Southern Africa Birding Expedition: Namibia, Okavango & Victoria Falls
This birdwatching journey through Namibia, the Okavango Delta, and Victoria Falls combines southern Africa’s most iconic landscapes with exceptional bird diversity. From arid deserts and wetlands to riverine forests and one of the world’s greatest waterfalls, the tour offers a rich mix of habitats and outstanding wildlife encounters, guided by experienced birding specialists.
About this tour
This multi-country birdwatching expedition explores some of southern Africa’s most biologically diverse and visually striking regions, traveling through Namibia, the Okavango Delta, and ending at Victoria Falls. The route connects dramatically different ecosystems, making it ideal for birders seeking both species diversity and unforgettable scenery.
The journey begins in Namibia, where dry savannas, desert landscapes, and wetlands support a unique mix of arid-adapted birds and large mammals. As the tour continues eastward, the environment gradually transforms, culminating in the lush waterways of the Okavango Delta — one of Africa’s most important inland wetlands and a global birding hotspot.
Here, birding is focused around floodplains, lagoons, and river channels that attract a wide variety of waterbirds, raptors, and woodland species. Boat excursions and land-based birding allow for close observation of both resident and migratory species, often alongside elephants, antelope, and other iconic wildlife.
The final part of the journey brings participants to Victoria Falls, where mist-fed forests and the Zambezi River create yet another distinct habitat. The combination of riverine woodland and open water adds further bird diversity and provides a spectacular natural backdrop to conclude the tour.
Throughout the expedition, birding is conducted at a relaxed pace with an emphasis on quality sightings, photography opportunities, and time in the field. The tour is designed for birders who appreciate well-balanced itineraries, knowledgeable guiding, and the chance to experience Africa’s varied landscapes without rushing between locations.
The journey begins in Namibia, where dry savannas, desert landscapes, and wetlands support a unique mix of arid-adapted birds and large mammals. As the tour continues eastward, the environment gradually transforms, culminating in the lush waterways of the Okavango Delta — one of Africa’s most important inland wetlands and a global birding hotspot.
Here, birding is focused around floodplains, lagoons, and river channels that attract a wide variety of waterbirds, raptors, and woodland species. Boat excursions and land-based birding allow for close observation of both resident and migratory species, often alongside elephants, antelope, and other iconic wildlife.
The final part of the journey brings participants to Victoria Falls, where mist-fed forests and the Zambezi River create yet another distinct habitat. The combination of riverine woodland and open water adds further bird diversity and provides a spectacular natural backdrop to conclude the tour.
Throughout the expedition, birding is conducted at a relaxed pace with an emphasis on quality sightings, photography opportunities, and time in the field. The tour is designed for birders who appreciate well-balanced itineraries, knowledgeable guiding, and the chance to experience Africa’s varied landscapes without rushing between locations.
Birds you can spot
Acacia Pied Barbet
Tricholaema leucomelas
target
Tricholaema leucomelas
target
African Barred Owlet
Glaucidium capense
target
Glaucidium capense
target
African Crake
Sarothrura lugens
target
Sarothrura lugens
target
African Crake
Zapornia akool
target
Zapornia akool
target
African Crake
Microparra capensis
target
Microparra capensis
target
African Cuckoo
Cuculus clamosus
target
Cuculus clamosus
target
African Cuckoo
Cuculus gularis
target
Cuculus gularis
target
African Darter
Microcarbo africanus
target
Microcarbo africanus
target
African Emerald Cuckoo
Chrysococcyx caprius
target
Chrysococcyx caprius
target
African emerald cuckoo
Chrysococcyx cupreus
target
Chrysococcyx cupreus
target
African Finfoot
Podica senegalensis
target
Podica senegalensis
target
African Finfoot
Heliornis fulica
target
Heliornis fulica
target
African Golden Oriole
Oriolus sagittatus
target
Oriolus sagittatus
target
African Golden Oriole
Oriolus decipiens
target
Oriolus decipiens
target
African Green Pigeon
Treron waalia
target
Treron waalia
target
African Grey Hornbill
Crinifer personatus
target
Crinifer personatus
target
African Grey Hornbill
Lophoceros nasutus
target
Lophoceros nasutus
target
African Grey Hornbill
Dryoscopus senegalensis
target
Dryoscopus senegalensis
target
African Harrier-Hawk
Polyboroides typus
target
Polyboroides typus
target
African Harrier-Hawk
Polyboroides radiatus
target
Polyboroides radiatus
target
African Hawk-Eagle
Aquila africana
target
Aquila africana
target
African Hawk-Eagle
Aquila spilogaster
target
Aquila spilogaster
target
African Jacana
Actophilornis africanus
target
Actophilornis africanus
target
African Marsh Harrier
Circus ranivorus
target
Circus ranivorus
target
African Openbill
Anastomus lamelligerus
target
Anastomus lamelligerus
target
African Paradise Flycatcher
Terpsiphone viridis
target
Terpsiphone viridis
target
African Paradise Flycatcher
Terpsiphone mutata
target
Terpsiphone mutata
target
African Pied Wagtail
Motacilla aguimp
target
Motacilla aguimp
target
African Pygmy Goose
Nettapus auritus
target
Nettapus auritus
target
African Pygmy Goose
Nettapus pulchellus
target
Nettapus pulchellus
target
African Scops Owl
Otus senegalensis
target
Otus senegalensis
target
African Scops Owl
Otus brucei
target
Otus brucei
target
African Skimmer
Rynchops flavirostris
target
Rynchops flavirostris
target
African Skimmer
Rynchops albicollis
target
Rynchops albicollis
target
African Snipe
Gallinago nigripennis
target
Gallinago nigripennis
target
African Spoonbill
Platalea alba
target
Platalea alba
target
African Stonechat
Saxicola torquatus
target
Saxicola torquatus
target
African Wood Owl
Strix woodfordii
target
Strix woodfordii
target
Alpine Swift
Tachymarptis melba
target
Tachymarptis melba
target
Amethyst Sunbird
Chalcomitra fuliginosa
target
Chalcomitra fuliginosa
target
Amethyst Sunbird
Chalcomitra amethystina
target
Chalcomitra amethystina
target
Arrow-marked babbler
Turdoides jardineii
target
Turdoides jardineii
target
Augur Buzzard
Buteo augur
target
Buteo augur
target
Bar-tailed Godwit
Limosa lapponica
target
Limosa lapponica
target
Bare-cheeked Babbler
Turdoides gymnogenys
target
Turdoides gymnogenys
target
Bateleur
Terathopius ecaudatus
target
Terathopius ecaudatus
target
Bearded Scrub Robin
Criniger barbatus
target
Criniger barbatus
target
Black Coucal
Centropus ateralbus
target
Centropus ateralbus
target
Black Crake
Zapornia monasa
target
Zapornia monasa
target
Black Crake
Zapornia nigra
target
Zapornia nigra
target
Black Crake
Zapornia flavirostra
target
Zapornia flavirostra
target
Black Heron
Egretta ardesiaca
target
Egretta ardesiaca
target
Black Tern
Chlidonias niger
target
