31 Dec Trip Report – Wild Kenya: Introduction to Kenya’s Birds & Wildlife, 22-31 December 2024
Tour Leader: Paul Kungu
Guests: Marc Finger & Family (incl. little bird guide in the making, Luca!)
Overview:
This Kenya birding tour took place from December 22nd to December 31st, 2024, and January 6th, 2025, covering some of the best birdwatching destinations in Kenya. Our journey took us through Lake Naivasha, Hell’s Gate National Park, Lake Baringo, Lake Nakuru, Lake Elementaita, Kinangop Plateau, Amboseli National Park, Nairobi National Park, Manguo Dam, and the Brackenhurst areas, offering an exceptional variety of habitats and bird species.
The tour was carefully designed to provide our guests, Marc Finger and his wonderful family, with an unforgettable birding experience in Kenya. Marc primarily booked this Kenya birdwatching tour for his son, Luca, who has now become a fully-fledged birder. This thoughtful gift was a way to nurture Luca’s growing passion for birdwatching, and we are delighted to report that the entire family had a fantastic time exploring Kenya’s diverse birdlife.
Luca, in particular, was a joy to bird with—his enthusiasm, sharp observations, and impressive knowledge at such a young age were truly inspiring. He has already shown signs of becoming a bird guide in the making, and we are excited to see where his birdwatching journey in Kenya takes him in the future.
This tour not only delivered incredible bird sightings but also highlighted the biodiversity of Kenya’s top birding destinations, reinforcing the country’s status as one of the best places in the world for birdwatching tours.
It was an absolute pleasure to host such a lovely family, and we look forward to welcoming them again for more incredible Kenya birding adventures!
Day 1: 22 December 2024 – Birding at Lake Naivasha & Hell’s Gate National Park
Our Kenya birding tour began with an early morning arrival at Nairobi International Airport, setting off towards Lake Naivasha and Hell’s Gate National Park, two of the most iconic birdwatching destinations in Kenya.
Our first stop was Manguo Dam, an excellent location for early morning bird activity. Here, we enjoyed a 30-minute birding session, spotting several waterbirds and waders before heading to our accommodation near Lake Naivasha for breakfast and a full day of birding.
Morning Birding at Lake Naivasha
Lake Naivasha is one of the best birding locations in Kenya, known for its diverse range of waterbirds, raptors, and savannah species. The calm morning provided fantastic birdwatching conditions, with key sightings including African Fish Eagle, Grey Crowned Crane, and Malachite Kingfisher along the lake’s edge.
Afternoon at Hell’s Gate National Park
After a successful morning session, we continued to Hell’s Gate National Park, a unique birding site in Kenya. The dramatic cliffs and open grasslands provided the perfect setting for spotting raptors, ground birds, and dry-country specialists. We spent the afternoon and evening birding, observing species that thrive in this volcanic landscape.
Key Species Encountered Throughout the Day
- Grey Crowned Crane (highlight of the day!)
- African Fish Eagle
- Superb Starling
- Egyptian Goose
- Helmeted Guineafowl
- Crested Francolin
- Red-eyed Dove
- Ring-necked Dove
- Laughing Dove
- White-browed Coucal
- Black Cuckoo
- Red-chested Cuckoo
- Little Swift
- White-rumped Swift
- African Palm Swift
- Long-toed Lapwing
- Blacksmith Lapwing
- African Jacana
- Grey-hooded Gull
- Saddle-billed Stork
- Marabou Stork
- Reed Cormorant
- Great Cormorant
- African Sacred Ibis
- Hadada Ibis
- African Spoonbill
- Pink-backed Pelican
- Hamerkop
- Long-crested Eagle
- Augur Buzzard
- Speckled Mousebird
- Eurasian Hoopoe
- Lilac-breasted Roller
- White-fronted Bee-eater
- Malachite Kingfisher
- Giant Kingfisher
- Chinspot Batis
- Tropical Boubou
- Fork-tailed Drongo
- Pied Crow
- Baglafecht Weaver
- Golden-winged Sunbird
- Variable Sunbird
- Red-cheeked Cordonbleu
Highlight of the Day
The standout moment of the day was the majestic sighting of a Grey Crowned Crane at Lake Naivasha. This iconic African species stood tall along the shoreline, offering exceptional views and photographic opportunities and although common, is always a highlight for first time guests.
Day 2: 23 December 2024 – Lake Baringo Birding Tour
Day two of our Kenya birdwatching adventure took us to the famous Lake Baringo, a hotspot for birding in Kenya. Known for its extraordinary bird diversity, Lake Baringo offers a mix of wetland, acacia woodland, and rocky escarpments, attracting a wide range of bird species.
We departed early and made several birding stops along the way before reaching our lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, we explored the lake’s shores, a fantastic location for waterbirds and dry-country specials.
Afternoon Birding Walk at Lake Baringo
Our afternoon birding walk took us through a mix of open woodlands and lakeside habitats, providing excellent sightings of both wetland and savannah species.
One of the most exciting moments came when Luca Finger spotted a White-faced Scops Owl and a Heuglin’s Courser, both of which were exceptional finds and highlights of the tour so far.
