Unique
Fabled
Intriguing
During this concise tour, our primary focus is on birding in Manda Island, where we aim to spot the elusive Coastal Boubou. Additionally, our attention turns to the coastal forest of Arabuko-Sokoke, a critical habitat for several highly localized species, many of which are challenging to find elsewhere due to their restricted ranges within this unique ecosystem.
Our target species within the Arabuko-Sokoke forest include the rare Clark’s Weaver, the enigmatic Sokoke Scops Owl, the elusive Sokoke Pipit, the vibrant Amani Sunbird, and the captivating Fischer Turaco. These species find their entire habitat within this coastal forest, making it an essential destination for birdwatchers and conservation enthusiasts.
As our short but rewarding expedition draws to a close, we journey to the picturesque Taita Hills. Here, we have the opportunity to encounter three magnificent endemic species: the Taita Apalis, the Taita Thrush, and the Taita White-eye, each a testament to the unique biodiversity and conservation significance of this region.
Tour highlights
Four core moments you'll never forget
Let’s go and find Sokoke Scops-Owls during their daytime roost in Arabuko-Sokoke Forest, one of their only two known habitats globally.
Delight in the captivating East African migration, as we seek out Crab Plover, Lesser Sand Plovers, and awe-inspiring Amur Falcons.
Discover even more endemics, such as the petite and exquisitely rare Amani Sunbird, a true gem with an exceptionally limited range.
Bird the wonderful East African biodiversity hotspots along the Indian Ocean and come across the quirky looking Eastern Crested Guineafowl.
Meet your leader
The expedition is led by Machiel Valkenburg, an experienced photographer, wildlife leader, and world birder. He is simply the best leader available to accompany you on the birding safari of a lifetime. He has been leading birding expeditions all over the Old World with a high level of expertise in Africa and Central Asia. Machiel will provide you with the best experience possible.
Your eastern
Kenya itinerary
Clients will commence their journey from their respective homes, heading towards the vibrant capital city of Kenya, Nairobi. Upon your arrival in Nairobi, an airport transfer will be promptly arranged for your convenience. After settling in, you will have the opportunity to meet up with your tour leader for a delightful dinner and an introduction meeting. This gathering will set the stage for a memorable and informative start to your journey through Kenya and beyond.
If anyone wishes to arrive in Nairobi ahead of the scheduled tour start date, please do not hesitate to get in touch with the RBT office. They will be more than happy to assist with any additional hotel bookings and arrangements to ensure a comfortable and convenient early arrival.
NIGHT | Comfortable tourist hotel, Nairobi
This morning, our journey takes flight as we depart from Nairobi and wing our way to the idyllic coastal island of Manda/Lamu. Here, the arid bushland becomes a canvas for avian exploration, and our sights are set on a remarkable find: the Coastal Boubou. This elusive species, primarily found in Somalia, graces us with its presence in the coastal thickets of Manda.
As we venture through this coastal paradise, our binoculars and cameras at the ready, we’ll also have the opportunity to encounter other avian wonders that call this region home. Keep a keen eye out for the vibrant plumage of the Golden Palm Weaver, the distinctive song of the Malindi Pipit, and the melodious calls of the East Coast Boubou. Amidst the dense foliage, the Scaly Babbler and Coastal Cisticola may reveal themselves, adding to our list of captivating sightings.
Our overnight stay on Lamu Island offers a tranquil interlude, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the coastal charm and savor the memories of a day well spent in the company of these coastal birds.
NIGHT | Comfortable tourist hotel on Lamu island
As our time on Manda Island draws to a close, we’ll savor some final moments of birding amidst its coastal beauty. Then, a brief flight whisks us away to Malindi on the enchanting Kenyan coast, a stone’s throw from our base in the Watamu region.
Should time permit, we’ll make our way to the Sabaki River mouth, a renowned hotspot for avian enthusiasts. Here, the possibilities are as vast as the horizon itself. We may have the privilege of glimpsing the elegant Madagascar Pratincole, the enigmatic Crab-Plover, and a plethora of terns, gulls, and waders that grace this coastal haven.
With the day’s adventures etched in our memories, we retire to the comforts of Watamu, where the sounds of the sea lull us to sleep, promising more avian wonders in the days to come.
NIGHT | Comfortable tourist hotel, Malindi
Sokoke Forest, an ecological jewel on the East African coast, stands as a premier destination for birding enthusiasts, and our expedition grants us the privilege of dedicating two full days to explore its abundant riches. At the forefront of our avian quest is Clarke’s Weaver, an iconic species whose entire global population is confined to the embrace of Sokoke and its neighboring woodlands.
Our commitment to exploration extends to uncovering the secrets of the Sokoke Scops Owl, an endangered species that reveals itself on day roosts, offering one of the rarest glimpses of its kind. Sokoke Forest stands as one of the exclusive sites to encounter this elusive owl, the other being the Usambara Mountains in northern Tanzania.
