Feeling adventurous and seeking to see Birds of paradise? Discover Birds in Nyungwe Forest National Park that will blow your mind with their fascinating colors and abilities, making Rwanda a bird watchers paradise.

Nyungwe Park is located in the southwestern part of Rwanda, sharing the international border with Burundi to the south, specifically with Kibira National Park, and covers an area of approximately 1,015 square kilometers. It is surrounded by lush tea plantations, which are a common sight in the region.

It is one of the largest montane forests in central Africa, with a diverse range of plant species and fauna plus over 300 species of birds that call Nyungwe home. These include endemic and iconic species like the Ruwenzori Turaco, Regal Sunbird, and Purple-breasted Sunbird, among other beautiful avian species.

When exploring these distinctive creatures, you can witness them flitting between trees, feeding, and showcasing their vibrant plumage.

Other places where birds are found in Africa include Parc National des Volcans and Akagera National Park in Rwanda, Virunga Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Bwindi Impenetrable NP in Uganda, Kibale NP in Uganda, Queen Elizabeth NP in Uganda, Serengeti NP in Tanzania, Okavango Delta in Botswana, and Kruger NP in Southern Africa, among others.

Here is a detailed overview of the birds in Nyungwe Park!

Bird Types in Nyungwe Forest National Park -What Types of Birds Are Found in Nyungwe Park?

Nyungwe Park is home to approximately 300+ species of birds, including almost 27+ endemics, etc as listed below;

It is worth noting that there are so many species of birds in Nyungwe besides those listed above in the checklist, but it represents a significant number of birds found in Nyungwe Park.

Birding Spots in Nyungwe Park – Where Are Birds Found in Nyungwe Park?

Nyungwe Park is a renowned birding destination, boasting over 300 species of birds, including 16 endemics, 27 Albertine region endemics, and 121 forest species. Some of the top birding spots and trails where you can catch a glimpse of these birds of paradise are;

Nyungwe Forest

Located at a high altitude of 1,600-2,950 meters above sea level, Nyungwe Forest National Park boasts a unique mountain forest habitat (Nyungwe Forest) that supports an incredible array of birdlife, earning its reputation as one of Africa’s seven Important Birding Areas (IBAs).

Reasons Why It Is Considered an Important Birding Area!

• This forest is home to over 300 species of birds, including 16 endemics, 27 Albertine Rift region endemics, and 121 forest species which makes it a birding paradise.

• The forest offers a variety of habitats, including montane forest, bamboo, grasslands, and swampy areas, supporting a wide range of bird types that call these home.

• This Nyungwe Jungle is one of the best places to spot Albertine Rift mountains endemics, including the Ruwenzori Turaco, Red-collared Mountain Babbler, and Rockefellers Sunbird.

• The forest’s high altitude (1,600-2,950 meters) supports a unique species of birds, such as the Regal Sunbirds, Purple-breasted Sunbird, and Red-faced Woodland Warbler.

• The Nyungwe Jungle offers several well-maintained trails, including the Gisakura Trail, Kamiranzovu Waterfall Trail, and Bigugu Trails, providing easy access to various bird habitats.
• In addition to birds, Nyungwe is home to a variety of other animals, including chimpanzees, monkeys, and butterflies, making it a fantastic travel destination for nature lovers intending to engage in birdwatching and other tourist activities like wildlife viewing.

Overall, Nyungwe Park is a birding paradise, offering an unparalleled birding experience in the land of a thousand hills.

Birding Trails in Nyungwe Park

Additionally, tourists can have perfect opportunities to several bird types if they trek and walk along the designated birding trails found in the Nyungwe jungle such as;

• The Karambi Trail

This is a 4-5 km moderate-level hiking trail in Nyungwe Park, Rwanda. It passes through lush, high-altitude forests, offering stunning views and opportunities to spot various plant and animal species.

The trail is ideal for birdwatching, with Albertine Rift side endemics, high-altitude birds, and other wildlife like the many monkeys, chimpanzees, and butterflies in Nyungwe.

