Many first-time safari-goers focus solely on the big cats and other large mammals and do not realise what a bonus and treat the continent's birds can be with their spectacular colours, incredible variety and sometimes incredibly vast numbers. There can be so much more to a safari than just the large mammals as discovering the unique and fascinating nesting behaviour of the hornbill and the innovative nest-making abilities of weaver birds can prove to be just as delightful.

All day entertainment from these feathered creaturesOn safari, there will be days when the larger, more iconic animals move out of the area or become elusive, but the prevalence of these wonderful birds found everywhere guarantee that there will never be a dull moment on safari. And while you are quietly enjoying your birdwatching, you will find that the mammals you have travelled far to see often like to make a surprise appearance!

Best time to see birds in Africa?For birdwatchers, the best time to go is often during the summer green season (when safari rates are most attractive), when many of the migratory birds are in Africa, all sporting their beautiful breeding plumage.

Conveniently and fortuitously, some of the prime birdwatching destinations where you can enjoy Africa’s birdlife are also top game viewing locations. Botswana's Okavango Delta, one of the best game viewing areas in Africa, boasts over 450 species of birdlife. In Kenya, the famous Masai Mara, which annually hosts the Great Migration, has over 470 recorded bird species.

Lesser known bird havensFor those who prefer places that are off the beaten track, away from the tourist hordes, then the diversity of well over 500 species that can be found in Tanzania's Selous Game Reserve or Ruaha National Park can be very rewarding.

In Zambia, the game-rich Kafue National Park claims over 500 recorded bird species, and South Luangwa National Park, one of the best destinations to experience walking safaris, is home to over 400 species.

Nirvana for bird and mammal lovers alikeAnd for the ultimate birdlife experience, Zakouma National Park in Chad hosts arguably Africa's most dense bird concentrations for a few months every year.

We have keen birdwatchers on the A2A team, and can advise you on the most ideal areas and lodges depending on your birding interests.