Key Species Encountered Throughout the Day
- White-faced Scops Owl (courtesy of Luca Finger)
- Heuglin’s Courser (courtesy of Luca Finger)
- Egyptian Goose
- Helmeted Guineafowl
- Crested Francolin
- Red-eyed Dove
- Ring-necked Dove
- Namaqua Dove
- Long-toed Lapwing
- Spur-winged Lapwing
- African Jacana
- Common Sandpiper
- Wood Sandpiper
- Three-banded Courser
- Marabou Stork
- Hadada Ibis
- African Spoonbill
- Black-crowned Night Heron
- Little Egret
- Squacco Heron
- Goliath Heron
- African Fish Eagle
- Western Barn Owl
- Northern White-faced Owl
- Pearl-spotted Owlet
- Hemprich’s Hornbill
- Blue-cheeked Bee-eater
- Malachite Kingfisher
- Pied Kingfisher
- D’Arnaud’s Barbet
- Slate-coloured Boubou
- Fork-tailed Drongo
- Rüppell’s Starling
- Beautiful Sunbird
- Abyssinian Sunbird
- White-browed Sparrow-Weaver
- Red-cheeked Cordonbleu
- Red-billed Firefinch
Highlight of the Day
The standout sighting of the day was Luca Finger’s discovery of a White-faced Scops Owl and Heuglin’s Courser. Both species are highly sought-after, and seeing them on the same day made for an unforgettable birdwatching experience.
Day 3: 24 December 2024 – Lake Baringo Birding
Day three of our Kenya birdwatching tour was dedicated to exploring more of Lake Baringo, one of the best birding locations in Kenya. With its combination of freshwater habitats, rocky cliffs, and dry acacia woodland, this area supports over 450 bird species, making it a must-visit destination for anyone on a birding trip in Kenya.
We began the day at 6:30 a.m. with an early morning boat safari on the lake. This was an excellent opportunity to observe waterbirds, raptors, and kingfishers in their natural habitat. The calm waters provided stunning reflections, and sightings included African Fish Eagle, African Skimmer, and Goliath Heron.
After the two-hour boat ride, we took a birding walk along the cliffs, exploring the dry-country habitat that is home to hornbills, sunbirds, and weavers. We returned to the lodge for lunch and a short break before heading out for a final afternoon birding session, which lasted until 6:30 p.m.
A special mention goes to Marc Finger, who spotted a Green-winged Pytilia, and later captured an excellent image of a Common Squacco Heron, adding to the list of incredible sightings from the day.
Lake Baringo Birding Tour: Species Encountered
- Egyptian Goose
- Helmeted Guineafowl
- Crested Francolin
- Mourning Collared Dove
- Red-eyed Dove
- Ring-necked Dove
- Laughing Dove
- Emerald-spotted Wood Dove
- Namaqua Dove
- White-bellied Go-away-bird
- Slender-tailed Nightjar
- White-rumped Swift
- Spotted Thick-knee
- Long-toed Lapwing
- Spur-winged Lapwing
- Black-headed Lapwing
- African Jacana
- Common Sandpiper
- Wood Sandpiper
- Three-banded Courser (highlight of the day!)
- Gull-billed Tern
- Whiskered Tern
- White-winged Tern
- Marabou Stork
- African Darter
- Reed Cormorant
- Great Cormorant
- Hadada Ibis
- African Spoonbill
- Black-crowned Night Heron
- Little Egret
- Squacco Heron (courtesy of Marc Finger)
- Western Cattle Egret
- Great Egret
- Yellow-billed Egret
- Grey Heron
- Purple Heron
- Black-headed Heron
- Goliath Heron
- Hamerkop
- Osprey
- Shikra
- African Fish Eagle
- Western Barn Owl
- Northern White-faced Owl
- Greyish Eagle-Owl
- Pearl-spotted Owlet
- Speckled Mousebird
- Blue-naped Mousebird
- Eurasian Hoopoe
- Hemprich’s Hornbill
- Jackson’s Hornbill
- Northern Red-billed Hornbill
- Blue-cheeked Bee-eater
- Northern Carmine Bee-eater
- Malachite Kingfisher
- African Pygmy Kingfisher
- Grey-headed Kingfisher
- Woodland Kingfisher
- Giant Kingfisher
- Pied Kingfisher
- Red-and-yellow Barbet
- D’Arnaud’s Barbet
- Northern Red-fronted Tinkerbird
- Red-fronted Barbet
- Spot-flanked Barbet
- Black-throated Barbet
- Cardinal Woodpecker
- Mountain Grey Woodpecker
- Nubian Woodpecker
- Pygmy Falcon
- African Black-headed Oriole
- Pygmy Batis
- White-crested Helmetshrike
- Brubru
- Slate-coloured Boubou
- Fork-tailed Drongo
- African Paradise Flycatcher
- Grey-backed Fiscal
- Northern Fiscal
- White-rumped Shrike
- Pied Crow
- Fan-tailed Raven
- Somali Tit
- Mouse-coloured Penduline Tit
- Northern Crombec
- Red-faced Crombec
- Grey Wren-Warbler
- Green-backed Camaroptera
- Buff-bellied Warbler
- Yellow-breasted Apalis
- Red-fronted Prinia
- Rattling Cisticola
- Plain Martin
- Bank Swallow
- Red-throated Crag Martin
- Barn Swallow
- Ethiopian Swallow
- Western House Martin
- Northern Brownbul
- Common Bulbul
- Brown Babbler
