Birding Areas in Rwanda
Birdwatching Areas in Rwanda: The “Land of a Thousand Hills,” Rwanda, is a secret treasure for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers. This little nation in East Africa is home to several bird species, making it a fantastic destination for wildlife aficionados and ornithologists. The book identifies Rwanda’s Important Birding Areas, offering exceptional opportunities to witness the stunning birds of the nation.
Birding Spots in Rwanda
Nyungwe Forest National Park
With more than 300 bird species, Nyungwe National Park is Africa’s oldest and largest montane forest. Bird species in Nyungwe Forest can be seen perched in tree branches on Mount Bigugu within the park. More still, visitors can also visit the surrounding tea estate of Gisakura, which also houses several bird species, among which include Handsome Francolin, Rwenzori Turaco, Albertine owlet, Red-collared Babbler, Regal sunbird, Grauer’s Swamp Warbler, Rwenzori Batis, and Blue-headed sunbird, among others.
Following the Birding Areas in Rwanda, visitors can walk or ride a bike along the Congo Nile trail or along the established forest trails in Nyungwe to explore the area. The canopy walk, which is 160 metres long and offers an aerial perspective of the forest and its fauna, is an intriguing alternative. It is advised to hire a bird guide for a more thorough birding experience. Identification of many bird species, such as the Great Blue Turaco and the Eastern Mountain Greenbul, can be aided by a qualified guide.
Having a knowledgeable guide is essential to correctly identifying species in the dense forest, which can make birdwatching difficult. Visitors may see primates such as the Angolan Colobus, Golden Monkeys, and Rwandan chimpanzees in addition to birding.
Birding Areas in Kigali City
There are excellent birding chances in East Africa, particularly in Rwanda and Uganda. Birdwatching in towns like Kigali is ideal for people with limited time, as it can begin at the airport or in urban areas. Birdwatching in Kigali can begin on the hotel grounds, but it’s best to visit Lake Nyarutarama, located near the golf course, due to its lovely trails and opportunities to see a variety of birds, including grey-capped warblers and black-headed herons. Additionally, the Rwandan government created a well-liked park for birdwatchers. Additional excellent locations are Mount Kigali for red-chested cuckoos and southern black flycatchers, and the Nyabarongo marsh for tiny egrets.
Akagera National Park
Following the birding areas in Rwanda, with its lakes, wetlands, savannah, and undulating hills, Akagera National Park is home to 310 different species of birds. The park is located in northeastern Rwanda, close to Tanzania. The scenic Lake Ihema and its environs are the ideal places for birdlife activities. While organised visits to the savannah take place early in the morning and evening, boat cruises on Lake Ihema facilitate bird watching, as mornings are the busiest time of day for birds.
The most prevalent bird in the park is the Red-faced Barbet, while the uncommon Ring-necked Francolin and the endangered papyrus Gonolek can also be found there. The Carruthers’ Cisticola, Grey-crowned Cranes, and the exquisite African Starling, which is renowned for its exquisite feathers, are additional fascinating species. The park is also home to the elusive Shoebill stork, albeit it takes time to spot them. The greatest time to go bird watching is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. The park’s southern section has a greater variety of birds and butterflies than its northern section. Tented camps and regular cottages are among the lodging options available to visitors, who may also witness creatures like lions and elephants.
Volcanoes National Park-Birding Areas in Rwanda
Hiking volcanoes like Karisimbi, golden monkeys, and gorilla trekking are among the park’s most popular attractions. With almost 200 bird species, it is also among Rwanda’s top birdwatching locations. 16 species are endemic to the Virunga range, and 27 species are exclusive and unique to the park. Birds to be seen include Cinnamon bracken warbler, Black and white manikin, Regal Sunbird, and Archer’s ground robin. Travellers can also see prevalent bird species since the park is not far from Mgahinga National Park and the DRC Virunga National Park of Congo.
Gishwati-Mukura National Park
With 395 different bird species, including the Grey Crowned Crane and Martial Eagle, Gishwati-Mukura National Park is the newest national park in Northwestern Rwanda and is well-known for its birdwatching opportunities. Some migrate annually from the Congo, although many of these birds are native to the Albertine Rift or reside in woods. Baboons, chimpanzees, and both blue and golden monkeys are all possible sites for visitors. The greatest time to go birdwatching is during the dry season because the wet season can make the trails muddy and slick.
Birding in the Nyabarongo River, wetlands, and swamps
Wetlands and swamps contribute about 10% of Rwanda’s landscape, which greatly contributes to part of the birdlife habitats in the country. Some of these places include Akanyaru and Rugezi, which offer fresh foliage to several wildlife species and other lining organisms. Rugezi wetland serves as Rwanda’s only Ramsar Site, and it’s a top spot for birding excursions with over 43 bird species such as the African Jacana, Papyrus Gonolek, Kingfishers, and several swamp warblers, among others. With species like the Lesser Jacana, Lake Nyagafunzo, which is south of the marsh, is also a fantastic place to go bird watching. Unlike not being famous, these wetlands offer unique birding, together with other birding areas. There are also additional birding sanctuaries in Akanyaru and the Bugesera District.
Lake Kivu-Birding Areas in Rwanda
Following the Birding Areas in Rwanda, Lake Kivu is famous for its stunning beaches, islets, and sport fishing. But it’s also a fantastic spot to go birdwatching. During certain periods, a large number of migratory species feed near the lake, including Pied Kingfishers and White-breasted Cormorants. Visit Nkora Island, a tiny fishing community with a variety of water birds and cave bats, to get the most out of your birdwatching experience. Additionally, you can engage with local fisherman and gain insight into their lifestyle.
In conclusion, Rwanda is one of Africa’s top birding destinations with unique species of birds totaling 1080 birds, including the Albertine Rift endemics, among others. The main birdwatching locations are Akagera National Park, Nyungwe National Park, and Volcanoes National Park. To experience birdwatching in Rwanda, be ready for long hours outside and hiking in some areas, especially in the mountainous regions of Nyungwe and Volcanoes National Parks.
