ewaso nyro River. Birding in Samburu is excellent ranging from Northern specialities like the Somali Fiscal, Somali Bea eater, Somali Ostrich and bunting together with an assortment big game and wild life restricted to the Arid north such as the Gerenuk, Grevy`s zebra and fringe eared Oryx. Night at Samburu Game Lodge.

Day 7: The day will be spent birding & big Game viewing and photography in the Samburu. Meals and over night at Samburu Lodge. www.wildernesslodges.co.ke

Day 8: We will return towards Mt Kenya again with a night at Naromoru once again.

Day 9: After break fast, we will drive to Nyahururu birding enroute, we will stop to have a quick look around Thomson falls for a number of other specialities including the Slender billed Starling and golden winged sunbirds. We will then proceed to Nakuru for Lunch and over night at the Hotel water buck.The hotel is one of the few middle-range,and decent places in Nakuru. The decor in the place is excellent.The hotel/restaurant is busy as it is used as a base for many of the safari tour companies which visit Nakuru safari park and the other lakes around.
After Lunch,we will drive lake Nakuru National park, birding and Big Game viewing. Once in Lake Nakuru National Park,the birds and mammals are plentiful. The White Rhino is protected from poachers here and the only site on your itinerary for the Rothschild’s Giraffe will be at Lake Nakuru Park. The pink Blanket that covers the Lake Nakuru waters with Flamingoes make Nakuru the most unforgettable site to visit on planet earth.

Day 10: We are scheduled for Lakes Baringo. Lake Baringo has a number of specialities restricted to that far Northern part of Kenya, including the Bristle cowned starling, Yellowbilled and Jackson`s Hornbills. We will spend the day exploring the area. Night at Lake Baringo Country Club. Lake Baringo club is a neat compact hotel on the lake shore .The architecture has a Spanish air about it and the garden and the grounds are unmistakably African, but laid out with English air.
There is a very welcoming atmosphere the staff are friendly and the food is excellent .Rooms are cool and comfortable with a central overheat fan, mosquito nets around the bends and a decent shower .Its intimate, cozy nature make Lake baringo club ideal for a get away for the conferences or a weekend away from Nairobi and its only a five hour drive from the capital on tarmac.
Above all Baringo means birds, birds and more birds.
Over 460 species have been recorded here so it’s no surprise that Lake Baringo is A Mecca for bird watchers and a highlight of the ornithology circuit of East Africa.
The first thing you find in your room you find a newsletter with details of what‘s nesting where in the hotel grounds .The habits, lives and domestic squabbles of the residents in the trees are discussed in detail .Even if you are not particularly keen on birds you can’t ignore them .And this is definitely the place to learn.
A resident ornithologist leads bird walks before breakfast and in the evening .You can buy a checklist of the birds of Lake Baringo identify the trees with a print guide and read a daily log of species seen in the grounds which often extends to four pages.
Whatever you do at Baringo don’t miss the bird boat trip .From our motorized dugout, complete with sunshade you a have a marvelous view of the Laikipia escarpment and the Tugen hills .
You might meet a solo Njemps fisherman balanced on the precarious looking one man raft made of Ambatch ,similar to balsa wood .Your boat man might borrow a fish and then whistle up a fish eagle from the top of a distance tree. The take off, the approach, the turn, the swoop and the grab that follows will be a memory of a life time.

Day 11: We will spend the day exploring Lake Baringo area birding for specialties. Bird watching around lake Baringo is virtually un limited raging from Somali Bunting,white billed buffalo weaver and at least 3 Owls and nightjars. The Slender tailed and square tailed night jars, verreaxues eagle owl,Greysh, and white faced scopes owl, Hemprich’s Hornbill, Cliff Chat, Brown-tailed Rock-Chat, and Bristle-crowned Starling are among others.

