Birding at Ngorongoro: Crater Floor Birds, Lake Magadi Flamingos and Highland Forest

Visitors usually remember the lions and black rhinos, but the crater is excellent for birds because the habitats are close together and many species are large and approachable. Early morning is especially rewarding, before traffic builds.

This guide covers the main habitats, the birds associated with them, and practical advice on timing and viewing.

This guide is part of our animals of Uganda and East Africa guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.

The Crater Floor Grassland

The open plains of the crater floor support birds that suit short grass: kori bustards, among the heaviest flying birds, walk slowly in search of insects and small animals, while secretary birds stride through the grass and strike at snakes and rodents. Ostriches, plovers, larks and pipits use the open ground, and grey crowned cranes may appear near wetter areas. The grazing herds attract raptors and vultures, which check the ground for carcasses. Carry binoculars even when watching big mammals, because lesser birds are always moving in the foreground. See the Ngorongoro Crater wildlife guide for mammal sightings.

Lake Magadi and the Pools

Lake Magadi is a shallow soda lake on the crater floor, and when conditions are right it holds flamingos feeding along the margins, as well as pelicans, avocets, stilts and other waders. The Ngoitokitok springs and nearby pools attract Egyptian geese, ducks, herons, storks and hippos. These areas change with the rains, so numbers vary. Picnic spots near the springs are often used for lunch, and short, supervised stops on foot may be allowed, but keep distance from hippos, which are dangerous. Sit quietly at the edge of the water and let birds return to feeding.

Lerai Forest and Woodland

The fever tree woodland of Lerai, on the crater floor, is a shaded refuge for birds that need trees, from hornbills and starlings to weavers and sunbirds. Elephants and leopards also use the forest, so keep to the guide's instructions. Birds are easiest to see where the woodland meets open grass, and fruiting trees can be busy at dawn. This is a good place to slow down and scan the canopy, because small birds move in mixed groups that are easy to miss from a fast-moving vehicle.

Crater Rim and Highland Forest

The rim and the slopes outside the crater hold cloud forest and montane scrub at roughly 2,300 metres and higher, where mist and cool air favour different species. Sunbirds visit flowering plants, and forest birds such as turacos and barbets may appear around the rim lodges' gardens. Early morning is best, before mist thickens. If you are staying on the rim, an hour on foot in the grounds of your lodge, with permission, can be a pleasant addition. See where to stay at Ngorongoro for the areas that suit this.

Northern Tanzania Specialities

The wider Ngorongoro Conservation Area and nearby Serengeti are home to birds associated with northern Tanzania, such as Fischer's lovebird and the rufous-tailed weaver, which may be seen on drives outside the crater. Birders interested in these specialities should read Tanzania endemic and specialty birds and Serengeti birding, and speak to their operator about stops outside the crater. The Ngorongoro Conservation Area guide covers the highlands, Olduvai and the rest of the area.

Best Months and Timing

The crater can be visited all year, though only vehicles are allowed on the floor and there are limits on time spent there. The drier months, roughly June to October, give the easiest tracks, while the green season brings migrants, breeding plumage and fewer visitors. Mornings are cold on the rim and warmer on the floor, so dress in layers. An early descent, as soon as the gate opens, means fewer vehicles and more active birds. See best time to visit Ngorongoro and the Tanzania birding calendar.

How to Bird the Crater

Walking on the floor is not allowed, so birding is done from the vehicle. Ask for a roof that opens and for a guide who will stop for birds, and agree in advance how long you want to spend at the lake and the springs. Keep noise low, never leave the vehicle except at designated places and do not approach nests. Binoculars, a field guide and a long lens make the day more productive. For a broader view of East African birdwatching see the East Africa birding guide.

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Related Tours, Guides and Resources

• Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
• Uganda safari packages
• Uganda travel guide
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• Plan your safari with our team