5-DAYS WEST USAMBARA MOUNTAINS BIRDING ADVENTURE

Arrival and Transfer

Upon arrival at Lushoto Bus Terminal, guests will be warmly welcomed by the Birding Guide and transferred to office for the debriefing.

The lead guide will conduct a comprehensive briefing covering:-

o Overview of the Usambara Mountains ecosystem
o Target endemic and rare bird species
o Birding ethics and photography tips
o Daily itinerary and safety guidelines

After debriefing you will be transferred to the se accommodation

Check-in and Relaxation

After check-in, guests can relax and enjoy the cool mountain climate of the Usambara Highlands while taking in the beautiful forest scenery.

Afternoon Orientation Walk (Optional)
A short introductory birding walk around the lodge gardens and nearby habitats may reveal:-

o African Paradise Flycatcher
o Olive Sunbird
o Variable Sunbird
o Common Bulbul
o Yellow-bellied Greenbul

Overnight
Dinner and overnight at the lodge.

Early Morning Birding (6:00 AM – 10:30 AM)

Begin the adventure at forest edges, open trails and ecotone habitats where bird activity is highest.

Target Species: –
o Usambara Thrush
o White-eared Barbet
o African Paradise Flycatcher
o Olive Sunbird
o Variable Sunbird
o Fülleborn’s Boubou
o Yellow-bellied Greenbul
o Common Bulbul
o Little Greenbul

Midday Break
Return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation.

Afternoon Birding (3:30 PM – 6:30 PM)
Explore slightly deeper forest habitats.

Additional Species
o Bar-throated Apalis
o Grey-backed Camaroptera
o Forest Batis
o Yellow-throated Woodland Warbler

Evening
Dinner and checklist review. Overnight

Early Morning Birding (6:00 AM – 11:30 AM)

Today focuses on the most sought-after forest specialists and endemic species of the Usambaras.

Key Target Birds
• Usambara Weaver (Endemic)
• Spot-throat (Rare)
• Usambara Akalat
• White-chested Alethe
• Usambara Thrush
• Red-capped Forest Warbler
• Evergreen Forest Warbler
• Black-fronted Bushshrike

Lunch & Rest
Return to the lodge for lunch.

Late Afternoon Birding (4:00 PM – 6:45 PM)

Possible Sightings
• Bar-tailed Trogon
• African Wood Owl
• Usambara Eagle-Owl (at dusk, depending on conditions)

Evening
Discussion of endemic species observations and photography opportunities.

Overnight
Lodge accommodation.

Early Morning Birding (6:00 AM – 10:30 AM)

Travel to higher ridges and mature montane forest habitats.

Likely Species
• Silvery-cheeked Hornbill
• Hartlaub’s Turaco
• Forest Batis
• Collared Sunbird
• Amethyst Sunbird
• Yellow-throated Woodland Warbler

Mid-Morning Photography Session (10:30 AM – 12:00 PM)

Enjoy dedicated time for:
• Bird photography
• Forest landscape photography
• Scenic viewpoints of the Usambara Mountains

Lunch and Rest
Return to lodge.

Final Afternoon Birding Session (4:00 PM – 6:00 PM)
This session focuses on completing the bird checklist and revisiting productive sites for any missed target species.

Priority Species
• Usambara Weaver
• Spot-throat
• Usambara Eagle-Owl
• Usambara Akalat
• White-chested Alethe

Farewell Dinner
Celebrate the birding adventure with a special farewell dinner featuring local cuisine and a review of trip highlights.

Overnight
Lodge accommodation.

After early breakfast guests will be transferred to Lushoto bus tterminal for onward travel.

End of Tour

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

 Search for the endemic Usambara Weaver
 Opportunity to see the elusive Spot-throat
 Chance to encounter the spectacular Usambara Eagle-Owl
 Birding in one of Africa’s most important biodiversity hotspots
 Expert local bird guides with extensive knowledge of Usambara endemics
 Excellent bird photography opportunities
 Scenic montane forests, ridges, and panoramic viewpoints
 Comfortable lodge accommodation and authentic Tanzanian hospitality