Tanzania Birding with a Camera
22 Days
21 Nights
Witness nature’s raw drama unfold with every leap, splash, and chase—a breathtaking spectacle of survival and instinct.
Custom Photo Safari rigs
small Group
- Maximum of three guests per vehicles
- Each Photographer gets their own row with access to both sides of the vehicle
- Increased weight allowance for extra camera gear
Tanzania Birding with a camera
Russ Burden
Days of discovery
June 6, 2027
Arrival Day
Upon your arrival at Julius Nyerere International Airport (JNIA), a well-coordinated transition awaits. Following the requisite completion of customs and immigration formalities, our adept representatives will extend a personalized welcome, overseeing your seamless progression. Your journey then leads to your chosen hotel, thoughtfully curated to offer a haven of tranquility for your rejuvenation and renewal. This initial night serves as an oasis of replenishment, affording you the opportunity to unwind, recharge, and prepare for the extraordinary photo safari experience that lies ahead.
Lodging
Meals and overnight at Mediterraneo Hotel
June 7-9, 2027
Explore Saadani National Park
fter breakfast, we’ll pack your luggage into the safari vehicle and set off for the enchanting Saadani National Park, a hidden gem nestled along the coast between Dar es Salaam and Tanga. This journey will take you to the only national park on East Africa’s coast, offering an extraordinary blend of safari adventure and coastal relaxation.
Upon arrival at the camp, you’ll be treated to a delicious lunch. The lodge itself is designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings, providing a comfortable and serene setting that perfectly complements the day’s explorations.
In the afternoon, we’ll begin our adventure through Saadani National Park. This park is unique in its diverse landscapes, featuring both savannah and coastline, creating a rich habitat for a wide variety of wildlife. As we explore by car, you’ll have the opportunity to see majestic waterbucks grazing near the water, agile gazelles bounding through the grasslands, and graceful giraffes towering over the trees. Warthogs can be seen trotting along the trails, while hippos and crocodiles bask near the water’s edge.
For a more intimate experience, you can choose to explore parts of the park on foot, guided by an experienced ranger who will share insights into the flora and fauna. Walking through the bush offers a chance to see smaller creatures and unique plants that you might miss from a vehicle.
One of the highlights of Saadani is the boat safari along the Wami River. From the water, you’ll get a different perspective of the park, watching hippos wallowing in the shallows, crocodiles lurking just beneath the surface, and a variety of birds nesting along the banks. The river safari is an excellent opportunity to observe the park’s wildlife in a tranquil and scenic setting.
With a bit of luck, you might also spot some of the park’s more elusive residents, such as elephants moving through the trees, lions lounging in the shade, or leopards stealthily prowling through the underbrush. Each sighting adds to the sense of wonder and excitement that Saadani National Park offers.
As the day draws to a close, we’ll return to the camp, where you can enjoy a hearty dinner under the stars. The evening at camp provides a perfect opportunity to relax and reflect on the day’s adventures, listening to the sounds of the African night before settling into your comfortable accommodations for a restful overnight stay
Lodging
Meals and Overnight at Simply Saadani Camp
June 10, 2027
Journey to Mkomazi National Park
Morning Session: The day commences with a refined breakfast at the camp, which serves as a fitting preamble to the series of carefully curated activities that lie ahead. Meticulously prepared, the subsequent phase of our expedition unfurls—an eastward traverse that guides us to the slopes of the revered Mount Kilimanjaro, nestled in the vicinity of Moshi. We gracefully transition southeast, through the enchanting landscapes of the Pare Mountains, and terminate at the entrance of the esteemed Mkomazi National Park.
As we traverse this captivating expanse, the landscape provides a lush backdrop for the avian life that takes flight in vivid displays while the grace of diverse mammalian species find expression. This journey of observation becomes an integral part of our narrative and continues until our arrival at our coveted destination—Babu’s Camp. Perched on the western slope of one of the park’s modest mountains, the camp welcomes us with open arms. The timing of our arrival aligns seamlessly with the luncheon that awaits and ensures a seamless continuation of our day.
Afternoon Session: As the afternoon sun casts its warm glow, our attention turns to a dedicated photography session within the captivating confines of Mkomazi National Park. Here, nature’s tableau becomes a canvas of boundless inspiration which invites you to capture moments of ethereal beauty.