Chlidonias niger
target
Black-backed puffback
Dryoscopus cubla
target
Dryoscopus cubla
target
Black-bellied Bustard
Heterotetrax vigorsii
target
Heterotetrax vigorsii
target
Black-bellied Bustard
Heterotetrax humilis
target
Heterotetrax humilis
target
Black-bellied Bustard
Lissotis melanogaster
target
Lissotis melanogaster
target
Black-chested Snake Eagle
Circaetus pectoralis
target
Circaetus pectoralis
target
Black-Collared Barbet
Tricholaema melanocephala
target
Tricholaema melanocephala
target
Black-crowned Tchagra
Sugomel nigrum
target
Sugomel nigrum
target
Black-crowned Tchagra
Tchagra senegalus
target
Tchagra senegalus
target
Black-faced Babbler
Turdoides melanops
target
Turdoides melanops
target
Black-faced Waxbill
Ortygospiza atricollis
target
Ortygospiza atricollis
target
Black-faced Waxbill
Estrilda atricapilla
target
Estrilda atricapilla
target
Black-headed Heron
Ardea melanocephala
target
Ardea melanocephala
target
Black-necked Grebe
Podiceps nigricollis
target
Podiceps nigricollis
target
Black-throated Canary
Crithagra atrogularis
target
Crithagra atrogularis
target
Black-winged Kite
Elanus axillaris
target
Elanus axillaris
target
Black-winged Stilt
Himantopus himantopus
target
Himantopus himantopus
target
Blacksmith Lapwing
Vanellus armatus
target
Vanellus armatus
target
Blue Crane
Grus paradisea
target
Grus paradisea
target
Broad-billed Roller
Eurystomus glaucurus
target
Eurystomus glaucurus
target
Bronze Mannikin
Brachycope anomala
target
Brachycope anomala
target
Bronze Mannikin
Speculipastor bicolor
target
Speculipastor bicolor
target
Bronze Mannikin
Spermestes cucullata
target
Spermestes cucullata
target
Bronze Mannikin
Cryptospiza reichenovii
target
Cryptospiza reichenovii
target
Brown Snake Eagle
Circaetus cinereus
target
Circaetus cinereus
target
Brown-throated Martin
Agricola infuscatus
target
Agricola infuscatus
target
Brubru
Nilaus afer
target
Nilaus afer
target
Buffy Pipit
Anthus vaalensis
target
Anthus vaalensis
target
Burchell's Courser
Cursorius rufus
target
Cursorius rufus
target
Cape Crow
Onychognathus salvadorii
target
Onychognathus salvadorii
target
Cape Penduline Tit
Anthoscopus minutus
target
Anthoscopus minutus
target
Cape Sparrow
Passer melanurus
target
Passer melanurus
target
Cape Wagtail
Motacilla capensis
target
Motacilla capensis
target
Capped Wheatear
Oenanthe pileata
target
Oenanthe pileata
target
Cardinal Woodpecker
Dendropicos fuscescens
target
Dendropicos fuscescens
target
Cardinal Woodpecker
Dendropicos lugubris
target
Dendropicos lugubris
target
Cardinal Woodpecker
Dendropicos spodocephalus
target
Dendropicos spodocephalus
target
Caspian Tern
Hydroprogne caspia
target
Hydroprogne caspia
target
Chestnut Weaver
Ploceus castaneiceps
target
Ploceus castaneiceps
target
Chestnut Weaver
Ploceus castanops
target
Ploceus castanops
target
Chestnut Weaver
Ploceus castaneofuscus
target
Ploceus castaneofuscus
target
Chestnut Weaver
Ploceus rubiginosus
target
Ploceus rubiginosus
target
Chestnut-vented Warbler
Sylvietta rufescens
target
Sylvietta rufescens
target
Chestnut-vented Warbler
Sylvietta ruficapilla
target
Sylvietta ruficapilla
target
Chinspot Batis
Batis molitor
target
Batis molitor
target
Chinspot Batis
Batis soror
target
Batis soror
target
Chinspot Batis
Batis occulta
target
Batis occulta
target
Chinspot Batis
Batis mixta
target
Batis mixta
target
Chinspot Batis
Batis fratrum
target
Batis fratrum
target
Cinnamon-breasted Bunting
Emberiza tahapisi
target
Emberiza tahapisi
target
Collared Pratincole
Glareola pratincola
target
Glareola pratincola
target
Collared Sunbird
Hedydipna collaris
target
Hedydipna collaris
target
Common Buzzard
Buteo buteo
target
Buteo buteo
target
Common Greenshank
Tringa nebularia
target
Tringa nebularia
target
Common Moorhen
Gallinula chloropus
target
Gallinula chloropus
target
Common Sandpiper
Actitis hypoleucos
target
Actitis hypoleucos
target
Common Swift
Apus apus
target
Apus apus
target
Common Waxbill
Estrilda astrild
target
Estrilda astrild
target
Copper Sunbird
Cinnyris congensis
target
Cinnyris congensis
target
Copper Sunbird
Cinnyris cupreus
target
Cinnyris cupreus
target
Crested Barbet
Trachyphonus vaillantii
target
Trachyphonus vaillantii
target
Crested Barbet
Trachyphonus darnaudii
target
Trachyphonus darnaudii
target
Crested Barbet
Tricholaema diademata
target
Tricholaema diademata
target
Crested Barbet
Dessonornis caffer
target
Dessonornis caffer
target
Crested Francolin
Scleroptila streptophora
target
Scleroptila streptophora
target
Crimson-breasted Shrike
Malaconotus cruentus
target
Malaconotus cruentus
target
Crimson-breasted Shrike
Laniarius atrococcineus
target
Laniarius atrococcineus
target
Crowned Hornbill
Lophoceros semifasciatus
target
Lophoceros semifasciatus
target
Crowned Hornbill
Lophoceros alboterminatus
target
Lophoceros alboterminatus
target
Crowned Lapwing
Vanellus coronatus
target
Vanellus coronatus
target
Cut-throat Finch
Amadina fasciata
target
Amadina fasciata
target
Dark Chanting Goshawk
Melierax metabates
target
Melierax metabates
target
Double-banded Courser
Anarhynchus bicinctus
target
Anarhynchus bicinctus
target
Double-banded Courser
Rhinoptilus cinctus
target
Rhinoptilus cinctus
target
Double-banded Courser
Rhinoptilus africanus
target
Rhinoptilus africanus
target
Double-banded Courser
Rhinoptilus bitorquatus
target
Rhinoptilus bitorquatus
target
Dune Lark
Eremalauda eremodites
target
Eremalauda eremodites
target
Dusky Sunbird
Cinnyris fuscus
target
Cinnyris fuscus
target
Dusky Sunbird
Cinnyris dussumieri
target
Cinnyris dussumieri
target
Dwarf Bittern
Botaurus dubius
target
Botaurus dubius
target
Dwarf Bittern
Bocagia minuta
target
Bocagia minuta
target
Emerald-spotted Wood Dove
Turtur chalcospilos
target
Turtur chalcospilos
target
Eurasian Hobby
Falco subbuteo
target
Falco subbuteo
target
European Bee-eater
Merops viridis
target
Merops viridis
target
European Bee-eater
Merops apiaster
target
Merops apiaster
target
European Storm Petrel
Hydrobates monorhis
target
Hydrobates monorhis
target
European Storm Petrel
Pelagodroma marina
target
Pelagodroma marina
target
European Storm Petrel
Hydrobates pelagicus
target
Hydrobates pelagicus
target
European Storm Petrel
Hydrobates macrodactylus
target
Hydrobates macrodactylus
target
Fan-tailed Widowbird
Euplectes axillaris
target
Euplectes axillaris
target
Fawn-colored Lark
Calendulauda africanoides
target
Calendulauda africanoides
target
Fawn-colored Lark
Spizocorys personata
target
Spizocorys personata
target
Fawn-colored Lark
Spizocorys fringillaris
target
Spizocorys fringillaris
target
Gabar Goshawk
Micronisus gabar
target
Micronisus gabar
target
Glossy Ibis
Ardea ibis
target
Ardea ibis
target
Glossy Ibis
Plegadis falcinellus
target
Plegadis falcinellus
target
Golden-tailed woodpecker
Campethera abingoni
target
Campethera abingoni
target
Golden-tailed Woodpecker
Campethera maculosa
target
Campethera maculosa
target
Golden-tailed Woodpecker
Campethera cailliautii
target
Campethera cailliautii
target
Golden-tailed Woodpecker
Campethera taeniolaema
target
Campethera taeniolaema
target
Goliath Heron
Ardea goliath
target
Ardea goliath
target
