Philip is a renowned Africa expert and author of many guidebooks to African destinations, including the Bradt guide to Rwanda.
Rwanda is a fantastic birding destination with more than 700 species recorded within an area smaller than Belgium. The mountain birding in Rwanda is arguably the best on the continent. Of specific interest are the 29 Albertine Rift endemics, all of which are present in the high-altitude rainforest area in and around Nyungwe National Park. Many of them can be found in Volcanoes and Gishwati-Mukura National Parks too.
Notable Birds in Rwanda
Common
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Endemic & Albertine Rift Endemic Birds
(E) endemic = only lives in Rwanda(ARE) Albertine Rift endemic = only lives in the Albertine Rift
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Best Time for Bird Watching
From a birding perspective, Rwanda is a fine destination any time of the year, especially since the main draw here are the resident birds. Most of Rwanda’s special birds can be found in Nyungwe; the birding is best here from January to June as most birds are vocal at that time. April is extremely wet, however, so logistics can become challenging. The Dry season months from June to September are easier, as forest trails are drier and hiking is less difficult. This is also the best time for gorilla trekking.
Best Parks for Birding –Includes Birding Rating
The combination of Nyungwe and Akagera National Parks is perfect for a birding tour in Rwanda. Most of Rwanda’s birds are found in one or the other park. Nyungwe has many Albertine Rift endemics and forest specials, while Akagera is rich in general savannah birds, including raptors and water-associated birds found around the park’s sizable lakes.
- Nyungwe NP 4.2/5 9 Birding Ratings
- Akagera NP 4.2/5 12 Birding Ratings
Recommended Birding Books
Want To Visit Rwanda?
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