Akagera National Park
Akagera National Park is a savannah park characterized by undulating terrain, encompassing lakes, wetlands, and woods. It provides a more conventional African Big 5 safari encounter, although the variety of habitats ensures exceptional bird-watching opportunities as well. So far, a total of 490 bird species have been recorded in Akagera National Park. The park provides a similar experience to other parks in the area, but its small size allows for easy access to various habitats and the opportunity to create a comprehensive bird list.
The range is limited. The Red-faced barbet is highly coveted among bird enthusiasts and is typically abundant in the vicinity of Akagera Game Lodge and Muyumbu Campsite. Additional species that have limited distribution and are worth noting are the Northern Brown-throated Weaver, Papyrus Gonolek, White-Winged Swamp Warbler, Carruthers’s Cisticola, White-collared Oliveback, and Grey-crowned Cranes. Another coveted species found in the park is the Shoebill, which is observed with relative frequency. The park also harbors substantial populations of birds of prey and vast quantities of waterfowl.
Embarking on a boat excursion on Lake Ihema offers excellent opportunities to observe a wide variety of waterbird species. Additionally, there is a high likelihood of sighting the African Finfoot, which is frequently observed from the deck of the Ruzizi Tented Lodge. Driving at night provides the opportunity to watch various species of birds that are active during the night, including the Verreaux’s Eagle Owl and several species of Nightjars.
Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park is situated in an area predominantly characterized by inactive volcanoes that are covered in dense vegetation. It also encompasses Mount Karisimbi, which is the highest peak in Rwanda. The park is renowned for its population of Mountain Gorillas, but it also provides excellent opportunities for birdwatching. A total of 200 bird species have been identified in this region, including 17 species that are unique to the Albertine Rift. The species present in this location bear resemblance to those in Nyungwe. However, the Scarlet-Tufted Sunbird is exclusive to Rwanda, and the most favorable opportunity to spot this bird is by embarking on a hike to the summit of Mt Bisoke. Additionally, there is a collection of lakes encircling VNP that may be worth a brief diversion. In close proximity to the area is Buhanga Eco-Park, where African Pitta has been observed during its migratory period.