Great White Pelican
Pelecanus onocrotalus
target
Pelecanus onocrotalus
target
Greater kestrel
Falco rupicoloides
target
Falco rupicoloides
target
Greater Painted-snipe
Rostratula benghalensis
target
Rostratula benghalensis
target
Greater Painted-snipe
Metopidius indicus
target
Metopidius indicus
target
Green Wood Hoopoe
Phoeniculus purpureus
target
Phoeniculus purpureus
target
Green-winged Pytilia
Telophorus zeylonus
target
Telophorus zeylonus
target
Green-winged Pytilia
Pytilia melba
target
Pytilia melba
target
Green-winged Pytilia
Pytilia afra
target
Pytilia afra
target
Green-winged Pytilia
Pytilia phoenicoptera
target
Pytilia phoenicoptera
target
Grey-headed Bushshrike
Crinifer concolor
target
Crinifer concolor
target
Grey-headed Bushshrike
Mazaria propinqua
target
Mazaria propinqua
target
Grey-headed Bushshrike
Malaconotus blanchoti
target
Malaconotus blanchoti
target
Grey-headed Bushshrike
Bradornis microrhynchus
target
Bradornis microrhynchus
target
Grey-rumped Swallow
Pseudhirundo griseopyga
target
Pseudhirundo griseopyga
target
Groundscraper Thrush
Phyllastrephus terrestris
target
Phyllastrephus terrestris
target
Groundscraper Thrush
Turdus litsitsirupa
target
Turdus litsitsirupa
target
Half-collared kingfisher
Alcedo semitorquata
target
Alcedo semitorquata
target
Hamerkop
Scopus umbretta
target
Scopus umbretta
target
Helmeted Guineafowl
Penelope pileata
target
Penelope pileata
target
Helmeted Guineafowl
Numida meleagris
target
Numida meleagris
target
Herero Chat
Namibornis herero
target
Namibornis herero
target
Hooded Vulture
Necrosyrtes monachus
target
Necrosyrtes monachus
target
Icterine Warbler
Hippolais icterina
target
Hippolais icterina
target
Knob-billed Duck
Sarkidiornis melanotos
target
Sarkidiornis melanotos
target
Kori Bustard
Ardeotis kori
target
Ardeotis kori
target
Kurrichane thrush
Turdus libonyana
target
Turdus libonyana
target
Lanner Falcon
Falco biarmicus
target
Falco biarmicus
target
Lappet-faced Vulture
Torgos tracheliotos
target
Torgos tracheliotos
target
Lesser Grey Shrike
Lanius minor
target
Lanius minor
target
Lesser Masked Weaver
Ploceus brachypterus
target
Ploceus brachypterus
target
Lesser Masked Weaver
Ploceus intermedius
target
Ploceus intermedius
target
Lesser Spotted Eagle
Clanga pomarina
target
Clanga pomarina
target
Lesser Striped Swallow
Cecropis cucullata
target
Cecropis cucullata
target
Little Bittern
Botaurus minutus
target
Botaurus minutus
target
Little Grebe
Tachybaptus ruficollis
target
Tachybaptus ruficollis
target
Little Stint
Calidris minuta
target
Calidris minuta
target
Little Swift
Apus affinis
target
Apus affinis
target
Lizard Buzzard
Kaupifalco monogrammicus
target
Kaupifalco monogrammicus
target
Long-toed lapwing
Vanellus crassirostris
target
Vanellus crassirostris
target
Long-toed Lapwing
Vanellus macropterus
target
Vanellus macropterus
target
Luapula Cisticola
Cisticola luapula
target
Cisticola luapula
target
Malachite Kingfisher
Corythornis cristatus
target
Corythornis cristatus
target
Marabou Stork
Leptoptilos crumenifer
target
Leptoptilos crumenifer
target
Marico Flycatcher
Bradornis mariquensis
target
Bradornis mariquensis
target
Marico Sunbird
Cinnyris mariquensis
target
Cinnyris mariquensis
target
Marsh Sandpiper
Tringa stagnatilis
target
Tringa stagnatilis
target
Martial Eagle
Polemaetus bellicosus
target
Polemaetus bellicosus
target
Monteiro's Hornbill
Tockus monteiri
target
Tockus monteiri
target
Namaqua Dove
Oena capensis
target
Oena capensis
target
Namaqua Sandgrouse
Pterocles namaqua
target
Pterocles namaqua
target
Narina Trogon
Apaloderma narina
target
Apaloderma narina
target
Natal spurfowl
Pternistis natalensis
target
Pternistis natalensis
target
Neddicky
Cisticola restrictus
target
Cisticola restrictus
target
Neddicky
Cisticola lugubris
target
Cisticola lugubris
target
Northern Black Korhaan
Afrotis afra
target
Afrotis afra
target
Northern Black Korhaan
Afrotis afraoides
target
Afrotis afraoides
target
Orange-breasted Bushshrike
Leioptila annectens
target
Leioptila annectens
target
Osprey
Pandion haliaetus
target
Pandion haliaetus
target
Parasitic Jaeger
Stercorarius parasiticus
target
Stercorarius parasiticus
target
Pearl-breasted Swallow
Hirundo dimidiata
target
Hirundo dimidiata
target
Pearl-spotted Owlet
Glaucidium perlatum
target
Glaucidium perlatum
target
Pel's Fishing Owl
Scotopelia peli
target
Scotopelia peli
target
Pennant-winged Nightjar
Caprimulgus vexillarius
target
Caprimulgus vexillarius
target
Peregrine Falcon
Falco peregrinus
target
Falco peregrinus
target
Pied Kingfisher
Ceryle rudis
target
Ceryle rudis
target
Pin-tailed Whydah
Vidua codringtoni
target
Vidua codringtoni
target
Pin-tailed Whydah
Vidua macroura
target
Vidua macroura
target
Pink-billed Lark
Spizocorys conirostris
target
Spizocorys conirostris
target
Pririt Batis
Batis pririt
target
Batis pririt
target
Purple Heron
Ardea purpurea
target
Ardea purpurea
target
Purple-banded Sunbird
Cinnyris bifasciatus
target
Cinnyris bifasciatus
target
Purple-banded Sunbird
Cyanomitra oritis
target
Cyanomitra oritis
target
Purple-banded Sunbird
Cinnyris regius
target
Cinnyris regius
target
Purple-banded Sunbird
Cinnyris hellmayri
target
Cinnyris hellmayri
target
Purple-banded Sunbird
Cinnyris aurora
target
Cinnyris aurora
target
Purple-banded Sunbird
Cinnyris infrenatus
target
Cinnyris infrenatus
target
Purple-banded Sunbird
Cinnyris buettikoferi
target
Cinnyris buettikoferi
target
Pygmy Falcon
Polihierax semitorquatus
target
Polihierax semitorquatus
target
Red-billed Buffalo Weaver
Bubalornis niger
target
Bubalornis niger
target
Red-billed Firefinch
Pytilia hypogrammica
target
Pytilia hypogrammica
target
Red-billed Firefinch
Lagonosticta senegala
target
Lagonosticta senegala
target
Red-billed Quelea
Quelea quelea
target
Quelea quelea
target
Red-billed spurfowl
Pternistis adspersus
target
Pternistis adspersus
target
Red-faced Cisticola
Erythrocercus mccallii
target
Erythrocercus mccallii
target
Red-faced Cisticola
Cisticola erythrops
target
Cisticola erythrops
target
Red-headed Finch
Amadina erythrocephala
target
Amadina erythrocephala
target
Red-knobbed Coot
Fulica cristata
target
Fulica cristata
target
Red-necked Falcon
Falco chicquera
target
Falco chicquera
target
Red-winged Starling
Onychognathus morio
target
Onychognathus morio
target
Red-winged Starling
Onychognathus frater
target
Onychognathus frater
target
Rock Kestrel
Falco rupicolus
target
Falco rupicolus
target
Rosy-faced Lovebird
Agapornis roseicollis
target
Agapornis roseicollis
target
Ruddy Turnstone
Arenaria interpres
target
Arenaria interpres
target
Ruff
Calidris pugnax
target
Calidris pugnax
target
Rufous-bellied Heron
Ardeola rufiventris
target
Ardeola rufiventris
target
Rufous-bellied Tit
Melaniparus rufiventris
target
Melaniparus rufiventris
target
Rufous-naped Lark
Galerida macrorhyncha
target
Galerida macrorhyncha
target
Rufous-naped Lark
Campicoloides bifasciatus
target
Campicoloides bifasciatus
target
Sabota lark
Calendulauda sabota
target
Calendulauda sabota
target
Sabota lark
Calendulauda poecilosterna
target
Calendulauda poecilosterna
target
Sand Martin
Riparia riparia
target
Riparia riparia