- Red-winged Starling
- Bristle-crowned Starling
- Magpie Starling
- Rüppell’s Starling
- Superb Starling
- White-browed Scrub Robin
- Spotted Morning Thrush
- Rufous-tailed Rock Thrush
- Mocking Cliff Chat
- Northern Wheatear
- Isabelline Wheatear
- Brown-tailed Chat
- Hunter’s Sunbird
- Beautiful Sunbird
- Abyssinian Sunbird
- White-billed Buffalo Weaver
- White-headed Buffalo Weaver
- White-browed Sparrow-Weaver
- Red-headed Weaver
- Little Weaver
- Northern Masked Weaver
- Lesser Masked Weaver
- Vitelline Masked Weaver
- Village Weaver
- Golden-backed Weaver
- Red-billed Quelea
- Red-cheeked Cordonbleu
- Red-billed Firefinch
- House Sparrow
- Kenya Rufous Sparrow
- Northern Grey-headed Sparrow
- Parrot-billed Sparrow
- Western Yellow Wagtail
- African Pied Wagtail
Highlight of the Day
The standout sighting of the day was the Three-banded Courser, a highly sought-after species that we were lucky to find during our afternoon walk. The boat safari on Lake Baringo was another unforgettable experience, with close views of African Fish Eagle, Squacco Heron, and Pied Kingfisher.
Why Lake Baringo is One of the Best Birding Destinations in Kenya
Lake Baringo continues to exceed expectations as a top location for birding in Kenya, offering an unbeatable diversity of species. From owls and coursers to herons and bee-eaters, this area is a must-visit for any birdwatcher exploring Kenya’s Rift Valley.
If you’re looking to experience Kenya’s incredible birdlife, a Lake Baringo birding tour is an essential addition to your itinerary.
Day 4: 25 December 2024 – Lake Elementaita Birding
What a wonderful way to spend Christmas Day! Day four of our Kenya birdwatching tour took us to Lake Elementaita, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most spectacular birding destinations in Kenya. This alkaline lake, located in the Great Rift Valley, is famous for its large flocks of flamingos, shorebirds, and waterfowl, making it a must-visit location for birders exploring Kenya’s Rift Valley Lakes.
We began the morning with a birding walk at 6:30 a.m. around the Lake Baringo shores, taking in the early morning bird activity before driving to Lake Elementaita. Upon arrival, we embarked on an extensive bird walk along the lake, scanning the shallow waters and surrounding woodlands for some of the region’s most sought-after species. The afternoon session was equally productive, and we stayed at the lake until 6:45 p.m., taking full advantage of the golden light for birdwatching and photography.
Species Encountered
- White-faced Whistling Duck
- Egyptian Goose
- Blue-billed Teal
- Yellow-billed Duck
- Cape Teal
- Red-billed Duck
- Crested Francolin
- Speckled Pigeon
- Mourning Collared Dove
- Red-eyed Dove
- Ring-necked Dove
- Laughing Dove
- Dusky Turtle-Dove
- Emerald-spotted Wood-Dove
- Namaqua Dove
- White-bellied Go-away-bird
- White-browed Coucal
- Red-chested Cuckoo
- African Swift
- Pearl-spotted Owlet
- Spotted Thick-knee
- Long-toed Lapwing
- Spur-winged Lapwing
- Three-banded Courser
- Black-winged Stilt
- Pied Avocet
- Common Ringed Plover
- Three-banded Plover
- Blacksmith Lapwing
- Crowned Lapwing
- Kittlitz’s Plover
- African Jacana
- Common Sandpiper
- Green Sandpiper
- Marsh Sandpiper
- Wood Sandpiper
- Common Greenshank
- Ruff
- Little Stint
- Black-headed Gull
- Grey-hooded Gull
- Gull-billed Tern
- Whiskered Tern
- White-winged Tern
- Greater Flamingo
- Lesser Flamingo
- Little Grebe
- Great White Pelican
- Pink-backed Pelican
- Marabou Stork
- Yellow-billed Stork
- Glossy Ibis
- African Sacred Ibis
- Hadada Ibis
- African Spoonbill
- Little Egret
- Squacco Heron
- Western Cattle Egret
- Great Egret
- Yellow-billed Egret
- Grey Heron
- Black-headed Heron
- Hamerkop (courtesy of Paul Kungu)
- Black-winged Kite
- Long-crested Eagle
- African Fish Eagle
- Augur Buzzard
- Speckled Mousebird
- Blue-naped Mousebird
- Eurasian Hoopoe
- Green Woodhoopoe
- Abyssinian Scimitarbill
- Hemprich’s Hornbill
- Jackson’s Hornbill
- Northern Red-billed Hornbill
- Blue-cheeked Bee-eater (courtesy of Paul Kungu)
- White-fronted Bee-eater
- Lilac-breasted Roller
- Purple Roller
- African Pygmy Kingfisher
- Red-and-yellow Barbet
- D’Arnaud’s Barbet
- Northern Red-fronted Tinkerbird
- Red-fronted Barbet
- Spot-flanked Barbet
- Black-throated Barbet
- Lesser Honeyguide
- Cardinal Woodpecker
- African Grey Woodpecker
- Pygmy Falcon
- White-crested Helmetshrike
- Slate-coloured Boubou
- Fork-tailed Drongo
- Grey-backed Fiscal
