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Join Naturalist Journeys’ owner Peg Abbott, on this Tanzania wildlife safari to see the splendor of East African birds alongside iconic animals like Elephant, Wildebeest, Common Zebra, Buffalo, Impala, Gazelle, Hartebeest, Eland, Lion, Cheetah, Leopard, Spotted Hyena, Vervet Monkey, Baboon, and so many more. Travel at peak time: Wildebeest are calving and the interactions between predator and prey are intense.
We begin in Arusha, followed by time at Arusha and Lake Manyara National Parks, then five nights at comfortable safari camps so close to the action. Explore at Oldupai Gorge and the wildlife heavy Ngorongoro Crater. Finally witness the splendor of Tarangire National Park, perched on a principal migration corridor into the Serengeti; this is what wildlife documentaries are made of.
Throughout our exploration, learn about the Great Rift Valley and the whole area’s fascinating geology. Central to our journey is ample time in the Serengeti eco-system. With its endless plains, the Serengeti is the heart and soul of our African wilderness experience.
Our pre-tour Kenya extension is highly recommended to find the most species variety—chosen for habitats that differ from those we visit in Tanzania. We include time in some of country’s finest parks: Nairobi, Mount Kenya, Samburu/Buffalo Springs, and the Aberdares. Nairobi is a major air hub for the region and you may pass through here to get to Arusha. This extension is a great (and simple!) way to expand your experience.
“Throughout the journey, you are immersed in the splendor of wildlife, both mammals and birds, and our timing is set for the peak of the great Wildebeest migration. Because of this timing, we must confirm our tour early; we visit at PRIME time! East Africa is still the ultimate safari experience, hands down.”
— Peg Abbott, Owner of Naturalist Journeys




Tour Highlights
- Witness spectacular concentrations of wildlife at seasonally shrinking watering holes; watch interactions between predator and prey
- Discover Lake Manyara National Park, home to tree climbing Lion, enormous tusked Elephant, Bushbuck, Giraffe, Zebra, Buffalo, Leopard, Impala, and more
- Enjoy two nights at Gibbs Farm immersed in lush forests that shoulder Ngorongoro Crater
- Spend three nights at Tarangire National Park, with picturesque and ancient Baobabs and many elephants
- Search for fascinating birds in the Serengeti, like Hamerkop, Saddle-billed and African Openbill Storks, Lappet-faced Vulture, and Tawny and Martial Eagles
- Find big cats and watch their behavior; in the last years we have seen all the big cats, plus in some years, Serval and Caracal
- Visit Oldupai Gorge with a local guide, and learn about the sequence of important anthropological finds
- Opt for a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the Serengeti — wow!
- Absorb the view from the rim of Ngorongoro Crater, then venture into the crater with its teeming wildlife
- Witness the rare Black Rhino in Ngorongoro Crater, as well as many bull Elephant
- Opt for the Kenya extension—with landscapes from Mt. Kenya to the arid north where a fascinating mix of birds and animals complement those of our main safari: Gerenuk, Grevy’s Zebra, Reticulated Giraffe, Gunther’s Dik Dik, Beisa Oryx, Somali Ostrich, and more




Trip Itinerary
Itineraries are guidelines; variations in itinerary may occur to account for weather, road conditions, closures, etc. and to maximize your experience.
Thurs., Feb. 8 : Arrival in Arusha | Ngare Sero Mountain Lodge
Welcome to Tanzania! Our tour begins in Arusha, where on arrival you find your first Superb Starling, and say, “why didn’t we get that one!”. The sounds and smells of Africa, including blooming jacaranda trees await. We have selected a hotel out of the city so you can immediately surround yourself with splendid views, wildlife such as Dik-dik, Vervet Monkey and Mantled Guereza (Black-and-white Colobus Monkey), and bountiful birds, from bee-eaters to barbets, Crowned Hornbill, Hadada Ibis, Brown-hooded Kingfisher, and more.
You may want to come in an additional night to rest up from travels. The lodge has extensive tropical plantings and is small and personal. There is a lovely swimming pool, WiFi, bar, spa and dining facilities, and pathways. Whenever you chose to arrive, this is a restful location to welcome you.
Both early arrivals and those coming in on the tour start date are met and transferred on arrival to the hotel.
