When to go for Birding in Volcanoes National Park.
When to go for Birding in Volcanoes National Park: Volcanoes National Park is one of East Africa’s premier bird watching destinations, located in the far northwest part of Rwanda. It’s famous for hosting high altitude bird species, which attracts bird lovers to see these unique birds, which are rare to find anywhere else. Virunga National Park is part of the larger Virunga Mountains, which as 5 of the eight Virunga Mountain volcanoes. Volcanoes National Park is blessed with a rich number of bird species, up to 238 bird species, calling this beautiful park home. These bird species include forest birds, migratory birds, Albertine Rift endemics, migratory birds and the park’s residents.
The park has unique habitats, including montane forests, bamboo forests, swamps and grasslands, which contribute to the park’s rich avian life. Bird watching in Volcanoes National Park can be done at any time of the year, and the best season depends on the traveller’s interests. It receives two seasons, the dry season and the wet season, and both offer unique birding experiences. For birding enthusiasts, understanding when to visit is essential for a rewarding experience. Different seasons bring changes in bird behaviours, movement and visibility, influencing the quality of sightings. By choosing the right time, visitors can maximize their chances of encountering rare species while enjoying the park’s breathtaking natural beauty.
When to go for Birding in Volcanoes National Park.
Dry Season.
The best time to go bird watching in Volcanoes National Parkis during the dry seasons, which occur from December to February and from June to September. These periods are characterized by minimal rainfall, resulting in cooler weather and less muddy, slippery trails for birding.
The short dry season from December to February is particularly ideal for spotting migratory birds that come from Europe and Asia to escape harsh winter conditions. During these months, visitors have the opportunity to see a variety of migratory species. While birding is generally easier during this time due to clearer access in the park, it can be challenging to spot birds as they tend to venture deeper into the forest in search of food.
If you are interested in observing migratory birds and enjoying cooler weather, the dry season is the best time to experience bird watching in Volcanoes National Park, which offers an amazing experience for nature enthusiasts.
Wet Season.
Bird watching in Volcanoes National Park is possible during the wet season, which lasts from March to May and October to November. During these months, the park experiences rainfall that enhances the forest’s density and causes various plant and tree species to bear fruit, providing abundant food for birds. However, it’s important to be prepared for muddy and slippery conditions on the birding trails, which can make accessing the forest challenging. This period also coincides with the breeding season for birds, making it easier to spot different species, as the park is rich with food. Additionally, bird watching in the wet season can be combined with gorilla trekking, offering a unique African experience.
