Birdwatching Experiences in Uganda & Rwanda

Birdwatching in Uganda and Rwanda is an exciting adventure that allows travelers to observe wild birds in their natural habitats. While an ornithologist studies birds scientifically, a birdwatcher enjoys spotting and learning about wild birds, often using binoculars and mobile apps to identify species and understand their behavior. Birding is one of the most rewarding activities you can experience on a trip to Uganda and Rwanda.

Experiya Tour Company offers tailored birdwatching trips that ensure you encounter the best avian species while enjoying the natural beauty of East Africa.

Top Birdwatching Spots in Uganda

Uganda is home to over 1,000 bird species and 35 Important Bird Areas (IBAs), making it a premier destination for birdwatchers. You can explore birds along the country’s lakes and rivers or venture into its lush national parks and forests.

1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one of Africa’s top birdwatching destinations, hosting over 400 bird species and 250 butterfly species. Most birdwatching activities occur in the Buhoma and Ruhija sectors, where visitors can enjoy forest and swamp birding.

The lower part of Buhoma is easily accessible and offers sightings of species such as the yellow-streaked greenbul and great blue turaco. Birdwatching in Bwindi costs $40 for foreign nonresidents, $30 for foreign residents, and UGX 30,000 for East Africans.

2. Kibale Forest National Park

Kibale Forest National Park is another excellent birdwatching destination with over 380 species. The best time to visit is June through September, when many birds are in breeding plumage.

Guided forest walks are essential for spotting a wide range of birds. Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a community-managed project, offers 2–4 hour trails led by experienced local guides to help visitors spot numerous species.

3. Mabamba Bay Wetland

Mabamba Bay Wetland is famous for its approximately 310 bird species and is especially attractive to Palearctic migrants between October and March. Birdwatchers explore the marshes using a motorized wooden boat, providing an excellent opportunity to see the legendary Shoebill and many other species.

4. Murchison Falls National Park

Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest park, is home to over 470 bird species, including some rare sightings. Notable species include the Gray Crowned Crane (Uganda’s national bird), Giant Kingfisher, Giant Heron, Shoebill Stork, Abyssinian Ground Hornbills, Marabou Stork, Black-headed Lapwing, and Back-bellied Bustard.

5. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Though Uganda’s smallest national park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park hosts about 185 bird species. The optimal months for birdwatching are April through May and October through November, when the most colorful species are active and easy to spot.

Best Birding Spots in Rwanda

Rwanda also offers world-class birdwatching experiences. While most attention goes to Akagera National Park in the east and Nyungwe National Park in the west, excellent birding opportunities exist throughout the country, including near Kigali.

Nyungwe National Park

Nyungwe Forest National Park allows birdwatching year-round, but the best periods are March to May and September to November during the wet seasons. These months attract a wide variety of colorful and migratory birds, thanks to abundant food sources.

Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park, in eastern Rwanda, is home to over 460 bird species. Visitors can enjoy short boat trips on the park’s lakes, especially Lake Ihema, providing close encounters with aquatic birds such as the African Fish Eagle, Open-billed Stork, Marabou Stork, Herons, Cormorants, and Egrets.

Akagera is also part of Rwanda’s Big Five safari experience, with sightings of lions, buffalo, elephants, leopards, and rhinos. Birdwatching is best during the dry season, from June to September.

Both Nyungwe and Akagera National Parks offer a range of luxury, mid-range, and budget accommodations to suit every traveler.

Essential Items for a Birdwatching Trip

Before heading out with Experiya Tour Company on a birdwatching adventure, make sure to pack:

• Binoculars
• Camera
• Field guidebook
• Comfortable hiking shoes
• Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses
• Insect repellant and sunscreen
• Flashlight
• Water bottle
• Notebook and pen
• Rucksack for essentials
• Visa documentation (if required)

These items ensure a comfortable, safe, and productive birdwatching experience.

Uganda and Rwanda are among the best destinations in Africa for birdwatchers, offering diverse habitats, rare species, and unforgettable sightings. With Experiya Tour Company, your birdwatching journey will be seamless, educational, and truly memorable.