Birdwatching in Burundi: Top Spots for Bird Lovers

Though small in size, Burundi is a veritable hotspot for birdwatching, boasting an impressive diversity of species thanks to its varied ecosystems, from the shores of Lake Tanganyika to dense montane rainforests and high-altitude grasslands. For dedicated bird lovers, Burundi offers the thrill of discovering both widespread African species and a significant number of Albertine Rift endemics.

Why Birdwatch in Burundi?

• Biodiversity: Over 600 bird species have been recorded in Burundi, a remarkable number for such a small country.
• Albertine Rift Endemics: As part of the Albertine Rift, Burundi is home to several species found nowhere else in the world, making it a crucial destination for serious twitchers.
• Untouched Habitats: Many areas are less disturbed by mass tourism, offering more pristine birding environments.
• Accessibility: Key birding sites are often within reasonable distance of each other.

Top Birdwatching Spots in Burundi:

1. Kibira National Park:
   • Description: This vast, high-altitude montane rainforest in northwestern Burundi is undoubtedly the country’s premier birding destination. It’s an extension of Nyungwe Forest in Rwanda.
   • Key Species: Many Albertine Rift endemics, including the Rwenzori Turaco, Archer’s Robin-chat, Stripe-breasted Tit, African Emerald Cuckoo, and various forest kingfishers. Look for forest hornbills, barbets, and sunbirds.
   • Experience: Guided walks along forest trails offer the best opportunities. Binoculars and a good field guide are essential.
2. Rusizi National Park:
   • Description: Located just outside Bujumbura, where the Rusizi River meets Lake Tanganyika. This park’s mix of wetlands, marshes, reedbeds, and acacia woodlands is a magnet for waterbirds and savanna species.
   • Key Species: Excellent for large waterbirds like the African Fish Eagle, Goliath Heron, Saddle-billed Stork, African Jacana, and various egrets and cormorants. You can also spot Pied Kingfishers, Great White Pelicans, and a variety of weavers and waders.
   • Experience: Both boat safaris on the Rusizi River and vehicle drives offer great birding vantage points.
3. Lake Tanganyika Shores and Wetlands (especially around Bujumbura):
   • Description: The extensive freshwater lake and its associated wetlands attract a multitude of aquatic species.
   • Key Species: You’ll find good numbers of pelicans, cormorants, herons, egrets, and various gulls and terns. Keep an eye out for the striking African Skimmer during certain seasons.
   • Experience: Explore the quieter stretches of the lake, particularly early mornings or late afternoons.
4. Bururi Natural Forest Reserve:
   • Description: A significant remnant of high-altitude forest in southern Burundi, similar in ecosystem to parts of Kibira.
   • Key Species: Another important site for forest birds, including some Albertine Rift endemics. Species found here often include various sunbirds, flycatchers, turacos, and forest owls.
   • Experience: Guided walks through the forest trails are the best way to observe its avian inhabitants.
5. Ruvubu National Park:
   • Description: Burundi’s largest national park, located in the east, characterized by savannah, woodlands, and floodplains along the Ruvubu River.
   • Key Species: Offers a different range of birds than the forests. Expect to see raptors, various francolins, bustards, plovers, and common savanna species. It’s less explored for birding but holds great potential.
   • Experience: Game drives and walks (where permitted) can reveal a variety of savanna birds.
6. Kumugabo Bird Sanctuary (also known as “Birds Island”):
   • Description: A small island/wetland area on Lake Tanganyika, particularly notable for breeding birds.
   • Key Species: Can be home to large colonies of breeding waterfowl.

Tips for Birdwatching in Burundi:

• Binoculars and Field Guide: Absolutely essential. Invest in a good pair of binoculars and a comprehensive field guide to East African birds.
• Experienced Local Guide: While self-guided birding can be fun, hiring a local birding guide will significantly enhance your experience. They know the calls, habitats, and specific locations of rare species.
• Patience and Quiet: Birdwatching requires patience and a quiet approach.
• Timing: Early mornings and late afternoons are generally the best times for bird activity.
• Protection: Wear long sleeves and trousers, use insect repellent, and bring sunscreen/hat.
• Footwear: Comfortable, sturdy shoes are important for walking through different terrains.

Burundi offers an enriching and uncrowded birdwatching adventure, allowing you to connect with Africa’s incredible avian diversity in its natural, untamed settings.