As daylight yields to twilight, the embrace of Babu’s Camp becomes your sanctuary. Here, delectable meals are savored, and the tranquility of the surroundings envelops you as you settle in for a restful night’s reprieve—a perfect harmony with the untouched wilderness that defines our sojourn.
Lodgings
Meals and Overnight at Babu’s Camp
June 11-12, 2027
A Two-Day Photographic Safari in Mkomazi National Park & Mbula Rhino Sanctuary
Two days of AM and PM Photography Sessions
Day One: Immersing in Mkomazi’s Wildlife
Your journey begins at the break of dawn, perfectly aligned with the rhythms of the wilderness. The morning game drive sets the stage for an unforgettable adventure, offering a chance to capture the breathtaking beauty of Mkomazi National Park. As you traverse the rugged landscapes, you’ll encounter a diverse array of wildlife, including the elegant fringe-eared oryx, the elusive red duiker, the mysterious lesser kudu, and the long-necked gerenuk—endearingly known as Swala Twiga in Swahili, meaning “giraffe-antelope.”
Afternoon Session:
As the golden hues of the afternoon light bathe the savannah, your photographic journey continues. This session unveils a different dimension of Mkomazi, with an emphasis on the park’s rich birdlife. Here, Somali-Masai endemic species such as the Black-throated Barbet, Purple Grenadier, White-bellied Go-away-bird, Orange-bellied Parrot, Red-fronted Warbler, Rosy-patched Bushshrike, and Somali Golden-breasted Bunting come into focus, adding vibrant splashes of color to your collection.
Day Two: Exploring Mbula Rhino Sanctuary & Mkomazi’s Wonders
The morning begins with an exciting visit to Mbula Rhino Sanctuary, a crucial conservation area dedicated to protecting the endangered black rhino. Here, you’ll have the rare opportunity to photograph these majestic creatures up close while learning about the ongoing efforts to safeguard their future.
In addition to its rhino conservation efforts, the sanctuary is home to a wild dog breeding program, which plays a vital role in rehabilitating and reintroducing these highly endangered predators into the wild. Observing and capturing images of these fascinating animals offers a unique insight into their social dynamics and conservation challenges.
Afternoon Session:
After an inspiring morning at the sanctuary, your adventure continues with another immersive game drive through Mkomazi. The afternoon light casts a mesmerizing glow over the savannah, providing the perfect conditions to capture the park’s enchanting scenery and diverse wildlife in its natural splendor.
Each day concludes at Babu’s Camp, where you can unwind amidst the tranquility of the bush. As the day fades, indulge in exquisite culinary delights and reflect on the extraordinary visual stories you’ve captured, setting the stage for more adventures to come.
Lodgings
Meals and Overnight at Babu’s Camp.
June 13, 2027
From Mkomazi to Ngorongoro: A Cultural and Scenic Adventure
After an early breakfast at your camp in Mkomazi, you will embark on a northward journey towards Mto wa Mbu, passing through the lively town of Arusha. The drive offers stunning views of Tanzania’s changing landscapes, from the dry savannas of Mkomazi to the lush greenery near Arusha.
Upon arrival in Mto wa Mbu, you will engage in enriching cultural activities that showcase the diverse traditions of this vibrant community. You will explore bustling local markets, visit banana farms, and interact with artisans who craft intricate handmade goods. A highlight of your visit will be a stop at a traditional Maasai Boma, where you will experience the customs, dances, and way of life of the iconic Maasai people. This visit provides a unique opportunity to learn about their rich heritage and nomadic traditions.
Following these immersive cultural experiences, you will enjoy a delicious local lunch, featuring fresh, traditionally prepared Tanzanian cuisine.
Later in the evening, you will continue your drive towards the Ngorongoro Highlands, ascending into a breathtaking landscape of rolling hills and lush forests. As the altitude rises, the air becomes cooler, and the scenery transforms into a picturesque setting teeming with wildlife. Upon arrival at your lodge, a warm dinner awaits, offering a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploration before settling in for the night in this stunning highland retreat.
