Bird watching safaris in Zimbabwe

Whether you're an enthusiastic birder or simply enjoy discovering remarkable birdlife alongside iconic wildlife, Wilderness’ safari camps in Zimbabwe cater to everyone, rather than just dedicated birding specialists. With six luxury safari lodges located in private concessions within the Hwange and Mana Pools National Parks, Wilderness offers access to some of Zimbabwe’s best birding areas while also offering a rich and rewarding safari experience. And with the option of private guides, you have the flexibility to spend as much time dedicated to birds as you like.

Birding with Wilderness Zimbabwe can be of Africa’s most rewarding safari experiences. A vast range of habitats, from open savannah to woodland, provides the ideal conditions for a diverse range of species. Raptors are a highlight, alongside hornbills, rollers, and other woodland birds, while a number of colourful migrants are also seen in the country come the summer months (November to March).  

If you’re dreaming of a bird watching safari in Zimbabwe, Wilderness can help tailor an itinerary around your interests, whether you want to combine birding with exceptional game viewing or would like to explore as much of Zimbabwe’s varied habitats as possible. With a network of exclusive safari lodges, access to private vehicles and guides, and all the logistics from road transfers to city stays and light aircraft connections taken care of, you only need to worry about what to pack.

For bird watching in Zimbabwe, pack lightweight, neutral-coloured clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen and comfortable walking shoes. A good pair of binoculars is also essential while a camera with a telephoto lens is ideal for bird photography. You also want to ensure you pack everything into a soft sided bag, ensuring that you adhere to any luggage weight restrictions for small planes between safari camps.

When to go on a bird watching safari tour in Zimbabwe?

If you want to combine both Hwange and Mana Pools National Parks in one Zimbabwe bird watching safari, you’ll need to travel between April and October as our Mana Pools camps open seasonally between this time. That said, Zimbabwe’s green season (roughly November to March) is particularly appealing for birders on safari in Hwange, as migratory species from Europe and Asia arrive, breeding plumage brings vibrant colours to the bush and the landscapes are lush after the rains. This is an excellent time to enjoy the rich birdlife around Hwange National Park and as it is not peak safari season (June to October) you can also enjoy a less crowded safari experience with more favourable rates. 

What is the best place in Zimbabwe to spot birds?

The riverine ecosystem in Zimbabwe’s Mana Pools National Park creates ideal conditions for diverse birdlife. Here, carmine bee-eaters nest in riverbanks, kingfishers flash along the Zambezi River, and colonies of African skimmers fly low over the water surface. From the Zambezi, it’s also easy to visit Hwange National Park, which also offers excellent conditions for both birding and wildlife photography. Hwange National Park, where Wilderness has three camps, is home to over 420 recorded avian species, including a range of raptor species as well as woodland and water birds.