Kenya Birding Safari experiences are among the unique experiences in the country that make overall Kenya Safaris enjoyable. The country boosts over 1150 bird species including 11 species endemic to Kenya. Even though most famous for the wildebeest migration and big five Safaris, Kenya birding safaris are great experiences to look out for when visiting Kenya. The bird species are evenly spread throughout the different ecosystems but there are top places where you can enjoy Kenya Birding safari experiences. They include the following.
This beautiful Lake 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 top and best birding destinations in Kenya. It used to be the best place to see flamingos because of the abundance of algae but the numbers reduced when the lake flooded. Today you can enjoy overall birding excursions in the park and sighting 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 a 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. White Rhinos are commonly seen while on game drives but black rhinos are also present. 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 in the world within the city 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.
There are over 500 bird species recorded here and some of the commonly seen birds include the long-tailed fiscal, blacksmith lapwing, herons, Kori Bustard, Martial Eagles, and grey-crowned cranes among others.
Migratory birds from as far as Europe also from November to May and a birding safari and excursion then is recommended. 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 coming from Nairobi and get to see a variety of wildlife.
While on game drives here you can see safari animals like zebras, lions, giraffes, wildebeest, and hyenas among others. While on a short stay in Nairobi just book a birding tour to the park and enjoy the true African wilderness within the city setting.
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 but 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. Examples of the birds you can see on a Kenya Birding Safari in Amboseli include the African Jacana, grey crowned cranes, greater flamingos, yellow-necked spurfowl, and lapwings Among others.
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 while seeing other major safari animals, especially elephants.
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 a number of 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 Days Kenya safari covers major exclusive destinations where you can enjoy both birding and overall wildlife experiences. In case you have limited time then the 6 Days Magical Kenya Safari and the 4 Days Masai Mara & Lake Nakuru Safari can do.