Guided tours are recommended to maximize the safari experience.

• Gisakura Trail

This trail in Nyungwe Park is a 6-8 km moderate-level hike offering exceptional birdwatching, stunning forest landscapes, and opportunities to spot monkeys, chimpanzees, and butterflies.

The trail features a unique mix of forest types home to some avians like the Regal Sunbirds, Purple-breasted Sunbird, and Red-faced Woodland Warbler, and takes 3-4 hours to complete, with guided tours recommended to maximize the experience.

• Kamiranzovu Waterfall Trail

The trail located in Nyungwe Park, Rwanda, is a 10km moderate-level hike that takes 4-5 hours to complete.

It features stunning views, a breathtaking 30-meter-high waterfall, and exceptional birdwatching opportunities for species like Ruwenzori Turaco and White-headed Wood-hoopoe.

You may also spot monkeys, chimpanzees, and butterflies.

Guided safari tours are recommended to maximize the birding experience and explore the forest’s unique ecosystem.

• Bigugu Trail

The trail located in Nyungwe Park is a 6-8 km moderate to challenging hike that takes 4-5 hours to complete.

It offers breathtaking views of Lake Kivu and surrounding mountains (the highest peak of Bigugu mountain), exceptional birdwatching for species like Handsome Francolin and Mountain Masked Apalis, and opportunities to spot monkeys, chimpanzees, and butterflies.

Guided trips are recommended to navigate the trail’s steep sections and uneven terrain, and to maximize the safari experience.

• Isumo Waterfall Trail

This is a 10km moderate-level hike that takes 4-5 hours to complete.

The trail features stunning views, a picturesque Isumo waterfall, and exceptional birdwatching opportunities for rare and endemic species like the Red-collared Mountain Babbler, Chestnut Owlet, and Olive Woodpecker.

You may also spot monkeys, chimpanzees, and butterflies. Guided tours are recommended to navigate the trail’s steep sections and uneven terrain, and to maximize the experience.

• The Congo-Nile Divide Trail

This is a 10-12km challenging hike trail that takes 5-6 hours to complete.

The trail marks the divide between the Congo and Nile River basins, offering stunning views, exceptional birdwatching opportunities for birds like the Yellow eyed Black Flycatcher and barred Long tailed Cuckoo, and sightings of rare wildlife, including monkeys, chimpanzees, and butterflies.

Guided tours are recommended to navigate the trail’s steep sections and uneven terrain.

• The Igishigishigi Trail

This trail located in Nyungwe Forest, is a 4-5km moderate-level hike that takes 2-3 hours to complete.

It passes through a lush tropical forest dominated by tree ferns, offering stunning views, exceptional birdwatching opportunities for species like the Regal Sunbirds, Ruwenzori Turaco, and Mountain Masked Apalis, and sightings of rare wildlife, including monkeys, chimpanzees, and butterflies.

Guided safari tours are recommended to navigate the trail’s steep sections and uneven terrain.

• Imbaraga Trail

Explore the Imbaraga Trail, a 10km moderate to challenging hike through Nyungwe Jungle, featuring stunning views, and exceptional birdwatching for rare species like the Lanner Falcon and other raptors, as well as monkeys, chimpanzees, and butterflies.

Completing the 4–5-hour hike is best done with a guided tour to navigate the trail’s rugged terrain.

Additional Trails Include;

Please note that bird sightings in Nyungwe Park may vary due to seasonal and weather factors. Consider hiring a certified guide or joining a tour to optimize your birding experience.

