Birding in Rwanda

Although popular for its primate tracking (Mountain Gorilla Trekking & Chimpanzee trekking), Rwanda is also a great bird watching Safari destination in Africa. Birding in Rwanda offers one of the most rewarding African birding experiences, thanks to its diverse avian species including the rare, unique, & endemic birds. Birding Tour in Rwanda/Rwanda Birdwatching safaris  also allow visitor to combine the country’s rich biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and incredible wildlife sightings just on one journey. Rwanda is sometimes referred to as a hidden gem for ornithologists, a remarkable birding destination that has gained its international recognition for its exceptional species variety and well-protected habitats over the past few years. There are over 700 recorded bird species in Rwanda making it a great bird watching paradise for bird lovers from all over the world.

Rwanda is located within the world-famous Albertine Rift, one of Africa’s most important biodiversity hotspots in Africa. This region is home to numerous endemic species found nowhere else on Earth, making Rwanda birding a must do while on African Birdwatching journeys. During Bird watching safari in Rwanda, expect to catch a sight of the Albertine endemic; species such as the Albertine owlet, red-collared babbler, and Ruwenzori turaco are among the prized sightings here. Discover Rwanda on our well curated birding safaris and witness different birdlife in various habitats.

 

How Rwanda has managed to protect the bird habitat – where to go birding in Rwanda

Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe Forest National Park is widely regarded as the country’s premier birding destination, hosting more than 300 species, including many Albertine Rift endemics and several forest birds. The ancient montane rainforest of Nyungwe Forest is one of the oldest Forests in Africa and is popular for its Chimpanzees, however, this forest is also one of the best birding destinations in Rwanda and Africa at large. Safaris to Nyungwe provide visitors with exceptional opportunities for guided bird watching along forest trails and during the popular canopy walkways.

Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park is home to the savannah-based bird species and over 500 species have been recorded in the Park. Although popular for its wildlife sighting, the Akagera National Park is also a great birding destination in Rwanda thanks to its varied habitants. Birding in Rwanda’s Akagera National Park allows visitors to sighting the shoebills, papyrus gonoleks, and a wide range of waterbirds and raptors.

Volcanoes National Park

Birding in Volcanoes National Park combines dramatic volcanic scenery with unique high-altitude bird watching. Known primarily for gorilla trekking, Volcanoes National Park is also home to several endemic species, making it an important stop on Rwanda Birding itineraries. Together, these national parks showcase the country’s extraordinary avian range.

Gishwati-Mukura National Park:    Located in the mountains above Lake Kivu, the Gishwati-Mukura National Park holds a good birdlife. Where Gishwati offers 232 bird species, Mukura offers 163 bird species including several Albertine Rift Endemics and forest specialists.

Lake Kivu  The Lake Kivu isn’t only offers birding highlights, but also a stop to relax amidst the beautiful natural view. White-breasted Cormorants are commonly spotted at the lakeside, apart from these Pied Kingfishers and Osprey can be spotted at the migration time.