Birdwatching in Rwanda – A Must-Do Experience for Nature Lovers
If you love nature, birdwatching in Rwanda is something you should not miss. Rwanda is one of the best birding destinations in Africa. The country is small, safe, and easy to travel, but it offers many different habitats and beautiful landscapes.
With more than 700 bird species recorded, Rwanda is perfect for beginners, photographers, and experienced birders.
Why Choose Rwanda for Birdwatching?
Rwanda offers three main ecosystems in a short distance:
• Savannah
• Rainforest
• Freshwater lakes and wetlands
This means you can enjoy different birdwatching environments in just a few days. The scenery is also stunning, making every birding trip relaxing and rewarding.
Birdwatching in Akagera National Park
Akagera National park is Rwanda’s savannah park.
Here you can enjoy birdwatching in open plains, lakes, and wetlands. The park offers peaceful drives and great opportunities for photography. The combination of wildlife and birds makes Akagera a complete safari experience.
Birdwatching in Nyungwe National Park
Nyungwe National park Rwanda is one of Africa’s oldest rainforests and a top birding destination.
Walking through forest trails while listening to bird calls is an unforgettable experience. The cool climate and rich biodiversity make Nyungwe ideal for serious birdwatching in Rwanda.
Birdwatching at Lake Kivu
Lake Kivu offers a calm and scenic birding experience.
Birdwatching by boat around islands and along the shoreline is relaxing and perfect for nature photography. The peaceful environment makes Lake Kivu a great place to end your birding safari.
Rugezi Marsh and Nyabarongo Wetland
Including these important wetlands in your Rwanda birdwatching itinerary creates a more complete and rewarding experience across different natural environments.
Rugezi Marsh is a protected wetland in northern Rwanda and an important conservation area. Its peaceful environment and papyrus vegetation make it ideal for serious birdwatching.
Birds commonly spotted at Rugezi Marsh include:
- Grauer’s swamp warbler
- White-winged swamp warbler
- Papyrus Canary
- Carruthers’s cisticola
- Grey crowned crane
Nyabarongo wetland stretches along the Nyabarongo River in central Rwanda. It is easily accessible and supports a wide range of water and wetland birds, making it perfect for guided birding tours.
Birds commonly spotted at Nyabarongo wetland include:
- Shoebill
- African Jacana
- Malachite kingfisher
- Purple heron
- Black crake
Akanyaru Wetland
Akanyaru Wetland lies along the Rwanda–Burundi border and is one of the largest wetlands in the country. It plays a key role in protecting bird habitats and offers excellent opportunities for nature observation
Birds commonly spotted at Akanyaru Wetland include:
- Papyrus gonolek
- Lesser jacana
- African Pygmy goose
- Squacco heron
- Blue breasted bwe-eater
Best Time for Birdwatching in Rwanda
Birdwatching in Rwanda is possible all year. Each season offers different movements and activity in nature. Because birds are wild, every trip is unique and exciting.
Plan Your Rwanda Birdwatching Safari
Whether you want a short birding tour or a full safari across Akagera, Nyungwe, and Lake Kivu, Rwanda offers a complete birdwatching adventure.
If you are planning a Rwanda safari, make sure birdwatching is part of your itinerary. It is truly a must-do experience in Rwanda
