Birding Pugu Hills Forest Reserve

Bat Hawk. Photo by Joe Ndekia

Tour Overview

Explore the natural beauty of the Pugu Hills Forest Reserve, also known as "The Lungs of Dar Es Salaam." As the day progresses, you'll find yourself absorbed in Tanzania's oldest lowland Coastal forests, a 12,015-hectare paradise with incredible biodiversity.

From dense woods overflowing with numerous plant species to the magnificence of massive bamboo stands. The trip not only promises an outstanding birding experience, but it also provides views of wildlife, including more than 10 indigenous plant species, a diversity of animals, and distinct subspecies.

Highlights

  • Species: Forest Weaver, Green-backed Camaroptera , Yellow-bellied Greenbul , Green Malkoha, Purple-banded Sunbird, Palm-Nut Vulture, Trumpeter Hornbill, Yellow Bishop, Rattling Cisticola, Eastern Nicator, Emerald-spotted Wood-Dove, African Paradise-Flycatcher, Bronze Manikin, Black-Baked Puffback, Gray-headed Kingfisher, Pied Kingfisher, Red-backed Scrub-Robin, Zanzibar Boubou, Zanzibar Red Bishop, Livingstone Turaco and many more.

  • Witness the enchantment of Lake Minaki

  • Explore bat caves

  • Panoramic views of Dar Es Salaam from elevated viewpoints, provide a unique perspective of the city.

  • Opportunity to encounter wildlife like Colobus monkeys, Millipedes, and Elephant shrews.

  • Endemic Mpugupugu tree, the namesake of the reserve.

Tour Details

Price*

1 Pax - $220

2 Pax - $300

3 Pax - $320

*Read FAQs

What to Bring?

Hiking (or Comfortable) shoes

Hat and sunscreen

Light sweaters / Raincoat (Nov-Apr)

Binoculars / Camera / Field Guide Book

Included

Transportation (Pick-up & drop off within City Center)

Bird guide

Entry fees

Stainless steel water bottle (Reusable)

Water

Excluded

Personal items

Tips

FAQs

  • The quoted price is for non-EAC citizens aged 16 years and above. EAC citizens, Tanzania residents, and children below 15 years (including non-EAC citizens) please contact us for discounted rates.

  • Families with Children are welcome. children under the age of 5 can join the tour for free. The tour is designed to be family-friendly and can be enjoyed by all ages.

  • The tour typically commences from 6 AM to 3 PM, including hotel or accommodation pick-up within Dar City Center. Kindly note that the price may undergo a slight adjustment if the pickup or meeting point is situated outside the city center and towards the birding site.

  • Yes! If you have your transportation and just need the expertise of a guide to enhance your experience, we've got you covered. Our knowledgeable guides will accompany you, providing valuable insights, identifying bird species, and ensuring you make the most of your birding adventure. Just contact us directly, and we'll provide you with detailed information on our guiding services.