Central Mozambique – Eastern Zimbabwe
Dates: 6 – 17 Dec, 12 days
Cost: R15 000 pps (all inclusive)
This trip takes us to the Bvumba in the eastern highlands of Zimbabwe, where we will explore the montane forest for Swynnerton’s Robin, Robert’s Warbler and Chirinda Apalis. We will then make our way to the coast of Mozambique and base ourselves in Beira, which provides easy access to the flood plains of the Savane River well known for sightings of Blue Quail, Locustfinch and Lesser Seedcracker. The sand forests of the Zambezi River Valley provide the best chance of seeing African Pitta in the region. We will spend time in these forests on our Pitta quest.
In the forest we will also look out for, amongst others, African Broadbill, White-chested Alethe and East Coast Akalat. A day-trip takes us to the recently discovered site of Böhms Bee-eater, the only known spot for the species south of the Zambezi.
We will visit Gorongosa and conditions permitting, we will make the journey up the mountain to the place of the Green-headed Oriole. Here we will spend time on the lower slopes looking for grassland specials such as Croaking Cisticola, Moustached Grass and Red-winged Warbler.
The dry woodlands are also good for Arnot’s Chat, Racket-tailed Roller and Southern Hyliota.
Group Size:
6 + 2 leaders (we will also make use of local guides)
Guides:
Niall Perrins & Richard Everett
Travel:
2 comfortable 4×4 vehicles
Top Birds:
African Pitta, Green-headed Oriole, Böhms Bee-eater, White-Chested Alethe, African Broadbill, Swynnerton’s Robin, Robert’s Warbler, Bat Hawk, East Coast Akalat, Chestnut-fronted Helmet Shrike, Black-and-White Flycatcher, Moustached Grass Warbler, Chirinda Apalis, Locustfinch, Blue Quail, Lesser Seedcracker, Plain-backed Sunbird.
Other Attractions:
Scenic Landscapes & Diverse Birding Experiences
Pace/Difficulty:
Moderate-quick with some long distances travelled on poor roads. Temperatures can reach above 30 °C with high humidity. The only strenuous part of the trip is the walk up Mnt. Gorongosa, which is done at a slow pace with birding along the way and can be handled by persons of average fitness.
Accommodation:
Basic but comfortable (fully catered with full amenities)