target
Sanderling
Calidris alba
target
Calidris alba
target
Secretarybird
Sagittarius serpentarius
target
Sagittarius serpentarius
target
Senegal Coucal
Centropus monachus
target
Centropus monachus
target
Senegal Coucal
Centropus senegalensis
target
Centropus senegalensis
target
Shaft-tailed Whydah
Vidua raricola
target
Vidua raricola
target
Shaft-tailed Whydah
Vidua nigeriae
target
Vidua nigeriae
target
Shaft-tailed Whydah
Vidua regia
target
Vidua regia
target
Shaft-tailed Whydah
Vidua obtusa
target
Vidua obtusa
target
Sharp-tailed Starling
Lamprotornis acuticaudus
target
Lamprotornis acuticaudus
target
Short-toed rock thrush
Monticola brevipes
target
Monticola brevipes
target
Slaty Egret
Egretta vinaceigula
target
Egretta vinaceigula
target
Sooty Shearwater
Ardenna grisea
target
Ardenna grisea
target
South African Shelduck
Tadorna cana
target
Tadorna cana
target
Southern Carmine Bee-eater
Merops nubicoides
target
Merops nubicoides
target
Southern Pied Babbler
Turdoides bicolor
target
Turdoides bicolor
target
Southern Pochard
Netta erythrophthalma
target
Netta erythrophthalma
target
Southern Red Bishop
Telophorus cruentus
target
Telophorus cruentus
target
Southern Red Bishop
Euplectes orix
target
Euplectes orix
target
Southern Red Bishop
Leistes bellicosus
target
Leistes bellicosus
target
Southern Red Bishop
Euplectes capensis
target
Euplectes capensis
target
Southern White-faced Owl
Ptilopsis granti
target
Ptilopsis granti
target
Southern Yellow-billed Hornbill
Tockus damarensis
target
Tockus damarensis
target
Southern Yellow-billed Hornbill
Tockus leucomelas
target
Tockus leucomelas
target
Speckled Pigeon
Columba guinea
target
Columba guinea
target
Spectacled Weaver
Ploceus ocularis
target
Ploceus ocularis
target
Spotted Flycatcher
Muscicapa striata
target
Muscicapa striata
target
Spur-winged Goose
Plectropterus gambensis
target
Plectropterus gambensis
target
Squacco Heron
Ardeola ralloides
target
Ardeola ralloides
target
Striped Kingfisher
Halcyon chelicuti
target
Halcyon chelicuti
target
Swallow-tailed Bee-eater
Merops hirundineus
target
Merops hirundineus
target
Tawny Eagle
Aquila rapax
target
Aquila rapax
target
Tinkling Cisticola
Cisticola distinctus
target
Cisticola distinctus
target
Tinkling Cisticola
Cisticola anonymus
target
Cisticola anonymus
target
Tinkling Cisticola
Cisticola lais
target
Cisticola lais
target
Tinkling Cisticola
Cisticola tinniens
target
Cisticola tinniens
target
Tinkling Cisticola
Cisticola robustus
target
Cisticola robustus
target
Tinkling Cisticola
Cisticola brunnescens
target
Cisticola brunnescens
target
Tractrac Chat
Pinarocorys nigricans
target
Pinarocorys nigricans
target
Tractrac Chat
Emarginata tractrac
target
Emarginata tractrac
target
Tropical Boubou
Laniarius major
target
Laniarius major
target
Trumpeter Hornbill
Bycanistes bucinator
target
Bycanistes bucinator
target
Village Weaver
Ploceus cucullatus
target
Ploceus cucullatus
target
Violet-backed Starling
Cinnyricinclus leucogaster
target
Cinnyricinclus leucogaster
target
Violet-backed Starling
Pyrenestes sanguineus
target
Pyrenestes sanguineus
target
Violet-eared Waxbill
Glaucestrilda caerulescens
target
Glaucestrilda caerulescens
target
Violet-eared Waxbill
Granatina granatina
target
Granatina granatina
target
Water Thick-knee
Burhinus vermiculatus
target
Burhinus vermiculatus
target
Wattled Crane
Grus carunculata
target
Grus carunculata
target
White-backed Duck
Thalassornis leuconotus
target
Thalassornis leuconotus
target
White-backed Mousebird
Colius colius
target
Colius colius
target
White-bellied Sunbird
Malcorus pectoralis
target
Malcorus pectoralis
target
White-bellied Sunbird
Aethopyga eximia
target
Aethopyga eximia
target
White-breasted Cuckooshrike
Cissomela pectoralis
target
Cissomela pectoralis
target
White-browed Coucal
Centropus superciliosus
target
Centropus superciliosus
target
White-browed Robin-Chat
Chlorophoneus nigrifrons
target
Chlorophoneus nigrifrons
target
White-browed Robin-Chat
Cossyphicula roberti
target
Cossyphicula roberti
target
White-browed Scrub Robin
Cercotrichas leucophrys
target
Cercotrichas leucophrys
target
White-chinned Petrel
Procellaria aequinoctialis
target
Procellaria aequinoctialis
target
White-crested Helmetshrike
Empidornis semipartitus
target
Empidornis semipartitus
target
White-crowned shrike
Eurocephalus anguitimens
target
Eurocephalus anguitimens
target
White-faced Whistling Duck
Dendrocygna viduata
target
Dendrocygna viduata
target
White-fronted Plover
Purnella albifrons
target
Purnella albifrons
target
White-rumped Swift
Apus leuconyx
target
Apus leuconyx
target
White-rumped Swift
Apus caffer
target
Apus caffer
target
White-tailed Shrike
Lanioturdus torquatus
target
Lanioturdus torquatus
target
White-throated Canary
Tachyspiza albogularis
target
Tachyspiza albogularis
target
White-throated Canary
Crithagra albogularis
target
Crithagra albogularis
target
White-winged Tern
Chlidonias leucopterus
target
Chlidonias leucopterus
target
Willow Warbler
Phylloscopus trochilus
target
Phylloscopus trochilus
target
Willow Warbler
Phylloscopus cantator
target
Phylloscopus cantator
target
Wire-tailed swallow
Hirundo smithii
target
Hirundo smithii
target
Wood Sandpiper
Tringa glareola
target
Tringa glareola
target
Woodland Kingfisher
Halcyon senegalensis
target
Halcyon senegalensis
target
Woodland Kingfisher
Halcyon senegaloides
target
Halcyon senegaloides
target
Yellow-bellied Eremomela
Eremomela icteropygialis
target
Eremomela icteropygialis
target
Yellow-bellied Greenbul
Calyptocichla serinus
target
Calyptocichla serinus
target
Yellow-bellied Greenbul
Eurillas gracilis
target
Eurillas gracilis
target
Yellow-bellied Greenbul
Chlorocichla flaviventris
target
Chlorocichla flaviventris
target
Yellow-bellied Greenbul
Eurillas curvirostris
target
Eurillas curvirostris
target
Yellow-billed Oxpecker
Buphagus africanus
target
Buphagus africanus
target
Yellow-breasted Apalis
Apalis flavocincta
target
Apalis flavocincta
target
Yellow-breasted Apalis
Apalis flavida
target
Apalis flavida
target
Yellow-breasted Apalis
Cisticola guinea
target
Cisticola guinea
target
Yellow-crowned Bishop
Euplectes afer
target
Euplectes afer
target
Yellow-crowned Bishop
Euplectes macroura
target
Euplectes macroura
target
Yellow-fronted Canary
Crithagra mozambica
target
Crithagra mozambica
target
Yellow-fronted Canary
Crithagra canicapilla
target
Crithagra canicapilla
target
Yellow-fronted Canary
Crithagra mennelli
target
Crithagra mennelli
target
Yellow-fronted Canary
Crithagra burtoni
target
Crithagra burtoni
target
Yellow-fronted Canary
Serinus alario
target
Serinus alario
target
Yellow-fronted Canary
Crithagra frontalis
target
Crithagra frontalis
target
Yellow-fronted Tinkerbird
Anthoscopus flavifrons
target
Anthoscopus flavifrons
target
Itinerary ▼
Day 1
Arrival in Walvis Bay & Namib Desert Coast Birding
Upon arrival at Walvis Bay Airport, guests are met by the birding guide and the tour begins immediately with field activities. The first birding stop is typically made near the village of Rooibank, where striking red sand dunes meet a usually dry riverbed in the heart of the Namib Desert.
