Best Places for Bird Watching in Rwanda

Best Places for Bird Watching in Rwanda

Rwanda is a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to over 750 species and boasting the highest concentration of birds per square kilometer in Africa. The country’s diverse habitats—from montane forests to wetlands, savannahs, and lakes—make it an ideal destination for birding enthusiasts. Whether you’re exploring Volcanoes National Park, the lush wetlands, or agricultural farmlands, Rwanda offers incredible opportunities to spot a wide variety of bird species based on your preferences.

Beyond birds, Rwanda’s wildlife includes primates like mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park and chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest National Park, as well as the Big 5, which can be found in Akagera National Park. If you’re planning a birding safari in Rwanda, you can combine your trip with primate trekking or game drives for an all-encompassing wildlife experience. Rwanda is also home to 44 bird species endemic to the Albertine Rift, 27 of which can be spotted in Nyungwe Forest National Park.

Top Birding Locations in Rwanda

Birding Around Kigali City

Kigali, Rwanda’s capital and the main entry point, offers some excellent birdwatching opportunities. Birds can be spotted in city gardens, along rivers, and in green spaces throughout the city. Notable birding spots around Kigali provide a convenient option for birders looking to start their journey without venturing far.

The Albertine Rift Region

The Albertine Rift is one of Africa’s premier birdwatching regions, stretching across Rwanda’s western half and extending into Uganda, Burundi, DR Congo, South Sudan, and Zambia. This biodiversity hotspot is home to over 40 bird species, 33 mammals, 34 amphibians, 117 butterflies, and 16 reptiles. Nyungwe Forest National Park in Rwanda is a key destination for spotting 27 endemic bird species of the Albertine Rift, making it a must-visit for birdwatchers.

Birding in Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park, part of the Virunga Mountains, is not only famous for its mountain gorillas and golden monkeys but also for its rich birdlife. The park boasts around 165 bird species, including 17 endemic to the region. Birdwatching in this park offers a chance to spot rare species while enjoying the stunning volcanic landscape. Combining birding with gorilla trekking is a popular option for visitors who want to experience both the avian diversity and Rwanda’s primates.

Birding in Nyungwe National Park

Nyungwe National Park is a lush tropical rainforest, renowned for having one of the largest concentrations of chimpanzees in Africa. However, it’s not just the primates that draw visitors—this park is also a birdwatcher’s dream, home to over 300 bird species. Among these, you’ll find 29 species that are endemic to the Albertine Rift, making it one of the top birding destinations in Rwanda.

Bird enthusiasts can spot species such as the Great Blue Turaco, Red-Breasted Sparrowhawk, White-Headed Wood Hoopoe, Red-Throated Alethe, Paradise Flycatcher, and the Gigantic Forest Hornbill. Other highlights include the Rwenzori Turaco, Regal Sunbird, Rockefeller’s Sunbird, and the Mountain Masked Apalis. Navigating this dense forest can be challenging, so experienced guides will accompany you, helping you discover these elusive birds.

Birding in Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park is another fantastic birding destination in Rwanda, with over 520 species. The park’s diverse landscape, which includes savannah plains, forests, and hills, provides a safe haven for both resident and migratory birds. Some of the notable species you might encounter include the rare and threatened papyrus gonolek, Lesser Kestrel, Armot Chat, Red-Faced Barbet, Great Snipe, and the iconic Shoebill.

Birding in Gishwati-Mukura National Park

Gishwati-Mukura National Park is home to 232 bird species, offering another rich birding experience in Rwanda. Some of the species you’ll find here include the Regal Sunbird, Grauer’s Swamp Warbler, Ruwenzori Batis, Purple-Breasted Sunbird, and Martial Eagle. Many of these species are endemic to the Albertine Rift, making this park a must-visit for serious birdwatchers.

Birding in Rwanda’s Wetlands and Marshes

Rwanda’s wetlands and marshes, which cover about 10% of the country’s land area, are excellent spots for birdwatching. The Rugezi, Akanyaru, and Nyabarongo wetlands are especially good for observing waders and various water birds. These areas provide a serene environment for spotting a wide array of waterfowl.

When is the Best Time for Bird Watching in Rwanda?

Birdwatching in Rwanda can be enjoyed year-round, but the wetter months of March, April, May, September, October, and November are considered the best. During this time, many birds are breeding, making them more active, vocal, and easier to spot.

Why Book Your Bird Watching Safari in Rwanda with Excursia Adventures?

At Excursia Adventures, we’re committed to offering personalized, safe, and enjoyable birdwatching safaris. Our packages are affordable, and we aim to make a positive impact on both local communities and the natural environments we visit. Whether you’re looking to explore Rwanda’s diverse birdlife or its breathtaking landscapes, our experienced team is here to make your trip smooth and memorable. We follow the principle of “Take Nothing but Photographs, Leave Only Footprints,” ensuring our operations have minimal environmental impact.

Contact us today to plan your birdwatching adventure in Rwanda, and let our expert safari consultants help you create the perfect itinerary.