The best time for a birding safari
With over 650 bird species, Zimbabwe is one of Africa’s most rewarding birding destinations. From colorful bee-eaters and turacos to soaring eagles and owls, every season has something to offer – but the experience changes depending on when you travel.
November to April – Peak Birding:
The rainy season is the prime time for birding in Zimbabwe. Migratory species arrive, many birds display their vibrant breeding plumage, and the bush comes alive with activity. Expect to see summer visitors like the Southern Carmine Bee-eater, European Roller, and countless waterbirds around Mana Pools, Lake Kariba, and the Zambezi floodplains.
May to October – Birding with Big Game:
The dry season is best known for game viewing, but it also offers good birding opportunities. With less vegetation, resident species, raptors, and owls are easier to spot. Waterholes attract both wildlife and birds, making it ideal for those who want to combine birding with classic safaris in places like Hwange or the Zambezi National Park.
Top Birding Spots:
Mana Pools – waterbirds, raptors, and bee-eaters and especially the elusive African Pitta.
Hwange – 400+ species alongside elephants and lions.
Eastern Highlands – truly a unique forest terrain with specials like Swynnerton’s Robin.
Victoria Falls – Schalow’s Turaco and Rock Pratincoles near the forests and along the Zambezi River.
Charles Brightman, Mana’s uncle, is a Professional Birding Guide based in Victoria Falls and whom we work very closely with. He offers a “River & Ridges” Birding and Game Drive Safaris, a truly unique experience along the mighty Zambezi River and National Park.
“RIVER & RIDGES” BIRDING AND GAME DRIVE SAFARIS PACKAGE WITH AMANI SAFARIS
This is an early morning sunrise Zambezi River cruise combined with an inland vehicle safari, with well know Professional Guide and award -winning conservationist Charles Brightman.
The Zambezi River’s lush surroundings are home to an incredible diversity of bird species, including kingfishers darting over the water, bee-eaters swooping gracefully, and herons stalking their prey in the shallows. With binoculars in hand, you may spot rare and colourful birds, such as the African Skimmer, the African Finfoot and the Long-toed Lapwing.
As the sun rises higher, warming the land, you might also encounter other wildlife such as hippos bobbing in the river or elephants drinking quietly at the water’s edge, adding to the enchantment of the safari. The experience includes a light breakfast with tea/coffee and mineral water served in a scenic spot, allowing you to reflect on the serene beauty of the Zambezi River and its feathered inhabitants.
After completing the river experience, clients will set off and explore a number of inland habitats using an open 4x4 safari vehicle, in search of a great number of bird species found in the wilderness areas of Victoria Falls.
Drawing on his 38 years of safari experience, Charles will provide fascinating insights into the birds' habits, calls, and the ecosystem that supports them. The soft light of the morning creates perfect conditions for photography, allowing you to capture the vibrant colours and movements of the avian life.
QUICK FACTS:
WE USE A SMALL, EXCLUSIVE 8-SEATER BOAT, EQUIPPED WITH A QUIET 4-STROKE ENGINE, MINIMISING DISTURBANCE TO WILDLIFE AND AN OPEN 4X4 SAFARI VEHICLE
PICKUP TIME: MORNING = 0530HRS (times will change seasonally)
DURATION: APPROX. SIX AND A HALF HOURS FROM PICKUP TO DROP OFF
INCLUDES THE BIRD WATCHING BOAT CRUISE, A VEHICLE SAFARI, A LIGHT BREAKFAST, TEA/COFFEE, MINERAL WATERS
EXCLUDES US$25.00 PER PERSON ENTRY FEE AND THIS HAS TO PAID DIRECTLY BY THE CLIENTS UPON ENTRY TO THE NATIONAL PARK FOR RIVER AND INLAND PARK USEAGES.
BINOCULARS ARE ESSENTIAL!