This desert-edge habitat is especially important for locating the Dune Lark, a Namibian near-endemic species and one of the main targets of the day. The area also regularly produces sightings of the pale, desert-adapted form of Tractrac Chat, often appearing almost entirely white against the sand.
Later in the day, birding continues along the coastal wetlands around Walvis Bay, a region famous for its exceptional concentrations of waterbirds. The group settles into accommodation for a two-night stay in an area where enormous flocks of flamingos are frequently visible — often numbering in the thousands and usually comprising a mix of Greater and Lesser Flamingos. Migratory shorebirds from Eurasia, Great White Pelican, and a wide variety of other coastal species are also commonly present.
Overnight in the Walvis Bay area.
This desert-edge habitat is especially important for locating the Dune Lark, a Namibian near-endemic species and one of the main targets of the day. The area also regularly produces sightings of the pale, desert-adapted form of Tractrac Chat, often appearing almost entirely white against the sand.
Later in the day, birding continues along the coastal wetlands around Walvis Bay, a region famous for its exceptional concentrations of waterbirds. The group settles into accommodation for a two-night stay in an area where enormous flocks of flamingos are frequently visible — often numbering in the thousands and usually comprising a mix of Greater and Lesser Flamingos. Migratory shorebirds from Eurasia, Great White Pelican, and a wide variety of other coastal species are also commonly present.
Overnight in the Walvis Bay area.
Day 2
Walvis Bay Lagoon, Swakopmund & Coastal Birding Areas
The day begins with early-morning birding, with plans adjusted based on the previous day’s results. If needed, additional time is spent searching for Dune Lark in suitable desert habitat near Walvis Bay. Alternatively, birding may focus around Swakopmund, targeting Gray’s Lark, an extremely pale Namib Desert near-endemic well adapted to the coastal desert environment.
As the day progresses, attention shifts to the wetlands of Walvis Bay Lagoon and the surrounding salt works, internationally recognized as one of Africa’s premier sites for shorebird watching. Extensive mudflats and shallow waters regularly host large numbers of Palearctic migratory waders, often in impressive concentrations.
Key waterbird targets in this area include Chestnut-banded Plover, Black-necked Grebe, Black Tern, and the small but distinctive Damara Tern, along with many other coastal and wetland species.
Overnight in Walvis Bay.
As the day progresses, attention shifts to the wetlands of Walvis Bay Lagoon and the surrounding salt works, internationally recognized as one of Africa’s premier sites for shorebird watching. Extensive mudflats and shallow waters regularly host large numbers of Palearctic migratory waders, often in impressive concentrations.
Key waterbird targets in this area include Chestnut-banded Plover, Black-necked Grebe, Black Tern, and the small but distinctive Damara Tern, along with many other coastal and wetland species.
Overnight in Walvis Bay.
Day 3
Namib Escarpment via Spitzkoppe
Travel continues inland and northward, where the landscape becomes increasingly dramatic. One of the most striking features of the day is Spitzkoppe, often referred to as the “Matterhorn of Namibia” — a massive granite inselberg rising sharply from the surrounding desert plains.
Birding in the open, flat areas around Spitzkoppe focuses on species adapted to arid grassland and semi-desert environments. These habitats provide good opportunities for Burchell’s Courser, Rüppell’s Korhaan, Ludwig’s Bustard, and several range-restricted lark species, including Karoo Long-billed Lark.
Attention then shifts to the rocky slopes and mountainous terrain, where a very different bird community is found. Here, the search includes the elusive Herero Chat, energetic flocks of Rosy-faced Lovebirds, and a small number of hornbill species largely confined to the Namib Desert and nearby arid regions. Bradfield’s Swift is another notable species often encountered around the cliffs and rocky outcrops.
Later in the day, birding around the rocky landscapes near Omaruru offers excellent chances to observe birds of prey. Raptors such as Verreaux’s Eagle, African Hawk-Eagle, and Augur Buzzard regularly hunt over this terrain. The area is also home to Kirk’s Dik-dik, a small antelope that is frequently seen moving through the scrub and rocky cover.
Overnight at Ai-Aiba – The Rock Painting Lodge.
Birding in the open, flat areas around Spitzkoppe focuses on species adapted to arid grassland and semi-desert environments. These habitats provide good opportunities for Burchell’s Courser, Rüppell’s Korhaan, Ludwig’s Bustard, and several range-restricted lark species, including Karoo Long-billed Lark.
Attention then shifts to the rocky slopes and mountainous terrain, where a very different bird community is found. Here, the search includes the elusive Herero Chat, energetic flocks of Rosy-faced Lovebirds, and a small number of hornbill species largely confined to the Namib Desert and nearby arid regions. Bradfield’s Swift is another notable species often encountered around the cliffs and rocky outcrops.
Later in the day, birding around the rocky landscapes near Omaruru offers excellent chances to observe birds of prey. Raptors such as Verreaux’s Eagle, African Hawk-Eagle, and Augur Buzzard regularly hunt over this terrain. The area is also home to Kirk’s Dik-dik, a small antelope that is frequently seen moving through the scrub and rocky cover.
Overnight at Ai-Aiba – The Rock Painting Lodge.
Accommodation:
Ai-Aiba – The Rock Painting Lodge
Day 4
Birding the Namib Escarpment
A full day is devoted to birding the rugged landscapes of central Namibia, focusing on the mountainous terrain of the Namib Escarpment. This region is home to several highly localized and charismatic species that rank among the highlights of the tour. Notable targets include White-tailed Shrike, Hartlaub’s Spurfowl, Rüppell’s Parrot, and Rockrunner — all species with very restricted ranges, largely confined to Namibia and small parts of neighboring Angola.
Birding takes place around rocky slopes, dry valleys, and the lodge surroundings, where a surprising variety of vividly colored seedeaters are often active and provide excellent viewing opportunities throughout the day.
In the afternoon, birding typically continues along a dry riverbed, offering another chance to observe Rüppell’s Parrot, before exploring additional habitats in the surrounding area. The region is also known for its mammal diversity, and with some luck, sightings may include Kaokoveld Slender Mongoose, Greater Kudu, Hartmann’s Mountain Zebra, or other large mammals adapted to this arid environment.
Overnight at Ai-Aiba – The Rock Painting Lodge, near Omaruru.
Birding takes place around rocky slopes, dry valleys, and the lodge surroundings, where a surprising variety of vividly colored seedeaters are often active and provide excellent viewing opportunities throughout the day.
In the afternoon, birding typically continues along a dry riverbed, offering another chance to observe Rüppell’s Parrot, before exploring additional habitats in the surrounding area. The region is also known for its mammal diversity, and with some luck, sightings may include Kaokoveld Slender Mongoose, Greater Kudu, Hartmann’s Mountain Zebra, or other large mammals adapted to this arid environment.