Accommodations at the Ngare Sero Mountain Lodge (D)
Fri., Feb. 9 : Arusha National Park
The enthusiasm for this lovely park on the shoulder of Mt. Kilimanjaro was so high on past tours that we added it into our safari as a great way to begin. In 4WD vehicles we explore forests and lakes to see a host of wildlife. We may even walk with ranger guides to see some of the wildlife up close and personal. Warthog, Giraffe, Impala, Zebra, several species of monkeys, and a host of birds, including Greater and Lesser Flamingoes are all possible. We take a picnic lunch with us and make the most of the day.
The grounds of our hotel are equally fascinating for birding, with hornbills, barbets, weavers, and sunbirds enjoying the tall shade trees and flowering gardens. We return here in the afternoon and enjoy the sunset, happy hour, and a chance to tally up our sightings ahead of a delicious meal.
Accommodations at Ngare Sero Mountain Lodge (B,L,D)
Sat., Feb. 10 : Gibb’s Farm | Lake Manyara National Park
This morning, after a bird walk on the grounds of our hotel, we drive to the nearby Gibb’s Farm, located near the local town of Karatu. This is a local multi-faceted farm that grows coffee, fruits, flowers, and vegetables and also rears a variety of domestic livestock. We spend the morning here, exploring the grounds and the highland forest trails for birds such as Crested Guineafowl, White-tailed Blue-Flycatcher, Arrow-marked Babbler, Narina Trogon, Brown-headed Apalis, Eastern Mountain-Greenbul, Schalow’s Turaco, and White-browed Robin-Chat.
We then spend the afternoon birding here on the farm, as last year when we stopped for lunch we experienced a veritable explosion of birds, several species that we did not see again. With tall trees, it’s a great place for woodpeckers and barbets, hornbills, and possibly one of two species of trogons. Meals are served in the historic dining room, with lovely views and memorable hospitality.
Accommodations at Gibbs Farm (B,L,D)
Sun., Feb. 11 : Lake Manyara National Park in Tanzania’s Rift Valley
We spend a full morning exploring Lake Manyara National Park, one of the region’s Great Rift Valley lakes. The park holds an expanse of woodlands and vast plains, as well as the large alkaline soda lake that attracts such a rich variety of waterfowl, perhaps the world’s tallest heron, aptly named the Goliath. The acacia trees and shrubs are home to tree climbing Lion, enormous tusked Elephant, Bushbuck, Giraffe, Zebra, Buffalo, Leopard, Impala, and other mammals. We learn more about the area’s geology from the Mto Wa Mbu escarpment, from which we overlook the Rift Valley and the Manyara Soda Lake.
One of the great features of Lake Manyara, situated in the Great Rift Valley, is the birding at the lake; both numbers and species are a highlight. Near the visitor center we may find a massive colony of Yellow-billed Stork, active in courtship and nest building. At a marshy area of the lake, we watch Hippo alongside African Jacana, numerous plovers, and handsome storks.
Manyara is a large alkaline lake and can attract large numbers of Lesser Flamingo and other waterbirds. The lake and wetlands teem with species, including Pied Kingfisher, Hamerkop, African Fish Eagle, African Spoonbill, Great White Pelican, Lesser Kestrel, Crested Guineafowl, a variety of hornbills, woodpeckers, and other species.
We return for lunch, some time to relax and then pick up again as bird activity peaks in the afternoon. There are trails and viewpoints we can access right from our lodge ahead of another wonderful meal.
Accommodations at Gibbs Farm (B,L,D)
Mon., Feb. 12 : To Ndutu | A Special Region of the Serengeti Ecosystem
This morning we work our way to Ndutu, part of the conservation area adjacent to Serengeti National Park. through an arid area, with fabulous scenery, geology, and impressive bird species, from wheatears to three species of sandgrouse and the elegant Kori Bustard. At the junction with Serengeti National Park, we veer south to the prime calving area for Wildebeest, on the mineral-rich soils of Ndutu, where wildlife watching abounds! We have three nights here, often one of the highlights of our journey.
Accommodations at Gnu Mobile Migration Tented Camp (B,L,D)
Tues., Feb. 13 & Wed., Feb. 14 : Ndutu—The Place to Be in February!
The Ndutu area is part of the Serengeti but administered as part of the large and vital Ngorongoro Conservation Area. It is the end of the line for the Wildebeest migration on the Tanzania end (the Mara, in Kenya being the other end, at its peak in August/September) and they roam here in numbers that you just have to see to believe!
