Kenya Birding Safari experiences are among the unique experiences in the country that make overall Kenya Safaris enjoyable. The country has over 1150 bird species including 11 endemics. These bird species are evenly spread throughout the different ecosystems. Kenya is most famous for the wildebeest migration and Big Five Safaris however Kenya birding safaris are equally great experiences to look out for while on tour. There are top places where you can enjoy Kenya Birding safari experiences. They include the following;
Lake Nakuru is situated on the floor of the eastern arm of the Great Rift Valley south of Nakuru. The lake has an elevation of 1754 meters above sea level and is among the best birding destinations in Kenya. It had the highest flamingo population because of the abundance of algae but the numbers reduced when the lake flooded. You can enjoy overall birding excursions in the park and see some flamingos and other birds along the long.
Other notable birds to see here include the African Fish Eagle, Kingfishers, great white pelicans, grey-crowned Cranes, and yellow-billed storks among others. Lake Nakuru is a protected area at the level of a national park with other major wildlife species. It is a rhino sanctuary making it one of the best places in Kenya to see Rhinos. Both white Rhino and black rhino species are present and often seen while on game drives. Zebras buffaloes, zebras, and Hippos are other commonly seen wildlife species in Lake Nakuru National Park.
Kenya Birding Safari adventures here are therefore worth the time as you get to see a variety of birds and safari animals.
Nairobi National Park is located in Nairobi Kenya’s Capital City. It covers a land area of about 117 square kilometers and it is the only national park within the city’s proximity. The park has a diverse ecosystem that includes savanna grasslands, wetlands, valleys, and wooded plains that are home to a variety of wildlife species and birds.
Nairobi National Park has over 500 bird species. Some of the commonly seen birds include the long-tailed fiscal, blacksmith lapwing, herons, Kori Bustard, Martial Eagles, and grey-crowned cranes.
Migratory birds are present in the park from November to May. These come from as far as Europe and boost birding excursions. Nairobi National Park’s location makes it easily accessible and convenient to visit travelers with a tight schedule. You can visit the park for a half or full day from Nairobi and get to see the different wildlife.
Notable animal species you can see on game drives in the park include zebras, lions, giraffes, wildebeest, and hyenas. While on a short stay in Nairobi book a birding tour to the park and enjoy the true African wilderness within the city.
Lake Baringo
Lake Baringo commonly referred to as the birders paradise is another great Kenya birding safari destination. It has a surface area of 130 square kilometers and an elevation of 970 meters above sea level. There are over 500 bird species here including flamingos that migrated from Lake Nakuru.
The area’s climate is generally hot (semi-arid) but still has diverse ecosystems that are home to various bird species. Guineafowls, pigeons, ostriches, and Greyish eagle owls are among the birds you can see on a birding tour in Lake Baringo.
Amboseli National Park
Amboseli National Park is among the most popular destinations in Kenya. It is located in southern Kenya and covers a land area of 392 square kilometers. The park is most popular for elephants and the incredible views of Mount Kilimanjaro. It is also a birders’ haven with over 420 bird species.
The park’s diverse ecosystem of swampy, acacia woodlands and open savanna grasslands favors the survival of the different birds. The African Jacana, crowned cranes, flamingos, and lapwings are notable birds you can see on a Kenya Birding Safari in Amboseli.
Birding safaris in Amboseli National Park are possible throughout the year. The months from November to April are even better when the migratory birds set in. You will enjoy the birding adventures in Amboseli with that incredible view of Mount Kilimanjaro seeing other safari animals.
Lake Naivasha
The Rift Valley lakes in East Africa are all homes to various wildlife species, especially birds. Lake Naivasha is another great River Valley lake in Kenya that is a great birding and overall wildlife viewing destination. Unlike other lakes with soda water, lake Naivasha is a freshwater lake and attracts several waterbirds.
Just like other major birding destinations, Lake Naivasha’s birding ecosystem also varies from the Lake to the woodland and a bit of swamp vegetation. White pelicans, Yellow-billed Ducks, Cattle Egrets, and African fish eagles are some of the bird species you will see on a birding excursion to Lake Naivasha.
All our Kenya Safaris to the different destinations in the country feature birding experiences. Even Masai Mara National Reserve is a great birding destination as well and on Big Five Safaris and wildebeest migration experiences, you can do birding as well.
You can book an exclusive Discovery Journeys Birding adventure or can opt for a general safari that features activities like game drives, Nature walks, and boat cruises all including birding adventures. The 10-day Kenya safari covers major exclusive destinations where you can enjoy both birding and overall wildlife experiences. In case you have limited time the 6-Day Magical Kenya Safari and the 4-Day Masai Mara & Lake Nakuru Safari can do.