Overnight at Ai-Aiba – The Rock Painting Lodge, near Omaruru.
Accommodation:
Ai-Aiba – The Rock Painting Lodge
Day 5
Etosha National Park: Birds & Mammals
The day is spent exploring Etosha National Park, widely regarded as one of Africa’s finest wildlife reserves. Birding and wildlife viewing are conducted during an open-top game drive, an ideal way to experience the park’s vast landscapes and exceptional biodiversity.
Etosha is renowned for its abundance of mammals, ranging from large herbivores to top predators. Regular sightings include African Elephant, Black Rhinoceros, and impressive herds of Springbok, Gemsbok, Plains Zebra, and Blue Wildebeest. This rich prey base supports a healthy population of carnivores and scavengers, with species such as Cheetah, Lion, Leopard, African Wildcat, Spotted Hyena, and Black-backed Jackal all possible during the day’s drive.
While mammals are never ignored, birding remains the primary focus. Etosha supports a geographically isolated population of Blue Crane, South Africa’s national bird, making sightings here particularly notable. Large ground-dwelling species are well represented, with Kori Bustard and Northern Black Korhaan frequently encountered. Secretarybird, along with a wide variety of raptors and vultures, is a constant presence across the open plains.
The park is also exceptional for owls. Species regularly found include the diminutive African Scops Owl, the massive Verreaux’s Eagle-Owl, and others such as Southern White-faced Owl, often observed at daytime roosts. These sightings commonly occur around Halali Camp, where a lunch stop may be made on one of the days.
Among the smaller highlights, Double-banded Courser can be remarkably confiding, and the enormous communal nests of Sociable Weaver are a striking feature of the landscape. These structures are sometimes shared with Pygmy Falcon, which may be seen using the nests as breeding or roosting sites.
Overnight at Okaukuejo Camp, in the central part of Etosha.
Etosha is renowned for its abundance of mammals, ranging from large herbivores to top predators. Regular sightings include African Elephant, Black Rhinoceros, and impressive herds of Springbok, Gemsbok, Plains Zebra, and Blue Wildebeest. This rich prey base supports a healthy population of carnivores and scavengers, with species such as Cheetah, Lion, Leopard, African Wildcat, Spotted Hyena, and Black-backed Jackal all possible during the day’s drive.
While mammals are never ignored, birding remains the primary focus. Etosha supports a geographically isolated population of Blue Crane, South Africa’s national bird, making sightings here particularly notable. Large ground-dwelling species are well represented, with Kori Bustard and Northern Black Korhaan frequently encountered. Secretarybird, along with a wide variety of raptors and vultures, is a constant presence across the open plains.
The park is also exceptional for owls. Species regularly found include the diminutive African Scops Owl, the massive Verreaux’s Eagle-Owl, and others such as Southern White-faced Owl, often observed at daytime roosts. These sightings commonly occur around Halali Camp, where a lunch stop may be made on one of the days.
Among the smaller highlights, Double-banded Courser can be remarkably confiding, and the enormous communal nests of Sociable Weaver are a striking feature of the landscape. These structures are sometimes shared with Pygmy Falcon, which may be seen using the nests as breeding or roosting sites.
Overnight at Okaukuejo Camp, in the central part of Etosha.
Accommodation:
Okaukuejo Camp, central Etosha
Day 6
Full Day Birding in Etosha National Park
A full day is dedicated to birding within Etosha National Park, with extensive time spent exploring open plains and visiting a variety of productive waterholes. These habitats are ideal for observing a wide range of arid-zone and savanna bird species.
The focus is on locating multiple species of larks, with expected highlights including Eastern Clapper Lark, Stark’s Lark, Sabota Lark, Pink-billed Lark, Fawn-colored Lark, and Rufous-naped Lark. In addition, the day regularly produces sightings of larger and more conspicuous birds such as Crimson-breasted Shrike, Gabar Goshawk, Greater Kestrel, Lappet-faced Vulture, and Namaqua Sandgrouse.
Overnight at Okaukuejo Camp, central Etosha.
The focus is on locating multiple species of larks, with expected highlights including Eastern Clapper Lark, Stark’s Lark, Sabota Lark, Pink-billed Lark, Fawn-colored Lark, and Rufous-naped Lark. In addition, the day regularly produces sightings of larger and more conspicuous birds such as Crimson-breasted Shrike, Gabar Goshawk, Greater Kestrel, Lappet-faced Vulture, and Namaqua Sandgrouse.
Overnight at Okaukuejo Camp, central Etosha.
Day 7
Central to Eastern Etosha National Park
The route today leads from the central part of Etosha toward the eastern section of the park. As the landscape changes gradually, so does the bird community, offering opportunities to add new species not commonly encountered earlier in the tour.
Along the way, target species may include Blue Crane, Secretarybird, Red-necked Falcon, Burchell’s Courser, and Caspian Plover, among other open-country birds typical of this region.
Birding around Mokuti Lodge introduces more woodland-associated species. In this area, sightings often include Black-faced Babbler, Crimson-breasted Shrike, White-browed Scrub Robin, Black-faced Waxbill, Bearded Woodpecker, and Pearl-spotted Owlet, along with a variety of other woodland birds.
Overnight in the Namutoni Gate area, eastern Etosha.
Along the way, target species may include Blue Crane, Secretarybird, Red-necked Falcon, Burchell’s Courser, and Caspian Plover, among other open-country birds typical of this region.
Birding around Mokuti Lodge introduces more woodland-associated species. In this area, sightings often include Black-faced Babbler, Crimson-breasted Shrike, White-browed Scrub Robin, Black-faced Waxbill, Bearded Woodpecker, and Pearl-spotted Owlet, along with a variety of other woodland birds.
Overnight in the Namutoni Gate area, eastern Etosha.
Day 8
Eastern Etosha National Park Exploration
The entire day is spent birding and wildlife watching in the eastern section of Etosha National Park. With more time available in this part of the park, the focus is on thoroughly exploring both open grasslands and nearby woodland habitats.
A visit is usually made to the expansive grasslands of Andoni Plains, an excellent area for open-country species. Here, the main targets include Blue Crane, Pink-billed Lark, Eastern Clapper Lark, and Burchell’s Courser, along with a variety of other birds adapted to wide, open landscapes.
Additional birding is carried out around the woodland areas close to the accommodation, where species such as Black-faced Babbler are regularly encountered, together with many other woodland birds that add diversity to the day’s sightings.
Overnight in the Namutoni Gate area, eastern Etosha.
A visit is usually made to the expansive grasslands of Andoni Plains, an excellent area for open-country species. Here, the main targets include Blue Crane, Pink-billed Lark, Eastern Clapper Lark, and Burchell’s Courser, along with a variety of other birds adapted to wide, open landscapes.
Additional birding is carried out around the woodland areas close to the accommodation, where species such as Black-faced Babbler are regularly encountered, together with many other woodland birds that add diversity to the day’s sightings.
Overnight in the Namutoni Gate area, eastern Etosha.
Day 9
Transfer to Rundu & Woodland Birding
As the journey continues eastward, the scenery gradually shifts from arid landscapes to greener environments. Today marks the first encounter with well-developed woodland habitats on the tour, particularly in areas east of Rundu.
These taller woodlands are home to several challenging and sought-after species. Special attention is given to locating Rufous-bellied Tit, a bird that can be scarce and difficult to detect even in suitable habitat. Other notable targets include Sharp-tailed Starling, often found alongside the more conspicuous Greater Blue-eared Starling, as well as Souza’s Shrike, all of which favor human-altered woodland areas that can sometimes appear degraded.
In addition to these key species, the region supports a wide variety of woodland and edge birds. Among the many possibilities are cuckooshrikes, orioles, Green-capped Eremomela, Tinkling Cisticola, and Swamp Boubou, along with several secretive wetland-associated species such as Dwarf Bittern and Rufous-bellied Heron.
