Ultimate Rwanda Bird Watching Safaris, Bird Species & Destinations

Rwanda birding Safaris: Rwanda is a premier bird watching destination, offering an incredible diversity of avian species spread across its breathtaking landscapes. With over 700 recorded bird species, including 29 Albertine Rift endemics, Rwanda attracts bird enthusiasts from around the world. Its compact size allows birders to explore various ecosystems—from montane rainforests to savannahs and wetlands—making Rwanda a truly rewarding destination for birdwatching. Here’s a look at Rwanda’s key birding hotspots:

Best Bird Watching Safaris & Tours In Rwanda

Birding (Bird Watching) Destinations In Rwanda

Volcanoes National Park

Located in the northwest, Volcanoes National Park is famous for its mountain gorillas but is also a haven for birdwatchers. The park hosts about 200 bird species, including 15 Albertine Rift endemics. Key species include the Rwenzori turaco, Rwenzori double-collared sunbird, and collared apalis. The lush bamboo forests and higher altitudes provide excellent birding opportunities, especially for spotting elusive forest species.

Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe Forest is a birder’s paradise, with over 300 species recorded and 27 Albertine Rift endemics, making it one of Africa’s top birding spots. The park’s dense rainforest is home to the red-collared mountain babbler, Kungwe apalis, and Grauer’s swamp warbler. Birders can enjoy guided walks along the park’s numerous trails, including the famous canopy walkway, which offers a unique vantage point to observe treetop dwellers like the purple-breasted sunbird and bar-tailed trogon.

Bird Watchung In Akagera National Park Rwanda

In the east, Akagera National Park provides a completely different birding experience with its savannah, wetlands, and lake habitats. It boasts over 490 bird species, including waterbirds and raptors. Notable species include the shoebill stork, papyrus gonolek, and African fish eagle. The park’s lakes and swamps, such as Lake Ihema, are perfect for spotting pelicans, cormorants, and herons. Boat safaris are particularly rewarding for birdwatchers in Akagera.

Bird Watching In Rugezi Marsh

This wetland area in northern Rwanda is designated as a Ramsar site for its ecological importance and is ideal for spotting papyrus specialists like the papyrus canary, white-winged swamp warbler, and papyrus gonolek. Its open marshlands and reed beds create a tranquil birding atmosphere.

Birding in Kigali and Surroundings

Even the capital city, Kigali, and its nearby areas offer excellent birding. Nyarutarama Lake and Nyabarongo Wetlands are great spots for birdwatchers, hosting species like kingfishers, African jacanas, and weavers.

With its accessible parks and diverse birdlife, Rwanda offers birding experiences for beginners and seasoned enthusiasts alike.