Birding in Rwanda

Rwanda Bird Watching Tours

“I fell in love with Rwanda the moment I saw those verdant, rolling hills rise up beneath the wings of the plane as we descended toward Kigali airport,” said Naomi Benaron.

When most people think of Rwanda, gorilla trekking and the tragic events of the 1994 genocide often come to mind. However, what many don’t realize is that Rwanda is also one of the top birding destinations in Africa. With over 703 recorded bird species, including 29 Albertine Rift Endemics, Rwanda offers incredible bird watching opportunities in its rainforests, savannahs, wetlands, and even urban parks.

While birding in Rwanda is often overshadowed by Uganda and Tanzania—largely due to the popularity of primate tourism—it remains a rewarding experience for seasoned birders and beginners alike.

Why Choose Rwanda for Bird Watching?

Bird watching in Rwanda can be enjoyed almost everywhere—from the bustling capital city of Kigali to the Nyungwe Forest, Akagera savannah, and Volcanoes National Park. What sets Rwanda apart is its compact size, making travel between birding destinations quick and convenient. The country also boasts excellent tourism infrastructure, well-maintained roads, and ease of access compared to many other African birding destinations.

Travel Advantages:

Visa on Arrival for all nationalities
No Yellow Fever or COVID-19 vaccine requirements (as of January 2023)
Well-developed road network to all major parks
Safe, clean, and organized country for independent or guided birding tours

Best Time for Birding in Rwanda

The best time to go birding in Rwanda is during the dry season, especially December to January, when migratory birds from Europe arrive and bird activity is generally high. However, birding is excellent year-round, with each season offering its own highlights.

Top Bird Watching Destinations in Rwanda

1. Nyungwe Forest National Park

Home to over 322 bird species, including many Albertine Rift Endemics, Nyungwe is a birder’s paradise. It is also Rwanda’s top destination for chimpanzee trekking, offering a combination of birding and primate experiences.

Key Birds to Spot:

Red-collared Babbler (flagship species)
Rwenzori Turaco
Purple-breasted Sunbird
Handsome Francolin
Grauer’s Warbler
Kungwe Apalis
Kivu Ground Thrush

Expert Tip: Don’t miss the Kimiranzovu Trail, a 6km trek to the swamp, where rare species like the Kungwe Apalis are often seen.

2. Volcanoes National Park

Famous for mountain gorilla trekking, this park is also home to 200 bird species, including 17 Albertine Rift Endemics.

Top Species:

Scarlet-tufted Sunbird (at higher altitudes)
Rwenzori Batis
Grauer’s Rush Warbler
Cinnamon Bracken Warbler
Black-and-white Manikin

Though birding here is often overlooked, it’s a rewarding add-on to a primate safari.

3. Akagera National Park

The only savanna park in Rwanda, Akagera hosts more than 490 bird species and is home to the Big Five.

Best Birding Activities:

Game drives through savannah and woodlands
Boat safari on Lake Ihema

Notable Birds:

African Starling
Grey-crowned Crane
Papyrus Gonolek
White-winged Swamp Warbler
Carruthers’s Cisticola

Seasonal Birding Tips:

June–September: Best for wetland birds and francolins
November–April: Peak time for migratory birds

4. Lake Kivu

One of Africa’s Great Lakes, Lake Kivu offers a scenic and relaxed birding experience combined with beach time and cultural visits.

Common Birds:

White-breasted Cormorant
African Pied Kingfisher
Yellow-fronted Canary
Southern Red Bishop
Osprey (migratory)

Birding Tip: Visit Nkora fishing village to interact with the local community and observe birds in their natural setting.

5. Gishwati-Mukura National Park

Located in northwest Rwanda, this newly established park is home to over 230 bird species, including several Albertine Rift Endemics.

Bird Highlights:

Regal Sunbird
Martial Eagle
Strange Weaver
Stripe-breasted Tit
Ruwenzori Turaco

The park is also home to chimpanzees, golden monkeys, and L’Hoest’s monkeys.

6. Rwanda’s Wetlands and Marshes

Wetlands cover 10.6% of Rwanda and are vital bird habitats. Rugezi, Akanyaru, and Nyagafunzo wetlands are designated Important Bird Areas (IBAs).

Key Species:

Grey-crowned Cranes
Papyrus Canary
Grauer’s Swamp Warbler
Papyrus Yellow Warbler
Great White Pelican

Birding Tip: Use a wooden canoe boat for a peaceful and immersive wetland birding experience.

7. Nyabarongo River Wetlands

Located in southeastern Rwanda, this 142 km² wetland is fed by the Nile’s tributary and offers rich birdlife.

Species to Look Out For:

Papyrus Yellow Warbler
Sharpe’s Pied Babbler
White-collared Oliveback
Northern Brown-throated Weaver

8. Kigali City

Surprisingly rich in birdlife, Kigali offers urban birding opportunities for visitors with limited time.

Top Spot: Lake Nyarutarama

Birds You Can Spot:

Black-headed Heron
Spur-winged Goose
Red-chested Cuckoo
Grey-capped Warbler
Southern Black Flycatcher

Thanks to Rwanda’s urban greening efforts, Kigali is one of the best birding-friendly capital cities in Africa.

How to Prepare for a Birding Tour in Rwanda

What to Pack:

Binoculars: Essential. Recommended 7×42 or 8×42
Bird Book: Birds of East Africa by Terry Stevenson is highly recommended
Bug Repellent: Essential in tropical areas
Breathable Clothing: Stick to neutral colors like beige, brown, and olive green
Sturdy Hiking Shoes: Especially for rainforest trails
Sun Protection: Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
Swimwear: Some lodges have pools

Birding Etiquette:

Be quiet and patient
Dress in natural tones to avoid startling birds
Always double-check your hotel room for gear before departure
Birding with local guides enhances sightings and supports the community

Conclusion

Whether you’re an avid birder or just starting out, birding in Rwanda is an exceptional experience. From the dense forests of Nyungwe to the wetlands of Akagera and the shores of Lake Kivu, this small yet diverse country offers an unforgettable journey through one of Africa’s richest avian ecosystems.