The Albertine Rift is the western branch of the East African Rift and is ranging from western Uganda, through Rwanda, Burundi to western Tanzania and eastern DRC. It is one of Africa’s richest biodiversity zone, with high levels of endemism in the mountain forests above 1,700m. In Rwanda, these forests are protected in Nyungwe National Park, in Gishwati-Mukura National park with two distinct forest remnant and in the Volcanoes National Park. A last forest patch, currently with a lesser level of protection, Busaga forest, is a small hill culminating at 2,200m and is covered by a sacred forest still harbouring an important biodiversity.

Birds are emblematic of this richness with well over 40 species endemic to the Albertine Rift.  They can only be found in parts of remaining mountain forests and some adjacent habitats, almost always above 1,700-1,800m. While most are common birds, relatively easy to see, a few like the Shelley’s Crimsonwing or the Rockefeller’s Sunbird remains some of the continents greatest rarities. The richest section is believed to be in eastern DRC in the Itombwe mountains, but Nyungwe forest comes very close, probably second in terms of richness, and most certainly first in terms of protection.

In Rwanda, between 28 and 31 ‘ARE’ species exists, the number varying according to preferred taxonomy and on the confirmation of one last species, the Congo Bay Owl. They are the country’s most sought after species for any birdwatchers. 

Here are some of the most frequently encountered.