Bird Watching in Rwanda and Best Birding Destinations 2025
A Rwanda Birdwatching tour takes you to the best birding destination of the country that’s Nyungwe National Park and to the notable birding spots, Akagera and Volcanoes National Park.
Bird watching in Rwanda is soul-captivating and immersive, offering birders the opportunity to spot over 700 impressive bird species spread across the best birding destinations in the country.
Rwanda bird species list includes notable birds like the iconic Shoebill Stork, Grey Crowned Crane, Grauer’s Swamp Warbler, Ruwenzori Turaco, Albertine Owlet, Handsome Francolin, Red-throated Alethe, White-tailed Blue Flycatcher, Mountain Sooty Boubou, Doherty’s Bushshrike, Stripe-breasted Tit, Purple-breasted Sunbird, Red-faced Woodland Warbler, White-headed Woodhoopoe, Papyrus Gonolek, Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher, White-winged Swamp Warbler, Blue-headed Sunbird, Archer’s Robin-chat, and Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater.
Rwanda is ranked as one of the top Eco-tourism destinations across Africa characterized by several birding sites spread all over its diverse natural habitats offering the best African montane birding.
The incredible road networks, focus on tourist safety combined with the compact kind of nature of the country that features several birding sites make it an excellent destination for birding enthusiasts, exploring several birding habitats within a very short period granting them access to sight most of the rare desirable bird species of Africa.
In November 2018, the country was documented to hold 703 bird species inclusive of the different bird species that had been added to the country birding list since 2010.
Some of these birds include the most desirable Lake Victoria Basin Endemics and 29 Albertine Rift Endemics, topping the wish lists of bird lovers.
The 29 Albertine Rift Endemics Species spotted in Rwanda include;
Albertine Boubou
Albertine owlet
Schouteden’s swift
Strange weaver
Stripe-breasted tit
Willard’s sooty boubou
Yellow-eyed black flycatcher
Archer’s robin-chat
Black-faced Apalis
Blue-headed sunbird
Congo bay owl
Dusky Crimsonwing
Rockefeller’s sunbird
Ruwenzori Apalis
Ruwenzori batis
Ruwenzori double-collared sunbird
Ruwenzori nightjar
Grauer’s Swamp Warbler
Grauer’s warbler
Handsome francolin
Kivu ground thrush
Kungwe Apalis
Neumann’s warbler
Purple-breasted sunbird
Red-collared Mountain Babbler
Red-faced woodland warbler
Shoebill
Red-throated alethe
Regal Sunbird
Great Blue Turaco
Ruwenzori turaco
Although most birders to Rwanda put most of their attention to birding in Akagera National Park and Nyungwe National Park, there are several birding sites spread all over the country where a traveler can go for Bird watching in Rwanda.
Some of them are within a few kilometers of the capital, Kigali, making it very possible to sight different bird species during your Rwanda wildlife safari no matter your destination.
Some the unique bird species sighted during bird watching in Rwanda include the Albertine boubou, Albertine owlet, Archer’s robin-chat, Black-faced Apalis,
The best birding hotspots in Rwanda include Nyungwe National Park. It is renowned for its rich birdlife, hosting over 300 bird species, including 29 endemics to the Albertine Rift. Some of the rare and sought-after Rwanda birds include the Great Blue Turaco, Red-collared Babbler, and Rwenzori Turaco.
Other notable birding spots in Rwanda include Akagera National Park Known for its diverse habitats, it is home to savannah and water birds such as the Papyrus Gonolek and Shoebill and Volcanoes National Park which hosts various Albertine Rift endemics, including the Ruwenzori Double-collared Sunbird. Let us look at different birding-watching hotspots in Rwanda;
Birding in Volcanoes National Park;
Famously known for its Endangered Mountain Gorillas, the park is nestled among the dormant volcanoes, hosting Mount Karisimbi, the highest peaked mountain of Rwanda, and a diverse of 200 bird species of which 17 are Albertine Rift Endemics making it the right destination for bird watching in Rwanda.