As far as your eye can see, Wildebeest may be running, feeding, fretting over newborn calves, and keeping an eye out for predators. Vast numbers of prey invite predators and no two days are alike. Leopard, Cheetah, Lion, and other cats are all possible. Both days we enjoy very extensive game and bird viewing drives in the morning and afternoon. We are in the heart of the action—the areas we explore are prime for Wildebeest calving; the circle of life is astounding. We often find a kill made before dawn, and watch as vultures, Jackal, and other scavengers wait their turn for the Lion to be done.
Our camp is wonderful, small with a fine sense of hospitality, and you are in the right place—ask any wildlife photographer where they love to go, and Ndutu or nearby Lake Masek are likely high on their list! For birders it’s also a wonderland, with Taita Fiscal, Magpie Shrike, Southern Ground Hornbill, Bare-faced Go-Away-Bird, Chestnut-bellied Sandgrouse, African Penduline Tit, Blue-capped Cordon-bleu, Southern Grosbeak Canary, Red-throated Tit, Short-tailed Lark, Silverbird, Black-lored Babbler, Black Bishop, Two-banded Courser, and many, many more.
Accommodations at Gnu Mobile Migration Tented Camp (B,L,D)
Thurs., Feb. 15 & Fri., Feb. 16 : Central Serengeti National Park
The Serengeti boasts a unique combination of diverse habitats, enabling it to support species of large herbivores, as well as birds. Its landscape includes open grass plains, savannah with scattered acacia trees in the center, wooded grassland, and black clay plains. Small rivers and swamps are scattered throughout. Kopjes are scenic knolls of granite and gneiss outcroppings, great for birds of prey and mammalian predators that use them for resting, nesting, and dens; they are also great for seeing smaller mammals. Central Serengeti holds ecological richness, and healthy numbers of predators, including Lion, Leopard, Cheetah, and smaller cats as well.
Serengeti National Park is undoubtedly the best-known wildlife sanctuary in the world, unequalled in its natural beauty and scientific value. With great concentrations of Wildebeest, Thomson’s Gazelle, Zebra, and many other herbivores, Serengeti forms the greatest view of plains game in Africa and has long been a natural classroom for wildlife biologists, many of whom reside here for years. The visitor center has excellent displays to highlight its iconic wildlife spectacle — the annual Serengeti migration.
Birding is also legendary in the Serengeti, and in between mammal sightings we find dozens of species! Over 500 species have been recorded, with 53 birds of prey and Secretary Bird among them. Some of the memorable species include colorful Saddle-billed Stork, African Openbill Stork, Lappet-faced Vulture, Tawny and Martial Eagles, Kori Bustard, Meyer’s Parrot, Black Coucal, Swahili Sparrow, Verreaux’s Eagle Owl, Malachite and African Pygmy Kingfishers, Rosy-breasted Longclaw, Chinspot Batis, Fork-tailed Drongo, Beautiful Sunbird, Golden-breasted Bunting, and so many more!
While in the Serengeti, we can arrange a hot-air balloon ride for you (an additional cost), timed to watch the sun rise as you drift over the plains, filled at this time of year with wildlife—this is pretty wonderful! Our lodgings also have an expansive view—including one from your luxury open-air shower!
Just opened in 2016, Kubu Kubu is a premium permanent tented camp with stunning vistas of the Serengeti Plains. This camp provides a wonderful blend of nature and creature comforts, including a pool. Rooms are spacious with a wooden deck with views and comfortable seating. You even have a view from your indoor/outdoor shower! Fischer’s Lovebird and a variety of songbirds that may include Purple Grenadier, Grey-capped Social Weaver, Red-cheeked Cordon-Bleu, and Red-billed Firefinch gather in acacia trees just off your patios; wake up calls compliments of Africa.
Accommodations for two nights at Kubu Kubu Camp (B,L,D)
Sat., Feb. 17 : Oldupai Gorge | Ngorongoro Crater Rim
This morning we enjoy a morning game drive as we work our way to the gate, departing Serengeti. We enjoy a picnic lunch and a visit to the world-famous Oldupai Gorge. The Gorge is famous for the study of human evolution and one of the most significant anthropological sites in the world. A local guide helps us understand the sequence of important finds here. This is an arid area, with fabulous scenery, geology, and colorful bird species, in addition to its renowned history. A recently-expanded museum here has excellent exhibits.
