South of Kigali, the Nyabarongo River feeds a dozen lakes and innumerable swamps to create a vast wetland that is listed as one of Rwanda’s seven Important Bird Areas. The wonderfully varied birdlife includes swamp dwellers such as papyrus Gonolek and papyrus yellow warbler, and several of the lakes also host hippos and crocodiles. The recent construction of a surfaced access road and the opening of an attractive resort on Lake Rumira are the first steps to bring tourism to this formerly neglected area. If you have limited time, a stop on the new bridge that spans the Nyabarongo (just 15 minutes south of Kigali) could easily yield sightings of 40-50 different bird species in two hours.

Kigali is a great habitat for birders as it is surrounded by protected wetlands and birders can take short day trips to see incredible birdlife in the wetland.

How to get to Nyabarongo wetlands Kigali

Nyabarongo wetland is located in the southeast of the country and southeast of Kigali city and a short 20 -30 minutes’ drive from the main city center.

Best time for birding in Nyabarongo wetlands Kigali Rwanda

Birding trips to Nyabarongo wetlands are open for visitors all year round however birding in the morning and evening is the best time to go birding in the wetlands.

Where can I stay while visiting Nyabarongo wetland Kigali Rwanda?

Kigali Serena hotel

Among our 148 sophisticated rooms and suites, guests can choose Standard and Deluxe Rooms with comfortable beds, Executive Suites with separate bedrooms and expansive living rooms, and the sumptuous Presidential Suite, whose 300 square meters of living space encompass a master bedroom with king bed, a bathroom with a Jacuzzi and impressive spaces for meeting or entertaining.

Each room’s design and detailing reflect the hotel’s Pan-African heritage with sophisticated furnishings perfectly complemented by plush fabrics in bright color palettes. All accommodation at Kigali Serena has been designed to meet the needs of corporate and leisure travelers with complimentary high-speed Internet, minibars, and 24-hour room service.

Haven Boutique hotel

In 2008, Alissa & Josh Ruxin built Heaven – Kigali’s first international restaurant and hospitality training facility. Since then they have trained over 1000 Rwandans and expanded to two hotels and restaurants and a tour company.  At the heart of our approach is an authentic and tailored Rwandan experience delivered by an inspired team. Everything we offer was custom-built by local craftspeople and showcases Rwandan arts, photography, experiences, and agriculture.