Rwanda is a dream destination for bird enthusiasts, boasting an impressive 703 recorded bird species, including 29 Albertine Rift Endemics and several Lake Victoria Basin Endemics. With diverse habitats and some of the best African montane birding opportunities, Rwanda combines natural beauty with ease of travel, making it an exceptional eco-tourism destination.

Thanks to the country’s compact size, birding hotspots are accessible within a short trip, allowing visitors to encounter a wide variety of species in different ecosystems. A well-maintained road network, safety, and security further enhance the experience, solidifying Rwanda as a top choice for birders worldwide.

Rwanda Birding Highlights

Albertine Rift Endemics: Rwanda is home to 29 Albertine Rift Endemics, making it a key destination for those seeking rare and localized bird species.

Top Birding Locations:

• Nyungwe National Park: A tropical montane rainforest with 322 bird species, including the sought-after Red-collared Babbler, Rwenzori Turaco, and Regal Sunbird. Trails here are well-maintained, and expert guides enhance the birding experience.
• Akagera National Park: A savannah park offering a mix of traditional safari and exceptional birding. With 490 recorded species, including the range-restricted Red-faced Barbet and Shoebill, Akagera is a must-visit for birders and wildlife enthusiasts.
• Volcanoes National Park: Known for its gorillas, this park also hosts 200 bird species, including 17 Albertine Rift Endemics. Highlights include the Scarlet-tufted Sunbird, best spotted on a trek up Mount Bisoke.
• Gishwati-Mukura National Park: Rwanda’s newest national park is under rehabilitation and offers a promising birding future with Albertine Rift Endemics and forest specialists.
• Lake Kivu: A serene stopover for birders, offering sightings of Double-toothed Barbet, Osprey, and other common terrestrial and waterbird species.

Wetlands:

• Rwanda’s wetlands, covering 10% of the country, are recognized as Important Bird Areas. Key locations like Rugezi Marsh, Akanyaru Wetlands, and Nyabarongo Wetlands are home to species like Grauer’s Swamp Warbler, Papyrus Canary, and Lesser Jacana.
• Bugesera District, near Kigali, offers accessible birding with a variety of species, including Papyrus Gonolek and African Fish Eagle.

Urban Birding in Kigali:
Even Kigali, Rwanda’s capital, offers rewarding birding opportunities. Nyarutarama Lake and Umusambi Village provide excellent spots to see species such as White-collared Oliveback, Narina Trogon, and African Swamphen.

Unique Birding Experiences

• Red-collared Babbler: Nyungwe National Park is the only safe place to spot this stunning bird.
• Shoebill Sightings: Regularly observed in Akagera National Park.
• Rare Species: Congo Bay Owl, Albertine Owlet, and Shelley’s Crimsonwing have been reported but are elusive.

Planning Your Birding Trip

Rwanda’s variety of habitats, excellent infrastructure, and vibrant biodiversity ensure a memorable birding experience. Whether you’re exploring montane rainforests, savannahs, or wetlands, Rwanda offers a blend of accessibility and rich wildlife diversity.

For up-to-date sightings, birders are encouraged to use platforms like eBird and visit the African Bird Club.

Rwanda is not just a destination—it’s a birder’s heaven waiting to be explored.