Day 12: Today we are yet to see Kenya`s Top popular birding destination,that should not be mistakably missed on any Kenyan birding tour, we are scheduled to drive to Kakamega Forest. We will arrive late for Dinner and over night at the Isecheno Bandas in the heart of Kakamega forest. The 240 sq km Kakamega forest is reported to have 330 bird species, 400 butterfly species, 380 plant species, 33 snake species and atleast 7 primate species. We will stay at basic Isecheno Bandas which is an Ecotourism Kenya-implemented project that is now fully owned and managed by Kakamega Environmental Education Programme (KEEP), a local Community Based Organization (CBO). It consists of 5 bandas that can accommodate a maximum of 15 people, a kitchen and a dining/ meeting area. Nighta at the Bandas

Day 13: There are 2 Bird walks scheduled with Kakamega`s Top bird guide. We will have the Morning and afternoon Bird walks. The forest should reward us with Great Blue Turaco, Blue-headed Bee-eater, Black-and-white Casqued Hornbill, White-chinned and Banded Prinias, Jameson’s and Chestnut Wattle-eyes, Bocage’s and Lühder’s Bush-Shrikes, Black-billed and Vieillot’s Black Weavers, Gray-headed Negro-finch, Red-headed Malimbe, and Red-headed Bluebill among others. Overnight at the Isecheno Bandas.

Day 14: We will drive to Kisumu on Lake Victoria,however,we will make de-tour to the Mumias Bridge for Kenya`s only reliable site for the Rock Pratincole before driving to Kisumu and lake Victoria. Later will get to Kisumu,and straight on to Lake Victoria where we hope to catch up with stuff such as the Red chested sun bird,Papyrus and Black headed Gonolek and a number of bird species restricted to the lake zone such as the Blue-headed Coucal, Greater Swamp Warbler, Swamp Flycatcher, Papyrus Gonolek, Slender-billed Weaver, Papyrus Canary, and other papyrus specialties. Night at the Kiboko Bay resort. At the Kiboko bay resort,we will Experience the breathtaking view of the sun setting at Kiboko Bay Resort on the shores of the shimmering waters of Lake Victoria.Wake up in our luxurious tents to the excited chattering of different birds while watching hippos grazing on the shores of the lake. Relax by the pool and enjoy the cooling breeze.Walk on the sandy beaches of the bird sanctuary while watching different species of birds in their natural breeding habitat.

Day 15: Drive back to Nairobi, with evening Flight out of Nairobi.

14 Days Birding and Big Game Tanzania

TANZANIA BIRDING AND BIG GAME ANY TIME DEPARTURE TOUR:

This special Tour is fully guided by our Top local bird guide.

Itinerary at a glance:

Day 1: Arrive Arusha from various flights. Meet and drive to Ndarakwai Ranch.Ndarakwai private Ranch on the Western slopes of Mt Kilimanjaro is a privately owned ranch which is an experiment in its self-sustaining conservation, preserving a variety of habitats that are home to over 65 mammal species, and 350 bird species .
Ndarakwai is part of the Amboseli / Ngasurai Basin eco-system and helps to preserve important seasonal elephant routes.
Many species are permanent residents, while others use Ndarakwai seasonnaly,depening on time of year visited this is the best site for viewing both peaks of Mt Meru and Kilimanjaro at the same time, not to mention the Night games opportunities on the Ranch.

Day 2:Birding,big game viewing and night game drive on the Ranch. With escorted armed rangers we will explore the Ndarakwai Ranch on foot birding and big game viewing. The Mammals on the ranch include: Elephant,Buffalo,Eland,Impala,Baboon,Wildebeast etc while the Bird list is up to 250 bird species on the ranch alone,this include Brown breasted Barbet,Superb Starling,white headed Buffalo weaver,grey backed camaroptera,Namaqua,loughing,African morning and Red eyed Doves,Yellow throated,Chestunut bellied and black faced sangrouse flocking in for a drink.Night at the Ranch.
About Ndarakwai : http://www.ndarakwai.com/