Other Tourist Attractions Found in Nyungwe Park

Besides bird types, Nyungwe is home to various attractions like;

• Monkeys like the Golden Monkeys, L’Hoest’s, Vervet Monkeys, crowned Monkeys, Red-tailed Monkeys, Grey-cheeked Mangabeys, Baboons, Angola Colobus, Silver, Hamlyn’s Monkeys, Dent’s Monkeys, and Mona Monkeys among others

• Other Primates like chimpanzees

• Wildlife species such as Leopards, servals, hyraxes, bushpigs, buffalo, duikers, bushbucks, various reptiles etc

• Stunning Waterfalls eg Kamiranzovu, Kagitumba, and others

• Rivers for example Nyungwe, Kagitumba, Gisakura, and others

• Picturesque views from the rolling hills, valleys, and breathtaking vistas

• Canopy Walkway that is around 200 meters above the forest floor

• Diverse Flora such as Giant ferns, orchids, wild begonias, and more

• Tea Plantations: Learn about Rwanda’s tea production at the Gisakura Tea Estate among other estates

• Local Communities

Book your safari holiday to Nyungwe today a birds bird paradise!

How To Find Birds in Nyungwe Forest in Nyungwe Park Rwanda?

To see birds, you need to go;

Birdwatching -Nyungwe Park

Birdwatching in Nyungwe Park is a thrilling adventure that allows you to spot over 300 species of birds, including endemic, rare, and migratory birds.

Explore the park’s diverse habitats, including montane rainforest, cloud forest, bamboo, and swampy areas, led by experienced guides who expertly locate and identify various bird types.

Some of the notable birds to spot include the Ruwenzori Turaco, the Red-faced Woodland Warbler, the Purple-breasted Sunbird, the Regal Sunbirds, the Albertine Owlet, and the Red-chested Owlet.

For The Best Forest Birding Experience:

• Visit the Uwinka Visitor Centre, Kamiranzovu Waterfall, Gisakura Tea Plantation, Imbaraga Trail, and Bigugu Trail among others

• Hire a certified birding guide or join a guided tour

• Visit during the dry season (June to August) for optimal spotting conditions

This tourist activity offers an unforgettable safari experience, providing more exceptional opportunities to spot other incredible wildlife, including chimpanzees, golden cats, monkeys, and large mammals, amidst a tranquil and immersive natural setting.

Explore these additional tourist activities, which also provide excellent opportunities for birding i.e.

• Primate Habituation

This involves gradually introducing humans to semi-wild primates, such as chimpanzees, to help them become comfortable with human presence. This process allows tourists to observe and interact with these amazing creatures in their natural habitat as well as other wild species, especially the birds while promoting conservation and research efforts.

• Golden Monkey Trekking

The tourist activity involves hiking through the forest to observe the endangered Golden Monkeys in their natural habitat. This unique experience allows tourists to witness the monkeys’ playful and social behavior, as well as birds among the many other mammals while supporting conservation efforts to protect this rare and beautiful species.

• Chimpanzee Trekking

It involves guided hikes through the forest to track and observe chimpanzees in their natural habitat. This exhilarating safari experience allows tourists to witness the chimps’ behavior, social interactions, and intelligence as well as other mammals and birds, while supporting conservation efforts to protect these intelligent and endangered primates.

• Guided Nature Walks and Hikes

These offer immersive safari experiences through the forest, allowing tourists to explore the park’s diverse flora and fauna. Led by knowledgeable tour guides, these walks and hikes provide opportunities to spot various bird species, monkeys, and other wildlife, while learning about the park’s unique ecosystem and conservation efforts.

• Canopy Walk

This is a 200-meter-long suspended walkway, 50 meters above the forest floors, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding rainforest. The walkway allows tourists to explore the upper canopy of the forest, providing a unique perspective on the park’s diverse flora and fauna, including birds, monkeys, and other wildlife.

• Monkey Trekking

It involves guided hikes through the forest to track and observe various monkey species, including the L’Hoest’s monkey, silver monkeys, and Owl-faced monkeys, among others. This exciting experience allows tourists to witness the monkeys’ behavior, social interactions, and agility in their natural habitat as well as witness other species of birds and wildlife.

• Cultural Experiences

Visitors to Nyungwe can experience local culture by visiting nearby villages like Kitabi and Gisakura, and exploring traditional tea plantations, handicrafts, art, and rural village life. By taking these, they can get perfect chances to support some birds, large mammals, etc.

