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Uganda Birding Safari and Gorilla Trekking

Bird Watching in Rwanda

November 17, 2025

Published by Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd on November 17, 2025

Birding in Rwanda – Discover the Beauty of Birding in Rwanda

Rwanda, famously known as the Land of a Thousand Hills, offers one of the most rewarding birding experiences in Africa. Within its compact borders lies an incredible diversity of habitats that host over 700 recorded bird species, including many Albertine Rift endemics that cannot be found elsewhere. The country’s natural variety from mist-covered rainforests and lush wetlands to golden savannas makes birding in Rwanda a journey filled with melody, color, and wonder.

With Deks Safaris and Tours Africa, travelers experience expertly guided Rwanda birding tours designed to blend adventure, education, and conservation. Every itinerary offers close encounters with rare and endemic species while unveiling Rwanda’s cultural richness and scenic beauty. From the tropical montane forests of Nyungwe National Park to the tranquil wetlands of Akagera, Rwanda stands as a paradise for birdwatchers seeking both relaxation and discovery.

What makes a Rwanda birding safari so unique? The answer lies in its accessibility, biodiversity, and conservation success. Unlike many larger African destinations, Rwanda allows travelers to explore multiple ecosystems in a single itinerary. In one week, birders can track the Red-collared Babbler in Nyungwe, the Shoebill in Akagera, and the Rwenzori Turaco in Volcanoes National Park all without long, exhausting transfers. This rare convenience transforms Rwanda birdwatching tours into seamless and unforgettable journeys.

Beyond birds, Rwanda’s charm unfolds through its warm people, pristine environment, and commitment to sustainability. Each Rwanda birdwatching safari supports local communities and conservation projects, ensuring that every traveler becomes part of Rwanda’s inspiring eco-tourism story.

Rwanda Birding Safari and Gorilla Trekking

Nyungwe Forest National Park – A Birdwatcher’s Dream in the Heart of the Albertine Rift

Rwanda Birding Tour through Ancient Rainforests

Hidden in Rwanda’s southwest, Nyungwe Forest National Park is the crown jewel of Rwanda birding safaris. This ancient rainforest covers over 1,000 square kilometers and shelters more than 320 bird species, including 29 Albertine Rift endemics. The forest’s thick canopy, flowing streams, and misty valleys create the perfect environment for vibrant avian life.

Walking through Nyungwe’s lush trails feels like entering another world. The Red-collared Babbler flashes across the undergrowth, its brilliant plumage glowing in the filtered sunlight. The Rwenzori Turaco echoes from high above, while the Regal Sunbird glimmers like a jewel against the deep green leaves. Every corner of the forest hums with bird calls, inviting travelers deeper into its mysteries.

Birders can explore a network of trails such as the Bigugu, Karamba, and Uwinka trails, each offering chances to encounter species unique to the region. The Canopy Walkway, the only one of its kind in East Africa, adds another dimension to the Rwanda birdwatching tour, allowing birders to spot species that dwell high in the forest canopy.

Birds to Spot in Nyungwe Forest National Park

Red-collared Babbler
Rwenzori Turaco
Regal Sunbird
Grauer’s Swamp Warbler
Handsome Francolin
Strange Weaver
Mountain Yellow Warbler
Rwenzori Batis
Chapin’s Flycatcher

Besides birding, Nyungwe offers cultural excursions such as tea plantation visits and village walks that reveal Rwanda’s traditions and connection to nature. Combining these experiences creates a perfect balance between wildlife exploration and cultural discovery an essential aspect of Rwanda birding safaris curated by Deks Safaris and Tours.

Akagera National Park – The Savannah and Wetland Haven for Rwanda Birding Tours

Rwanda Birdwatching Safari on the Plains and Lakeshores

Stretching across eastern Rwanda, Akagera National Park contrasts sharply with the forested west. It’s a landscape of open grasslands, acacia woodlands, and vast wetlands, hosting over 500 bird species. Akagera is a true gem for Rwanda birdwatching safaris, where every sunrise brings a chorus of songs and every sunset paints silhouettes of herons and kingfishers against golden waters.

The park’s papyrus-lined lakes are home to the elusive Shoebill, one of Africa’s most sought-after bird species. The Papyrus Gonolek calls from dense reeds while the African Fish Eagle circles majestically overhead. In the savannas, travelers may encounter the striking Red-faced Barbet, Long-crested Eagle, and Ross’s Turaco. Whether on a game drive, nature walk, or boat cruise along Lake Ihema, birders can witness the incredible diversity that makes Akagera National Park essential to any Rwanda birding tour.

Birds to Spot in Akagera National Park

Shoebill
Papyrus Gonolek
Red-faced Barbet
Ross’s Turaco
African Fish Eagle
Long-crested Eagle
Black-headed Gonolek
Grey Crowned Crane
White-backed Night Heron

Beyond birding, Akagera offers cultural and wildlife encounters. Visitors may interact with local communities to learn about traditional cattle-keeping and conservation practices, adding depth to the Rwanda birding safari experience. Combining birding and culture creates a more holistic journey through Rwanda’s vibrant natural and human heritage.

Volcanoes National Park – Birding among the Volcanoes and Gorillas

A Rwanda Birdwatching Tour of Altitude and Endemics

In Rwanda’s northwestern corner, Volcanoes National Park rises dramatically along the Virunga Mountains. While it’s famous for mountain gorilla trekking, this misty paradise is also a haven for bird enthusiasts. With over 200 bird species—including 17 Albertine Rift endemics—the park enriches every Rwanda birdwatching safari with rare sightings and breathtaking scenery.