Most of Volcanoes National Park’s birdlife is similar to that sighted at Nyungwe National Parkapart from the one unique impressive species called the Scarlet-Tufted Sunbird which can only be found here across Rwanda.
This Rwanda bird can only be seen at the peak of Mount Bisoke, therefore, requiring an eager birder who wants to catch glimpse of it to hike the Mount to its peak, covering 12,175 feet distance.
In addition to birding in Rwanda adventures, the park is surrounded by some lakes, close to it is Buhanga Eco-park, the right spot for sighting African Pitta during its migration. All in one package giving a memorable birding adventurous tour in Rwanda.
Birding in Nyungwe National Park;
Nyungwe National Park is characterized by a tropical rainforest, home to 322 impressive bird species, 13 primate species, a variety of plant species, and a diversity of animal species. The most desired birds spotted at the park include the Red-collared Babbler, Rwenzori Turaco,
Francolin, Rwenzori Nightjar, Grauer’s Warbler, Regal, Blue-headed, and Purple Breasted Sunbirds, Neumann’s Warbler, and Grauer’s Swamp Warbler best seen during nature walks, taking trails into forests, with help of an experienced bird guide to help you spot different colorful birds as he is guiding you about their diet, breeding, behavior, numbers and so much more.
At the park, you have a high chance of spotting the rare Rockefeller’s Sunbird, Congo Bay Owl, Kungwe Apalis, Willard’s Sooty Boubou, Albertine Owlet, and Shelley’s Crimson-wing, Kivu Ground Thrush flying around the forest.
Birding in Akagera National Park
Akagera National Park is one of the savannah parks of Rwanda features lakes, wetlands, rolling hills, woodlands, and lush vegetation. The park is a habitat to 490 bird species inclusive of the most thought of by bird enthusiasts but very rare in other habitats called Red-faced barbet making it one of the top destinations for bird watching in Rwanda.
other Akagera National Park Birds include the Northern Brown-throated Weaver, White-collared Oliveback, Papyrus Gonolek, White-Winged Swamp Warbler, Carruthers’s Cisticola, and Grey-crowned Cranes.
The park is a habitat for a variety of raptors and water-wading birds inclusive of the famous shoebill stork best seen during canoe rides on Lake Ihema.
Besides birding being best explored on nature walks and canoe rides, the park is also a good destination for game drives, sighting different animal species grazing on the Savannah plains, and hanging in the woodlands inclusive of the Big Five making it a complete tour package destination of Rwanda.
Birding in Gishwati-Mukura National Park
Gishwati-Mukura National Park is Rwanda’s newest park located in the west mountainous regions of Rwanda. Mukura forest holds about 232 bird species and Gishwati 163 bird species inclusive of the most loved by birders and Albertine rift endemics making them a great spot for bird watching in Rwanda.
The park offers uninterrupted scenic views of Lake Kivu located just below the park and lush green vegetation featuring wildlife going about its daily activities.
Birding at Lake Kivu;
Lake Kivu is home to a good number of water-wading bird species best seen during a boat cruises. It is a habitat for some of the most loved bird species inclusive of the White-breasted Cormorants, Pied Kingfishers, and Osprey.
While on a boat cruise, at the lake shores, you see semi-aquatic species which include the large alligators and Hippo,s and terrestrial species that get attracted by the lake from their habitats to cool off.
Lake Kivu bird species spotted while on the birding adventure in the region include Double-tooth Barbet Yellow-bellied Waxbill, Familiar Chat, Brown-throated Wattle-eye, and Spot-flanked Barbet daily.
Birding in the Wetlands and Marshes of Rwanda.
Wetlands and marshes cover about 10% of Rwanda and are home to a variety of bird species, making them excellent destinations for birdwatching in Rwanda. Some well-known wetlands for birding experiences include the Rugezi, Nyabarongo, and Akanyaru wetlands.
Rugezi Wetland, located in the northwestern region of Rwanda, hosts a significant population of Grauer’s Swamp Warbler. Here, you can also spot various water-wading bird species, such as gray-crowned cranes and papyrus canaries.