Day 3: After breakfast,we will drive towards Arusha,visiting Arusha National park, Three distinct areas are to be found
within Arusha National Park: Ngurdoto Crater, the Momela Lakes and the rugged Mt. Meru. Ngurdoto Crater is surrounded by forest whilst the crater floor is a swampy area. The Momela Lakes, like many in the Rift Valley, are alkaline, and Mt. Meru is a mixture of lush forests and bare rocks. Within this wide range of habitats almost 400 species of birds have been recorded in the Park, once in the park,we will be birding and Game viewing the rest of the day and evening return to Arusha.You have the rest of the day exploring the Ngurodoto Crater, the famous Momella Crater Lakes as well as clear views of Mount Meru ( 4500M above sea level ),all Big Game including Herds of Buffaloes, Masai Giraffes ,Black and white colobus monkeys… will be viewed in their natural habitat .The Crater and the surrounding lakes are a habitat to a number of bird species including the lesser and grater flamingoes,maccoa duck,red billed and hotentot teals,little grebes,night herons etcs.Besides the game drive option,we could hire a an armed Game ranger for an escorted walking safari in the park. We willreturn to Arusha at the Ilboru safari lodge for thehttp://www.ilborusafarilodge.com/

Day 4: Visit the lark plains North of Arusha the plains are a home to the endemic Beeslys lark as well as the Athi short toed,short tailed,Pink breasted and fawn colored lark,others include the red capped lark,and other dry country stuff. After the excitement on the plains, we will drive to Tarangire National Park. Tarangire,this park is home to a number of specialty birds such as the The Rufous tailed Weaver and the Ashy Starling which are endemic to Tanzania. Other species include the Barefaced and White bellied go away birds, the yellow collard lovebird – a Tarangire park speciality and the Magpie Shrike as well as the DarNaud`s Barbet, orange bellied parrot, Red necked and Yellow necked Francolins, speckle fronted weaver, grey headed silverbill,beautiful sunbird , The park is excellent for raptors:the Ayres Eagle,African hawk eagle,lesser spotted eagles and African Fish Eagles may be spotted, the river will reward us with a number of water birds including the grey heron, black headed heron, Saddle bill and yellow billed storks…. Common,wood,green andmarsh sandpipers, hermakop,mourning,loughing,ring necked and namaquadoves…Tarangire National park boasts magnificent herds of wildlife and a huge list of woodland and dry country birds too.The Mammal list here include large herds of Elephants and Buffalos as well as a number of plain game and where luck counts we should encounter Leopard, Cheetah and a Lion

pride. The park gets its name from the river that threads its way through the length of the reserve. Night at Tarangire safari lodge or Tarangire Elephant Lodge ( Subject to availability )

Day 5 : Day birding and big game viewing in Tarangire National Park

Day 6:Morning in the Park and afternoon Drive to Arusha,arriving at the IIBoru safari lodge for the night .

Day 7 – 14: We are set to explore the Eastern Arc Mountains of: North and South Pare,West and East Usambara mountains which are collectively known us the The Eastern Arc Mountain Ranges.

Stretching from the Taita Hills of southern Kenya to the southern highlands of Tanzania, the Eastern Arc Mountain Range has some of the oldest geological activity on the continent. Estimated to be at least 100 million years old – with some formations up to 600 million years old – the relative stability of their climate means that the area hosts a surprising array of biodiversity, from plant and insect life, to spectacular bird species. The Pare Mountains – North and South are
Part of the Eastern Arc range in north-eastern Tanzania, the remote Pare Mountains are extremely rewarding to the avid trekker searching for hiking trails off the beaten path. Home to the Pare tribe, agriculturalists and pastoralists who have largely retained their traditional way of life, a hike through the Pare Mountains takes visitors through local villages and beautiful forests, and offers the chance to see a little-visited part of the country.
The East Usambara range is a steeply scared plateau with the main ridges running north to south. They cover less than 130,000 ha and are one of the smallest ranges in Tanzania. They are separated from the much larger West Usambara Mts. to the north-west by the wide valley of the Lwengera River which flows southwards to join the Pangani River. The mountains themselves are drained internally by the catchment of the Sigi River, entering the sea at Tanga, the principle town in the region. The forests became fragmented long ago. The early German colonists created coffee plantations which have been replaced by an ever expanding tea industry. Some of the better quality lowland forest has been replaced with plantations of teak Tectis grandis. The 19 main forest reserves are in the process of being reorganised into larger blocks with the inclusion of important lowland forest that has survived on public land. The establishment of the Amani Nature Forest Reserve (Hakkinen and Wambura 1992),
gazetted in May 1997 to offer both better protection and public access is to be welcomed, with some reservations that core areas are large enough and access is limited.