As we reach Ngorongoro Crater, we witness a landscape that is spectacular to view from above and below. Your first view from the rim down into this fabled crater is unforgettable!. After settling in, we spend the late afternoon birding and watching for wildlife from the rim, finding such beauties as Golden-winged Sunbird. Our lodge is a maze of rock and timbers that blends in perfectly with the rim environment. Your rooms have a patio facing the crater. Maasai villagers bring their beautiful beadwork and provide evening dancing and showcase feats of acrobatics.
Accommodations at Ngorongoro Serena Lodge (B,L,D)
Sun., Feb. 18 : Ngorongoro Crater
Early this morning we descend into the crater, taking a picnic lunch. The Ngorongoro Crater and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area are, without a doubt, some of the most beautiful parts of Tanzania, steeped in history and teeming with wildlife. This protected area is located in the Great Rift Valley and is also known as the eighth wonder of the world. The Crater is actually a gigantic fracture in the earth's crust, consisting of volcanoes, mountains, plains, lakes, forests, and archaeological sites.
At 1600 meters (approximately 5200 ft.) above sea level, the bottom of the Crater is extensive, measuring 265 km (102 miles) square. It is dotted with watering holes and offers shelter to almost 30,000 individual animals in an area naturally enclosed by the slopes of the volcano. It is hard to find this density of mixed mammal species anywhere else in the world. The bird life is largely seasonal and is also affected by the ratio of soda and fresh water on the crater floor. Expect species such as Hildebrandt’s Francolin, Grey Crowned Crane, Fan-tailed Widowbird, Lyne’s Cisticola, Pied Avocet, Yellow-throated Sandgrouse, Black-bellied Bustard, Kori Bustard, Secretarybird, Rosy-breasted Longclaw, Lesser Flamingo, Greater Flamingo, Chestnut-banded Plover, and Rufous-tailed Weaver. We observe the behavior of the abundant wildlife: Lion, Zebra, Hippo, Buffalo, Warthog, Dung Beetle, and Eland are just a few. Considerable research has been done at Ngorongoro and we relate this as we drive. The crater’s Elephant are, strangely, mainly bulls. There are also a small number of rare Black Rhino.
We stay there in the crater until mid-afternoon, then head back to our lovely hotel on the rim. Those that wish to keep birding can enjoy some of the mountain species, such as Black-fronted Bush-Shrike, Oriole Finch, Schalow’s Turaco, African Olive Pigeon, Hunter’s Cisticola, Bar-throated Apalis, Red-collared Widowbird, Rameron Pigeon, White-eyed Slaty Flycatcher, and others new for our route, on the hotel grounds.
Accommodations at Ngorongoro Serena Lodge (B,L,D)
Mon., Feb. 19 : Burunge Wildlife Area & Tented Lodge
We leave the wonders of the Crater, birding our way along the rim until mid-morning when we leave the park. Today we pass through Karatu town where we can find supplies, ATM machines, and modern conveniences. There are several shops with local crafts and art if we wish to stop – a great way to reach out to local people. From here we head back to the wilds, this time adjacent to the west side of Tarangire National Park in a wildlife area along a lakeshore. The birding here is excellent and we have a grand patio to gather on. A small freshwater hole attracts Elephants and the bird show is never-ending with colorful songbirds and species like Red-chested Cuckoo.
Accommodations at Burenge Tented Camp (B,L,D)
Tues., Feb. 20 & Wed., Feb. 21 : Tarangire Safari Lodge | Tarangire National Park
The Tarangire Safari Lodge is perched on a principal migration corridor into the Serengeti, about 100 miles from Arusha. Ancient boulders and baobab and fig trees surround us in this stunning landscape. At the park gate, Yellow-collared Lovebird, Red-chested Cuckoo, and Pearl-spotted Owlet may be among the welcoming committee.
Tarangire is home to one of the largest Elephant populations in Tanzania. February is baby time, irresistible! Because of varied habitats, it is a bird lover’s paradise, home to 550 bird varieties, the most breeding species in one habitat anywhere in the world. Lush marshes provide home to bishops, queleas, and whydahs. Birds of prey abound and the endemic Ashy Starling becomes an easy find.
In Tarangire we expect to see many Elephant and other wildlife like Wildebeest, Common Zebra, Buffalo, several mongoose species, Impala, Gazelle, Hartebeest, Eland, Lion, Cheetah, Leopard, Spotted Hyena, Vervet Monkey, Baboon, and many more. No two days are alike on safari, but every day holds tremendous wildlife viewing, often at close range in this lush and fanciful landscape.
