Top 10 Destinations for African Birding Safaris

Africa, a continent of unparalleled natural beauty, stands as a testament to the diversity of our planet’s ecosystems. It is a treasure trove for ornithologists and bird lovers alike, hosting an astonishing array of bird species that account for more than half of the global avian population.
This rich biodiversity not only offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of birds but also turns Africa into an idyllic haven for those passionate about avian life.

The continent’s vast landscapes, ranging from dense forests to sprawling savannas, provide a backdrop for a symphony of bird calls and the spectacle of their vibrant plumage, making it the ultimate sanctuary for birding enthusiasts.

See our top ten destinations for African birding safaris below:

1. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

The Serengeti is home to many interesting birds, such as the grey-breasted spurfowl, the colorful Fischer’s Lovebird, the majestic Kori Bustard, and the sky-high Rüppell’s Griffon Vulture. Together, these animals make the park a bird researcher’s dream.

2. Kruger National Park, South Africa

Located in the African bush veld, the Kruger National Park offers a great wildlife viewing experience. Some bird species in this region include the Lilac-breasted roller, the ground hornbill, the saddle-billed stork, and the bateleur eagle.

3. Okavango Delta, Botswana

The magnificent Okavango Delta offers the opportunity to see birds such as the wattled crane and the slaty egret enjoy living in its channels. The birding safari from Hwange includes the malachite kingfisher and tiny African pygmy-goose

4. Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe

In Hwange, thanks to the park’s vast habitat, you can see the bright Southern Carmine Bee-eater and the widely scattered Martial Eagle. A wide variety of birds, including the iconic African hoopoe and the Kori Bustard, can be observed during this large-scale birding display.

5. Amboseli National Park, Kenya

The African Crowned Eagle and the delicate African Jacana live in Amboseli, which is right next to Mount Kilimanjaro. In the park, the Taveta Golden Weaver and Rufous Chatterer add to the beautiful chorus of birds.

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Southern Africa Namibia Sossusvlei Damaraland Kunene Region

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Southern Africa Zambia South Luangwa Lower Zambezi Victoria Falls

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15 DAYS

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6. Etosha National Park, Namibia

With Etosha’s huge salt pan in the background, the tiny pygmy falcon and the ostrich are typical of the species that live here. The beautiful Blue Crane and the Southern Yellow-billed Hornbill, which only live in southern Africa, are two other species that people want to see on a safari in Etosha.

7. Tsavo National Park, Kenya

Golden-breasted Starlings and Vulturine Guineafowl patrol Tsavo’s red-dusted landscape. Other inhabitants, such as the black-faced sandgrouse and colorful red-and-yellow barbet, make Tsavo a must-see lively bird-watching destination.

8. Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe

You can see the grand Zambezi River at Mana Pools and enjoy a rare sighting of the African finfoot and the graceful white-collared Pratincole. The fertile habitat also allows for Lilian’s Lovebird and Trumpeter Hornbill flocks.

9. Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania

Nestled in a deep volcanic crater that is home to highland forests, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area is home to the robust Jackson’s Widowbird and the Rosy-breasted Longclaw. The endemic rufous-tailed weaver and schalow’s turaco skyrocket from this diverse habitat.

10. South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

Home to the exquisite lilac-breasted roller and cryptic Pel’s fishing owl as well, of course, as the carmine bee-eater, stately crowned crane, and others that grace the Luangwa River in their many forms.

Going on a birding safari across Africa is more than just an exploration of the continent’s avian diversity; it is a journey into the heart of nature itself, where each destination reveals a unique story of ecological harmony. From the majestic Serengeti to the waterways of the Okavango Delta, these top birding locales offer an intimate encounter with some of the world’s most fascinating bird species, set against the backdrop of Africa’s breathtaking landscapes.