- White-rumped Shrike
- Pied Crow
- Fan-tailed Raven
- Yellow-bellied Eremomela
- Grey Wren-Warbler
- Green-backed Camaroptera
- Buff-bellied Warbler
- Yellow-breasted Apalis
- Red-fronted Prinia
- Plain Martin
- Bank Swallow
- Barn Swallow
- Ethiopian Swallow
- Common Bulbul
- Rufous Chatterer
- Red-winged Starling
- Bristle-crowned Starling
- Magpie Starling
- Hildebrandt’s Starling
- Rüppell’s Starling
- Superb Starling
- African Grey Flycatcher
- White-browed Scrub Robin
- White-browed Robin-Chat
- Spotted Morning Thrush
- Rufous-tailed Rock Thrush
- Isabelline Wheatear
- Beautiful Sunbird
- Variable Sunbird
- White-headed Buffalo Weaver
- White-browed Sparrow-Weaver
- Little Weaver
- Northern Masked Weaver
- Lesser Masked Weaver
- Vitelline Masked Weaver
- Village Weaver
- Golden-backed Weaver
- Red-billed Quelea
- Purple Grenadier
- Red-cheeked Cordonbleu
- Blue-capped Cordonbleu
- Green-winged Pytilia
- Red-billed Firefinch
- Parrot-billed Sparrow
- Yellow-spotted Bush Sparrow
- African Pied Wagtail
- White-bellied Canary
- Red-capped Lark
- Tawny-flanked Prinia
- Rattling Cisticola
- Stout Cisticola (highlight of the day!)
- Black Sawwing
- Red-billed Oxpecker
- Greater Blue-eared Starling
- Spotted Flycatcher
- Pale Flycatcher
- White-eyed Slaty Flycatcher
- Cape Robin-Chat
- Northern Anteater-Chat
- Abyssinian Wheatear
- Baglafecht Weaver
- Bronze Mannikin
- Kenya Rufous Sparrow
- Western Yellow Wagtail
- African Pipit
- Plain-backed Pipit
Highlight of the Day
The standout sighting of the day was the Stout Cisticola, a bird known for its distinctive calls and preference for grassy habitats near water. Seeing it at Lake Elementaita added a fantastic record to our Kenya birding tour list!
Why Lake Elementaita is a Must-Visit on Any Kenya Birding Tour
With its incredible mix of wetland, grassland, and acacia woodland species, Lake Elementaita offers some of the best birding in Kenya. From flamingos and shorebirds to rollers and raptors, it remains one of the most rewarding birdwatching locations in the Great Rift Valley.
If you’re planning a birdwatching trip in Kenya, don’t miss out on this unforgettable birding experience!
Day 5: 26 December 2024 – Lake Nakuru National Park Birding
Our Kenya birdwatching tour continued with a full-day exploration of Lake Nakuru National Park, one of the most famous birding destinations in the Great Rift Valley. Known for its flamingo-covered shores, open savannah, and acacia woodlands, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to over 450 bird species, making it a must-visit for birdwatchers in Kenya.
We set off from the lodge at 6:00 a.m., heading towards the park gates as the sunrise painted the lake in golden hues. The day was spent driving through different habitats within the park, covering areas along the lakeshore, grasslands, and forested sections, giving us a fantastic variety of species. The birding was exceptional, with highlights including Greater and Lesser Flamingos, Secretarybird, and Southern Ground-Hornbill.
A special mention goes to Luca Finger, who spotted and photographed a Southern Ground-Hornbill, one of the park’s most charismatic species. We continued birding until 6:30 p.m., before returning to the lodge for a well-earned rest.
Species Encountered
- White-faced Whistling Duck
- Egyptian Goose
- Yellow-billed Duck
- Red-billed Duck
- Helmeted Guineafowl
- Coqui Francolin
- Hildebrandt’s Spurfowl
- Speckled Pigeon
- Rameron Pigeon
- Red-eyed Dove
- Ring-necked Dove
- Laughing Dove
- Emerald-spotted Wood-Dove
- White-browed Coucal
- Nyanza Swift
- Little Swift
- Grey Crowned-Crane
- Black-winged Stilt
- Pied Avocet
- Common Ringed Plover
- Three-banded Plover
- Long-toed Lapwing
- Blacksmith Lapwing
- Spur-winged Lapwing
- Crowned Lapwing
- Kittlitz’s Plover
- African Jacana
- Common Sandpiper
- Green Sandpiper
- Marsh Sandpiper
- Wood Sandpiper
- Common Greenshank
- Ruff
- Curlew Sandpiper
- Temminck’s Stint
- Little Stint
- Black-headed Gull
- Grey-hooded Gull
- Gull-billed Tern
- Whiskered Tern
- White-winged Tern
- Greater Flamingo
- Lesser Flamingo
- Little Grebe
- Marabou Stork
- Yellow-billed Stork
- African Darter
- Reed Cormorant
- Great Cormorant
- Glossy Ibis
- African Sacred Ibis
- Hadada Ibis
- African Spoonbill
- Little Egret
- Western Cattle Egret
- Great Egret
- Yellow-billed Egret
- Grey Heron
- Black-headed Heron
- Goliath Heron
- Hamerkop
- Great White Pelican
- Pink-backed Pelican
- Secretarybird (highlight of the day!)