These listed above are all good activities you can partake in and get perfect glimpses of the birds in Nyungwe Park!

Duration Spent Birdwatching -How Much Time Can You Spend Birdwatching in Nyungwe Park?

The duration of birdwatching in Nyungwe Park can vary depending on the specific activity, trail, or tour.

Here Are Some General Tips:

• Half-Day Birding Tour which takes about 3-4 hours, focusing on specific trails or habitats, such as the Uwinka Visitor Centre or the Kamiranzovu Waterfall.

• A Full-Day Birding Tour that lasts approximately 6-8 hours. Participants explore various trails, habitats, and elevations to spot a wide range of bird types.

• A Multi-Day Birding Safari, which takes about two or more days, allows for a more in-depth exploration of the park’s diverse habitats, including montane forest, bamboo, and swampy areas.

• Guided Bird Walks which go for about 2-3 hours, focusing on specific trails or areas, such as the Igishigishigi Trail or the Bigugu Route.

• Self-Guided Birding: This activity has a flexible duration and allows visitors to explore the park’s trails and habitats at their own pace.

Please note that these durations are approximate and may vary depending on individual specific interests or preferences, weather conditions, and the expertise of guides.

Nyungwe Forest National Park Fees for Birding Tours

The cost of birding tours in Nyungwe Park varies depending on residency status:

• Non-residents: $50 per person per day (discounted to $40 for 2+ days)
• Foreign residents: $40 per person per day
• Rwandan citizens: 5,000 RWF (approximately $5) per person per day
• Birding permit: $50 per person, including a knowledgeable guide

Park entrance:

• Non-resident foreign: $100
• Foreign resident: $60
• East African citizens: $10

Prices are subject to change, so it’s best to check with park authorities or a reputable tour operator for the latest information on Rwanda bird-watching safari prices and those of other additional activities such as monkey trekking, cultural experiences, etc.

Rules And Regulations for Birding Tours in Nyungwe Park 

Here are some rules and regulations for birding tours in Nyungwe Park:

General Rules:

• All visitors must obtain a permit from the park authorities before entering the park.
• Visitors must be accompanied by a licensed guide or ranger at all times.
• Keep a safe distance from birds and other wildlife, and avoid disturbing or feeding them.
• Stay on designated trails and avoid taking shortcuts or wandering off into the forest.
• Do not litter or leave any trash behind.

Birding-Specific Rules:

• Desist from using bird calls or recordings to attract birds.
• Avoid using flash photography, as it can disturb birds and other wildlife.
• Keep noise levels down to avoid disturbing birds and other wildlife.
• Avoid approaching or disturbing nesting sites or young birds.

Safety Rules:

• Wear comfortable walking shoes, long trousers/pants, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun and insects.
• Bring binoculars, a field guide, and a drinks bottle.
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
• Pay attention to your surroundings and watch for potential hazards such as slippery trails or wildlife.

Regulations:

• The park is open from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm.
• Permit fees are non-refundable and must be paid in advance.
• Guide fees are separate from permit fees and must be paid directly to the guide.

Penalties:

• Failure to comply with park rules and regulations may result in fines or penalties
• Repeated offenses may result in expulsion from the park.

Remember to follow these park rules for a maximized experience!

Threats To Birdlife in Nyungwe Park

These include

• Habitat loss and fragmentation due to deforestation, agriculture, and urbanization.
• Climate change, which alters bird habitats, migration patterns, and food availability.
• Poaching for bushmeat, including birds and their eggs.
• Illegal logging and charcoal production, which destroy bird habitats.
• Human-wildlife conflict, as birds may be seen as pests by local farmers.
• Invasive species, such as rats and snakes, which prey on bird eggs and chicks.
• Disease transmission, such as avian malaria, which affects bird populations.

These many threats highlight the need for continued conservation efforts to protect Nyungwe’s unique birdlife.

