Rwanda, known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” is also a paradise for bird enthusiasts. With its diverse habitats ranging from lush forests to savannahs and wetlands, Rwanda is home to over 700 bird species, including several endemic and rare ones. Whether you’re a seasoned ornithologist or a casual bird lover, Rwanda offers some of the best bird-watching experiences in Africa. Here are the top bird-watching spots you shouldn’t miss.

Nyungwe Forest National Park

A Biodiversity Haven

Nyungwe Forest National Park is one of Africa’s oldest rainforests and a biodiversity hotspot. The park boasts over 300 bird species, including 27 endemics, making it a must-visit for bird watchers. Some of the notable species you can spot here include the Rwenzori Turaco, Grauer’s Warbler, Red-collared Babbler, and Albertine Owlet.

Best Spots in Nyungwe

• Canopy Walkway: This 90-meter long and 50-meter high walkway offers a unique vantage point to spot canopy-dwelling species.
• Karamba Trail: Known for its bird diversity, this trail is excellent for spotting forest birds.
• Uwinka Visitor Center: A starting point for many trails, it’s also a great spot to begin your bird-watching adventure.

Akagera National Park

Savannah and Wetland Birds

Akagera National Park, located in eastern Rwanda, offers a different bird-watching experience with its mix of savannah, woodland, and wetland habitats. The park is home to over 480 bird species, including the rare Shoebill Stork, Papyrus Gonolek, and the African Fish Eagle.

Best Spots in Akagera

• Lake Ihema: Boat trips on the lake provide excellent opportunities to see water birds and waders.
• Kilala Plains: Ideal for spotting savannah birds such as the Abyssinian Ground Hornbill and the Red-necked Spurfowl.
• Akagera Swamp: A prime location for sighting the elusive Shoebill and other wetland species.

Volcanoes National Park

Highland Birding

While Volcanoes National Park is famous for its mountain gorillas, it also offers great bird-watching opportunities. The park is home to around 180 bird species, including 13 Albertine Rift endemics such as the Rwenzori Batis and the Dusky Crimsonwing.

Best Spots in Volcanoes

• Musanze Caves: The forest around these caves is good for birding.
• Mount Bisoke: Hiking trails on this volcano offer chances to spot highland species.

Gishwati-Mukura National Park

New Birding Frontier

Gishwati-Mukura is Rwanda’s newest national park and a rising star in bird conservation. The park hosts over 232 bird species, including the Grey Crowned Crane and the White-headed Woodhoopoe.

Best Spots in Gishwati-Mukura

• Mukura Forest: Rich in birdlife and less explored, offering a tranquil bird-watching experience.
• Gishwati Forest: Home to several Albertine Rift endemics and provides a good mix of forest species.

Lake Kivu

A Scenic Bird-Watching Location

Lake Kivu, with its serene waters and surrounding hills, is not only a beautiful place to relax but also a great spot for bird watching. You can spot species like the Pied Kingfisher, Malachite Kingfisher, and various herons and egrets.

Best Spots Around Lake Kivu

• Rubavu: The shores near this town are good for spotting water birds.
• Karongi: Offers scenic views and opportunities to see a variety of bird species.

Important Bird Areas (IBAs)

Additional Birding Hotspots

Rwanda has several IBAs designated by BirdLife International, which are crucial for bird conservation. These areas include the Rugezi Marsh, Bugesera Wetlands, and the Akanyaru Wetlands. These IBAs support significant populations of both resident and migratory bird species.

Tips for Bird Watching in Rwanda

• Best Time to Visit: The dry seasons from December to February and June to September are ideal for bird watching.
• Guided Tours: Hiring a knowledgeable local guide can enhance your experience and increase your chances of spotting rare species.
• Equipment: Bring binoculars, a good field guide, and a camera with a zoom lens to capture those memorable sightings.

Rwanda is truly a bird watcher’s paradise, offering diverse habitats and a wealth of bird species. Whether you’re exploring the misty forests of Nyungwe or the wetlands of Akagera, each birding adventure in Rwanda promises to be a rewarding and unforgettable experience. Join Gorille Africain Tours and let us guide you through Rwanda’s rich avian landscapes, where every bird sighting is a discovery of nature’s wonder.