9-Day Rwanda Birdwatching Safari

9-Day Rwanda Birdwatching Safari

Rwanda is a birdwatcher’s paradise, boasting over 700 bird species, including many regional endemics. This 9-day Rwanda Birdwatching Safari takes you through the country’s top birding hotspots, including Nyungwe Forest National Park, Akagera National Park, and Volcanoes National Park. You’ll experience a blend of lush montane forests, savannah plains, and wetland habitats while enjoying Rwanda’s stunning landscapes and warm hospitality.

Safari Highlights

• Birdwatching in Nyungwe Forest: Spot Albertine Rift endemics like the Red-collared Babbler and Grauer’s Swamp Warbler.
• Wetland Birding in Akagera National Park: Witness iconic water birds like the Shoebill and African Fish Eagle.
• High-altitude Birding in Volcanoes National Park: Look for the Rwenzori Turaco and other montane species.
• Scenic Landscapes: Drive through Rwanda’s famous “thousand hills” and picturesque countryside.
• Optional Wildlife Encounters: Enjoy game drives and other wildlife viewing during your birding adventure.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali

1. Welcome to Rwanda:
   • Arrive at Kigali International Airport, where your birding guide will greet you.
   • Receive a short briefing on the safari itinerary.
2. Transfer to Your Hotel:
   • Check in at your hotel and relax after your journey.
3. Optional Birding at Nyarutarama Lake:
   • If time permits, enjoy birdwatching at Nyarutarama Lake in Kigali, where you may spot species like the African Swamphen and Grey-crowned Crane.

Accommodation:

• Luxury: The Retreat by Heaven.
• Mid-range: Heaven Boutique Hotel.

Meals: Dinner.

Day 2: Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park

1. Scenic Drive to Nyungwe:
   • After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Nyungwe Forest, one of Africa’s most biodiverse montane forests.
   • Stop for birding en route, with opportunities to spot species like the Grey-backed Fiscal and African Stonechat.
2. Arrival and Relaxation:
   • Check into your lodge near the forest and unwind for the evening.

Accommodation:

• Luxury: One&Only Nyungwe House.
• Mid-range: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 3: Full-Day Birdwatching in Nyungwe Forest

1. Morning Birding Walk:
   • Explore Nyungwe’s lush trails to spot Albertine Rift endemics like the Rwenzori Turaco, Grauer’s Warbler, and Stripe-breasted Tit.
   • Look out for the elusive Handsome Francolin and Dwarf Honeyguide.
2. Afternoon Birding:
   • Focus on wetland species and forest edge birds like the White-tailed Blue Flycatcher and Purple-breasted Sunbird.
3. Evening Relaxation:
   • Return to your lodge and enjoy a peaceful evening surrounded by nature.

Accommodation: Same as Day 2.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 4: Canopy Walk and Birding in Cyamudongo Forest

1. Morning Canopy Walk:
   • Enjoy an exhilarating canopy walk for a chance to spot canopy-dwelling birds like the Great Blue Turaco and Mountain Sooty Boubou.
2. Afternoon at Cyamudongo Forest:
   • Visit the nearby Cyamudongo Forest, a hotspot for species like the White-headed Wood Hoopoe and Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher.

Accommodation: Same as Day 2.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 5: Transfer to Akagera National Park

1. Drive to Akagera:
   • After breakfast, embark on a 5–6 hour drive to Akagera National Park.
   • Stop en route for birdwatching and scenic views.
2. Afternoon Leisure:
   • Check into your lodge in Akagera and relax while spotting birds near the lodge grounds.

Accommodation:

• Luxury: Magashi Camp.
• Mid-range: Akagera Game Lodge.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 6: Full-Day Birding in Akagera National Park

1. Morning Boat Safari on Lake Ihema:
   • Spot water birds like the African Fish Eagle, Open-billed Stork, and Papyrus Gonolek.
2. Game Drive Birdwatching:
   • Drive through savannah habitats to look for raptors such as the Martial Eagle and Secretary Bird.
3. Evening Birding:
   • Explore wetlands to search for the rare Shoebill and Saddle-billed Stork.

Accommodation: Same as Day 5.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 7: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

1. Morning Birding at Akagera:
   • Enjoy a final birding walk in Akagera before departing for Volcanoes National Park.
2. Drive to Volcanoes National Park:
   • Embark on a scenic journey through Rwanda’s northern highlands, arriving at your lodge in the late afternoon.

Accommodation:

• Luxury: Bisate Lodge.
• Mid-range: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 8: Birding in Volcanoes National Park

1. High-Altitude Birding:
   • Explore the forested slopes of Volcanoes National Park to spot montane species like the Rwenzori Turaco, Collared Apalis, and Scarlet-tufted Sunbird.
2. Optional Golden Monkey Trekking:
   • If desired, combine birdwatching with a trek to see the park’s playful golden monkeys.
3. Evening Relaxation:
   • Enjoy your final evening surrounded by the beauty of the Virunga Mountains.

Accommodation: Same as Day 7.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 9: Return to Kigali and Departure

1. Morning Drive to Kigali:
   • After breakfast, transfer back to Kigali, stopping for birding along the way.
2. Shopping and Airport Transfer:
   • Visit local markets for souvenirs before heading to Kigali International Airport for your flight.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.

Safari Costs

1. Birding Permits: Included in park entrance fees.
2. Accommodation:
   • Luxury lodges: $500–$2,000 per night.
   • Mid-range lodges: $150–$500 per night.
3. Private Safari Vehicle and Guide: $150–$300 per day.

Best Time to Visit

• Dry Season (June–September, December–February): Ideal for birdwatching and trekking with easier access to trails.
• Wet Season (March–May, October–November): Excellent for spotting migratory birds and lush landscapes.

Why Choose This Safari?

This 9-day Rwanda Birdwatching Safari offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore Rwanda’s incredible birdlife across diverse ecosystems. With expert guides, breathtaking landscapes, and luxury accommodations, this itinerary guarantees an unforgettable birding adventure.

Start planning your birdwatching safari today for a truly unique experience!