Zimbabwe: Harare Grasslands, Miombo and Pitta Excursion
Dates: 30 Nov – 8 Dec, 8 days
Cost: R12 000 pps (all inclusive)
Harare is renowned as a birding hotspot for wet grassland specials including the summer migrants such as a Streaky-breasted Flufftail and Striped Crake present after the first summer rains. Although our trip is early in the season, we will look for these specials eager also to encounter Corn Crake, Black Coucal, Red-Chested Flufftail and Yellow-mantled Widow as we search the grasslands for the local specials. We will also visit the miombo woodlands looking for, amongst others, Spotted Creeper, Miombo Rock Thrush and Whyte’s Barbet.
The second part of our excursion takes us towards the Zambezi Valley, along the riverine forest of the Angwa River, a hotspot for the elusive African Pitta. The comfortable community run lodge will serve as our base while we hunt for pittas and hope to get glimpses of Eastern Nicator, African Broadbill and possibly even a displaying Pennant-winged Nightjar. The Thick-Billed Cuckoo frequents the area and we will listen out for its call hoping to see this uncommon visitor.
Group Size:
6 + 2 leaders (we will also make use of local guides)
Guides:
Kerry Fairley & Allan Ridley
Travel:
2 comfortable 4×4 vehicles (also an option of being collected and dropped off
at Harare Airport)
Top Birds:
African Pitta, Lilian’s Lovebird, Thick-billed Cuckoo, Western Banded Snake Eagle, Pennant-Winged Nightjar, Boulder Chat, Whyte’s Barbet, Cinnamon-Breasted Tit, Spotted Creeper, Mottled and Böhms Spinetails, Copper Sunbird, Green-Backed Honeybird, Whyte’s barbertWood Pipit, Miombo Rock-Thrush, Cuckoo Finch, Locustfinch, Corn Crake, Livingstone’s Flycatcher, Yellow-Mantled Widow, Rosy-breasted Longclaw, Black Coucal, Racket-Tailed Roller.
Other Attractions:
Spectacular landscapes, Pristine wilderness, Big five country, Local crafts & Culture.
Pace:
Moderate with undemanding walks
Accommodation:
Basic but comfortable (fully catered with full amenities)