The bird life in Tarangire includes many species associated with the trees, including woodpeckers, barbets, sandgrouse, and numerous songbirds. Red-and-yellow Barbet is common as are Tanzanian Red-billed Hornbill. The view from the patio of our lodge is one of the grandest in the region and the perfect spot for a sunset cocktail
with time to recount the day’s highlights as elegant-necked Giraffe walk by. An optional night drive here with a local guide reveals some impressive night birds including nightjars, owls, and possible courses.
Accommodations both nights at Tarangire Safari Lodge (B,L,D)
Thurs., Feb. 22 : Return to Arusha | Departures
We enjoy some final morning birding around the lodge before departing for Arusha. Once on the road we go fairly directly so we can dine together one last time with a fine lunch in Arusha before we drop off at the Kilimanjaro Airport for afternoon departures. For those that have later flights, you can relax at the hotel we dine at; if you don’t fly out until the next morning you can check into a room and enjoy the patio and some time to repack or relax. (B,L)
Kenya Pre-Tour Extension
Itineraries are guidelines; variations in itinerary may occur to account for weather, road conditions, closures, etc. and to maximize your experience.
Thurs., Feb. 1 : Arrival in Nairobi | Ole Sereni Airport Hotel
Welcome to Africa! On arrival, you are greeted by Superb Starling and your tour leaders. We make our way to our comfortable hotel to relax after a long day of travelling. The patio looks over Nairobi National Park, and you can dine outside to ease the jet-lag, watching a rainbow of birds at the water feature. As everyone is on their own time table today (some napping, some wide-awake) meals are at leisure in the restaurant or bar area.
Accommodations at Ole Sereni Hotel, Nairobi Airport
Fri., Feb. 2 : Nairobi National Park
Today we explore Nairobi National Park, Kenya’s oldest. Located just seven kilometers from the edge of the Nairobi city center (Kenya’s capital), this is Kenya’s premier birding location with over 500 species recorded in the park. It has a wonderful variety of habitats, from Whistling-Thorn Acacia scrub to gallery forest along streams to ponds and open savanna. We should find species like the impressive Secretarybird, Kori Bustard, Hartlaub’s Bustard, and Saddle-billed Stork. We drive a series of park roads, searching out Spotted Thick-knee, Pangani Longclaw (a Meadowlark look-alike), Yellow-throated Sandgrouse, African Quail-finch, Zebra Waxbill, Harlequin Quail, and Violet Wood-hoopoe … to name a few! By our picnic area, we may find African Yellow White-eye, Common Nightingale, Ruppell’s Robin-chat, Northern Pied Babbler, Red-throated Tit, Speke’s Weaver, and more.
In well-watered areas we look for African Water Rail, Black-winged Plover, Little Grebe, Jackson’s Widowbird, and Hamerkop. In open areas, it’s reassuring to have a local expert to help us sort out pipits and larks: Nairobi Pipit, Grassland Pipit, White-tailed Lark, Rufous-naped Lark, Somali (Athi) Short-toed Lark, and those cryptic cisticolas—today perhaps Siffling, Croaking, Desert, and more! And watch the sky—avian predators and scavengers here may include Lappet-faced Vulture, Martial Eagle, African Crowned Eagle, Auger Buzzard, and Wahlberg’s Eagle.
In addition to the many incredible animals we see during the visit, Nairobi National Park also hosts four of the “African Big Five”: Lion, Black Rhino, Leopard, and Cape Buffalo.
Accommodations at Ole Sereni Hotel, Nairobi Airport (B,L,D)
Sat., Feb. 3 : Mt. Kenya Foothills Birding
After a hearty breakfast, we head towards Mt. Kenya, located just north of Nairobi. We make a few birding stops near water crossings. In forests of the mountain foothills, we look for Purple-throated Cuckoo-Shrike, Grey Cuckoo-Shrike, Mountain Yellow-Warbler, Silvery-cheeked Hornbill, Crowned Hornbill, Red-fronted Parrot, Hartlaub’s Turaco, Montane (Kikuyu) White-eye, Dusky Turtle Dove, and Eastern Bronze-naped Pigeon. This is a great perch to watch for local raptors like African Cuckoo-Hawk, Mountain Buzzard, and Crowned Eagle.