Nyungwe Bird Conservation Efforts

Nyungwe Park employs various bird conservation efforts, including:

• Habitat protection
• Research and monitoring
• Community engagement
• Bird-friendly agriculture
• Invasive species control
• Collaboration with local authorities
• Ecotourism
• Partnerships with bird conservation organizations like the Rwanda Birding Association

These conservation efforts aim to protect and conserve Nyungwe’s bird populations and their habitats.

How To Get to Nyungwe Forest to See Birds of Paradise?

To reach Nyungwe for birding tours, you have two options:

Option 1: By Road

• Fly into Kigali International Airport (KGL) and take a scenic 4–5-hour drive (225 km/140 miles) to Nyungwe Park headquarters via the Kigali-Muhanga-Rusizi road
• Choose from various transportation options: 4×4 vehicle, public transportation (buses or minivans), or book a safari package with transfers through a reputable tour operator
• Self-drive options are also available by renting a car in Kigali

Option 2: By Air

• Take a domestic flight from Kigali to Kamembe Airport (KME) with Akagera Aviation and drive to Nyungwe (approximately one hour)
• Book domestic or helicopter flights in advance to avoid availability issues

Upon Arrival

• Check-in at your chosen accommodation
• Meet your guide for a briefing on the monkey tracking experience
• Embark on an early morning guided tour

To ensure an unforgettable birdwatching experience in Nyungwe Park, book your options in advance!

Where To Stay When on Birding Tours in Nyungwe?

When visiting Nyungwe Park for birdwatching, choose from a range of accommodations, including:

a)   Nyungwe Forest Lodge

Immerse yourself in luxury and nature at our lodge, with luxurious rooms and suites featuring panoramic views. It’s the ultimate base for exploring the park’s wonders, like guided bird watching tours, nature walking tours, chimpanzee and monkey treks, and thrilling canopy treetop suspension bridge walks.

b)   Uwinka Visitor Center

Get back to nature with our budget-friendly accommodation options, featuring camping facilities and simple rooms. Enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including treetop hikes, monkey tracking, and bird watching, without breaking the bank.

c)    Nyungwe Top View Lodge

Nestled on a hilltop in the charming town of Kibeho, this hotel offers cozy rooms and breathtaking views of the park and a good starting point for birding tours in Nyungwe.

d)   Mantis Kivu Marina Bay Hotel

Experience luxury and tranquillity at our hilltop hotel, with stunning views of Lake Kivu and easy access to Kamembe Airport. The perfect starting point for your birding adventures.

Other Safari lodging options and hotels in Nyungwe include;

• Indulge in luxury and comfort at One & Only Nyungwe House
• Enjoy mid-range comfort at Kivu Lodge or Nyungwe Nziza Lodge
• Save with budget-friendly options like Gisakura Guesthouse
• Go green with eco-lodges like Nyungwe Eco-Lodge and Gisakura Eco-Lodge
• Rough it with camping facilities near and around the park

Best Time to Visit Nyungwe Park to See Birds of Paradise

Birding in Nyungwe Forest National Park is excellent year-round, but timing can impact the experience.

The best time for forest birding is from March to May when birds are most vocal. However, during this period, April is the wettest month, making trail logistics challenging due to slippery conditions.

For optimal birdwatching conditions, consider visiting during the dry seasons from June to August or December to January. These periods offer clearer skies, easier trail access, and better opportunities to spot resident bird species found in Nyungwe, including the iconic Birds of Paradise.

If you’re interested in spotting migratory birds, the wet seasons from February to May or September to November might be a better option. Be prepared for potentially slippery trails and challenging conditions during this time.

Additionally, as Nyungwe Park is covered by a tropical rainforest, rainfall can occur at any time therefore ensure you’re equipped with waterproof clothing, sturdy hiking shoes /boots, and a knowledgeable guide to maximize your birding experience.

Guided tours with experienced guides are available to help you spot and identify various species of birds.

