KAGERA: WHILE travelling through Kagera, I found myself lost in thought when a sudden burst of excitement on the bus grabbed everyone’s attention.
“Tausi, tausi!” (Peacock!), someone exclaimed, having spotted a beautiful and colourful bird. We all eagerly scanned the bushes, hoping for a glimpse. Such moments are just a taste of the wonders awaiting visitors to the Kagera region.
Situated at the crossroads of Uganda, Rwanda and Burundi, with access to Kenya via Lake Victoria, Kagera holds a prime geographic position. This strategic location opens doors to a market of over 300 million people, offering immense opportunities for trade and business.
A birdwatcher’s paradise
Kagera is rich in natural attractions and boasts a unique collection of flora and fauna, making it a haven for bird enthusiasts. With around 450 bird species, the region is truly a paradise.
The region’s diverse habitats, including the Burigi-Chato, Ibanda-Kyerwa and Rumanyika-Karagwe National Parks, attract thousands of bird species. Among these are the fish eagle, papyrus gonolek and the rare shoebill stork. These parks also serve as resting grounds for migratory birds like the Corn Crake (Crex crex) and the Great Snipe (Gallinago media), known for their extraordinary long-distance flights.
The Great Snipe: A record-holder
The Great Snipe is particularly remarkable, capable of flying 4,000 to 7,000 kilometres in just three days. With speeds reaching up to 97 km/h, it ranks among the fastest migratory birds. In addition, it may hold the record for the highest altitude flight, as one was spotted at 8,700 metres (28,543 feet) above sea level. Such incredible feats are a testament to nature’s wonders.
Unique bird habitats
Kagera’s swamps are home to the white-winged swamp warbler (Bradypterus carpalis) and the papyrus canary (Crithagra koliensis), the latter known for building nests on papyrus stems.
Minziro Forest Reserve
To the north, near the Ugandan border, lies the Minziro Forest Reserve, a highland haven for around 200 bird species. Among the species spotted here are the Woodhouse’s antpecker (Parmoptila woodhousei), usually found in western and central Africa and the African shrike-flycatcher (Megabyas flammulatus).
Other highlights include the Dusky Long-tailed Cuckoo (Cercococcyx mechowi) and the Great Blue Turaco (Corythaeola cristata), a stunning bird known for its limited flight and branch-hopping behaviour. Visitors may also encounter the superb sunbird (Cinnyris superbus), the white-bellied kingfisher (Corythornis leucogaster) and the black-and-white casqued hornbill (Bycanistes subcylindricus), which is especially drawn to fig trees.
In addition to birds, Kagera’s national parks are home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, giraffes, buffaloes, leopards, hippos and antelopes.
The region also boasts cultural and historical attractions, such as the traditional houses of Chief Rumanyika of Karagwe, Chief Kasusura of Biharamulo and Chief Balamba of Ngara. These sites reflect the legacy of Kagera’s nine powerful kingdoms, which dominated the area for centuries.
Other notable attractions include ancient Basota cave paintings, handcrafted wood carvings and historical sites like the World War I cemetery near the Kagera Regional Commissioner’s office. Natural wonders such as the Rusumo Falls, Kyamunene Falls and the Mutagata Hot Springs further enhance the region’s appeal.
Mutagata Hot Springs: A hub for medical tourism
Located deep within the Mutagata rainforest, the hot springs are renowned for their therapeutic properties. With water temperatures ranging between 60°C and 70°C, visitors believe the springs can help alleviate ailments like asthma, skin conditions, and fractured bones. The site also serves as a popular spot for picnics and leisure activities.
Kagera is a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich culture and abundant wildlife. Whether you’re a bird lover, history enthusiast, or simply seeking a tranquil retreat, this region offers something extraordinary for everyone.
