Bird Watching Safaris in Kenya – Discover 1,100+ Species Across Diverse Habitats
Kenya is a world-renowned birding destination, with over 1,100 recorded bird species, including endemic, migratory, and endangered species. Its incredible diversity of habitats — from Rift Valley lakes and highland forests to coastal wetlands and savannahs — makes Kenya one of the best places in Africa (and the world) for birdwatching.
Whether you’re a seasoned birder chasing lifers or a casual nature lover, a bird watching safari with Annest Kenya Safaris will take you deep into the habitats of some of the planet’s most spectacular avifauna.
Top Birding Hotspots in Kenya
Famous for its vast flocks of lesser flamingos, Lake Nakuru is also home to African fish eagles, great white pelicans, cormorants, and over 400 species.
A freshwater lake with an abundance of birdlife including African jacanas, kingfishers, herons, and verreaux’s eagles.
Kenya’s only true tropical rainforest, hosting rare Central African species like the Blue-headed bee-eater, Turner’s eremomela, and Great blue turaco.
Dry-country species like the Vulturine guineafowl, Somali bee-eater, and Golden-breasted starling are highlights here.
Home to endemics like the Sokoke scops owl, Amani sunbird, and Clarke’s weaver — one of Africa’s rarest birds.
More than 600 species including martial eagles, secretary birds, yellow-necked spurfowls, and migratory storks.
Must-See Bird Species in Kenya
Grey crowned crane
Lilac-breasted roller (Kenya’s national bird)
African pygmy kingfisher
Augur buzzard
African skimmer
Southern ground hornbill
Taita thrush (endemic)
Jackson’s widowbird
Secretary bird
Malachite kingfisher
Best Time for Bird Watching in Kenya
8-Day Kenya Birding Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi – Nairobi National Park
Day 2: Transfer to Lake Naivasha – Afternoon bird walk
Day 3: Lake Nakuru National Park – Flamingos, raptors
Day 4: Lake Baringo – Specialist dryland species
Day 5: Drive to Kakamega Forest – Forest species
Day 6: Full-day birding in Kakamega
Day 7: Transfer to Nairobi
Day 8: Optional Karura Forest / departure
Itineraries can be fully customized for your pace, expertise level, and target species list.
Why Choose Annest Kenya Safaris for Birdwatching?
Local birding guides with years of experience
Flexible itineraries tailored to serious birders or beginners
Private safaris with guaranteed window seats
Combine birding with general wildlife or cultural tours
Support with species checklists & trip reports
Ready to Start Your Bird Watching Safari?
From flamingo-filled lakes to rainforest rarities, Kenya’s birdlife will leave you awestruck. Let us help you plan the perfect birding trip, designed around your goals and pace.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Birdwatching in Kenya
Yes — serious birders are encouraged to bring personal binoculars, a camera, and their preferred field guide or checklist.
Absolutely. We tailor tours to your level and pace — and our guides help spot and identify every bird.
Yes! Many birding spots are also home to the Big Five and other mammals, so it’s easy to combine both.
Yes. We can arrange slow-paced tours with expert photography guides, hide setups, and optimal lighting schedules.