Later in the day, birding focuses on the wetlands around Rundu, where open water and marshy areas add another layer of diversity. Target species here include Collared Pratincole, White-backed Duck, Baillon’s Crake, and Greater Painted-snipe, with chances of encountering Lesser Moorhen and Lesser Jacana as well.
Overnight in the Rundu area.
These taller woodlands are home to several challenging and sought-after species. Special attention is given to locating Rufous-bellied Tit, a bird that can be scarce and difficult to detect even in suitable habitat. Other notable targets include Sharp-tailed Starling, often found alongside the more conspicuous Greater Blue-eared Starling, as well as Souza’s Shrike, all of which favor human-altered woodland areas that can sometimes appear degraded.
In addition to these key species, the region supports a wide variety of woodland and edge birds. Among the many possibilities are cuckooshrikes, orioles, Green-capped Eremomela, Tinkling Cisticola, and Swamp Boubou, along with several secretive wetland-associated species such as Dwarf Bittern and Rufous-bellied Heron.
Later in the day, birding focuses on the wetlands around Rundu, where open water and marshy areas add another layer of diversity. Target species here include Collared Pratincole, White-backed Duck, Baillon’s Crake, and Greater Painted-snipe, with chances of encountering Lesser Moorhen and Lesser Jacana as well.
Overnight in the Rundu area.
Day 10
Northeastern Namibia & Mahango Area
After some early-morning birding, the journey continues with a relatively short drive toward the Mahango region in northeastern Namibia, an area noted for its exceptional biodiversity. Traveling east through tall woodland habitats provides further opportunities to search again for species such as Souza’s Shrike, Sharp-tailed Starling, and Cinnamon-breasted Tit.
Accommodation is in the Divundu area, close to the small yet remarkably species-rich Mahango Game Reserve, which forms part of Bwabwata National Park. Birding around the lodge and nearby woodlands regularly produces a diverse selection of species, including Meyer’s Parrot, White-breasted Cuckooshrike, African Golden Oriole, White-browed Robin-Chat, and Brown Firefinch, among many others.
Overnight in the Divundu area.
Accommodation is in the Divundu area, close to the small yet remarkably species-rich Mahango Game Reserve, which forms part of Bwabwata National Park. Birding around the lodge and nearby woodlands regularly produces a diverse selection of species, including Meyer’s Parrot, White-breasted Cuckooshrike, African Golden Oriole, White-browed Robin-Chat, and Brown Firefinch, among many others.
Overnight in the Divundu area.
Day 11
Birding in Mahango Game Reserve
The entire day is spent birding within Mahango Game Reserve, with time to search for species not yet recorded as well as to enjoy the reserve’s outstanding variety of birds and mammals.
In addition to birds already encountered the previous day, Mahango offers the chance to add many new species to the tour list. The reserve supports African Buffalo, which does not occur in Etosha, and is also considered one of the best places globally to observe the rare Roan Antelope and Sable Antelope.
Bird highlights in the area include Rock Pratincole, Wattled Crane, Slaty Egret, Western Banded Snake Eagle, Tinkling Cisticola, the impressively large Coppery-tailed Coucal, and a variety of striking weaver species known for their bright yellow plumage and elaborate nests. Wetland and open-country species such as Greater Painted-snipe and Grey-rumped Swallow further add to the richness of the day’s sightings.
Overnight in the Divundu area.
In addition to birds already encountered the previous day, Mahango offers the chance to add many new species to the tour list. The reserve supports African Buffalo, which does not occur in Etosha, and is also considered one of the best places globally to observe the rare Roan Antelope and Sable Antelope.
Bird highlights in the area include Rock Pratincole, Wattled Crane, Slaty Egret, Western Banded Snake Eagle, Tinkling Cisticola, the impressively large Coppery-tailed Coucal, and a variety of striking weaver species known for their bright yellow plumage and elaborate nests. Wetland and open-country species such as Greater Painted-snipe and Grey-rumped Swallow further add to the richness of the day’s sightings.
Overnight in the Divundu area.
Day 12
Day 12. Into Botswana: the Okavango Panhandle
A short drive brings the group to the Botswana border, after which the scenery changes almost immediately. Beyond the crossing, the landscape opens into heavily grazed terrain that, despite its appearance, provides excellent habitat for Bradfield’s Hornbill, a localized species that is most reliably found in this type of environment.
The day ends at Drotsky’s Cabins, situated along the Okavango Panhandle. This riverside setting is well known for its resident Hippopotamus, whose loud vocalizations are often heard at night. While these animals remain in the water during the day, they regularly move onto land after dark to graze near the lodge grounds, making nighttime walks inadvisable.
The lodge itself is exceptionally productive for birding. Species frequently recorded around the cabins include Hartlaub’s Babbler, White-browed Coucal, and Meves’s Starling, while nearby woodland areas often hold African Barred Owlet. Open lawns attract Brown Firefinch, along with the more widespread Red-billed Firefinch and Blue Waxbill, which are commonly seen feeding in close proximity to the accommodation. The distinctive, liquid calls of Swamp Boubou and various coucals contribute strongly to the atmosphere of this riverside location.
Overnight at Drotsky’s Cabins, near Shakawe.
The day ends at Drotsky’s Cabins, situated along the Okavango Panhandle. This riverside setting is well known for its resident Hippopotamus, whose loud vocalizations are often heard at night. While these animals remain in the water during the day, they regularly move onto land after dark to graze near the lodge grounds, making nighttime walks inadvisable.
The lodge itself is exceptionally productive for birding. Species frequently recorded around the cabins include Hartlaub’s Babbler, White-browed Coucal, and Meves’s Starling, while nearby woodland areas often hold African Barred Owlet. Open lawns attract Brown Firefinch, along with the more widespread Red-billed Firefinch and Blue Waxbill, which are commonly seen feeding in close proximity to the accommodation. The distinctive, liquid calls of Swamp Boubou and various coucals contribute strongly to the atmosphere of this riverside location.
Overnight at Drotsky’s Cabins, near Shakawe.
Day 13
Okavango Panhandle: Boat-Based Birding
The day is largely spent birding from a boat while slowly exploring the upper reaches of the Okavango Delta Panhandle. Moving quietly along the waterways allows close approaches to both birds and mammals, making this one of the most rewarding days of the tour for photography and extended observation.
The wetlands and river channels here regularly produce outstanding sightings. Key species expected include Pel’s Fishing Owl, Slaty Egret, White-backed Night Heron, African Skimmer, African Pygmy Goose, Long-toed Lapwing, Coppery-tailed Coucal, and Southern Carmine Bee-eater. With some luck, there is also the possibility of encountering the elusive Sitatunga, a rare antelope specially adapted to swamp habitats.
Birding also extends into nearby woodland areas, where a different suite of species can be found. Targets here include African Barred Owlet, Narina Trogon, Retz’s Helmetshrike, Grey-headed Kingfisher, African Golden Oriole, and Crested Francolin, along with a variety of other woodland birds.
Overnight at Drotsky’s Cabins, near Shakawe.
The wetlands and river channels here regularly produce outstanding sightings. Key species expected include Pel’s Fishing Owl, Slaty Egret, White-backed Night Heron, African Skimmer, African Pygmy Goose, Long-toed Lapwing, Coppery-tailed Coucal, and Southern Carmine Bee-eater. With some luck, there is also the possibility of encountering the elusive Sitatunga, a rare antelope specially adapted to swamp habitats.
Birding also extends into nearby woodland areas, where a different suite of species can be found. Targets here include African Barred Owlet, Narina Trogon, Retz’s Helmetshrike, Grey-headed Kingfisher, African Golden Oriole, and Crested Francolin, along with a variety of other woodland birds.
Overnight at Drotsky’s Cabins, near Shakawe.
Day 14
Back into Namibia & the Zambezi River
The tour re-enters Namibia and continues east into one of the country’s most bird-rich regions. Birding focuses on a mix of wetlands and woodland habitats, and the group settles in for a two-night stay along the banks of the Zambezi River.