Lodging
Meals and Overnight at Embalakai Ngorongoro Camp
June 14, 2027
Explore the basin of the Ngorongoro Crater
Avery early start at around 5:30am, we collect our luggage’s, breakfast and lunch boxes before proceeding with the drive to Ngorongoro conservation area Authority where we will descent into the crater for an in-depth exploration of this distinctive ecosystem. Enjoy abundant wildlife viewing set against this impressive backdrop. These drives provide one of the best opportunities in Africa to view black rhino, which tend to spend their time on the crater floor. Ngorongoro Crater is one of the world’s greatest natural spectacles; its magical setting and abundant wildlife never fail to enthrall visitors. Another big draw card to this picturesque Caldera, is its dense population of predators, which include lions, hyenas, jackals, cheetahs and the ever-elusive leopard, and if Lucky enough you will have chance to see the small cats like the Rare Caracal, Serval cat as well as the African wild cat which sometimes requires a trained eye to spot. Picnic Lunch will be served at one of the picnic sites at the crater floor, followed by another game viewing visiting the hippo pool near the Mandusi Swamp, Lake Magadi, a large but shallow alkaline lake in the southwestern corner which is one of the main features of the crater, the lerai forest as well as other parts of the crater.in the late evening you will drive to your lodge for dinner and overnight.
Lodging
Meals and Overnight at Embalakai Ngorongoro Camp
June 15-21, 2027
Capturing the Essence of the Eastern and Central Serengeti: A Journey Through the Crater and Beyond.
Your expedition begins with a morning descent into the Ngorongoro Crater, a world of its own where lush grasslands, shimmering lakes, and acacia woodlands create a breathtaking backdrop for an unforgettable wildlife experience. Here, you will have the chance to encounter the legendary Big Five in their natural habitat, from the elusive black rhino grazing in the misty morning light to prides of lions basking in the golden glow of dawn.
After a rewarding morning of exploration and photography, you will ascend the crater walls and journey toward the eastern and central regions of the Serengeti, a land teeming with wildlife and endless golden plains. This iconic destination is renowned for its abundant predators, vast herds of grazers, and spectacular landscapes, offering an extraordinary continuation of your adventure.
Spend seven unforgettable days fully immersed in the breathtaking landscapes of the Serengeti, experiencing its wonders each morning and afternoon.
Morning Safaris:
Embark on an enchanting morning game drive that beckons you to capture the essence of the Serengeti’s raw beauty. As the sun begins its ascent, your lens focuses on the charismatic big cats—lions, leopards, and cheetah. Guided by experts in the field, you’ll traverse the renowned kopjes that dot the landscape. Each granite outcropping harbors the potential for extraordinary wildlife encounters. The golden light of dawn illuminates your path that invites you to weave visual narratives of apex predators onto your sensors.
Afternoon Safaris:
The afternoons bring a renewed chapter of exploration, where the expansive grasslands and iconic kopjes become your canvas. Amidst this vibrant backdrop, your lens chronicles the diverse species that call this ecosystem home. From the extraordinary to the everyday, each moment holds a story waiting to be told. As the sun gracefully descends, your photographic journey continues to unfold, capturing the ever-changing hues of the landscape.
Across both sessions, your cameras bridge the gap between observer and observed, immortalizing the intricate dance of life within the Serengeti. As the day concludes, The Canopy Wilderness Camp offers a haven of nourishment and comfort, a sanctuary where you rejuvenate for the adventures yet to come.
Lodging
Meals and Overnight at Canopy Wilderness Camp – Eastern Central Serengeti
22nd June 2027
Scenic Game Drive from Gol Kopjes to Ndutu Forest
After an early breakfast at the camp, you will embark on a scenic game drive through the Gol Kopjes, located in the southeastern Serengeti. This remarkable area is characterized by dramatic granite outcrops rising above the plains, creating a striking and rugged landscape. Renowned as a haven for wildlife, the Gol Kopjes are particularly favored by big cats such as lions and cheetahs, which often use the elevated rocks as vantage points for hunting. As you traverse this captivating region, you will have the opportunity to photograph the diverse flora and fauna that thrive among these rocky formations.
In the afternoon, your journey continues with a photography session in the lush Ndutu Forest. This woodland habitat offers a refreshing contrast to the open plains, providing a unique perspective for capturing its rich biodiversity and scenic beauty.
As the sun sets, you will have time to unwind and reflect on the day’s remarkable experiences, embracing the tranquility of the evening. This carefully curated itinerary seamlessly combines wildlife photography and exploration, offering an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Ngorongoro and the Serengeti.