- Osprey
- Black-winged Kite
- White-backed Vulture
- Rüppell’s Griffon
- Long-crested Eagle
- Steppe Eagle
- Tawny Eagle
- African Hawk-Eagle
- Black Kite
- African Fish Eagle
- Augur Buzzard
- Common Buzzard
- Speckled Mousebird
- Green Woodhoopoe
- Common Scimitarbill
- White-fronted Bee-eater
- European Bee-eater
- Grey-headed Kingfisher
- Striped Kingfisher
- Pied Kingfisher
- European Roller
- Lilac-breasted Roller
- Mountain Grey Woodpecker
- Fischer’s x Yellow-collared Lovebird (hybrid)
- Meyer’s Parrot
- Brown-crowned Tchagra
- Tropical Boubou
- Fork-tailed Drongo
- Grey-backed Fiscal
- Northern Fiscal
- Cape Crow
- Southern Ground-Hornbill (courtesy of Luca Finger)
- Pied Crow
- White-bellied Tit
- Sentinel Lark
- Red-capped Lark
Highlight of the Day
The standout sighting of the day was the Secretarybird, a magnificent raptor-like terrestrial species that we were fortunate to observe striding through the grasslands of Lake Nakuru National Park. This iconic bird, known for its unique hunting technique and striking appearance, was an unforgettable addition to our Kenya birding tour.
Why Lake Nakuru is One of the Best Birding Destinations in Kenya
Lake Nakuru National Park is renowned for its diverse birdlife, from wetland birds and flamingos to birds of prey, hornbills, and savannah species. Its varied habitats offer excellent opportunities for spotting a wide range of bird species, making it one of the most rewarding birding sites in the Rift Valley.
For anyone planning a birdwatching tour in Kenya, Lake Nakuru is a must-visit location that guarantees incredible sightings and unforgettable birding experiences.
Day 6: 27 December 2024 – Kinangop Plateau Birding & Transfer to Nairobi
On the sixth day of our Kenya birdwatching tour, we headed towards the Kinangop Plateau, a high-altitude grassland that is home to some of Kenya’s most sought-after endemic and highland species. The Kinangop Plateau is particularly well known for Sharpe’s Longclaw, a globally threatened and highly localized species found only in the montane grasslands of central Kenya.
We set off from the lodge at 6:00 a.m., reaching the Kinangop Plateau in time for a productive four-hour birding session. The area’s open landscapes provided excellent opportunities for lark and pipit species, while the nearby woodlands yielded a fantastic selection of sunbirds, weavers, and greenbuls.
The highlight of the morning was a fantastic sighting of Sharpe’s Longclaw, an endemic species to Kenya, spotted thanks to Paul Kungu’s and the local guide’s sharp eyes. This rare and elusive bird was an incredible addition to our birding checklist, making the visit to Kinangop a truly memorable experience.
After the morning session, we began our journey back to Nairobi, stopping twice along the way to check for additional species in different habitats. We arrived at our lodge in Nairobi by late afternoon, concluding an exceptional birding day.
Species Encountered
- Egyptian Goose
- Yellow-billed Duck
- Speckled Pigeon
- Red-eyed Dove
- Ring-necked Dove
- Laughing Dove
- Tambourine Dove
- Little Swift
- African Palm Swift
- Red-knobbed Coot
- Grey Crowned-Crane
- Blacksmith Lapwing
- Crowned Lapwing
- Little Grebe
- Yellow-billed Stork
- Reed Cormorant
- Glossy Ibis
- African Sacred Ibis
- Hadada Ibis
- Squacco Heron
- Great Egret
- Yellow-billed Egret
- Grey Heron
- Hamerkop
- Black Kite
- Augur Buzzard
- Common Buzzard
- Speckled Mousebird
- Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater
- Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird
- Green-backed Honeybird
- Tropical Boubou
- Fork-tailed Drongo
- Green-backed Camaroptera
- Hunter’s Cisticola
- Rattling Cisticola
- Black Saw-wing
- Plain Martin
- Bank Swallow
- Superb Starling
- Greater Blue-eared Starling
- African Dusky Flycatcher
- White-eyed Slaty Flycatcher
- Cape Robin-Chat
- White-browed Robin-Chat
- Little Rock-Thrush
- African Stonechat
- Northern Anteater-Chat
- Collared Sunbird
- Green-headed Sunbird
- Amethyst Sunbird
- Scarlet-chested Sunbird
- Bronze Sunbird
- Golden-winged Sunbird
- Northern Double-collared Sunbird
- Eastern Double-collared Sunbird
- Variable Sunbird
- Sharpe’s Longclaw (courtesy of Paul Kungu!)
