9 Days

Rwanda Birdwatching Safari

This 9-Days Rwanda Birdwatching Safari is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, offering an unmatched opportunity to explore the incredible birdlife of Nyungwe Forest, Akagera National Park, and the Virunga Mountains. Your adventure begins in Kigali, where you’ll dive into Rwanda’s rich culture, followed by birding at Nyarutarama Lake.

Over the next days, explore Nyungwe Forest, home to Albertine Rift endemics like the Rwenzori Turaco and Grauer’s Warbler, as well as the exhilarating Canopy Walk. In Akagera National Park, discover the thrill of boat safaris on Lake Ihema and game drives in search of raptors and the elusive Shoebill.

Finally, visit Volcanoes National Park, where you’ll encounter high-altitude species while enjoying the spectacular views of the Virunga Mountains.

This Rwanda Birdwatching Safari is a perfect blend of birdwatching, nature, and adventure, guided by experts and designed for nature lovers at every level.

Photo Gallery

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival in Kigali

Welcome to Rwanda! Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, our expert birding guide will meet you and provide a brief overview of your exciting 9-day adventure. Depending on your arrival time, you’ll have the chance to enjoy an optional birdwatching session at Nyarutarama Lake, where you might spot the African Swamphen and Grey-crowned Crane. Afterwards, transfer to your hotel to unwind and prepare for the upcoming days of birding.

Accommodation:

Luxury: The Retreat by Heaven
Mid-range: Heaven Boutique Hotel
Meals: Dinner

Day 2

Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park

After a hearty breakfast, go on a scenic drive to Nyungwe Forest, one of Africa’s oldest and most biodiverse montane forests. Along the way, you’ll have multiple birding stops to observe species like the Grey-backed Fiscal and African Stonechat. Upon arrival, check in at your lodge nestled in the heart of the forest and enjoy a relaxing evening surrounded by the sounds of nature.

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

Today is dedicated to exploring the incredible birdlife of Nyungwe Forest. In the morning, take a walk through lush trails where you can spot Rwenzori Turaco, Grauer’s Warbler, and the rare Stripe-breasted Tit. As you venture deeper into the forest, keep an eye out for the elusive Handsome Francolin and Dwarf Honeyguide. In the afternoon, focus on spotting wetland species like the White-tailed Blue Flycatcher and Purple-breasted Sunbird.

Accommodation:

Luxury: One&Only Nyungwe House
Mid-range: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4

Canopy Walk & Birding in Cyamudongo Forest

Start your day with an exhilarating Canopy Walk in Nyungwe Forest, offering a bird’s-eye view of the vibrant ecosystem. You may encounter Great Blue Turaco and Mountain Sooty Boubou from up high. Afterward, visit Cyamudongo Forest, a smaller but equally rich area where you’ll find species like the White-headed Wood Hoopoe and Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher.

Accommodation:

Luxury: One&Only Nyungwe House
Mid-range: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5

Transfer to Akagera National Park

Enjoy breakfast and go on a 5–6 hour scenic drive to Akagera National Park. Along the way, take birding breaks to spot species like the Lilac-breasted Roller and Broad-billed Roller. After arriving at your lodge in Akagera, relax and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere while spotting birds on 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

Start your day with a boat safari on Lake Ihema, where you’ll see waterbirds such as the African Fish Eagle and Open-billed Stork. After lunch, head out for a game drive to explore the savannah and search for raptors like the Martial Eagle and the Secretary Bird. In the evening, explore the park’s wetlands in search of the rare Shoebill and Saddle-billed Stork.

Accommodation:

Luxury: Magashi Camp
Mid-range: Akagera Game Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7

Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

After breakfast, enjoy a final morning birding walk in Akagera before setting off for Volcanoes National Park. On your journey, enjoy breathtaking views of Rwanda’s highlands. Arrive at your lodge in the afternoon, check-in, and take in the stunning Virunga Mountain scenery.

Accommodation:

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

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8

Birding in Volcanoes National Park

This morning, explore the forested slopes of Volcanoes National Park, home to high-altitude species like the Rwenzori Turaco, Collared Apalis, and Scarlet-tufted Sunbird. You may also want to add an optional Golden Monkey trek, where you can combine birding with a visit to these playful primates. Enjoy your final evening in Rwanda, surrounded by the beauty of the Virunga Mountains.

Accommodation:

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

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9

Return to Kigali & Departure

After breakfast, go on a scenic drive back to Kigali. If time allows, you’ll make a final stop for birding along the way. Before your departure, you’ll visit local markets to purchase souvenirs and enjoy a bit of the city’s vibrant culture. Your guide will then ensure you’re comfortably transferred to Kigali International Airport for your onward journey.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Itinerary Map

Inclusions & Exclusions

Airport transfers on arrival and departure
Accommodation in comfortable lodges or camps (luxury, mid-range, or budget options)
Meals: Full-board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the safari
Professional birding and primate guide throughout the tour
Park entrance fees for all national parks and reserves
Game drives and boat safaris
Chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest National Park
Gorilla trekking permits for Volcanoes National Park
Canopy walk in Nyungwe Forest
Nature walks and birdwatching hikes with expert trackers
Cultural visits to local communities and villages
Transport in a comfortable 4x4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for optimal wildlife viewing
Bottled water during the safari

International flights
Visa fees
Travel insurance
Optional activities not included in the itinerary (e.g., Golden Monkey trekking, cultural performances)
Personal expenses (souvenirs, laundry, tips, etc.)
Alcoholic drinks
Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking tips
Additional excursions or activities not mentioned in the tour package