Day 8: Morning birding the South Pare mountains area for dry country stuff and out of range species . On the way,we will stop for dry country species such as the Taveta Golden weaver,Black bellied and Hunters sunbirds and other stuff. Night at the Elephant Motel near South Pare mountains.http://www.elephantmotel.com/ After local birding around,we will transfer to the Western side of the Usambara mountains. We hope to get to the West Usambara Mountains in the late evening,the mountains rise up steeply from the surrounding plains and can only be entered from a few roads including the only Tarmac roads dating back in the old German and Eglish Colonial times. From a distance, the mountains are a colorful mosaic. On the fertile slopes around the towns of Soni and Lushoto, farmers cultivate small plots.The view points on the southern and western side of Usambara are well known for the spectacular view of Mkomazi and Handeni plains. Because of its pleasant climate, the mountains were favored by the Germans and the English during Colonial times as is evidenced by the numerous historic buildings from the past.The Mullers Mountain Lodge itself where we stay is an old Residence of the German Chief who lived here during the colonial times.Muller Mountain Lodge is the only upper market accommodation in the area with superb service.You will not forget the grate cookery at this home residence when you leave after a couple of nights here.Bon apetit.

About West Usambara
http://www.easternarc.or.tz/wusam

Day 9 & 10: After an early breakfast you will explore some of the forest reminants in the area for the many rare and
endemic species present in this area.The mountains offer a variety of Tanzanian Endemics and rarities to include: the Fullebourns Black Boubou,usamabara weaver,the black Fronted Bush Shrike and the grey Cuckoo Shrike,others include the yellow throated woodland warbler and an endless list of greenbuls to include the tiny Greenbul and the mountain Greenbul,Shelly`s,yellow stripped,Strip chicked… The African Tailor bird ( a new species on record ) will be another bird to look out for here.Much of the Forest in the West Usambaras has been leveled for cultivation so much of the natural forest has been lost,however there are some good spots for birding such as the forest towards the sawmill and another small portion behind the Mullers lodgeDay 11,12 and 13: We will transfer to the Eat Usambara mountains ,birding on the way.spend the day birding the Amani area The morning before breakfast should be well birded around the Malaria center where it is usually easier to see the sunbirds and the Green Headed Oriol.There are a number of green buls too. After breakfast,you may take the Mbomole trails which leads deep into the forest where species such as the White Chested Alethe,Usambara AkalatGreen Barbet,Fischers Turaco and Black backed weaver,Trumpeter Hornbill as well as an array of other forest specialities can be spotted,this morning,we may chance,the Southern banded Snake Eagle,Wallers chestnut sterling,Kenricks sterling,Black bellied glossy sterling,Palm nut Vultures,Cabanis bunting. etcThe after noon will see us visiting tea plantaion where forest reminants and streams may reward us with some more specialities.Evening back to Amani

About East Usamabara

http://www.easternarc.or.tz/eusam

Day 14:Morning in Amani, transfer to Tanga for flight to Either PEMBA ISLANDS Or DAR ES SALAAM or Road Transfer by Bus to Dar es Salaam End ( Arrangements on request )
Note: Arrangements for Dar es Salaam shall be made upon request, while Pemba Islands extensions must be booked at the time of confirming the main tour. Enquire about Pemba arrangements at the time of booking the Tour if opted. END