A boat on Lake Nyagafunzo, situated at the southern end of Rugezi Wetland, offers stunning views of different bird species.
In the Bugesera district, wetlands are documented to support over 300 bird species, making them prime birding spots in Rwanda. Unique bird species found here include the Blue-naped Mousebird, Red-chested Sunbird, Palm Nut Vulture, and African Fish Eagle.
In these marshes, you may also frequently encounter the Papyrus Gonolek, White-winged Swamp Warbler, White-collared Oliveback, Lesser Jacana, and White-backed Duck.
Birding in Kigali City, the Capital of Rwanda
Kigali is an urban birding destination. While in the city, you will catch glimpses of different impressive bird species flying around the hotel gardens offering you a clear picture of the rich diversity of bird species that await you in their reserved habitats.
The famous birds sighted while birding around Kigali include the Brown-backed Honeybird, Black, White-collared Oliveback, African Swamphen, Crested Barbet, Grey-backed Fiscal, Rüppell’s Starling, Grey-headed Bushshrike, Bat Hawk, Narina Trogon, Lesser Honeyguide, Cuckoo-Shrike, Olive-bellied, Red-chested Sunbird and Bronzy Sunbirds, African Goshawk, Palm Nut Vulture, and Black-headed Weaver.
Birding at Umusambi village
Umusambi village, at the edge of the city, is home to endangered Grey crowned cranes holding up to about 100 species of birds in the restored habitat making it a good destination for urban birding.
Rugezi Swamp Bird watching
Rugezi Swamp located in the northern province of Rwanda offers exceptional birding experiences to birders seeking to spot rare and unique bird species in the country. This Wetland Sanctuary is featured with a variety of Rwanda bird species and is documented to hold over 70 unique, rare, and endemic species including the globally threatened Grauer’s Swamp Warbler and the iconic Grey Crowned Crane.
Through Rwanda’s guided birding tours, visitors can explore its diverse habitats including lush Papyrus reeds and marshes or open waters which create an ideal habitat for waterfowls. Guided tours around the swamp also help to spot the rare and elusive bird species that one can’t easily spot on a self-guided birding experience.
Rugezi Swamp offers an immersive bird-watching experience that highlights Rwanda’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage.
About the Shoebill in Rwanda
The Shoebill stork is one of the most sought-after bird species for birders on the globe. It is loved for its distinctive appearance featuring a striking large bill that is in a shoe shape. A Shoebill in Rwanda is primarily found in the Wetlands like those of Akagera National Park and Akanyaru Wetlands.
This elusive bird prefers to inhabit swamp areas that are rich in Fish as it is its primary source of food. Spotting a Shoebill in Rwanda is a unique experience, as the species is globally threatened due to habitat loss and human activities. Rwanda Shoebill Birding Tours offers an unforgettable opportunity to witness this majestic bird in its natural environment.
About the National Bird of Rwanda:
The national bird of Rwanda is the Grey Crowned Crane, known for its striking golden crest and elegant courtship dances. Found in wetlands and grasslands, this bird symbolizes wealth and longevity in Rwandan culture. Conservation efforts aim to protect the species from habitat loss and illegal trade.
Picture of the National Bird of Rwanda
Rwanda Bird Conservation
Rwanda is committed to bird conservation, focusing on protecting its rich avian diversity, including endangered and endemic species like the Grauer’s Swamp Warbler and the Red-collared Mountain Babbler.
Conservation efforts are centered in key habitats like Nyungwe Forest, Akagera National Park, and the Volcanoes National Park, where reforestation, anti-poaching measures, and community involvement are key strategies.
Organizations like the Rwanda Wildlife Conservation Association work alongside local communities to promote eco-tourism, raising awareness about the importance of birds in maintaining ecological balance. Through national parks and conservation programs, Rwanda has made significant strides in preserving its birdlife for the future.