- White-browed Sparrow-Weaver
- Baglafecht Weaver
- Spectacled Weaver
- Yellow Bishop
- Bronze Mannikin
- Common Waxbill
- Purple Grenadier
- Pin-tailed Whydah
- Kenya Rufous Sparrow
- Cape Wagtail
- Western Yellow Wagtail
- African Pied Wagtail
- African Pipit
- African Citril
- Reichenow’s Seedeater
- Brimstone Canary
- Streaky Seedeater
- Yellow-crowned Canary
- Kikuyu Mountain Greenbul
- Yellow-whiskered Greenbul
- Common Bulbul
- Kikuyu White-eye (highlight of the day!)
Highlight of the Day
The standout sighting of the day was the Kikuyu White-eye, a highland species that thrives in Kenya’s montane forests and shrublands, so spotting this bird within the Kinangop Plateau added a truly special moment to our Kenya birding tour.
Why Kinangop Plateau is a Must-Visit for Birdwatchers in Kenya
The Kinangop Plateau offers a unique high-altitude birding experience, featuring endemic and range-restricted species found nowhere else in the world. This makes it a key stop for any serious birding trip in Kenya, especially for those hoping to see Sharpe’s Longclaw and other highland specialties.
As we transferred back to Nairobi, we reflected on what had been an exceptional day of birding, with amazing views, rare species, and a diverse selection of Kenya’s highland birds.
For those planning a birdwatching tour in Kenya, a visit to the Kinangop Plateau is highly recommended, offering unique species and breathtaking landscapes!
Day 7: 28 December 2024 – Birding in Amboseli National Park
We started the day with an early morning bird walk, taking advantage of the cooler hours to observe a variety of species. By 9:30 a.m., we returned to the lodge for breakfast before setting off towards Amboseli National Park, one of Kenya’s most iconic wildlife and birding destinations.
The journey to Amboseli included several birding stops, where we observed a mix of woodland, grassland, and wetland species. As we entered the park, the landscape transformed into open plains, acacia woodlands, and seasonal wetlands, providing exceptional birding opportunities. We continued birding throughout the park until the evening before heading to the lodge, where we checked in at 7:00 p.m.
A special mention goes to Luca Finger, who spotted and captured a fantastic image of an immature Saddle-billed Stork and Cape Teal, adding to the diversity of the day’s sightings.
Birding Highlights of the Day: Species Encountered
- Dusky Turtle-Dove
- Red-eyed Dove
- Tambourine Dove
- African Green-Pigeon
- Red-chested Cuckoo
- Hadada Ibis
- Black Kite
- Augur Buzzard
- Speckled Mousebird
- Silvery-cheeked Hornbill
- Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird
- Grey Cuckooshrike
- Black-backed Puffback
- Tropical Boubou
- African Paradise Flycatcher
- Pied Crow
- White-bellied Tit
- Red-faced Crombec
- Green-backed Camaroptera
- Yellow-breasted Apalis
- Grey Apalis
- Hunter’s Cisticola
- Winding Cisticola
- Black Sawwing
- Plain Martin
- Bank Swallow
- Kikuyu Mountain Greenbul
- Yellow-whiskered Greenbul
- Common Bulbul
- Kikuyu White-eye
- Abyssinian Thrush
- African Dusky Flycatcher
- Spotted Flycatcher
- White-eyed Slaty Flycatcher
- Cape Robin-Chat
- Rüppell’s Robin-Chat
- White-starred Robin
- Collared Sunbird
- Green-headed Sunbird
- Amethyst Sunbird
- Bronze Sunbird
- Northern Double-collared Sunbird
- Eastern Double-collared Sunbird
- Variable Sunbird
- White-browed Sparrow-Weaver
- Baglafecht Weaver
- Spectacled Weaver
- Bronze Mannikin
- Common Waxbill
- Purple Grenadier
- Red-cheeked Cordonbleu
- African Firefinch
- Kenya Rufous Sparrow
- Cape Wagtail
- Western Yellow Wagtail
- African Pied Wagtail
- Tree Pipit
- Reichenow’s Seedeater
- Brimstone Canary
- Streaky Seedeater
- Egyptian Goose
- Helmeted Guineafowl
- Crested Francolin
- Yellow-necked Spurfowl
- Speckled Pigeon
- Red-eyed Dove
- Ring-necked Dove
- Laughing Dove
- Emerald-spotted Wood-Dove
- Namaqua Dove
- Kori Bustard (highlight of the day!)
