The Experience

The Experience

Eastern Arc Birding Destinations

The Eastern Arc Mountains, stretching from northeast to southwest, form a unique chain of forested mountains primarily in Tanzania. This range includes several notable mountains:

  • North and South Pare Mountains near Mt Kilimanjaro
  • Usambara Mountains (West and East)
  • Nguu Mountains
  • Nguru Mountains
  • Uluguru Mountains in Morogoro
  • Udzungwa Mountains in Iringa
  • Rubeho Mountains and Ukaguru Mountains in Dodoma and Morogoro Regions

Often called the “Galapagos of Africa,” these mountains have been isolated for millions of years, resulting in a wealth of unique flora and fauna found nowhere else on Earth. The isolation has created a hotspot of biodiversity, making these ranges a dream destination for bird enthusiasts.

Key Highlights

  • Lark Plain in Arusha: Search for some of the rarest lark species in the world.
  • Mkomazi National Park: Look for the Rosy-patched Bushshrike and Pringle’s Puffback among other dryland specialties.
  • Pare and Usambara Mountains: Explore forest-dwelling secrets like the Usambara Akalat and Tanzania Mountain Weaver.
  • Kilombero Flood Plains: Seek out recently described Cisticola species (White-tailed Cisticola and Kilombero Cisticola) and the brightly colored Kilombero Weaver.

What You Can Expect

  • Birds: See rare and beautiful birds such as the Usambara Akalat, Tanzania Mountain Weaver, South Pare White-eye, and many more.
  • Flora and Fauna: Discover unique species like chameleons, frogs, African violets, and insects.
  • Extended or shortened Itineraries: We provide an almost 30-day extended and comprehensive tour as an example.  This tour covers both the Eastern Arc Mountains and parts of Tanzania’s northern tourist circuit, including Tarangire, Ngorongoro, Serengeti, and Mkomazi National Parks. This combination offers a chance to see numerous Tanzanian bird specialties and other notable wildlife. We can alter such an itinerary to suit your needs.

Join Us

With Eastern Arc Birding, you can experience the full splendor of these remarkable mountains and their avian residents. Whether you’re exploring the isolated forests or joining an extended tour through Tanzania’s diverse landscapes, you’re guaranteed an exceptional birding adventure

Adventures (see below)

Hiking

Flora and Fauna

Birds first, followed by other biodiversity

Cultural Experience