Ultimate 12-Day Rwanda Birding Safari Private Itinerary for Birders

Rwanda, the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” offers an extraordinary blend of lush forests, rolling savannahs, and volcanic landscapes, making it one of Africa’s premier birding destinations. This 12-day luxury birding safari takes you across Rwanda’s most biodiverse regions, combining savannah and wetland birding in Akagera National Park, primate-rich montane forests in Nyungwe, and montane birding with gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. Along the way, you will explore wetlands, lakeshores, and highland forests, encountering rare Albertine Rift endemics, dramatic landscapes, and engaging cultural experiences.

Our 12-day luxury birding safari begins in Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital, where you will meet your experienced Deks Safaris guide and receive a comprehensive briefing on the adventure ahead. The journey moves east to Akagera National Park, home to over 500 bird species, as well as classic African savannah wildlife. Here, you will enjoy game drives, guided birding walks, and a serene boat cruise on Lake Ihema, spotting species like Grey-crowned Crane, Shoebill Stork, and a wide array of waterbirds.

A Journey of Adventure to Nyungwe Forest National Park

Next, the adventure takes you southwest to Nyungwe Forest, a global biodiversity hotspot renowned for its primates and Albertine Rift endemic birds. Guided walks along forest trails, canopy walks, and riverbanks provide opportunities to see species such as Ruwenzori Turaco, Dusky Crimsonwing, and Red-throated Alethe, alongside habituated chimpanzees.

The final phase of the 12-day luxury birding safari focuses on the volcanic highlands of Volcanoes National Park, where guests will experience gorilla trekking, golden monkey encounters, and montane birding. Here, the Ruwenzori Double-collared Sunbird, Grauer’s Warbler, and Mountain Masked Apalis are just some of the highlights. Optional excursions to Lake Kivu offer additional wetland and farmland birding, culminating with a return to Kigali for departure.

This 12-day Rwanda luxury birding safari itinerary is tailored for avid birders, wildlife enthusiasts, and photographers seeking comfort, adventure, and in-depth wildlife experiences, with a balance of luxury lodges, guided excursions, and immersive landscapes.

 

Uganda Birding Safari and Gorilla Trekking

Shoebill Tracking in Rwanda

Detailed 12-day luxury birding safari

Day 1 – Arrival in Kigali & Transfer to Nyungwe Forest

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be greeted by your professional Deks Safaris guide and transferred to Nyungwe Forest National Park, a journey of approximately 5-6 hours through scenic highland landscapes. En route, brief stops allow for birding along forest edges, rivers, and tea plantations, where species like African Blue Flycatcher, Olive Sunbird, and Speckled Tinkerbird can be spotted.

After arrival and check-in at your lodge, enjoy a relaxing afternoon birding walk along nearby trails, ideal for identifying local forest species that thrive in the understorey and canopy. The lodge’s proximity to the forest ensures easy access to prime birding areas and the sounds of the forest accompany your first evening in Rwanda.

Birds to Spot Today:

African Blue Flycatcher (Elminia longicauda) | Olive Sunbird (Cyanomitra olivacea) | Speckled Tinkerbird (Pogoniulus scolopaceus) | Yellow-billed Barbet (Trachyphonus purpuratus) | Green-headed Sunbird (Cyanomitra verticalis) | Grey-throated Flycatcher (Myioparus griseigularis) | Dusky Tit (Melaniparus funereus) | Brown-capped Weaver (Ploceus insignis) | White-tailed Blue Flycatcher (Elminia albicauda) | White-bellied Robin-Chat (Cossyphicula roberti)

 

Day 2 – Full-Day Birding in Nyungwe Forest

Wake before sunrise for a full day of guided birding in Nyungwe Forest, a biodiversity hotspot boasting over 300 bird species. Your 12-day Rwanda luxury birding safari expert guide will lead you along trails such as Karamba or Uwinka, offering opportunities to spot elusive Albertine Rift endemics including Ruwenzori Turaco, Dusky Crimsonwing, and Red-throated Alethe.

The morning is dedicated to forest understorey and riverine habitats, where species such as Yellow-streaked Greenbul, Chestnut-throated Apalis, and White-headed Woodhoopoe are commonly seen. Binoculars and a keen eye are invaluable as birds flit through dense foliage.

After a picnic lunch, continue to the canopy walk, gaining a unique perspective on upper forest layers. Here, mixed-species flocks, highland specialists, and shy endemics such as Ruwenzori Batis and Grauer’s Warbler can be observed. Afternoon walks along streams and forest edges allow additional sightings and photography opportunities. Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight.

