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  5. 7-Day Rwanda Birding Safari: Nyungwe Forest and Volcanoes National Park

7-Day Rwanda Birding Safari: Nyungwe Forest and Volcanoes National Park

Birding
Wildlife

This carefully crafted 7-day Rwanda birding safari combines the best of avian exploration in Nyungwe Forest National Park with an awe-inspiring gorilla trekking adventure in Volcanoes National Park. Participants will have the opportunity to observe a wide variety of bird species, primates, and other wildlife while traversing the country’s most spectacular natural landscapes.

Duration: 7 Days
Places to Visit: Nyungwe Forest National Park, Volcanoes National Park

Itinerary:

Day 1: Kigali – Nyungwe Forest National Park

Distance: 225km/4-5hrs drive
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, an expert birding guide will warmly welcome participants and provide a brief introduction to Rwanda’s rich birdlife. After collecting packed lunch boxes, set off on a scenic drive to Nyungwe Forest National Park. Along the way, make birding stops at various locations, such as the Nyabugogo wetlands and Butare, to spot species like the Papyrus Gonolek, White-collared Oliveback, and the elusive Red-faced Barbet. Upon arrival at Nyungwe, check into the lodge for leisure and overnight stay.
Mid-Range: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel on Full Board
Semi-Luxury: One&Only Nyungwe House on Full Board

Day 2-4: Nyungwe Forest National Park

Dedicate three full days to exploring the rich biodiversity of Nyungwe Forest National Park. The park’s varied habitats, including montane rainforest, bamboo forest, and marshes, support an impressive array of bird species. Birding highlights include the Rwenzori Turaco, Grauer’s Warbler, Albertine Owlet, Handsome Francolin, and the enigmatic Red-collared Mountain Babbler. In addition to birding, participants can enjoy guided nature walks to spot primates such as chimpanzees, Rwenzori colobus, and L’Hoest’s monkeys. Overnight at the chosen accommodation within the park.
Mid-Range: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel on Full Board
Semi-Luxury: One&Only Nyungwe House on Full Board

Day 5: Nyungwe Forest National Park – Volcanoes National Park

Distance: 275km/5-6hrs drive
After an early morning birding walk and breakfast, depart Nyungwe Forest National Park and head towards Volcanoes National Park. The drive takes participants through the picturesque landscapes of Rwanda’s countryside, offering opportunities to spot bird species such as the Cinnamon Bracken Warbler, Ruwenzori Double-collared Sunbird, and the striking Rwenzori Turaco. Upon arrival at Volcanoes National Park, check into the lodge for leisure and overnight stay.
Mid-Range: Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge on Full Board
Semi-Luxury: Bisate Lodge on Full Board

Day 6: Volcanoes National Park – Gorilla Trekking

After an early breakfast, participants will gather at the park headquarters for a briefing on gorilla trekking etiquette and safety. Accompanied by expert rangers and guides, set out on a trek through the misty forests of Volcanoes National Park to locate and observe a habituated gorilla family. The trek can take anywhere from 1 to 4 hours, depending on the location of the gorillas. Once the gorillas are located, participants will have the privilege of spending up to one hour in their presence, observing their behaviors and interactions. After this awe-inspiring experience, return to the lodge for relaxation and overnight stay.
Mid-Range: Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge on Full Board
Semi-Luxury: Bisate Lodge on Full Board

Day 7: Volcanoes National Park – Kigali – Departure

Distance: 105km/2-3hrs drive
After a leisurely breakfast, depart Volcanoes National Park and make the journey back to Kigali. En route, stop at the Iby’iwacu Cultural Village to learn about traditional Rwandan culture, music, and dance. Upon arrival in Kigali, visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial to pay respects and gain insights into the country’s tragic history. Afterward, the guide will transfer participants to Kigali International Airport for onward travel plans.

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