5 Days Birding Safari in Rwanda
Overview
This birding safari takes you through Rwanda’s key birdwatching destinations, from wetlands and forests to savannah plains. With more than 700 bird species recorded, including many Albertine Rift endemics, Rwanda is a paradise for bird lovers. This five-day safari covers Kigali, Nyungwe Forest, Akagera National Park, and local wetlands, offering both rare sightings and scenic landscapes.
Highlights
- Urban wetland birding in Kigali
- Albertine Rift endemics in Nyungwe Forest
- Full day birding in pristine montane rainforest
- Savannah and wetland birding in Akagera National Park
- Shoebill stork, papyrus gonolek, and regal sunbird sightings
- Boat safari on Lake Ihema for water birds
Included/Exclude
- Private 4x4 safari vehicle with professional birding driver guide
- All park entrance fees, birding permits Full board accommodation for 4 nights (luxury, midrange, or budget)
- All meals and daily bottled water
- Boat cruise on Lake Ihema in Akagera NP
- Airport transfers and Kigali hotel pickup/drop off
Tour Plan
Arrive in Kigali and meet your birding guide. After a briefing, begin your first birdwatching session in Kigali’s surroundings, such as Nyandeni Urban Wetland or Neurotrauma Lake. Look out for species like the grey crowned crane, black headed heron, and Ross’s turaco.
Accommodation option
 Kigali Serena/ Four points by Sheraton/ Hotel des Milles
Travel to Nyungwe Forest, one of Africa’s most important birding sites. En route, stop for birding opportunities in wetlands and forested patches. Afternoon birding in Nyungwe with chances to see Albertine Rift endemics like the red collared mountain babbler, Rwenzori turaco, and handsome francolin.
Accommodation options:
one and only Nyungwe/ Nyungwe top view/ Gisakura guest house
Spend the entire day birdwatching along forest trails such as the Kamiranzovu and Uwinka areas. Target species include the regal sunbird, Grauer’s rush warbler, and strange weaver. The lush montane forest also offers primate sightings, including colobus monkeys. Return to your lodge in the evening.
Accommodation options:
one and only Nyungwe/ Nyungwe top view/ Gisakura guest house
After breakfast, drive to Akagera National Park. On arrival enjoy an afternoon birding and game drive in the savannah plains. Look out for species such as the lilac breasted roller, African fish eagle, papyrus gonolek, and shoebill stork. Overnight at a lodge inside or near the park.
Accommodation option
Magashi camp/ Ruzizi tented camp/ Akagera rhino lodge
Start with a morning boat safari on Lake Ihema, which provides excellent birding opportunities for water associated species like the African jacana, open billed stork, pied kingfisher, and African darter. After lunch, begin your journey back to Kigali for your evening departure.
Related Tours
Review Scores
Booking Tour
Last Minute Deals
14 Days Best of Rwanda Safari
