The birding safaris in Rwanda stand among the most ranked on the continent of Africa despite the country’s tiny geographical spread. Noted to be among the nations with high population density, it is very surprising to hear that a range of over 1450 bird species call it home with twenty seven (27) of these limited in range to the Albertine rift.
Besides the gorilla safaris in Rwanda which have indeed held the mantle for the tourism sector and its contribution to the foreign exchange earnings, it can be noted that birding safaris in Rwanda have got a rich potential to supplement immensely as regards the tourism revenue.
Rwanda boasts of four (4) National Parks including the recently gazetted Gishwati – Mukula National Park all teaming with natural beauty and verdant forest, savannah and other diverse landscapes facilitating the existence of a range of bird species and truly great destination for Rwanda Safari undertakers.
Nyungwe Forest National Park is a rich moist montane forest with a count of 310 species of birds among which include the stunning Rwenzori Turaco, Stuhlman’s Double-collared sunbird, Red-Collared Mountain Babbler, Kungwe Apalis, White Headed Wood-Hoopoe, Purple-breasted Sunbird, Paradise Fly catcher. This birding paradise is also a common destination for Chimpanzee trekking safaris in Rwanda and canopy walk for the Africa adventure vacation safari enthusiasts.
Besides Nyungwe, the destination Rwanda is blessed with Akagera National Park which stands as the only savannah protected area in the country supporting 525 species of birds among which include; African finfoot, Red-Faced Barbet, African Fish Eagle, Shoebill and the Cormorants with the water birds thriving in its extensive wetland system.
The Volcanoes National Park also the main Rwanda gorilla safari destination is blessed with 178 species of birds including the famous Archer’s Ground Robin, Rwenzori Double Collared Sunbird, Dusky Crimsonwing and Rwenzori Turaco.
Generally, the notable species to look out for on a birding safari in Rwanda include; Red faced barbet, Shoebill Stork, Bannett’s Woodpecker, Papyrus Gonolek and Miombo Wren-Warbler and fortunately the activity can be undertaken all year round but those interested in Migrant species can visit in December through to February.