Birds to Spot Today:

Ruwenzori Turaco (Ruwenzorornis johnstoni) | Dusky Crimsonwing (Cryptospiza jacksoni) | Red-throated Alethe (Alethe poliophrys) | White-headed Woodhoopoe (Phoeniculus bollei) | Yellow-streaked Greenbul (Phyllastrephus flavostriatus) | Chestnut-throated Apalis (Apalis porphyrolaema) | Ruwenzori Batis (Batis diops) | Grauer’s Warbler (Graueria vittata) | Mountain Illadopsis (Illadopsis pyrrhoptera) | Olive-breasted Greenbul (Arizelocichla kikuyuensis)

 

Day 3 – Nyungwe Forest & Optional Chimpanzee Tracking

Today offers a blend of forest birding and optional primate tracking, beginning with morning birding along the main forest trails. Focus on Albertine Rift endemics and understory species, spotting birds like Red-faced Crimsonwing, Dusky Tit, and Mountain Yellow Warbler.

Mid-morning, join the chimpanzee tracking experience at the UWA headquarters, where you’ll be briefed on forest rules and etiquette. Tracking allows observation of Pan troglodytes schweinfurthii in their natural habitat, providing simultaneous birding opportunities. As chimpanzees move through the canopy, listen and look for birds that interact with primates, such as White-bellied Robin-Chat and Olive Sunbird.

The afternoon is dedicated to forest edge and stream birding, ideal for observing elusive species and mixed flocks. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.

Birds to Spot Today:

Red-faced Crimsonwing (Cryptospiza reichenovii) | Dusky Tit (Melaniparus funereus) | Mountain Yellow Warbler (Iduna similis) | Olive Sunbird (Cyanomitra olivacea) | White-bellied Robin-Chat (Cossyphicula roberti) | Grauer’s Warbler (Graueria vittata) | Chestnut-throated Apalis (Apalis porphyrolaema) | Yellow-streaked Greenbul (Phyllastrephus flavostriatus) | Blue-headed Crested Flycatcher (Trochocercus nitens) | Ruwenzori Batis (Batis diops)

 

Uganda Birding Safari and Gorilla Trekking

Birding in Volcanoes National Park

Day 4 – Transfer to Volcanoes National Park & Montane Birding

After breakfast, depart north to Volcanoes National Park, traversing highland forests, bamboo zones, and agricultural mosaics. En route, stop for roadside birding, spotting montane species such as African Dusky Flycatcher, Red-collared Mountain Babbler, and Red-throated Wryneck.

Upon arrival, check in at the lodge and spend the afternoon birding nearby forest patches and streams. Target Albertine Rift endemics, including Rwenzori Double-collared Sunbird, Grauer’s Warbler, and Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher. The dramatic backdrop of volcanoes enhances photography opportunities. Evening at leisure with dinner and overnight stay.

Birds to Spot Today:

African Dusky Flycatcher (Muscicapa adusta) | Red-collared Mountain Babbler (Kupeornis rufocinctus) | Rwenzori Double-collared Sunbird (Cinnyris stuhlmanni) | Grauer’s Warbler (Graueria vittata) | Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher (Melaenornis ardesiacus) | Red-faced Crimsonwing (Cryptospiza reichenovii) | Rwenzori Turaco (Ruwenzorornis johnstoni) | Olive-breasted Greenbul (Arizelocichla kikuyuensis) | Chestnut-throated Apalis (Apalis porphyrolaema) | Mountain Illadopsis (Illadopsis pyrrhoptera)

 

Day 5 – Volcanoes National Park: Gorilla Trekking & Birding

Rise early for the highlight of the 12-day luxury birding safari – mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. After a pre-dawn briefing at the park headquarters, set out with a highly experienced ranger guide through the misty montane forest, tracking a habituated gorilla family. The trek can last 2–5 hours, depending on gorilla movements, providing close-up encounters with these majestic primates, observing their feeding, social interactions, and playful behaviors.

The trek offers remarkable birding opportunities as well. As gorillas move through bamboo and forest patches, watch for species like the Rwenzori Turaco, Grauer’s Warbler, Rwenzori Nightjar, and Rwenzori Apalis, which are endemic to the Albertine Rift. Camera enthusiasts will enjoy photographing gorillas with an evocative backdrop of highland forests, waterfalls, and volcanic peaks.

After your one-hour observation with the gorillas, descend and enjoy lunch at the lodge. In the afternoon, take a guided golden monkey trek, observing the striking Cercopithecus mitis kandti with their playful antics amidst bamboo thickets. Birds accompanying this habitat include Mountain Masked Apalis, Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher, and Rwenzori Double-collared Sunbird.

Evening returns to the lodge for relaxation and dinner. Overnight in the volcanic highlands, reflecting on a day combining rare primates and endemic birding.