After settling into our lodgings, we venture out to look for many mountain specialties species such as the Slender-billed Greenbul, Cinnamon Bracken Warbler, White-browed Crombec, Grey-headed Negrofinch, Brown-backed Scrub-Robin, Abyssinian Ground Thrush, Black-fronted Bushshrike, Olive Ibis, Barred Long-tailed Cuckoo, Slender-billed Starling, Abbott’s Starling, Sharpe’s Starling, Kenrick’s Starling, Waller’s Starling, Fine-banded Woodpecker, White-headed Wood-Hoopoe, Bar-tailed Trogon, Yellow-crowned Canary, African Green Pigeon, Lemon Dove, and African Olive Pigeon—wow!
Mammals we are likely to see include Mt. Kenya Guereza (Black-and-white Colobus Monkey), Mt. Kenya Kolb’s (Sykes) Monkey, and Bushbuck, Suni (a tiny antelope), and Cape Buffalo. At night, we hear the calls of Tree Hyrax and with luck may hear or spot some owls.
Accommodations at Naro Moru River Lodge Lodge (B,L,D)
Sun., Feb. 4 : Mt. Kenya to Samburu & Buffalo Springs | Hinde’s Babbler Site
We bird locally around Mt. Kenya this morning. Scaly Francolin are secretive but present. Large trees attract Black-throated, Black-collared, and Chestnut-throated Apalis, Rueppell’s Robin-Chat, and Black-headed Waxbill. Flowering trees draw in Tacazze Sunbird, Malachite Sunbird, Golden-winged Sunbird, and Eastern Double-collared Sunbird.
By mid-morning, we head further north to one of Kenya’s premier ecological regions at Samburu and Buffalo Springs Reserves. En route, we take a short detour to a site where the rare Kenyan endemic, the Hinde’s Babbler, often appears and with searching here we may find an array of other birds, such as Purple Grenadier, Red-chested Cuckoo, Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird, Red-faced Cisticola, Red-cheeked Cordon-bleu, and Rufous Chatterer.
Afterwards we continue north, passing through the city of Isiolo, to Samburu Reserve and our lodgings, a fabulous wildland area home to Leopard, Beisa Oryx, Gerenuk, Grevy’s Zebra, Cheetah, Reticulated Giraffe, Lion, and Elephant. The geography of this arid landscape is dramatic, with mountains and inselbergs dotting the landscape carved by sand rivers lined with palms.
Accommodations at Samburu Simba Lodge (B,L,D)
Mon., Feb. 5 : Buffalo Springs & Samburu National Reserves
There is still much to see as we continue our safari in these two adjacent, incredible reserves, seeking species we haven’t yet seen. Birds here include Somali Ostrich, Golden Pipit, Golden-breasted Starling, Abyssinian Scimitarbill, Rosy-patched Bushshrike, Pringle’s Puffback, Northern Puffback, Northern White-crowned Shrike, White-headed Mousebird, Fire-fronted Bishop, Somali Bee-eater, African Orange-bellied Parrot, Yellow-vented Eremomela, Northern Crombec, Northern Grey Tit, Black-capped Social Weaver, Northern Brownbul, African Bare-eyed Thrush, Somali Sparrow, Donaldson-Smith’s Nightjar, Dusky Nightjar, and Rufous Chatterer. Raptors include Egyptian Vulture, possible Palm-Nut Vulture, Bateleur, and both Martial and Tawny Eagles.
Trees flowering draw in Hunter’s Sunbird, Black-bellied Sunbird, and Shining Sunbird. In their shade we may find Somali Courser, Stone Partridge, Black-faced or perhaps Chestnut-bellied Sandgrouse, Buff-crested Bustard, Vulturine Guineafowl, or one of three species of hornbill: Red-billed, Eastern Yellow-billed, or Von der Decken’s.
The reserves line two sides of a river, and we spend time in both. Along the water we may find groups of Elephant watering, huge troops of Baboons, and a variety of antelopes and other species.
At night, enjoy star-filled skies and time around the campfire.
Accommodations at Samburu Simba Lodge (B,L,D)
Tues., Feb. 6 : Aberdare National Park
We enjoy an early morning safari in Samburu, working along the riverbed with its palms and acacias and host of birds and mammals, before returning to pack up, and enjoy brunch. With luck a herd of Elephant is in view as we dine. We then start on our way south to our final birding spot, back in the mountains at Aberdare National Park.
