If you are a Bird Enthusiast, you aren’t alone. Our lead Guide is an ardent Birder who happens to be a member of Several Ornithologist clubs in Africa. Kenya is worldwide known for its Birds Diversity which they inhabit the International Birds Area ( I. B. A). Kenya is home to more than 1080 species of Birds which are easy to spot and see as they occur in huge numbers although some of them are very endemic or slightly nocturnal.
Regardless of ones ranking in Bird watching hierarchy, every traveller has the Bird that brings Wow moments due to their behavior or social organizations. Some Birds are “Residents” or paleantic migrants in some seasons of the year. We have introduced countless guest’s for Birding in East Africa by identification, but to hear our guests identify the Bird by sounds , we know that’s very special. Bird watching is a way of life at Amboseli plains safaris.. Sometimes the Wild goes very quiet and the only therapeutic thing is Birds watching..!
We assure you with a little planning and competent safari guide, a single ‘ big day’ or century run in Kenya identification and listings could easily exceed 250 more species than most active Bird watchers spot in a whole year in British Isles or in the North-Eastern United States..!
Most visitors to Africa will spot Representatives of several Birds families well known in Northern climes for they are found in all continents- Birds of prey-Ducks, swifts, swallows, king fishers, storks, Herons, Pelicans and many more..
Groups less familiar which are endemic or restricted to this region will include Ostrich, Hemerkop, whale_ headed stork, secretary Bird, jacanas, turacos, parrots, hornbills, oxpecker to name just a few are found on the Important Birds Area ( IBA).
Different birds avoid competition by been adapted to particular way of life, habits and habitants and is always seen by the shape of the Bill and length of the neck. Some Birds show marked sexual dimorphism which means that, Males ( cocks) and females ( hens) look very different from each other though not always throughout the year..
We better warn you that, if you are trying to identify some birds by voice and songs my be difficult for they will ape and mimic other birds for that is there survival techniques..
Kenya Bird Watching Safaris: A Birder's Paradise with Amboseli Plain Safaris
Kenya, a land renowned for its iconic wildlife safaris, is equally a spectacular haven for bird enthusiasts. Boasting an incredible over 1,100 recorded bird species – approximately 11% of the world’s total and the second-highest number in Africa – this East African gem offers an unparalleled birdwatching experience. From vast savannas and dense forests to the famous Rift Valley lakes and tropical coastlines, Kenya’s diverse ecosystems support an astonishing array of resident and migratory birds.
Amboseli Plain Safaris invites you on an immersive bird watching tour, guided by expert ornithologists and local naturalists, to discover the vibrant avian wonders of Kenya. Whether you’re a seasoned birder aiming for a record species list or a beginner captivated by nature’s beauty, we tailor safaris to ignite your passion.
Top Birding Hotspots in Kenya We Explore
Amboseli Plain Safaris crafts itineraries that lead you to Kenya’s most prolific birding locations:
The Great Rift Valley Lakes (Nakuru, Naivasha, Bogoria, Elementaita, Baringo): These soda and freshwater lakes are world-famous for their staggering congregations of Lesser and Greater Flamingos. Beyond the pink spectacle, you’ll encounter a myriad of waterbirds including pelicans, cormorants, herons, kingfishers, African Fish Eagles, and various waders. Lake Naivasha, in particular, is a freshwater haven with over 400 species.
Amboseli National Park: While known for elephants, Amboseli’s permanent swamps and open plains attract an abundance of waterbirds, raptors, and dry-country species, with the majestic Kilimanjaro providing a stunning backdrop. Look for Saddle-billed Storks, Grey Crowned Cranes, and various birds of prey.
Maasai Mara National Reserve: Beyond the “Big Five,” the Mara is a raptor paradise, boasting over 500 bird species including magnificent Secretarybirds, Kori Bustards, various vultures, and the iconic Lilac-breasted Roller.
Nairobi National Park: Uniquely, this park within a capital city hosts over 520 bird species, including the restricted-range Jackson’s Widowbird and numerous migratory birds, making it an incredible urban birding destination.
Kakamega Forest National Reserve: Kenya’s only tropical rainforest and a remnant of the ancient Guineo-Congolian Equatorial Forest, Kakamega is a must-visit for forest specialists like the Great Blue Turaco, Ross’s Turaco, Blue-headed Bee-eater, and a variety of hornbills and barbets.
Aberdare National Park & Mount Kenya: These highland regions offer montane forest and moorland species, including unique endemics like the Aberdare Cisticola and Hartlaub’s Turaco, against breathtaking mountainous scenery.
Coastal Forests (e.g., Arabuko-Sokoke Forest, Mida Creek): Discover unique coastal and forest species in these biodiverse areas, including rare endemics and migratory waders along the creeks and estuaries.
Best Time for Bird Watching in Kenya
Kenya offers excellent birding year-round, but specific periods enhance the experience:
Peak Birding Season (Late August/September to April): This is the prime time, as millions of migratory birds from Europe and Asia arrive. Many resident species are also in their vibrant breeding plumage, making identification and photography particularly rewarding.
Dry Seasons (June to October; December to March): While fewer migrants are present, the dry conditions make it easier to spot birds as vegetation is less dense and they congregate around shrinking water sources. This also coincides with the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara, allowing for a fantastic combination of big game and birding.
Wet Seasons (Mid-March to May; Late October to November): While roads can be challenging, the landscape is lush, and resident birds are often nesting and displaying. This is also a good time for specific breeding plumages.
