7 DAYS NORTHERN BIRDING: MANYARA & NATRON
A specialist tour: Pink flamingos of Natron, diverse aquatic birds of Manyara, and Rift Valley views. This journey is designed for those passionate about unique landscapes and avian life.
Key Highlights for Bird Lovers & Explorers
Mass Flamingo Flocks
Witness the world's largest breeding site for Lesser Flamingos at the alkaline Lake Natron.
Ol Doinyo Lengai Views
Explore the unique volcanic landscape surrounding the sacred 'Mountain of God' (optional climb available).
Diverse Waterfowl
Discover over 400 bird species in Manyara, including pelicans, cormorants, and storks, alongside the mammals.
7-Day Detailed Birding Itinerary
A specialized route combining game viewing with intense birding opportunities and cultural immersion.
Morning (08:30): Pickup from Arusha and transfer to Lake Manyara National Park. Afternoon game drive focusing on the lakeside, a haven for over 400 bird species including pelicans, cormorants, and storks.
Evening: Relax at the lodge with sunset views over the Great Rift Valley, logging your first day's bird sightings.
Overnight: Lodge in Mto wa Mbu/Manyara Area | Highlight: Aquatic Birdlife | Travel: ~2.5 hrs
Morning: Drive northwards, leaving the park for the rugged, remote landscapes toward Lake Natron, descending the dramatic Rift Valley escarpment.
Afternoon: Arrive at Natron area. Check into camp with views of Ol Doinyo Lengai (Mountain of God). Evening walk to spot dryland bird species unique to the area.
Overnight: Camp near Lake Natron | Highlight: Scenic Rift Valley Views | Travel: ~5-6 hrs
Sunrise: Early morning walk (06:00) to the edge of Lake Natron to witness the spectacular, massive colonies of Lesser Flamingos, their primary breeding ground.
Afternoon: Visit the nearby waterfalls (Engare Sero), where you can cool off and observe different bird habitats, followed by a cultural visit to a local Maasai boma.
Overnight: Camp near Lake Natron | Highlight: Flamingo Colony & Maasai Culture | Activity: Half Day Walk
Morning: Start a long, adventurous game drive transfer towards the remote North-Eastern section of the Serengeti, crossing the northern plains (dependent on road conditions).
Focus: This region is excellent for spotting raptors and large ground birds as you search for big game. Continue game drive en route to your camp inside Serengeti NP.
Overnight: Camp in Northern/Eastern Serengeti | Highlight: Remote Game Drive & Raptor Views | Travel: ~7-8 hrs
Morning: Early start for a sunrise game drive in the plains, looking for cheetahs and lions on the hunt.
Wildlife: While big game viewing is key, the plains offer fantastic birding opportunities for species like ostriches, various bustards, and guinea fowl. Enjoy a full day searching the vast plains before returning to camp.
Overnight: Camp in Northern/Eastern Serengeti | Highlight: Big Game & Plains Birds | Game Drive: Full Day
Morning: Short game drive as you exit the Serengeti, passing through the Naabi Hill gate and driving towards the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Afternoon: Check into your lodge situated high on the Crater Rim or in nearby Karatu. This high-altitude region provides habitat for unique montane bird species.
Overnight: Lodge on Crater Rim or Karatu | Highlight: Ngorongoro Birding & Views | Travel: ~4-5 hrs
Morning: Early start to descend into the Ngorongoro Crater. This area is vital for birding, featuring vast wetlands, lakes, and open plains for different species.
Afternoon: Lunch and ascend the crater rim. Drive back to Arusha. Your guide will drop you off at your hotel or transfer you directly to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK) for your onward journey.
Overnight: N/A (Departure) | Highlight: Crater Birding & Big Game | Travel: ~3-4 hrs to JRO/Arusha
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Package Details: What's Included & Excluded
Inclusions (What you pay for)
- • All Park, Crater, and Natron entry fees for 7 days (Mid-Range/Luxury).
- • 6 Nights of accommodation (Lodges/Tented Camps).
- • Full board meals (Breakfast, Lunch/Picnic, Dinner) throughout the safari.
- • Professional, English-speaking guide/driver with birding expertise.
- • Private 4x4 Safari Vehicle (Land Cruiser or Rover) with pop-up roof.
- • Unlimited bottled mineral water and soft drinks during game drives.
- • Guided Lake Natron Flamingo walk permit and local Maasai guide fees.
Exclusions (What's not included)
- • International flights to and from JRO/ARK.
- • Visa fees for entry into Tanzania.
- • Gratuities (tips) for the guide and lodge staff.
- • Alcoholic beverages and personal purchases.
- • Travel and medical insurance (Mandatory).
- • Optional activities (e.g., Hot Air Balloon, Ol Doinyo Lengai Climb).