Aberdare National Park runs the expanse of a majestic mountain range on the eastern edge of the Rift Valley. The park has a great stretch of alpine moorland vegetation, mainly above 3,000m. This incredible landscape has led to the park’s nickname, “The Majestic Moorland.” There is a thick tropical forest with deep ravines, dissecting riverine gorges, and in certain areas, impressive river-formed waterfalls. Home to some of Kenya’s greatest endemic birds, this area promises rewarding views.
A host of other animals occupy this stunning expanse, and good views of Elephants, Cape Buffalo, Common Bushbuck, and Giant Forest Hog can be expected. Here we learn in depth about highland forests and montane ecology.
Expected birds include Aberdare Cisticola, Hunter’s Cisticola, Montane Nightjar, Mountain Buzzard, Rufous-breasted Sparrowhawk, Common (African) Stonechat, Mountain Yellow Warbler, Cinnamon Bracken Warbler, Chestnut-throated Apalis, Brown Woodland Warbler, Malachite Sunbird, Golden-winged Sunbird, Moorland Chat, Black-fronted Bushshrike, Yellow-crowned Canary, Yellow-bellied Waxbill, Jackson’s Francolin, and Olive Ibis.
Accommodations at Ark Lodge (B,L,D)
Wed., Feb. 7 : Kinangop Grasslands | Nairobi
This morning we enjoy our final birding in the magnificent Aberdares National Park before heading to Kinangop grasslands. Here, we search for another critically endangered Kenyan endemic—the Sharpe’s Longclaw. We spend our time searching for this impressive species amongst an array of other potential sightings. Local wetlands are also visited for the highland water birds.
Here we expect to see Red-throated Wryneck, Common Quail, Levaillant’s Cisticola, Wing-snapping Cisticola, Long-tailed Widowbird, Jackson’s Widowbird, Angola Swallow, Montane Nightjar, Martial Eagle, Mountain Buzzard, Rufous-breasted Sparrowhawk, Red-throated Pipit, Black-tailed Godwit, African Snipe, Lesser Jacana, and African Stonechat.
After a fabulous day, we travel to Nairobi to rest before our departures and celebrate our incredible adventure in Kenya!
Accommodations at the Ole Sereni Hotel, Nairobi Airport (B,L,D)
Thurs., Feb. 8 : Nairobi to Tanzania!
We depart today for Tanzania … the adventure continues! (B,L)
Cost of the Journey
Cost of the 15-Day / 14-Night Tanzania trip (main tour) is $10,970 DBL / $12,470 SGL from Arusha, Tanzania. This cost includes accommodations for 14 nights, all meals as specified in the itinerary, professional guide services, other park and program entrance fees and miscellaneous program expenses.
Cost of this 8-Day / 7-Night Kenya extension is $3690 DBL / $4390 SGL per person. This cost includes accommodations for seven nights, all meals as noted in the itinerary (B,L,D), transfer Arusha/Kenya border, all land transportation, game park entry fees, Mt. Kenya nature walk fee, Maasai Cultural village visit fee (if desired), unlimited game/bird viewing drives, bottled mineral water, temporary enrollment in flying doctor services.
Tour and extension costs do not include: round-trip transportation from your home city to Nairobi or Arusha, the flight connection between Nairobi and Arusha (extension only), optional activities, or items of a personal nature such as laundry, telephone charges, gratuities for guides, lodges and drivers, or beverages from the bar; personal, medical, cancellation insurance. Optional activities such as the hot air balloon ride can be booked onto the main safari (extra cost), best to plan in advance to secure space, by the final payment due date is recommended.
Travel Details
Please plan to make air travel plans only after the minimum group size has been met. We will send you a confirmation email as soon as the trip has been confirmed.
Plan to arrive in Arusha, Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) no later than February 8, though we recommend you come in at least a day early. If you participate in the Kenya extension, please plan to arrive at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) no later than February 1, though we recommend you come in a day early.
Please plan departure flights after 5:00 PM on February 22; we plan to arrive at the airport by 2:00 PM or as needed to connect to flights out.
We offer the service of our travel agent, Willamette Travel, to help you plan and book flights and we cover the base ticket fee as an added value to travel with Naturalist Journeys. If you arrive early to Nairobi, Kenya, we can book extra nights for you at the Ole Sereni Hotel. If you arrive early to Arusha (main safari only), we can book extra nights for you at the Ngare Sero Lodge.
