Bird watching in Rwanda: Even though Rwanda is well-known for its beautiful and unique terrains and diverse wildlife reserves in the country, Rwanda is also famous for the variety of birds in the region. More than seven hundred different birds have been documented in Rwanda making it a bird watchers’ paradise. Ranging from the mountainous region of Virunga to as low as the large wetland of Akagera National Park, this beautiful country boasts of so many Birding sites that host so many local and migrant birds. There is no doubt that Rwanda is one of the premier bird-watching destinations in the world, and in this article, novice and expert bird watchers will find information concerning the best locations to visit in the country.
Nyungwe Forest National Park
Nyungwe Forest National Park, is one of the biggest rainforests in Africa, with over 300 bird species observed. More than 300 bird species are found in the park, some of which are endemic and others hard to find anywhere within their natural working range. Some notable birds to look out for include:
– Rwenzori Turaco: It is a bright bird with colorful feathers and is frequently observed in the mountainous vicinity of the park.
– Grey-cheeked Mangabey: Although it is mainly a primate, it becomes a rather exciting birding destination since is found within the forest area.
– Great Blue Turaco: Perhaps the most popular of all the species within the park, the Great Blue Turaco mostly resides in trees.
Sightseeing in Nyungwe Forest can also be done through tours where guides assist in locating and or identifying the types of various birds. It is advised that your birding should begin early in the morning, as most of the bird activities are rife during this time.
Akagera National Park
Other Rwanda’s best avifauna viewing destinations include Akagera National Park with savannah vegetation zones. The Wetland, lakes, and open grasslands features of the park create an affectionate habitat for a variety of bird species. Notable birds you might encounter include:
– Shoebill Stork: It is a large bird with a prehistoric appearance, and thus a target bird of observation for many ornithologists. It can commonly be seen in the wetlands of the park hunting for fish.
– African Fish Eagle: This bird has a unique call and colorful plumage – one can see it flying above the water of the given lakes.
– Bateleur Eagle: This is a bird of prey that can often be seen flying low over the savanna and which is used to giving wonderful aerial exhibitions.
While in Akagera the best way to experience the park is by going for a guided safari, this may involve driving around the savannah and spending some time on a boat. These guided services offer chances of seeing different kinds of birds and other wildlife merits of the park.
Lake Kivu
Although it provides perfect scenery for tourism activities such as relaxation, it is also an excellent site for bird watching as it is located at one of the African Great Lakes –Lake Kivu. The shores of the lake also provide habitat to many birds both resident and migratory. Some highlights include:
– African Jacana: Popular for its long legs and the way it walks on floating vegetation this bird can easily be seen along the shores of the lake.
– Blue-headed Coucal: This big attractive bird is bluish upper part of the head and reddish-brown on the rest part of the body of the bird and is commonly seen in the vegetative areas around the lake.
– Marabou Stork: This is a strange scavenger that can be watched near the fish villages and in the coastal zone.
Birdwatching around Lake Kivu is more fascinating when done from one of the accommodations around the lake. Most of the lodges also provide the opportunity to conduct walking tours with guiding through the birds’ vicinity and surroundings.
Cities and Towns of Rwanda: Kigali and Environs
As for bird watching, Kigali, the capital of Rwanda may not be the top destination that one would consider, yet it boasts of several very good sites. The following locations are worth a visit:
– Kigali Genocide Memorial: This memorial has well well-carded compound with beautiful gardens and trees that are a home for different bird species and as you take around the gardens, you learn about the Rwanda Genocide.
– Nyarutarama Lake: A place of interest and destination for birding for both the residents and tourists this lake has waterbirds such as ducks and herons. Some of the best vantage positions for bird watching while strolling are the walking trails around the lake.
– Kigali City Park: This urban green space is recommended for sighting common birds such as weavers, sparrows, and doves.
A hike through these urban areas can be a fascinating journey for bird lovers where despite concrete jungle, there are plenty of bird species alive and thriving.
Useful Information on Birdwatching Tourism in Rwanda
– Plan your trip during the right season: Although Rwanda is a resident of many birds, bird watching is likely enhanced by the visit during the wet seasons between March to May, and October to December.
– Bring the right gear: The equipment that is essential during a bird-watching exercise includes a pair of binoculars and a field guide to birds. Furthermore, the use of zoom lens helps to capture a photograph of the beauty of birds you are likely to come across.
– Hire a local guide: Professional guides from the local area will be helpful in a way that they will point you in the right direction as well as help with the identification of the birds.
– Be patient and observant: Bird watching can only be done with a lot of caution and time is needed to do it. Stay here as much as you need to just sit and watch the area and try to listen to the sound of birds.
Conclusion
Due to its diverse biogeographical zones and general philosophy on preservation of the natural habitats, Rwanda remains a great destination for bird-watching tourists. For bird lovers, there is all they require; Nyungwe forests, Akagera wetlands, and the shores of Lake Kivu to mention but a few national parks in the country with so many sights to offer. Provided you follow some basic measures for a few hours of preparation and are filled with enthusiasm, it is possible to unveil Rwanda’s birding delights as well as produce an unforgettable experience in that compelling country.
