Birding Trips & Safaris in Nyungwe Forest

Embark on Remarkable Birding Trips & Safaris in Nyungwe Forest – Explore Rwanda’s Avian Wonders

Discover Bird Watching Safaris and Guided Bird Holidays in Rwanda

Prepare to immerse yourself in the mesmerizing world of avian wonders with birding trips and safaris in the pristine Nyungwe Forest. Nyungwe Forest National Park, a haven for bird enthusiasts, is home to over 300 bird species, making it a premier birding spot in Rwanda. Among these feathered inhabitants, 121 are forest birds, and an impressive 27 are endemic to the Albertine Rift Valley. As you venture into this enchanting forest, you’ll be greeted by an incredible array of birdlife.

The Nyungwe Forest National Park boasts some of the most sought-after bird species, providing ample opportunities for avid birdwatchers to capture these remarkable creatures in their natural habitat. Among the most spotted and treasured birds in Nyungwe Forest National Park are the Rockefellers sunbird, Chapin’s flycatcher, Great blue Turaco, red collared mountain babbler, Rear Grauer’s rush warbler, Rwenzori Turaco, white-tailed flycatcher, Rwenzori batis, barred long-tailed cuckoo, Rwenzori nightjar, Rwenzori hill babbler, yellow-eyed black flycatcher, Congo bay owlet, mountain sooty Boubou, and the Neumann’s warbler, among many others.

Experienced and knowledgeable guides accompany you on your birding safaris, ensuring you spot these feathered treasures and providing valuable insights into the unique characteristics and behaviors of each bird species that graces the forest with its presence.

Best time for Birding Trips & Safaris in Nyungwe Forest National Park

To fully appreciate the vibrant birdlife of Nyungwe Forest National Park, it’s essential to time your birding trips during the optimal season. Nyungwe National Park enjoys a pleasant climate, which makes it the perfect setting for your birding adventures, especially during the dry season. The forest’s elevation, ranging from 1600 to 2000 meters above sea level, contributes to a cool, temperate climate that visitors find comfortable and enjoyable.

Rwanda’s unique geographical location, with its higher altitude and a latitude situated just two degrees south of the equator, creates the ideal tropical conditions for birdwatching. Daytime high temperatures typically range from 25°C to 27°C (77°F to 81°F), ensuring pleasant conditions for your birding safaris. The nights bring cooler temperatures, with readings typically hovering around a minimum of 13.5°C (56°F) and rarely exceeding 16°C (61°F). To maximize your birding experience in Nyungwe Forest National Park, plan your visit during the dry season, which extends from late May to early September, or opt for the period from December to February.

How to Get to Nyungwe Forest National Park

By Road: Journey Through Rwanda’s Scenic Landscapes

Embark on a picturesque road trip that takes you through Rwanda’s captivating landscapes as you make your way to Nyungwe Forest National Park. Located in the southern region of the country, the park lies approximately 200 kilometers (124 miles) away from Rwanda’s capital, Kigali. Your road journey will guide you through Muhanga and Huye, offering delightful stops at notable landmarks such as the King’s Palace in Nyanza and the charming town of Butare. From Butare, the route leads you through hilly terrain, gradually bringing you closer to the park’s headquarters in Gisekura.

For those beginning their journey in Huye (Butare), the park is a shorter distance away, at just 87 kilometers (54 miles). Many travelers opt to spend an overnight in Huye, allowing them to engage in activities along the way and alleviate the stress of a direct trip. If you’re arriving by air, Rusizi/Kamembe Airport serves as the gateway to Nyungwe Forest National Park, conveniently located just 55 kilometers (34 miles) away. This picturesque drive typically takes about an hour, offering a convenient option for park-goers. It’s common for Nyungwe Forest to be included as part of a comprehensive 4×4 tour across the country, complete with an experienced driver-guide to enhance your exploration.

By Air: Exclusive Aerial Access

For travelers seeking a swifter and more exclusive mode of transportation, Akagera Aviation provides charter helicopter transfers directly to Nyungwe Forest National Park. This extraordinary experience allows you to soar above the landscapes and land at the renowned One & Only Nyungwe House, providing unparalleled access to the park’s wonders. Alternatively, visitors choosing Rwanda Air will arrive at Kamembe Airport in Rusizi, just an hour’s drive from the park headquarters. Whichever route you select, Nyungwe Forest National Park guarantees a captivating journey through Rwanda’s natural treasures.