Rwanda Birds Checklist
Rwanda is home to over 700 bird species, including Albertine Rift endemics, savanna, wetland, and forest species. Below is a checklist of some notable birds found in Rwanda, categorized by habitat type:
Albertine Rift Endemics (Nyungwe Forest & Volcanoes National Park)
Ruwenzori Turaco
Red-collared Babbler
Handsome Francolin
Regal Sunbird
Grauer’s Swamp Warbler
Albertine Owlet
Shelley’s Crimsonwing
Blue-headed Sunbird
Stripe-breasted Tit
Mountain Masked Apalis
Wetland and Water Birds (Akagera National Park & Rugezi Marsh)
Shoebill Stork
Papyrus Gonolek
African Jacana
White-backed Duck
Yellow-billed Stork
Goliath Heron
Malachite Kingfisher
African Fish Eagle
African Darter
Great Egret
Savanna and Woodland Birds (Akagera National Park)
Lilac-breasted Roller
Southern Ground Hornbill
Black-headed Gonolek
Brown Snake Eagle
Bare-faced Go-away-bird
Helmeted Guineafowl
White-browed Coucal
Grey-backed Fiscal
African Grey Hornbill
Meyer’s Parrot
Urban and Garden Birds (Kigali & Surroundings)
Pied Crow
Speckled Pigeon
Common Bulbul
Variable Sunbird
African Thrush
Bronze Mannikin
Village Weaver
White-browed Robin-Chat
Red-eyed Dove
African Paradise Flycatcher
Migratory Birds (Seasonal Visitors)
Eurasian Bee-eater
White Stork
Steppe Eagle
European Roller
Barn Swallow
Best time for Bird Watching in Rwanda
The best time for birding in Rwanda is during the wet seasons, particularly from March to May and September to November. During these months, the lush vegetation and abundant water sources attract a variety of bird species. Additionally, migratory birds are present, making it an ideal time for birdwatching.
Overall, visiting during the wet seasons not only enhances birdwatching opportunities but also allows you to enjoy Rwanda’s stunning natural beauty.
Essential Gear you need while on Birding safaris in Rwanda
For an immersive birding experience in Rwanda, birders should consider bringing the following gear:
Binoculars: A good pair of binoculars (8×42 or 10×42) for clear and close-up views of birds.
Field Guide: A bird identification book or app specific to the region to help identify various species.
Camera: A DSLR or mirrorless camera with a zoom lens to capture photos of birds without disturbing them.
Notebook and Pen: For jotting down observations, notes, and bird sightings.
Comfortable Clothing: Lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral colors to blend into the environment.
Hiking Boots: Sturdy, comfortable footwear for walking on uneven terrain featuring bird habitats.
Rain Gear: A lightweight rain jacket or poncho just in case the weather changes.
Hat and Sunglasses: For sun protection during daytime birding.
Water Bottle: To help you keep hydrated while exploring.
Snacks: Energy-boosting snacks especially for those planning longer excursions.
Insect Repellent: To protect against bugs, especially in warmer months.
Backpack: A comfortable daypack to carry your gear.
Having this gear will enhance the birding experience and ensure a more enjoyable time in the bird habitats.
About Birding Tours in Rwanda
Birding tours in Rwanda offer a unique experience for enthusiasts to explore the country’s diverse avian population. Guided birdwatching excursions take visitors to key birding hotspots such as Nyungwe Forest National Park, home to over 300 bird species, including Albertine Rift endemics like the Red-collared Mountain Babbler.
Akagera National Park is another prime location, particularly for waterbirds and the elusive Shoebill. Birding tours often include visits to Volcanoes National Park, where travelers can spot species like the Rwenzori Turaco.
Local guides, who are skilled in identifying birds by sight and sound, enhance the experience, offering insights into Rwanda’s birdlife and ecosystems.
10 Essential Birding Photography Tips
Here are some essential birding photography tips to enhance your experience while on a birding safari in Rwanda:
Use the Right Equipment: Consider using a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a telephoto lens of 200mm or longer as it is the best for capturing birds at a good distance. You can also use a tripod or monopod for stability, especially in low light.
