Birdwatching in Gishwati Mukura National Park
Birdwatching is a popular activity in Gishwati Mukura National Park, Rwanda, which features many beautiful bird species. The park has recorded 232 birds in Gishwati and 163 in Mukura, including 7 unique to the Albertine rift and 2 listed by the IUCN. This relatively new national park, covering about 3,558 hectares, is located in the Ngororero and Rutsiro districts of Rwanda. The park also contains over 60 tree species and various wildlife. During the 1994 genocide, many Rwandese sought refuge in these forests, leading to conflicts caused by farming, deforestation, and illegal mining. In September 2015, the government established the joint Gishwati Mukura National Park.
Bird species of Gishwati Mukura National Park
Notable birds to see in this newly established park include the Abyssinian Thrush, Purple-breasted Sunbird, Tullberg’s Woodpecker, Regal Sunbird, Grauer’s swamp warbler, Ruwenzori Batis, Black-crowned Waxbill, Mountain Yellow Warblers, Woodhoopoe, White-browed Crombec, Purple-breasted Sunbird, Northern Double-collared Sunbird, Martial Eagle, Strange weave, Lagden’s Bushshrike, Dusky Crimsonwing, Red-throated Alethe, Rwenzori Hill Babbler, Grey Crowned Crane, Ruwenzori Turaco, Hooded Vulture, and the Lagden’s Bushshrike.
Others include: Gray Crowned-Crane, Grauer’s Swamp Warbler, Tawny Eagle, Mountain Buzzard, Blue-spotted Wood-Dove, Gray-headed Kingfisher, Rwenzori Batis, Black-billed Turaco, Black Cuckoo, Gray Crowned-Crane, African Stonechat, Hadada Ibis, Augur Buzzard, Cape Wagtail, Narina Trogon,Tropical Boubou, Black Cuckooshrike, Pied Crow, Angola Swallow, Black-throated Apalis, Dusky-brown Flycatcher, Stuhlmann’s Starling, Blue-headed Sunbird, Western Citril, Strange Weaver, Dusky Crimsonwing, African Pipit, Malachite Sunbird, Black Goshawk among others. More still, Gishwati Mukura National Park is home to a number of primate species such as Chimpanzees, blue monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, olive baboons, and other animal species such as the brown duikers.
Best Time to go birding in Gishwati Mukura National Park
Birdwatching in Gishwati Mukura National Park, Rwanda, is possible throughout the year since the park is always moist. However, the best time to visit the park is particularly in the dry season, which begins from June to August and also from December to February, with little or no rainfall. This also works as the best time for chimpanzee trekking and other park activities since the park’s trails are always dry and open for navigation. More still, the park also receives migratory birds, especially from November to April.
How to get to Gishwati Mukura National Park for birding
Despite the fact that Gishwati Mukura National Park is situated in the western part of the country along the highland ridges of the Nile Congo Watershed and the Albertine Rift, getting to the park can be either road by air or road transport. Those who are planning to visit the park on the road can either use public transport or be advised to use a private means of transport through a trusted and licensed tour operator such as Caracal Explorers.
Other Activities
There is much more to Gishwati National Park than birdwatching. The forest is commonly known for its chimpanzee trekking, nature walks, biking of the Congo Nile Trail, hiking, and cultural experiences, especially amongst communities near the forest. These activities have attracted quite a number of visitors to come and explore the natural wonders of this maiden forest.
Accommodation
Gishwati Mukura is a new national park in Rwanda with limited places to stay. However, for birdwatchers, Gishwati Lodge provides luxurious services and activities like chimpanzee tracking, nature walks, and photography. Gishwati lodge is one of the ideal accommodation facilities that provide comfortable, elegant with tranquil environment. The lodge has 6 rooms for up to 12 guests. Budget travelers can also find several campsites for camping safaris in the park.
What to pack for a birding tour in Gishwati Mukura National Park
If you are going on a birding safari in Gishwati Mukura National Park, Rwanda, it’s important to know what to pack for your trip. You should bring binoculars to see birds from far and a good camera for taking photos. Field clothes like rain gear, hiking boots, and gardening gloves are essential. More still, it’s best to pack light, closed, and waterproof shoes. Don’t forget insect repellents to keep away bugs, as well as toiletries like tissues and hand sanitizer. Also, bring a light backpack, extra batteries, and a power bank for your devices. Where to stay in Gishwati Mukura National Park on your birding tour in Rwanda