- White-bellied Go-away-bird
- Great Spotted Cuckoo
- Dideric Cuckoo
- African Palm Swift
- Blacksmith Lapwing
- Spur-winged Lapwing
- Crowned Lapwing
- Glossy Ibis
- African Sacred Ibis
- Hadada Ibis
- Western Cattle Egret
- Grey Heron
- Black-headed Heron
- Black-chested Snake-Eagle
- Augur Buzzard
- Speckled Mousebird
- Blue-naped Mousebird
- Common Scimitarbill
- Abyssinian Scimitarbill
- Little Bee-eater
- Grey-headed Kingfisher
- Lilac-breasted Roller
- Red-and-yellow Barbet
- D’Arnaud’s Barbet
- Northern Red-fronted Tinkerbird
- Slate-coloured Boubou
- Rosy-patched Bushshrike
- Fork-tailed Drongo
- Red-tailed Shrike
- Long-tailed Fiscal
- Taita Fiscal
- Northern Fiscal
- Pied Crow
- Sentinel Lark
- Grey Wren-Warbler
- Green-backed Camaroptera
- Rattling Cisticola
- Winding Cisticola
- Banded Martin
- Barn Swallow
- Common Bulbul
- Rufous Chatterer
- Red-billed Oxpecker
- Wattled Starling
- Red-winged Starling
- Hildebrandt’s Starling
- Superb Starling
- Fischer’s Starling
- Greater Blue-eared Starling
- African Grey Flycatcher
- Pale Flycatcher
- Southern Black Flycatcher
- Rufous-tailed Rock Thrush
- Northern Wheatear
- Isabelline Wheatear
- Collared Sunbird
- Amethyst Sunbird
- Gorgeous Sunbird
- Black-bellied Sunbird
- Red-billed Buffalo-Weaver
- White-headed Buffalo-Weaver
- White-browed Sparrow-Weaver
- Baglafecht Weaver
- Black-necked Weaver
- Vitelline Masked-Weaver
- Chestnut Weaver
- Cardinal Quelea
- Red-billed Quelea
- Red-cheeked Cordonbleu
- Red-billed Firefinch
- Pin-tailed Whydah
- Straw-tailed Whydah
- House Sparrow
- Kenya Rufous Sparrow
- Parrot-billed Sparrow
- Chestnut Sparrow
- Western Yellow Wagtail
- African Pied Wagtail
- African Pipit
- Long-billed Pipit
- Reichenow’s Seedeater
- White-bellied Canary
- Southern Grosbeak-Canary
- Saddle-billed Stork (courtesy of Luka Finger!)
Highlight of the Day
The highlight of the day was the Kori Bustard, the largest flying bird in Africa and an iconic species of Amboseli’s open plains. Watching this majestic bird stride across the savannah was a spectacular way to end the day’s birding.
Why Amboseli National Park is a Must-Visit for Birdwatchers in Kenya
Amboseli National Park is world-famous for its stunning landscapes, featuring open grasslands, acacia woodlands, seasonal swamps, and breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro. The park is not only home to incredible birdlife but is also one of the best places in Africa to see large herds of elephants up close.
For birdwatchers, Amboseli offers a diverse mix of savannah species, raptors, and waterbirds, making it an essential stop on any Kenya birding tour. The combination of unique habitats, high species diversity, and the dramatic backdrop of Kilimanjaro ensures an unforgettable birding experience.
As we checked into our lodge in Amboseli, we reflected on an exciting day filled with diverse bird sightings and stunning scenery, eager for what the next day would bring.
Day 8: 29 December 2024 – Full Day Birding in Amboseli National Park
We began our day at 6:00 a.m., setting out for a full day of birding in Amboseli National Park, one of the best locations in Kenya for spotting savannah and wetland species. Throughout the day, we explored different sections of the park, taking in the stunning backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro while searching for key bird species.
Lunch was enjoyed inside the park, allowing us to stay close to prime birding areas. The afternoon session remained highly productive, with excellent sightings of waders, raptors, and dryland specialists. By 6:30 p.m., we wrapped up our birding and headed back to the lodge, reflecting on another remarkable day.
A special mention goes to Luca Finger, who captured stunning images of a Greater Painted-Snipe and an African Bare-eyed Thrush, adding to the day’s highlights.
Birding Highlights of the Day: Species Encountered
- Common Ostrich
- White-faced Whistling Duck
- Egyptian Goose
- Blue-billed Teal
- Cape Teal
- Red-billed Duck
- Helmeted Guineafowl
- Crested Francolin
- Yellow-necked Spurfowl
- Mourning Collared-Dove
- Red-eyed Dove
- Ring-necked Dove
- Laughing Dove
- Emerald-spotted Wood-Dove
- Namaqua Dove
- Kori Bustard
- White-bellied Bustard
- White-bellied Go-away-bird
- White-browed Coucal
- Dideric Cuckoo
- Red-chested Cuckoo
- Slender-tailed Nightjar
- Common Swift
- Little Swift
- White-rumped Swift
- African Palm Swift
- Red-knobbed Coot
- African Swamphen
- Black Crake
- Grey Crowned-Crane
- Water Thick-knee
- Black-winged Stilt
- Pied Avocet
- Common Ringed Plover
- Three-banded Plover
- Long-toed Lapwing
- Blacksmith Lapwing
- Spur-winged Lapwing
- Crowned Lapwing
- Kittlitz’s Plover
- African Jacana
- Common Sandpiper
- Green Sandpiper
- Marsh Sandpiper
- Wood Sandpiper
- Common Greenshank
- Ruff
- Little Stint
- Double-banded Courser (highlight of the day!)