Birders can listen for the haunting call of the Archer’s Ground Robin or catch glimpses of the Rwenzori Batis, Dusky Crimsonwing, and Handsome Francolin. The altitudinal range of the park supports a fascinating mix of highland and montane forest species. Each hike through bamboo forests and afro-alpine meadows becomes a chance to encounter new species found nowhere else on Earth.

Birds to Spot in Volcanoes National Park

Rwenzori Turaco
Archer’s Ground Robin
Dusky Crimsonwing
Handsome Francolin
Blue-headed Sunbird
Strange Weaver
Stripe-breasted Tit
Lagden’s Bush-shrike

To complement the birding experience, travelers can immerse themselves in Rwanda’s rich culture at the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, where traditional music, storytelling, and crafts bring the local heritage to life. This combination of nature and culture makes Volcanoes National Park an unmissable stop on any Rwanda birding tour itinerary.

Gishwati-Mukura National Park – The Reborn Sanctuary for Rwanda Birding Safaris

Exploring Rwanda’s Newest Birdwatching Destination

Perched between Lake Kivu and the Volcanoes region, Gishwati-Mukura National Park stands as a symbol of Rwanda’s conservation triumph. Once degraded, this forest has been revived and now hosts over 200 bird species, including several Albertine Rift endemics. The serenity and smaller size of the park make it ideal for intimate Rwanda birdwatching tours.

The forest’s mossy trees and clear streams create a peaceful setting for birding walks. Birders may encounter the Strange Weaver, Grauer’s Swamp Warbler, or the lively Rwenzori Batis. Gishwati is also home to primates like the golden monkey, adding an exciting layer to the Rwanda birding safari experience.

Birds to Spot in Gishwati-Mukura National Park

Strange Weaver
Regal Sunbird
Rwenzori Batis
Grauer’s Swamp Warbler
Dusky Crimsonwing
Stripe-breasted Tit

Cultural tourism flourishes near the park, with communities offering handmade crafts, traditional music, and guided storytelling experiences that highlight local efforts in forest restoration and wildlife conservation.

10-Day Rwanda Birding Safari

Wetlands and Lakes – Rwanda Birding Tours beyond the National Parks

Rwanda Birdwatching Safari along the Waterways

Beyond the major parks, Rwanda’s wetlands and lakes provide rich birding opportunities. Rugezi Marsh, a designated Ramsar wetland, supports species like the Grey Crowned Crane and Lesser Jacana. Lake Kivu’s islands attract African Fish Eagles, Cormorants, and various herons. Around Akanyaru Wetlands, birders can find the White-winged Swamp Warbler and Spur-winged Lapwing.

Even the outskirts of Kigali—especially the Nyabarongo Wetland and Umusambi Village—offer accessible and rewarding birding, perfect for short excursions before or after longer Rwanda birding safaris.

Birds to Spot in Rwanda’s Wetlands and Lakes

Grey Crowned Crane
African Jacana
Spur-winged Lapwing
Malachite Kingfisher
White-winged Swamp Warbler
Little Egret
Pied Kingfisher

These habitats complement the diversity found in national parks, ensuring every Rwanda birding tour offers something distinct and memorable.

Best Time for Birding in Rwanda

The ideal time for birding in Rwanda is during the dry seasons—June to September and December to February. Trails are dry, visibility is high, and many species display nesting behavior. The months of December to January are particularly rewarding, as migratory birds from Europe, North Africa, and the Arctic join resident species. However, Rwanda’s mild climate allows birding year-round, making it a flexible and reliable destination for global birdwatchers.

What to Pack for a Rwanda Birding Tour

High-quality binoculars
Field bird guidebook
Lightweight, long-sleeved clothing
Sturdy hiking boots
Refillable water bottle
Camera with zoom lens
Notebook for bird records

Proper preparation ensures maximum comfort and enjoyment throughout the Rwanda birdwatching safari.

Why Choose Deks Safaris and Tours for Birding in Rwanda

Deks Safaris and Tours Africa brings deep experience, expertise, and passion to every Rwanda birding safari. The company’s professional birding guides possess extensive field knowledge, ensuring accurate identification, comfortable logistics, and a meaningful connection to each destination.

Each itinerary is designed to merge adventure, education, and cultural insight. Travelers benefit from well-planned routes, sustainable travel practices, and personalized service that upholds professionalism and integrity. With Deks Safaris, every Rwanda Bird Tour becomes a journey into the heart of Africa’s avian diversity and cultural heritage.

Experience the Magic of Birding in Rwanda with Deks Safaris and Tours

Birding in Rwanda invites explorers to witness nature’s finest harmony, where lush forests, shining lakes, and golden plains unite under the songs of more than 700 bird species. Every destination—from Nyungwe to Akagera, Volcanoes to Gishwati—offers a different rhythm and story.

With Deks Safaris and Tours, travelers enjoy a seamless and professionally guided journey that reveals Rwanda’s hidden treasures and vibrant birdlife. Whether on a short escape or an extended Rwanda Uganda Birding Tour, every moment deepens the connection between traveler, nature, and culture.

Let your next safari be more than a journey. Let it be a celebration of Rwanda’s birds, its people, and the enduring beauty of Africa.

Best and Most Recommendable East Africa Birding Safari Packages

Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd

Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd is a Uganda-based safaris tour operator. We operate with a high passion for taking you through the beautiful nation of Uganda – the Pearl of Africa. A destination that offers you the best jungle adventures in Africa. We will help you experience East Africa at large with insight from a local tour guide.