Items of Note
Flights through Nairobi are now very convenient, some direct from the USA. Many airlines typically offer flights with stopovers in Nairobi, making it quite possible to spend time in Kenya without added airfare.
Browse below for trip reports and species lists from past versions of this and other tours from this destination.
Tanzania
- February 2017
- February 2018
- February 2019
- February 2020
- February 2023
Southern Tanzania
- September 2023
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Peg Abbott
Peg Abbott is the owner and lead guide of Naturalist Journeys, LLC. She has been designing, guiding, and organizing natural history tours for more than 25 years, working for the National Audubon Society and other organizations before launching Naturalist Journeys, LLC in 1998. Her work has taken her from Alaska to Africa and Argentina, as well as many other locations around the world. She has conducted research on several bird and mammal species and keeps a close interest in Yellowstone and Mexican wolf reintroduction projects. Her interests include all aspects of natural history and geology. After 20 years in and around the Yellowstone area, Peg relocated in 2003 to the birding mecca of Portal, AZ.
Photo credit: Carol Simon
Other trips with Peg Abbott
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Uganda Highlights
Fabulous Birds & MammalsNovember 22 - December 5, 2023 -
Lesser Antilles Birding & Nature
FULL - Check out Caribbean Endemics of Jamaica January 2024March 7 - 20, 2024 -
Biodiverse Bhutan: Birds, Mammals & Beyond
FULL - Check out Indonesia 2024April 11 - 25, 2024, w/Manas National Park extension -
NEW! Wild Japan: Summer In Hokkaido
June 18 - 29, 2024 -
Crossing the Zambezi: A Zambia & Zimbabwe Safari
July 27 - August 16, 2024 -
Indonesia's Best Birding
September 11 - 27, 2024, w/Komodo Dragons & Endemic Birds Flores Island extension -
Southern India’s Western Ghats: Global Hotspot for Biodiversity
November 9 - 22, 2024, w/Andaman Islands extension
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Essential Information +
Pace & Protocols +
Packing List +
Suggested Reading List +
Useful Links +
Photo credits: Banners: Elephants by Peg Abbott; Saddle-billed by Greg Smith; Africa Pygmy Kingfisher, by Gisela Gerson Lohman-Braun; Wildebeest and Zebra by Peg Abbott; Giraffes under Baobab by Peg Abbott; Leopard by Greg Smith; African Fish Eagle, Crowned Crane, Elephant with Infant, Lion Cub, Yellow-billed Stork Rookery, Zebra Greeting, European Bee-eater, Wildebeest and Calf by Peg Abbott; Secretary Bird, Peg Abbott; African Hoopoe, Peg Abbott; Knob-billed Duck, Peg Abbott; Yellow-necked Spurfowl, Peg Abbott; Gazelle, Peg Abbott; Malachite Kingfisher, Peg Abbott; Red-billed Hornbill, Greg Smith; Arusha National Park, Peg Abbott; Striped Kingfisher, Peg Abbott; Black-and-white Colobus, Peg Abbott; Lilac-breasted Roller, Peg Abbott; Ndutu Sunrise, Peg Abbott; Zebra, Peg Abbott; Wildebeest, Peg Abbott; Kori Bustard, Peg Abbott; Tawny Eagle, Peg Abbott; Red-cheeked Cordon-blue, Peg Abbott; Fork-tailed Drongo, Peg Abbott; Rosy-breasted Longclaw, Peg Abbott; Bar-throated Apalis, George Bakken; Giraffe, Peg Abbott; African Fish Eagle, Peg Abbott; Chestnut-bellied Sandgrouse, Washington Wachira; Saddle-billed Stork, Peg Abbott; Greater Flamingo, Bob Rodrigues; Chestnut-banded Plover, Bob Rodrigues; Bat-eared Fox, Peg Abbott; Blue-cheeked Bee-eater, Peg Abbott; Brown-crowned Tchagra, Peg Abbott; Crowned Crane, Peg Abbott; Hammerkop, Peg Abbott; Helmeted Guineafowl, Peg Abbott; Ostrich, Peg Abbott; Red-billed Oxpecker, Peg Abbott; Sandgrouse, Peg Abbott; Yellow-billed Stork, Peg Abbott; Red-headed Barbet, Peg Abbott.