Kenya stands as one of the world’s premier birding destinations, offering an extraordinary diversity that places it among the best birding places in the world. With over 1,164 confirmed bird species recorded across diverse ecosystems, Bird Watching Kenya experiences are unmatched in their variety and spectacle. From the bustling capital to remote wilderness areas, birding in Kenya provides encounters with endemic species, spectacular migrants, and iconic African birds that make every moment memorable.

Why Choose Kenya for Your Birding Adventure?

Kenya’s remarkable geographic diversity creates a birding paradise that attracts enthusiasts from around the globe. Here’s what makes our birding tours exceptional:

Incredible Species Diversity

Kenya hosts over 1,164 confirmed bird species, with 11 endemic species that can only be found here. From the tiny sunbirds that dart through acacia flowers to the majestic crowned eagles soaring over montane forests, every habitat reveals new discoveries for passionate birders.

Diverse Ecosystems in One Country

Kenya’s compact size contains an astonishing variety of habitats:

• Savanna Plains: Home to ostriches, secretary birds, and various raptors
• Montane Forests: Featuring endemic species like Jackson’s Francolin
• Rift Valley Lakes: Attracting millions waterbirds
• Coastal Regions: Supporting seabirds and unique coastal species
• Wetlands & Swamps: Teeming with herons, ibises, and kingfishers

Year-Round Birding Opportunities

Kenya’s position on the equator and varied altitudes create consistent birding conditions throughout the year. The country serves as a crucial stopover for Palearctic migrants, making it particularly spectacular during migration seasons.

Premier Birding Destinations

Kenya has a number of destinations you can do bird watching from, which makes it an ideal choice for bird watching experiences:

1. Lake Nakuru National Park

Famous for its diverse birdlife with over 450 recorded species. The alkaline lake and surrounding woodlands attracts and hosts birds creating a perfect viewing sight.

2. Masai Mara National Reserve

Beyond the famous migration, the Mara offers exceptional birding with over 470 species recorded. Raptors are particularly abundant, with 57 species including the powerful martial eagle.

3. Samburu National Reserve

This semi-arid ecosystem supports unique species adapted to dry conditions, including the golden-pipit and various larks. The Ewaso Ng’iro River creates a lifeline attracting numerous waterbirds.

4. Lake Baringo

Lake Baringo offers spectacular morning birding experiences, with over 470 species recorded around this freshwater lake. It’s particularly famous for its island-dwelling birds and fish eagles.

5. Kakamega Forest

Kenya’s only tropical rainforest remnant hosts species found nowhere else in the country, including the great blue turaco and various forest robins.

6. Arabuko-Sokoke Forest

East Africa’s largest coastal forest and home to some of the rarest birds in Africa: Sokoke Scops Owl, Clarke’s Weaver, and Amani Sunbird. This critically important forest ecosystem supports endemic species that have adapted to the unique coastal forest environment.

Specialized Birding Experiences

Here are a number of birding experiences you can enjoy in a bird watching tour to Kenya: 

Oriole Birding

Kenya hosts several oriole species, including the stunning Black-headed Oriole with its bright yellow body and contrasting black head. The black-headed oriole inhabits dry tropical forests, especially acacia and broad-leaved woodlands, making it a favorite target for specialized birding tours.

Endemic Species Focus

Our specialized tours target Kenya’s endemic birds:

• Jackson’s Francolin (Aberdares and Mount Kenya)
• Hinde’s Pied Babbler (central Kenya)
• Taita Thrush (Taita Hills)
• Sharpe’s Longclaw (grasslands)

Other bird species that you can enjoy in Kenya: Lilac-breasted Roller, Sokoke Scops Owl, Great Blue Turaco, and African Fish Eagle among others.