Embark on a thrilling 16-day birding safari and wildlife tour in Rwanda, where you will delve into the breathtaking landscapes and diverse habitats that promise encounters with an array of bird species, primates, and wildlife.

Rwanda is a stunningly compact country, covering approximately 26,338 square kilometers. The country boasts an impressive bird count of around 750 species, including approximately 29 unique to the Albertine Rift among the total of 40 recognized.

From September to April, this place hosts around 130 Palearctic and intra-African migrants.

Day 1 – Arrival in Rwanda and Exploring the Birdlife in Kigali

Your journey begins as our representative or guide greets you and leads you to the hotel.

Depending on when you arrive, you will embark on an exciting birding adventure around the city to begin your quest for the local birds here.

A city tour awaits, offering a rewarding experience steeped in rich history.

Among the avian wonders you might encounter in the city are the White-collared Oliveback, Green-winged Pytilia, Spot-flanked Barbet, Lesser Honeyguide, Black-shouldered Nightjar, Purple-crested Turaco, and African Firefinch.

Day 2 – An Exciting Day of Birdwatching in the Nyabarongo Wetlands and Forest in Bugesera District

We will enjoy breakfast before embarking on an exciting journey to explore the wetlands and the lush forests of the southeast district of Bugesera in Rwanda.

It’s just a short journey from the vibrant capital, Kigali. The Wetland here is a captivating birding area along the Nyabarongo river.

We anticipate encountering the Papyrus Gonolek and White-winged Swamp Warbler.

Afterward, we will make our way back to Kigali for dinner and a night of rest.

Day 3 – Excursion to Akagera National Park for Birdwatching and Wildlife Exploration

We will enjoy a delightful breakfast at dawn and then embark on our journey by 7 am to the eastern part of the country, heading to Akagera National Park.

The park stands out as the sole savanna protected area in Rwanda, offering a one-of-a-kind experience.

The park is recognized as a significant spot for birdwatching.

The park is home to more than 500 bird species, including 2 of the 3 birds that are unique to Rwanda, making it a thrilling destination for nature enthusiasts.

The prime time for birdwatching in this area is from September to April, when you will encounter a variety of migrant birds.

Day 4 – Exciting Full Day Birding Safari in Akagera National Park

We will rise at 6 am, ready to embark on an exciting journey with our packed lunch for a full day of birding in Akagera National Park.

We will embark on an exploration of the southern sector of the park, where diverse habitats await, including swamps, woodlands, thick grasslands, and acacia thickets. In the afternoon, we venture to the northern sector of the park, where the terrain is a bit rugged, yet it teems with vibrant bird life.

Day 5 – Yet another thrilling day of birding and safari in Akagera National Park

This is yet another chance to check off the birds we might have overlooked on the first day.

We will embark on an exciting journey through the wetlands and the savanna plains.

If fortune smiles upon you, you might catch a glimpse of the elusive shoebill. We will embark on an exciting journey through the northern sector to enhance our checklist.

Day 6 – Exploring the Avian Wonders of Akagera and Journey to Kigali

We will set off bright and early once more into the expansive Kilala plain of Akagera National Park.

These plains offer more than just birds; we anticipate encountering wildlife such as Giraffes, Lions, Elephants, and various species of animals frolicking across the stunning landscape.

Afterward, we will journey back to Kigali for dinner and a night of rest.

Day 7 – Journey to Musanze in the North of Rwanda and explore the vibrant birdlife in Buhanga Forest

Today, we embark on an exhilarating journey to the Virunga Mountains and the Volcanoes National Park.

We will embark on a two-hour drive from Kigali, immersing ourselves in birdwatching along the way as we journey into the enchanting Buhanga forest in Musanze.

Day 8 – Exploring the Wonders of Rugezi Swamp (IBA)

This swamp stands out as a vital destination for birdwatching enthusiasts in Rwanda.

The swamp is truly unique and is home to various Albertine rift endemics, including the Grauer’s Swamp Warbler.

Day 9 – Exploring the Majestic Volcanoes and Birdwatching in Volcanoes National Park (IBA)

Today, we are setting off on an exciting trek through the Volcanoes National Park.

The park is home to around 200 bird species, including 15 that are unique to the Albertine rift.

The journey will lead you through lush bamboo groves, revealing a variety of high-altitude bird species along the way.

We will explore the wonders of Lake Ngezi and the majestic Bisoke Mountain.

On this day, we offer the exciting opportunity for gorilla trekking.

Day 10 – Embarking on a Journey with Golden Monkeys in Volcanoes National Park Journey to Lake Kivu

We will rise early for breakfast at 6:30 am and set off to the park’s briefing point, eager to prepare for our exciting adventure of Golden monkey trekking.

Here, you can encounter more than 100 golden monkeys that are accustomed to human presence.

Prepare for an exhilarating hour filled with the chance to observe and engage with these fascinating primates.

We will then embark on an exciting journey to the Gisenyi area of Rwanda. She will be reveling in the beauty of Lake Kivu’s shores.

Day 11 – Journey to Gishwati – Mukura National Park and an Exciting Day of Birdwatching in Gishwati Forest

We will rise with the dawn and embark on our journey by 6 am to the enchanting Gishwati forest within the Mukura National park region.

This park, the youngest in Rwanda, is located just a couple of hours from the Gisenyi area.

Our day will be filled with the thrill of birding in this remarkable location, where we anticipate discovering around 17 unique Albertine rift endemics that have been spotted here.

Day 12 – Journey to Nyungwe National Park and Canopy Walk Experience

Today, we embark on a journey to the Nyungwe Forest National Park, nestled in the enchanting southwestern region of the country.

This region is celebrated for its significance as a prime destination for birdwatching in Rwanda.

The region boasts an impressive bird count of around 310 species, including approximately 27 unique to the Albertine Rift out of the 40 recognized overall.

Here, you will have the opportunity to discover around 13 fascinating primate species.

Day 13 – Exploring the Avian Wonders of Nyungwe: Gisakura – Karamba – Kamiranzovu Marsh

We will embark on an exploration of the Nyungwe Forest National Park area, beginning our journey at the Gisakura ranger post.

Numerous trails await us, guiding our way through the diverse habitats of the region, from the mysterious swamps to the dense, enchanting forests.

You will encounter a variety of primates too.

Day 14 – Exploring the Avian Wonders of Nyungwe: Mt. Bigugu Trail

We are set for an entire day of birdwatching, equipped with our packed lunch.

This trail will lead us to a breathtaking height of approximately 2950 meters above sea level.

Among the avian wonders you might encounter are Neumann’s Warbler, Rwenzori Apalis, Mountain Masked Apalis, Strip-breasted Tit, Blue-headed Sunbird, Rwenzori Batis, Regal Sunbird, Olive woodpecker, Red-faced woodland Warbler, Rwenzori Turaco, and Mountain Buzzard.

Day 15 – Exciting Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe National Park

The Nyungwe forest is a vibrant realm teeming with primates, and today, you will embark on an exciting journey to track the chimps.

Here, you will find more than 500 chimps that are accustomed to human presence. We will embark on our journey to the forest at 6 am.

We will receive our briefing and then set off on an exciting journey to track the chimps.

Once we discover the chimps, we will immerse ourselves in their world for about an hour before heading back to our car.

We can embark on optional birding in the afternoon or enjoy a leisurely afternoon at our own pace.

If you are not up for chimp tracking, you can enjoy another exciting day of birdwatching instead.

Day 16 – Journey to Kigali for Your Departure

After that, we will make our way back to Kigali for our flight home.