The forest’s depths conceal a cadre of other avian treasures unique to the East African coast. Among them, we are on the lookout for the Sokoke Pipit, the resplendent Amani Sunbird, the charismatic Fischer’s Turaco, a symphony of color and charm, the striking Mombasa Woodpecker, and the elegant Short-tailed Batis, at times referred to as Sokoke Batis.
Our journey through Sokoke Forest promises encounters with the rare Eastern Crested Guineafowl, the evocative Red-tailed Ant Thrush, the delightful Peter’s Twinspot, and the captivating Chestnut-fronted Helmetshrike. On one evening, we’ll venture into the world of the night, seeking out elusive nocturnal species such as nightjars and owls that inhabit this enchanting forest.
Beyond the forest’s embrace, open areas beckon with their own avian wonders. We may observe the graceful Malindi Pipit, the skilled Golden Palm Weaver, the melodic Coastal Cisticola, and the resplendent Zanzibar Red Bishop. And if fortune smiles upon us, the ethereal Violet-breasted Sunbird may reveal itself.
NIGHT | Comfortable tourist hotel, Malindi
We will cherish our last morning in Sokoke Forest before embarking on a scenic drive to the enchanting Taita Hills. These pristine montane forest remnants cradle the destinies of three precious and highly endangered species: the Taita Apalis, the Taita Thrush, and the Taita White-eye.
As we seek out these elusive treasures, our hearts may also be graced by the presence of other captivating winged inhabitants. Among them, the Brown-breasted Barbet, the Orange-ground Thrush, and the resplendent Hartlaub’s Turaco will paint the forest with their hues.
Amidst this avian symphony, we may encounter the elegant Usambara Double-collared Sunbird, the lively Stripe-cheeked Greenbul, the ethereal White-starred Robin, and the enchanting Yellow-throated Woodland Warbler, each adding to the magic of the moment. As twilight descends, we shall find solace in the embrace of Taita Hills.
NIGHT | Comfortable tourist hotel, Taita.
On this final morning, we’re still eager to spot any bird species we might have missed in the Taita Hills. With determination, we head out to search for these remaining avian wonders before saying our farewells to this captivating sanctuary.
As we depart from Taita, we are not yet done with our avian adventure. Along the Nairobi-Mombasa Road, our journey continues, and the road itself becomes a tapestry of birding opportunities. We savor the delight of birdwatching while relishing a leisurely lunch en route, making every moment count.
As the day draws to a close, we return to the bustling heart of Nairobi, where our expedition reaches its conclusion. In this urban setting, we take a moment to reflect on the incredible wonders we’ve had the privilege to witness and the connections we’ve formed with our fellow nature enthusiasts.
For travelers with flights back to Europe, the late evening departure aligns seamlessly with our return to Nairobi. It marks a fitting conclusion to our journey, as we carry the cherished memories of these exceptional days and the lingering echoes of bird songs, forever etched in our hearts.
NIGHT | Comfortable tourist hotel, Nairobi
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Next tour
23 March - 30 March, 2024
Cost | $T.B.A. – domestic flights included
Single supplement | $T.B.A.
Deposit | $1000
Group size | minimum 4 and maximum 8
Availability | Spaces
Leader | Machiel Valkenburg
Exploring East Kenya's range-restricted avifauna
This small-scale expedition is carefully tailored to bring into sharp focus the unique and often elusive bird species that call East Kenya their home. Our approach is designed to maximize your opportunities for spotting these endemic and range-restricted birds swiftly, yet with the attention to detail required to ensure successful sightings.
In crafting this itinerary, we’ve taken into account the rarity and ecological significance of these avian treasures. Each day is thoughtfully planned to strike a balance between efficiency and the unhurried patience needed for birdwatching. We want to make certain that your journey through East Kenya is not just a checklist of sightings but an immersive and unforgettable experience, allowing you to connect with the region’s rich avian biodiversity in a meaningful way.
Our commitment is to provide you with the best possible chance to observe and appreciate these remarkable birds, some of which are found nowhere else on Earth. In doing so, we hope to leave you with lasting memories and a deep appreciation for the natural wonders of East Kenya.
What’s Included?
Expert English-speaking Rubythroat leader
All accommodations
All full-board meals
All land transfers by Landcruiser jeeps
Domestic flights
Visa support
What’s Excluded?
International flight to/from Kenya.
Personal expenses; laundry, telephone costs etc.
Alcoholic drinks.
Extra rooming not mentioned in the itinerary.
Meals on day one.
Single room supplement.
D´Arnaud´s Barbet
Red-bellied Parrot
Red-fronted Tinkerbird
Red-necked Spurfowl
Ready for your next adventure?
Reserve your spot on our Classic Birding Expedition to Kenya now