Birds to Spot Today:

Rwenzori Turaco (Ruwenzorornis johnstoni) | Grauer’s Warbler (Graueria vittata) | Rwenzori Nightjar (Caprimulgus ruwenzorii) | Rwenzori Apalis (Apalis ruwenzorii) | Rwenzori Double-collared Sunbird (Cinnyris stuhlmanni) | Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher (Melaenornis ardesiacus) | Mountain Masked Apalis (Apalis personata) | Olive-breasted Greenbul (Arizelocichla kikuyuensis) | Red-faced Crimsonwing (Cryptospiza reichenovii) | Chestnut-throated Apalis (Apalis porphyrolaema)

 

Day 6 – Volcanoes to Lake Kivu: Birding & Scenic Transfers

After breakfast, depart for the shores of Lake Kivu, a scenic drive through Rwanda’s volcanic highlands. En route, stop for roadside birding along farmland, wetlands, and forest patches. Look for species that thrive in mosaic landscapes: African Paradise Flycatcher, Northern Pied Babbler, and Malachite Kingfisher.

Upon arrival at Lake Kivu, check in to your lodge overlooking the lake. Afternoon birding along the lake edges and reedbeds provides sightings of waterbirds, including African Fish Eagle, Black Crake, Purple Heron, and African Jacana. The shimmering lake surface, flanked by hills, is ideal for photography and quiet contemplation.

Evening at leisure, with dinner overlooking Lake Kivu, reflecting on the tranquil contrasts between mountain forests and wetlands. Overnight stay at a lakeside lodge.

Birds to Spot Today:

African Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer) | Malachite Kingfisher (Corythornis cristatus) | African Jacana (Actophilornis africanus) | Black Crake (Amaurornis flavirostra) | Purple Heron (Ardea purpurea) | African Paradise Flycatcher (Terpsiphone viridis) | Northern Pied Babbler (Turdoides hypoleuca) | Squacco Heron (Ardeola ralloides) | Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea) | Little Egret (Egretta garzetta)

 

Day 7 – Lake Kivu Birding & Transfer to Akagera National Park

Morning birding along wetlands, rivers, and agricultural edges around Lake Kivu, targeting edge specialists and endemics. Watch for species like Rufous-chested Sparrowhawk, Brown-throated Martin, and Western Black-headed Oriole.

Afterward, depart for Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s premier savannah and wetland reserve. En route, enjoy scenic hills and occasional birding stops. Upon arrival, check in at your lodge inside the park. Evening is reserved for a sunset game drive, combining birding with wildlife viewing. Akagera hosts over 525 bird species, including Shoebill Stork, Crowned Crane, and Long-crested Eagle, alongside elephants, buffalo, and antelopes.

Birds to Spot Today:

Grey-crowned Crane (Balearica regulorum) | Shoebill Stork (Balaeniceps rex) | Long-crested Eagle (Lophaetus occipitalis) | African Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer) | Black-headed Gonolek (Laniarius erythrogaster) | Rufous-chested Sparrowhawk (Accipiter rufiventris) | Brown-throated Martin (Riparia paludicola) | Western Black-headed Oriole (Oriolus brachyrhynchus) | African Jacana (Actophilornis africanus) | White-backed Vulture.

 

12-day luxury birding safari

Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari

Day 8 – Full-Day Birding and Game Drives in Akagera

Spend the entire day exploring Akagera National Park with early morning and afternoon birding drives. Mix open savannah, lakeshores, and riverine forests to maximize sightings. Target savannah species such as Red-necked Spurfowl, Rufous-naped Lark, and White-bellied Bustard, while wetlands attract Goliath Heron, Saddle-billed Stork, and African Openbill.

During game drives, observe lion prides, elephants, giraffes, and buffalo, offering rare opportunities to photograph birds alongside large mammals, a unique savannah experience. Picnic lunches at scenic locations complement the immersive day. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.

Birds to Spot Today:

Red-necked Spurfowl (Pternistis afer) | Rufous-naped Lark (Mirafra africana) | White-bellied Bustard (Eupodotis senegalensis) | Goliath Heron (Ardea goliath) | Saddle-billed Stork (Ephippiorhynchus senegalensis) | African Openbill (Anastomus lamelligerus) | Grey-headed Kingfisher (Halcyon leucocephala) | Brown-headed Parrot (Poicephalus cryptoxanthus) | African Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer) | Shoebill Stork (Balaeniceps rex)

 

Day 9 – Akagera Boat Cruise and Birding

Begin the day with a serene boat cruise on Lake Ihema, focusing on aquatic birdlife and riverside wildlife. Spot Papyrus Gonolek, African Swamphen, Wattled Lapwing, and large numbers of hippos and Nile crocodiles. The morning light provides perfect photography conditions for avian observation.

