Birding in Rwanda – Nyungwe, Lake Kivu and Volcanoes National Park
Rwanda has quickly become a prime birding destination in East Africa, thanks to its diverse habitats, ranging from tropical rainforests to volcanic mountains and freshwater lakes. The country boasts over 700 recorded bird species, including many Albertine Rift endemics that cannot be found elsewhere. Birding in Rwanda is particularly rewarding in Nyungwe Forest National Park, Lake Kivu, and Volcanoes National Park, each offering unique avian encounters for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
Birding in Nyungwe Forest National Park
Nyungwe Forest National Park is Rwanda’s top birding hotspot and one of the richest montane rainforests in Africa. The park is home to more than 300 bird species, with over 29 Albertine Rift endemics. Its dense rainforest canopy and rich biodiversity make it a paradise for serious birders.
Some of the key bird species in Nyungwe include the Ruwenzori Turaco, Grauer’s Swamp Warbler, Red-collared Mountain Babbler, Handsome Francolin, Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher, and the Strange Weaver. Birders often focus on specialized areas like the Gisakura Tea Estate, Kamiranzovu Swamp, and the Canopy Walkway, which provide excellent vantage points for spotting rare species.
The Canopy Walk in Nyungwe is especially popular among birders, offering a chance to spot canopy specialists that are rarely seen from the ground. Early morning and late evening bird walks are highly recommended for the best sightings.
Birding Around Lake Kivu
Lake Kivu is not only a scenic relaxation spot but also a prime birding destination in Rwanda. The lake’s shoreline, wetlands, and surrounding hills harbor numerous waterbirds and forest-edge species. Birding here combines relaxation with excellent opportunities to observe both resident and migratory species.
Common species include the Malachite Kingfisher, African Fish Eagle, Grey-headed Gull, Pied Kingfisher, Swamp Flycatcher, and Cormorants. The papyrus swamps and wetlands around Lake Kivu also host the rare Papyrus Gonolek and White-winged Swamp Warbler.
Birding tours around Lake Kivu are often combined with boat trips, giving birders a chance to spot species from different vantage points. The lake provides a serene birdwatching experience, perfect for travelers looking to blend birding with leisure.
Birding in Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park, best known for mountain gorilla trekking, is also an excellent birding site. The park is part of the Virunga Conservation Area and supports over 200 bird species, including 16 Albertine Rift endemics. Its high-altitude forests and volcanic slopes provide unique habitats for specialized bird species.
Some of the notable birds found here include the Ruwenzori Batis, Archer’s Robin-Chat, Dusky Crimsonwing, Ruwenzori Double-collared Sunbird, and the Ruwenzori Turaco. The bamboo zones, montane forests, and subalpine habitats all offer diverse birding opportunities.
Birding in Volcanoes National Park is often combined with gorilla trekking or golden monkey tracking, making it a great add-on activity for wildlife enthusiasts. Guided bird walks in the park increase chances of spotting rare species while enjoying the breathtaking volcanic scenery.
Best Time for Birding in Rwanda
Birding in Rwanda is a year-round activity, but the best time is during the long rains from March to May and the short rains from October to November. During this time, migratory birds arrive, and resident species are most active, often engaging in breeding displays. However, the dry season (June to September and December to February) also offers excellent birding conditions, especially in forested areas where birds gather around limited water sources.