What To Wear for Bird-Watching Safaris in Nyungwe Park?

When exploring Nyungwe Park on a birding tour, wear protective and practical clothing, including lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and trousers, sturdy hiking boots, hat, sunglasses, gardening gloves, warm and insulating layers, waterproof rain jacket, quick-drying clothing, and comfortable socks to protect oneself from insect bites, thorns, strong sun rays, cold weather, rain falls respectively and also ensure a safe and enjoyable safari experience.

What To Pack for Birdwatching Safaris in Nyungwe?

When planning your bird watching safaris in Nyungwe Park, pack personal essential items such as your personal hygiene items, valid travel documents (passport, visa, etc.), sunscreen, insect repellent cream, snacks (energy-rich foods), and a drinking water bottle.

To enhance your birding experience, bring necessary birding gear including birdwatching binoculars (7x or 8x magnification), a spotting scope (optional), a field guide or birding app, a bird checklist, and a camera with a telephoto lens (optional) with extra batteries.

Binoculars are a must-have for birders and one of the most important items to acquire when planning a birding tour in Rwanda.

Additionally, consider packing miscellaneous items like a light day backpack/a reusable bag for carrying gear, a hydration pack, a first-aid kit, extra batteries, memory cards, local currency (Rwandan francs), and a guidebook or map of Nyungwe Park.

It is important to check with your tour guide or park authorities for specific gear recommendations and regulations.

Birds in Nyungwe FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) 

1. How Many Bird Species Are in Nyungwe National Park?

Nyungwe Park is a well known birdwatcher’s paradise, boasting an outstanding 381 bird types. Some of the notable species of birds found in the park include the Rwenzori Turaco, Red-winged Francolin, and Regal Sunbirds among many others.

2. What Are Some Facts About Nyungwe Park?

As for facts about Nyungwe Park, it’s located in southwestern Rwanda and covers an area of approximately 1,019 square kilometers.

The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including over 75 mammal species, 13 primate species, and 38 reptile species.

3. How Many Birds Are in Rwanda?

Rwanda in East Africa boasts an impressive avifauna, with a total of 705 confirmed species of birds, making it a haven for bird enthusiasts. Unfortunately, 22 of these species are globally threatened, 3 are unrecorded on the eastern side of the rift, while 2 are introduced species.

4. What Are The Major Wildlife Found in Nyungwe National Park?

Nyungwe Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including:

• Primates: 13 species, such as chimpanzees, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and silver monkeys
• Antelopes: several species, including bushbucks, yellow-backed and black-fronted duikers, and impalas
• Carnivores: numerous species, such as leopards, golden cats, serval cats, African civets, and side-striped jackals
• Reptiles: various species, including snakes, lizards, and tortoises

Please note that some of these species, like the Weyns’s duiker, are rare and endemic, while others, like the chimpanzee, are iconic and sought-after by wildlife enthusiasts.

5. What Types of Birds Can I Expect to See in Nyungwe?

Nyungwe Park is home to a stunning array of bird types, including the Dusky Crimsonwing, Regal Sunbirds, Rwenzori Nightjar, Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher, Handsome Francolin, Great Blue Turaco, Albertine Owlet, Barred Long-tailed Cuckoo, Mountain Sooty Boubou, White-tailed Flycatcher, Grauer’s Swamp Warbler, Kivu Ground Thrush, Purple-breasted Sunbird, Red collared Babbler, Red throated Alethe, Rwenzori Batis, Stripe-breasted Tit, Archer’s Robin-chat, Anseriformes species, Landfowl, and other many species.

6. Are There Any Rare or Endangered Bird Species in Nyungwe?

Nyungwe is a critical habitat among Rwanda’s national parks for numerous endangered and rare birds listed on the IUCN Red List, including the Red-faced Woodland Warbler and the Purple-breasted Sunbird, etc.

Why wait? Grab your birding gear and join us for your next birding tour to see the birds in Nyungwe Forest National Park. Book Now!