Zambia Birding Tours

Tours

Zambia’s Endemics & African Pitta Birding Tour

On this Zambia birding tour, we not only focus on Zambia’s two endemic bird species, the Zambian Barbet and Black-cheeked Lovebird but also its near-endemics and the sought-after African Pitta

14 days

Zambia, nestled in the heart of southern Africa, is a land brimming with natural wonders and diverse wildlife.

This enchanting country, bordered by eight nations, boasts a rich array of landscapes, from the iconic Victoria Falls – one of the seven wonders of the world – to the vast plains of the Zambezi River and the teeming wildlife of its national parks.

Renowned for its thriving birdlife, Zambia is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, with 737 bird species recorded. Despite having just two true endemic species—the Zambian Barbet (Chaplin’s Barbet) and Black-cheeked Lovebird—Zambia hosts numerous near-endemics and a wealth of species typically found in Angola and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), making it a sought-after destination for birdwatchers seeking south-central African endemics. This accessibility positions Zambia as one of Africa’s leading countries for birdwatching, offering unparalleled opportunities to observe and appreciate a rich avian biodiversity.

It is also the best place on the continent to see the elusive and highly sought-after African Pitta – the holy grail for any birder’s checklist. This bird holds a unique status, as its appearance in the south-central African breeding grounds aligns with a brief window of opportunity at the onset of the rainy season, typically heralded by its distinctive calls, often starting in early December. Witnessing this elusive bird outside of this specific time is typically a challenging, if not impossible, endeavour.

Join us as we uncover the absolute best of Zambia and its stunning birdlife and wildlife.

Tailor-made Tours
Scheduled Group Tours
When to visit
Weather
What to Bring

Tailor-made info Zambia

At Sustainable Birding, we do not offer ready-made, off-the-shelf birding tours. Our approach is deeply personalised—we meticulously craft each of our tours in Zambia from scratch, ensuring every detail aligns with your unique preferences. From the sweeping savannahs to the dense woodlands and the captivating wetlands, our team of seasoned birding experts use our comprehensive knowledge to tailor your birding holiday, guaranteeing an experience perfectly attuned to your specific requirements.

All our birding tours in Zambia are expertly guided by our passionate, knowledgeable, and experienced Zambian tour leaders. They are some of the best guides on the planet! So, give us a call or drop us an email and let’s talk Zambia!

Reasons to go on a Tailor-made Birding Tour

• Select the exact dates that suit your schedule.
• Choose the ideal time of year for your birding adventure.
• Travel alongside your preferred companions—be it family, friends, or fellow birders.
• Set your pace—whether fast or brisk.
• Customise within your personal budget, from luxurious to budget accommodations or a mix.
• Craft a tour that matches your specific interests—whether intense birding, leisurely exploration, photography, culture, music, wine, botany, butterflies, herpetology, geology, diving, hiking, and beyond.
• Our team is here to cater to your interests and ensure a fulfilling birding holiday.

Scheduled Group Tanzania Birding Tours

Explore our selection of Scheduled Group Birding Tours in Zambia. These groups tours have been designed to fit different birding preference and time restraints. Typically, our group tours are more affordable, and allow people to meet up and make lifelong memories with fellow birders. All our group tours are small and come with an expert Tour Leader, having groups no bigger than 6 individuals, so you still get that intimate feeling and the full attention of the Tour Leader.

Please refer to our Birding Calendar for tour schedules, dates, and fixed prices.

Best time of year to visit:

The best period for birding in Zambia is between November and April, during the wet season, affectionately termed the ‘Emerald Season’. During this time, the wetland expanses burst to life, becoming fertile breeding grounds for birds. The resident species thrive amidst the flurry of activity, joined by significant flocks of migrants. It is important to note that while this season offers unparalleled birding opportunities, certain areas may become challenging to access, and numerous lodges might close their doors during this period.

Zambia experiences a primarily tropical climate characterised by distinct seasons. The wet season, stretching from November to April, has warm temperatures and abundant rainfall. Known as the ‘Emerald Season,’ this period sees the landscape burst into vibrant greenery, fostering lush vegetation, and providing ideal breeding grounds for diverse birdlife. However, these months also bring humidity and occasional heavy rains, which can make some regions challenging to traverse.
Conversely, the dry season, spanning from May to October, offers a unique experience altogether. This phase delivers cooler, drier conditions with sunny days and clear skies. The lack of rainfall transforms the terrain, revealing an arid landscape marked by sparse vegetation. This period is particularly favourable for wildlife viewing, as animals gather around watering holes, making for excellent game viewing opportunities in Zambia’s renowned national parks.

In Zambia’s warm climate, packing appropriate clothing is essential. Opt for light-coloured shorts, trousers, and shirts for comfort. Sturdy and comfortable footwear is necessary, considering the varied terrain you may encounter, from wetlands to savannahs. Lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral tones is advisable for the tropical climate, alongside a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to shield against the sun’s rays. Given the fluctuating weather patterns, a lightweight waterproof jacket or poncho can prove invaluable during occasional downpours.

Mosquito repellent is crucial to ward off insect bites, and taking anti-malarial tablets is highly recommended.

Equipment such as high-quality binoculars tailored for birdwatching is essential and if you have a good working camera and lens, then please bring it with you! A comprehensive field guide specific to the country’s birds, such as Field Guide to Birds of Greater Southern Africa would be recommended.