- Collared Pratincole
- Grey-hooded Gull
- Gull-billed Tern
- Whiskered Tern
- White-winged Tern
- Greater Flamingo
- Lesser Flamingo
- Little Grebe
- White Stork
- Saddle-billed Stork
- Marabou Stork
- Yellow-billed Stork
- Reed Cormorant
- Glossy Ibis
- African Sacred Ibis
- Hadada Ibis
- African Spoonbill
- Little Egret
- Squacco Heron
- Western Cattle Egret
- Great Egret
- Yellow-billed Egret
- Grey Heron
- Purple Heron
- Black-headed Heron
- Goliath Heron
- Hamerkop
- Great White Pelican
- Secretary Bird
- Black-winged Kite
- White-backed Vulture
- Black-chested Snake-Eagle
- Brown Snake-Eagle
- Steppe Eagle
- Tawny Eagle
- Eastern Chanting Goshawk
- Western Marsh Harrier
- African Marsh Harrier
- Black Kite
- African Fish Eagle
The afternoon was filled with exciting sightings of bushshrikes, raptors, and sunbirds, with a beautiful Greater Painted-Snipe as a major highlight.
Day 9: 30 December 2024 – Full Day Birding in Amboseli National Park
We set off once again at 6:00 a.m., covering new areas of Amboseli National Park to maximize our species count. The morning session was particularly rewarding, with excellent sightings of bustards, lapwings, and waterbirds.
Lunch was enjoyed inside the park, followed by a productive afternoon drive that continued until 6:30 p.m., offering great views of savannah raptors and waders.
A special mention goes to Marc Finger, who photographed a Diederik Cuckoo and a Grey Crowned-Crane, two iconic species that perfectly represent the park’s diverse avifauna.
Birding Highlights of the Day: Species Encountered
- Common Ostrich
- White-faced Whistling Duck
- Egyptian Goose
- Blue-billed Teal
- Cape Teal
- Red-billed Duck
- Helmeted Guineafowl
- Crested Francolin
- Harlequin Quail
- Yellow-necked Spurfowl
- Mourning Collared-Dove
- Red-eyed Dove
- Ring-necked Dove
- Laughing Dove
- Emerald-spotted Wood-Dove
- Namaqua Dove
- Yellow-throated Sandgrouse
- Chestnut-bellied Sandgrouse
- Greater Painted-Snipe (highlight of the day!)
- African Jacana
- Common Snipe
- Common Sandpiper
- Marsh Sandpiper
- Wood Sandpiper
- Curlew Sandpiper
- Little Stint
- Double-banded Courser
- Collared Pratincole
- Gull-billed Tern
- Whiskered Tern
- White-winged Tern
- Greater Flamingo
- Lesser Flamingo
- Little Grebe
- African Openbill
- White Stork
- Saddle-billed Stork
- Glossy Ibis
- African Sacred Ibis
- Hadada Ibis
- African Spoonbill
- Little Egret
- Squacco Heron
- Western Cattle Egret
- Great Egret
- Yellow-billed Egret
- Grey Heron
- Purple Heron
- Black-headed Heron
- Goliath Heron
- Great White Pelican
- Secretary Bird
The highlight of the day was a fantastic view of a Yellow-throated Sandgrouse and Greater Painted-Snipe, both species offering superb photographic opportunities.
Day 10: 31 December 2024 – Transfer to Nairobi & Flight to Malindi (End of Tour)
We started our journey at 7:30 a.m., making just one brief stop along the way before reaching Nairobi International Airport at 11:30 a.m.. This marked the conclusion of our birding adventure in Amboseli, with guests boarding their flight to Malindi at 1:00 p.m..
This journey through Amboseli provided an unforgettable birding experience, with spectacular landscapes, a rich diversity of species, and excellent photographic opportunities. For anyone considering a birdwatching tour in Kenya, Amboseli remains one of the top destinations, offering both abundant birdlife and breathtaking scenery.
The birding expedition was a resounding success, with the team observing an impressive 388 bird species across a variety of habitats. Notable sightings included Moustached Grass-Warbler, Double-banded Courser, Yellow-throated Sandgrouse, Greater Painted-Snipe, Abyssinian Wheatear, Kori Bustard, Kikuyu White-eye, Stout Cisticola, Secretary Bird, and Pearl-spotted Owlet.
The diversity of ecosystems visited—from swamps and forests to lakes and savannahs—provided an immersive experience of Kenya’s exceptionally rich birdlife. The journey not only deepened the participants’ appreciation for the country’s biodiversity but also highlighted the importance of conservation efforts to protect these vital habitats.
A special highlight of this trip was the opportunity to organise Luca’s first birding adventure. It was truly inspiring to see his enthusiasm and dedication to birdwatching at such a young age. Throughout the trip, Luca impressed us all with his knowledge, keen observations, and ability to spot some incredible species. It is always exciting to see the next generation of birders so engaged with nature, and we hope that Luca continues to nurture this passion for birding and conservation into the future.
Additionally, this trip made a valuable contribution to ornithological records, with species observations logged on eBird, furthering our understanding of Kenya’s avian life.
For a full summary of recorded species, visit:
Trip Report on eBird
My Trip Reports on eBird
This unforgettable journey reaffirmed Kenya’s status as one of the world’s premier birdwatching destinations, offering extraordinary species diversity and breathtaking landscapes. We look forward to welcoming more birders in the future for unparalleled birding experiences in Kenya!
Total number of species observed:
388
Get in touch with Wild Birding
Error: Contact form not found.
No Comments