From this riverside base, activities include boat excursions as well as land-based birding and wildlife drives. A late-afternoon boat trip on the Zambezi is a particular highlight, often producing excellent views of species such as African Finfoot, White-backed Night Heron, Half-collared Kingfisher, White-crowned Lapwing, African Skimmer, and Rock Pratincole.
After dark, there is usually an optional outing dedicated to nocturnal species. This evening birding often reveals African Wood Owl, Western Barn Owl, and several species of nightjars, including Fiery-necked Nightjar, Square-tailed Nightjar, and the spectacular Pennant-winged Nightjar.
Overnight in Katima Mulilo.
From this riverside base, activities include boat excursions as well as land-based birding and wildlife drives. A late-afternoon boat trip on the Zambezi is a particular highlight, often producing excellent views of species such as African Finfoot, White-backed Night Heron, Half-collared Kingfisher, White-crowned Lapwing, African Skimmer, and Rock Pratincole.
After dark, there is usually an optional outing dedicated to nocturnal species. This evening birding often reveals African Wood Owl, Western Barn Owl, and several species of nightjars, including Fiery-necked Nightjar, Square-tailed Nightjar, and the spectacular Pennant-winged Nightjar.
Overnight in Katima Mulilo.
Day 15
Birding Around Katima Mulilo
A full day is devoted to exploring the highly productive woodlands of far northeastern Namibia. This region has gained particular importance in recent years, including the discovery of Yellow-throated Leaflove breeding on the Namibian side of the Namibia–Zambia border in 2015, far south of its previously known range. Locating this species is one of the day’s main objectives.
Riparian vegetation along the Zambezi River supports additional highlights such as Olive Woodpecker, Schalow’s Turaco, and Western Banded Snake Eagle. Birding in surrounding woodland habitats targets a wide range of species, including Racket-tailed Roller, Arnot’s Chat, Copper Sunbird, Striped Kingfisher, Grey-headed Bushshrike, Grey Penduline Tit, Wood Pipit, and Lizard Buzzard.
Seasonal pans in the area add further diversity, and are searched for species such as Blue-billed Teal, Rosy-throated Longclaw, White-backed Duck, Lesser Jacana, Rufous-bellied Heron, Luapula Cisticola, and potentially Black Coucal.
Overnight in Katima Mulilo.
Riparian vegetation along the Zambezi River supports additional highlights such as Olive Woodpecker, Schalow’s Turaco, and Western Banded Snake Eagle. Birding in surrounding woodland habitats targets a wide range of species, including Racket-tailed Roller, Arnot’s Chat, Copper Sunbird, Striped Kingfisher, Grey-headed Bushshrike, Grey Penduline Tit, Wood Pipit, and Lizard Buzzard.
Seasonal pans in the area add further diversity, and are searched for species such as Blue-billed Teal, Rosy-throated Longclaw, White-backed Duck, Lesser Jacana, Rufous-bellied Heron, Luapula Cisticola, and potentially Black Coucal.
Overnight in Katima Mulilo.
Day 16
From Katima Mulilo to Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe)
After some final early-morning birding around Katima Mulilo, the tour continues east toward Zimbabwe. The day involves several border crossings, and the majority of the time is spent in transit. As a result, arrival in Victoria Falls is typically expected by mid-afternoon.
Travel takes the group through broad-leafed woodland, where occasional roadside sightings are possible. Small, mobile groups of the scarce Southern Ground Hornbill are sometimes seen during this journey, although birding opportunities are otherwise limited due to the nature of the transfer day.
Once in Victoria Falls, there is time to settle into the accommodation and enjoy the surroundings at a relaxed pace.
Overnight in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.
Travel takes the group through broad-leafed woodland, where occasional roadside sightings are possible. Small, mobile groups of the scarce Southern Ground Hornbill are sometimes seen during this journey, although birding opportunities are otherwise limited due to the nature of the transfer day.
Once in Victoria Falls, there is time to settle into the accommodation and enjoy the surroundings at a relaxed pace.
Overnight in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.
Day 17
Birding Around Victoria Falls & the Zambezi River
The final full day is spent birding in and around Victoria Falls, an area renowned not only for the famous waterfall — often referred to as “the smoke that thunders” — but also for its remarkably rich birdlife.
Birding is conducted around the town itself, along the grounds of the lodge, and in habitats associated with the Zambezi River. These areas are consistently productive and add many new species to the tour list toward the end of the journey. Regular sightings include Collared Palm Thrush, Natal Spurfowl, Bearded Scrub Robin, Schalow’s Turaco, Western Banded Snake Eagle, Trumpeter Hornbill, Olive Woodpecker, and Broad-billed Roller, among many others.
With its wide variety of habitats, this itinerary typically records close to 400 bird species, while also achieving one of the highest mammal totals of any tour covering this transect.
Overnight in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.
Birding is conducted around the town itself, along the grounds of the lodge, and in habitats associated with the Zambezi River. These areas are consistently productive and add many new species to the tour list toward the end of the journey. Regular sightings include Collared Palm Thrush, Natal Spurfowl, Bearded Scrub Robin, Schalow’s Turaco, Western Banded Snake Eagle, Trumpeter Hornbill, Olive Woodpecker, and Broad-billed Roller, among many others.
With its wide variety of habitats, this itinerary typically records close to 400 bird species, while also achieving one of the highest mammal totals of any tour covering this transect.
Overnight in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.
Day 18
Departure from Victoria Falls
The tour concludes after breakfast. No scheduled activities are planned for today, and participants are free to depart Victoria Falls at their convenience.
Availability & pricing
Package
Amount
Single Supplement
$1,188 / person
Single Supplement
$1,433 / person
Price
$10,738 / person
Price
$11,920 / person
Included
- All accommodation
- Meals (from lunch on day 1 until breakfast on day 18)
- Unlimited bottled water
- Expert tour leader
- All entrance & conservation fees
- All ground transport
- Airport pick-up and drop-off (on Days 1 and 18, only)
- Entrance fees to Victoria Falls
- Boat ride on the Okavango River
- Boat trip along the Zambezi River
- Open-top game drive in Etosha National Park
Not included
- International/domestic flights (to Walvis Bay/from Victoria Falls)
- Visas
- Items of a personal nature, e.g. gifts, laundry, internet access, phone calls, etc.
- Any pre- or post-tour accommodation, meals, or birding excursions
- Soft/alcoholic drinks
- Personal travel insurance
- Gratuities (please see our tipping guidelines blog)
Transport & stays
Accommodations
- Ai-Aiba – The Rock Painting Lodge (days 3-4)
- Okaukuejo Camp, central Etosha (day 5)
Policies & FAQ
Insurance & Safety
The itinerary outlined above is intended as a general guide. While every effort is made to follow the planned route and activities, adjustments may occasionally be necessary. Changes can occur due to factors such as accommodation availability, updated conditions of roads or birding sites, logistical considerations, or decisions made by the guiding team in the interest of the best overall experience.
In rare cases, tour logistics may also require the use of a different international guide than the one originally advertised. Any such changes are made with the aim of maintaining the quality and integrity of the tour.
In rare cases, tour logistics may also require the use of a different international guide than the one originally advertised. Any such changes are made with the aim of maintaining the quality and integrity of the tour.
Reviews
"The birds and mammals were awesome. Our guide, Dominic Rollinson, was extraordinary and stunningly amazing at finding birds. Food and lodging were exceptional. The variety of habitats, from ocean to desert to scrubland to rainforest to Victoria Falls, was fantastic. Truly the trip of a lifetime. Dom was outstanding, extraordinary! The best guide you'll ever find. Truly amazing how he could hear birds a mile away and locate them for us. He has supernatural powers, and I'm not kidding. The food was so good and plentiful, that I gained 8 pounds ! If you're looking to lose weight, don't take this trip :-)"