Return to the lodge for lunch. Afternoon game drive emphasizes savannah birds in drier areas, including Red-throated Wryneck, White-headed Barbet, and Marabou Stork. Sunset views over the lakes and savannahs provide breathtaking backdrops.

Birds to Spot Today:

Papyrus Gonolek (Laniarius mufumbiri) | African Swamphen (Porphyrio madagascariensis) | Wattled Lapwing (Vanellus senegallus) | Marabou Stork (Leptoptilos crumeniferus) | Red-throated Wryneck (Jynx ruficollis) | Grey-headed Kingfisher (Halcyon leucocephala) | White-headed Barbet (Lybius leucocephalus) | African Jacana (Actophilornis africanus) | African Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer) | Shoebill Stork (Balaeniceps rex)

 

Day 10 – Twin Lakes Birding Excursion

After breakfast, transfer to the Twin Lakes area between Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo. This highland wetland system attracts montane and waterbird species rarely seen elsewhere. Early morning walks focus on endemics and highland specialists, such as Rwenzori Turaco, Mountain Yellow Warbler, and African Blue Flycatcher.

Picnic lunch at the lakeside. Afternoon birding along forested slopes and farmlands captures agricultural edge species including Western Banded Snake Eagle and Little Greenbul. Return to your lodge in the Volcanoes region for dinner.

Birds to Spot Today:

Rwenzori Turaco (Ruwenzorornis johnstoni) | Mountain Yellow Warbler (Iduna similis) | African Blue Flycatcher (Elminia longicauda) | Western Banded Snake Eagle (Circaetus cinerascens) | Little Greenbul (Eurillas virens) | Olive-breasted Greenbul (Arizelocichla kikuyuensis) | Dusky Tit (Melaniparus funereus) | Red-faced Crimsonwing (Cryptospiza reichenovii) | Grauer’s Warbler (Graueria vittata) | Chestnut-throated Apalis (Apalis porphyrolaema)

 

Day 11 – Morning Birding & Transfer to Kigali

Begin the day with a final early morning birding session in Volcanoes highlands, targeting any missed Albertine Rift endemics and montane specialists. After breakfast, drive back to Kigali.

Stop along the way for roadside birding near wetland areas and agricultural fields. Arrive in Kigali, with time for souvenir shopping or photography. Check into a city hotel or proceed directly to the airport for your departure flight.

Birds to Spot Today:

African Paradise Flycatcher (Terpsiphone viridis) | Yellow-bellied Waxbill (Coccopygia quartinia) | African Grey Hornbill (Lophoceros nasutus) | Lesser Striped Swallow (Cecropis abyssinica) | Black-winged Red Bishop (Euplectes hordeaceus) | Common Fiscal (Lanius collaris) | Northern Pied Babbler (Turdoides hypoleuca) | White-headed Saw-wing (Psalidoprocne albiceps) | African Pied Wagtail (Motacilla aguimp) | African Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer)

 

Day 12 – Departure from Kigali

After breakfast, enjoy any remaining morning birding near your accommodation if time allows. Your guide will then provide a private transfer to Kigali International Airport for your international departure, concluding the 12-day Rwanda birding safari. Take home unforgettable memories of Rwanda’s birds, gorillas, monkeys, and savannah wildlife, alongside stunning landscapes and cultural encounters.

 

12-day luxury birding safari

Rwanda Gorilla Safari

12-day luxury birding safari Inclusions and Exclusions

Safari Inclusions

  • All ground transport in comfortable 4×4 safari vehicles
  • Experienced English-speaking safari guide with birding expertise
  • Park entry fees for Akagera, Nyungwe, Volcanoes, Twin Lakes
  • Gorilla and golden monkey trekking permits
  • Chimpanzee trekking permit in Nyungwe
  • All accommodation in mid-range and boutique lodges
  • Full-board meals during safari
  • Bottled water throughout the safari
  • All scheduled activities as per itinerary (birding walks, game drives, boat cruises, canopy walks)
  • Airport transfers and meet-and-greet services
  • Government taxes and service charges

 

Safari Exclusions

  • International flights to/from Rwanda
  • Visas and travel permits
  • Travel insurance
  • Alcoholic beverages and personal items
  • Tips and gratuities for guides and lodge staff
  • Optional activities not mentioned in itinerary
  • Additional accommodation before/after the safari

This 12-day Rwanda birding safari by Deks Safaris blends luxury, adventure, and in-depth birding, featuring over 400 species of birds, primate encounters, and stunning landscapes, tailored for avid birders, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts.

 

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