Rwanda is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, boasting a total of 703 species, including 29 Albertine Rift Endemics. The country offers a wide range of habitats and is renowned for its exceptional montane birding, making it the top destination for birdwatching in Africa.
Rwanda is often regarded as the top destination for Montane Birding in Africa. When you combine a well-developed road network, high levels of safety and security, and a wide range of habitats, you get one of the finest eco-tourism locations in Africa. Due to the country’s small size, it is possible to visit multiple birding areas in a short trip, providing an opportunity to observe some of the most sought-after bird species in Africa.
Rwanda now has a documented total of 703 bird species as of November 2018. It is worth noting that there have been several additions to the country’s bird list since 2010, thus unexpected discoveries are always a possibility. There are 29 species known as Albertine Rift Endemics and numerous species known as Lake Victoria Basin Endemics that can be found among the resident bird species. These species are much sought after by birdwatchers.
Most ornithologists will be interested in directing their attention towards Nyungwe National Park in the western region of Rwanda and Akagera National Park situated in the eastern region. Nevertheless, excellent birdwatching opportunities may be found throughout the entire country, including areas around Kigali. Therefore, regardless of the duration of your trip, there are fulfilling birdwatching experiences available.
Best Places to Go Birding in Rwanda
- Volcanoes National Park: Known for mountain gorilla trekking, Volcanoes National Park also provides opportunities for bird watching. Albertine Rift endemics like the Rwenzori turaco and handsome francolin can be found here. You can supplement your bird watching expedition with a gorilla trek in Rwanda.
- Nyungwe National Park: One of the largest montane forests in East Africa, Nyungwe is a hotspot for bird diversity. It hosts over 300 bird species, including the great blue turaco, purple-breasted sunbird, and red-collared mountain babbler.
- Akagera National Park: Situated in eastern Rwanda, Akagera is characterized by savannah and wetland habitats. It’s home to over 500 bird species, including the shoebill, papyrus gonolek, and red-faced barbet.
- Rugezi Marsh: This wetland area near Lake Burera is an essential birding site in northern Rwanda. It supports species like the lesser jacana, papyrus canary, and swamp flycatcher.
- Kigali Wetland: Despite being small in size, Kigali Wetland is significant for birdwatching. It hosts a variety of waterbirds, including African spoonbill, malachite kingfisher, and black-headed heron.
- Cyamudongo Forest: This small but biodiverse forest reserve is home to a variety of bird species, including the great blue turaco, Ross’s turaco, and various species of forest birds.
- Rugezi-Bulera Wetlands: These wetlands, located near Volcanoes National Park, support a variety of bird species, including the African fish eagle, grey crowned crane, and numerous species of waterfowl and waders.
- Nyabarongo Wetlands: Situated near Rwanda’s capital city, Kigali, Nyabarongo Wetlands are home to a variety of bird species, including the African openbill stork, black-headed heron, and various species of waterbirds and waders.
- Gishwati Forest Reserve: This small but biodiverse forest reserve offers birdwatching opportunities, with species such as the red-throated alethe, Grauer’s warbler, and various species of forest birds.
- Lake Kivu: Rwanda’s largest lake, Lake Kivu provides habitat for a variety of bird species, including African fish eagles, pied kingfishers, and various species of waterfowl and waders.
Go Birding in Wetlands
Rwanda’s wetlands and marshes encompass around 10% of the nation’s territory. Rugezi, Akanyaru Wetlands, and Nyabarongo Wetlands have been designated as Important Bird Areas by Birdlife International.
Rugezi Marsh, situated in the northwestern region of Rwanda near Gicumbi, is the sole RAMSAR Site in the country. It harbors substantial populations of Grauer’s Swamp Warbler and also provides habitat for Grey-crowned Cranes, Papyrus Canary, and occasional sightings of Papyrus Yellow Warbler. Located near the southern edge of the marsh, there is a body of water known as Lake Nyagafunzo. Taking a boat trip here offers an excellent opportunity to observe the country’s most prevalent waterbirds, as well as the chance to spot the White-backed Duck and Lesser Jacana.
The wetlands and lakes in Bugesera District, located to the south-east of Kigali, provide exceptional birdwatching opportunities and are among the most conveniently accessible birding locations in Rwanda. This region boasts a wide range of habitats, which has led to the observation of over 415 different bird species. There are multiple locations where you can have excellent opportunities to observe the Papyrus Gonolek, Papyrus Canary, White-winged Swamp Warbler, White-collared Oliveback, Lesser Jacana, and White-backed Duck. In 2014, the two species mentioned above were found again in Rwanda after a significant length of time without any officially confirmed sightings. Furthermore, this area is home to a variety of avian species, including the Red-chested Sunbird, Palm Nut Vulture, Blue-naped Mousebird, African Fish Eagle, as well as a multitude of waterbirds and savannah species.
Go Birding in Kigali
Kigali offers excellent opportunities for urban birdwatching. Hotel gardens frequently attract fascinating bird species, while Nyarutarama Lake, sometimes known as “Lover’s Lake,” located near the Kigali golf course, consistently yields fruitful results. Even anyone with a limited amount of free time will be gratified by a visit. The species present in the area are White-collared Oliveback, African Swamphen, Grey-headed Bushshrike, Bat Hawk, Narina Trogon, Lesser Honeyguide, Brown-backed Honeybird, Black Cuckoo-Shrike, Olive-bellied, Red-chested Sunbird and Bronzy Sunbirds, African Goshawk, Palm Nut Vulture, Crested Barbet, Grey-backed Fiscal, Rüppell’s Starling, and Black-headed Weaver. Furthermore, Umusambi Village, scheduled to open in the middle of 2019, will provide the opportunity to observe Grey-crowned Cranes that have been rescued up close. Additionally, approximately 100 different species have been observed in the rehabilitated environment. The Rwanda Environment Management Authority is currently constructing a park on the outskirts of Kigali. Once finished, this park will serve as an excellent location for observing urban bird species. In addition, there are more excellent spots located near the marshes on the outskirts of the city.