Lodging
Meals and Overnight at Lake Masek Tented Lodge
June 23-25, 2027
Exploring the Enchanting Ndutu Forest and Serengeti's Southern Plains.
Comprehensive AM and PM Photographic Outings
Your journey unfolds over the course of three days.
We will embark on explorations of the Southern Serengeti plains and the captivating Ndutu forest.
During these days, your expedition will include a varied range of destinations, including Lake Masek, Lake Ndutu, the Hidden Valley, Kusini Valley, and the Kakesio plains—all of which become focal points for your game drives. The environment pulsates with life, as the expansive migratory herds move in harmonious rhythm. Amidst this panorama of activity, the presence of predators becomes a defining feature. Notably, the cheetah population attains its zenith during this period, with numerous individuals drawn to the plains by the migratory journey of Thomson’s gazelles. Lions, both resident prides and nomadic wanderers, further punctuate the landscape, drawn by the rich bounty that accompanies the migratory spectacle.
As you navigate this multi-dimensional landscape, you witness the intricate interplay of life against the backdrop of Serengeti’s southern expanse. This carefully orchestrated experience offers an unparalleled vantage point to capture the essence of the region’s vitality and its symbiotic relationship with the ebb and flow of the wildebeest migrations.
Lodging
Meals and Overnight at Lake Masek Tented Lodge
June 26, 2027
Farewell to the Wild: From Ndutu to Arusha
our day begins with an early morning game drive in Ndutu, where the golden light of dawn illuminates the vast plains and acacia woodlands. This region, known for its abundant wildlife, offers a final opportunity to witness predators in action, large herds of wildebeest and zebras, and a variety of bird species. The cool morning air enhances the experience as you traverse the landscapes, capturing the last moments of your Ndutu safari adventure.
After an exhilarating morning in the wild, you will return to camp for an early lunch, enjoying a moment to relax before bidding farewell to the Serengeti’s breathtaking scenery.
Following lunch, you will depart for Arusha, journeying through the diverse landscapes of northern Tanzania. Upon arrival in the evening, you will check in to your accommodation and unwind with a delicious dinner, reflecting on the unforgettable experiences of your safari before settling in for the night.
Lodging
Meals and Overnight at Mount Meru Game Lodge
June 27, 2027
Embracing the Echoes of an Enchanted Safari.
As the indelible impressions of your captivating photography safari continue to color your memories, a day of tranquility and contemplation awaits. Like a delicate pause between the chapters of your journey, this day extends an invitation to explore its tapestry at a leisurely pace, where each strand is a memory intricately woven with the interplay of light and shadow from your photographic escapades. Amidst this serene backdrop, you’ll also find the moment to gently set aside your cameras, allowing them a well-deserved rest after faithfully encapsulating the very essence of the untamed landscape.
The morning unfolds with a sense of ease, gradually transitioning into the post-breakfast hours, presenting a unique opportunity. Should you choose, an enriching interlude awaits—an immersive exploration of Arusha’s cultural heritage. This enticing proposition, thoughtfully positioned before the midday reprieve, extends an invitation to engage with the traditions and history that define this vibrant locale.
Throughout the rhythm of this harmonious day, the lodge stands as a sanctuary of culinary excellence, presenting a symphony of flavors to enhance your moments of respite. As time gracefully unfolds, you’re encouraged to wander in quiet reflection or embrace leisurely pursuits that resonate with your spirit.
As the sun begins its golden descent, a poetic transition takes center stage. The late afternoon brings forth a bittersweet melody of departure—a meticulously choreographed symphony leading you back to the airport. Yet, this marks not the final note, but rather a crescendo of transition—a pause within the symphony itself. Here, cherished memories find their place, and the journey perpetuates its melody within your heart and soul
Lodging
Day Use Room at Mount Meru Game Lodge
Safari Enhancement choices
Early arrival Option.
Arrive a day before your scheduled trip to unwind, explore the area at your own pace, and fully immerse yourself in the journey ahead. This extra time allows for a smooth start, ensuring you're refreshed and ready for the adventure that awaits.
Balloon safari
As the sun rises, you’ll gently ascend into the sky, floating silently above the vast Serengeti plains. From this unique vantage point, you’ll witness herds of wildebeest, zebras, and other wildlife roaming freely below.