Namibia
Bird Watching
Essential Namibia Birding Safari
This Namibia Birding Safari is a must for any keen birder! Indeed, the birds, other wildlife, landscapes and vast open spaces will touch your soul. Our itinerary covers the best birding and wildlife venues of Central and Northern Namibia. From the great orange sand dunes of Sossusvlei to the plains of Etosha, each day delivers new wonders. And, while Namibia’s bird list is not as big as those of more verdant countries, it’s packed with near-endemics and specials. In short, it’s simply unique in every way. Namibia awaits – let us show it to you!
Where it Began
Our Namibia Birding Tour begins in Windhoek. After one night there we take a spectacular drive to Sesriem, gateway to the iconic dunes of Sossusvlei. From there we trek across to the Atlantic Coast, overnighting in Swakopmund. Then it’s inland to the stunning Erongo Conservancy for birding in some unforgettable scenery. Etosha is then perhaps the highlight of the trip. Indeed, it’s one of Africa’s great parks, at its best now at the end of the dry season. We then have a last stop on the tour in the Waterberg area before finishing off back at the airport near Windhoek.
Your accommodation on this Namibia Birding Safari is of a medium-plus standard. It includes a travel inn, three private lodges, and national park’s chalets. Importantly, all accommodations have en-suite facilities, and are clean and comfortable.
The south-west African endemics are the main focus on this Namibia Birding Tour. These are birds that only occur in Namibia and Angola. In addition, we’ll also focus on the species that have a slightly wider distribution, occurring in western South Africa as well. Furthermore, there are also more ubiquitous African species to be seen. Our target birds include Dune Lark, Herero Chat, Rüppel’s Korhaan, Gray’s Lark, Chestnut-banded Plover, Damara Tern, Hartlaub’s Spurfowl, Damara Rockrunner, Burchell’s Courser, Ludwig’s Bustard, Secretarybird, Bare-cheeked and Black-faced Babblers, Violet Wood-Hoopoe, Carp’s Tit, White-tailed Shrike, Rüppel’s Parrot, Montiero’s Hornbill, Pygmy and Red-necked Falcons, Sociable Weaver, Short-toed Rock Thrush, Rosy-aced Lovebird and many others.See the species check list on the digital itinerary for the full species list.
Africa is synonymous with mammal viewing and Namibia is no exception. There are plenty of mammals and other interesting things to see on this Namibia Birding Safari. In this respect Etosha will be the highlight. In particular, it is famous for its waterhole game viewing. And in fact, the waterhole viewing can be among the best on the continent. Moreover, it’s probably the best destination there is for Black Rhino. And the Lion sightings are legendary! Other species to see include African Elephant, Southern Giraffe, Springbok, Black-faced Impala, Oryx, Cheetah, Leopard, Honey Badger, Brown Hyena, Black-backed Jackal and plenty more. In addition, there’s a range of reptiles, amphibians, butterflies and other insects to be seen.
In conclusion, this Namibia Birding Safari will touch your soul. Birds, wildlife, scenery and good food combine to create a unique destination. Come, let us show you Namibia! For those who like more of a focus on wildlife, have a look at our Essential Namibia Wildlife safari.
Embark on an Essential Namibia Birding Safari and witness a breathtaking variety of birdlife across one of Africa’s most unique landscapes. From the flamingo-filled lagoons of Walvis Bay to the lush waterways of the Caprivi Strip, Namibia offers over 600 species of birds, including regional endemics and migratory rarities. Guided by local experts, you’ll explore iconic destinations like Etosha National Park, the Namib Desert, and the Okavango floodplains — all while surrounded by stunning scenery and dramatic wildlife encounters. Perfect for amateur and seasoned birders alike, this safari promises a rich and rewarding experience in the wild heart of southern Africa.