Know Your Subjects: by first familiarize yourself with local bird species and their behaviors before getting to their habitats. This will help you anticipate their movements hence giving you the best captures.
Focus on Lighting: Consider going on the birding photography Shoot during the golden hours that is the early morning and late afternoon hours as this offers soft and natural light hence the best images. Avoid the harsh midday sun, which can create harsh shadows.
Be Patient: Birding photography requires a patient individual as it often requires waiting quietly, staying still, and being calm to increase your chances of capturing the perfect shot.
Get Low: Take all positions like Kneeling or lying down for perfect shots. This perspective often results in more engaging and dramatic photos.
Focus on the Eyes: Ensure the bird’s eyes are in focus; this adds a connection and intensity to your photos.
Be Mindful of Backgrounds: Look for clean, uncluttered backgrounds that won’t distract from the subject. Position yourself to avoid busy backgrounds.
Practice Ethical Birding: Maintain a respectful distance from birds to avoid stressing them. Use zoom lenses to capture close-ups without getting too close.
Take Notes: Record details about your sightings, including locations and behaviors, to enhance your photography later.
Review and Edit: After your shoot, review your photos and edit them for brightness, contrast, and color correction.
Frequently Asked Questions About Birding in Rwanda
1. What are the best birding destinations in Rwanda? Top birding spots include Nyungwe Forest National Park, Akagera National Park, Volcanoes National Park, Kigali’s Nyandungu Eco Park, and Rugezi Marsh, each offering diverse bird species.
2. How many bird species can be found in Rwanda? Rwanda is home to over 700 bird species, including endemic and migratory species, making it a prime birding destination in East Africa.
3. What are the notable bird species to see in Rwanda? Key species include the Shoebill Stork, Albertine Rift endemics like the Ruwenzori Turaco, Red-collared Babbler, and rare sightings of the Papyrus Gonolek.
4. When is the best time to go birdwatching in Rwanda? The best time is during the dry seasons, from June to September and December to February, when birds are more visible and trails are easier to navigate.
5. Do I need a guide for birdwatching in Rwanda? Yes, hiring a professional birding guide is recommended to enhance your experience and help identify Rwanda’s diverse bird species.
6. Are there migratory birds in Rwanda? Yes, Rwanda hosts migratory birds, particularly from Europe and North Africa, arriving between November and April.
7. What should I pack for a birding trip in Rwanda? Essential items include binoculars, a bird guidebook, a camera, comfortable hiking boots, neutral clothing, insect repellent, and a rain jacket.
8. How difficult is birdwatching in Rwanda? Birdwatching in Rwanda ranges from easy walks in places like Nyandungu Eco Park to challenging hikes in forests such as Nyungwe.
9. Are there any birding tours available in Rwanda? Yes, several tour operators offer specialized birding tours tailored to specific locations and species interests.
10. Is Rwanda a good destination for bird photographers? Absolutely! Rwanda’s national parks and wetlands provide excellent opportunities to capture stunning bird photos, especially in open landscapes like Akagera.
11. Are there conservation efforts for birds in Rwanda? Yes, Rwanda has ongoing conservation programs focusing on wetland preservation, protecting endangered species, and habitat restoration, especially for the Grey Crowned Crane.
12. How do I access birding locations in Rwanda? Most birding destinations are accessible via road from Kigali, with well-maintained routes leading to parks like Akagera and Nyungwe.
13. Are there entrance fees for birding in Rwanda’s national parks? Yes, national parks require an entrance fee, which varies depending on the park, with Nyungwe and Akagera having specific birding fees.
14. Can I combine birdwatching with other activities in Rwanda? Yes, birding can be combined with wildlife safaris, gorilla trekking, cultural tours, and nature walks for a more fulfilling experience.
15. Is birdwatching in Rwanda safe? Yes, Rwanda is a very safe country for tourists, and birdwatching in designated areas is conducted with professional guides for added security.
