Top 10 Most Colorful Birds to Capture on an East African Safari
                     Top 10 Most Colorful Birds to Capture on an East African 
Safari
https://www.naturenestsafaris.com/birding-watching-
safaris/
East Africa bursts with vibrant avian life. For travellers on a birding 
adventure, spotting hues of reds, greens, blues and golds makes 
each morning exciting.
On a Bird Watching Safaris itinerary offered by Nature Nest 
Safaris, and during a dedicated Mabamba Birding Safari, you’ll 
encounter species that stop you in your tracks. These ten standout 
birds are both photogenic and accessible for keen shutterbugs.
1. Violet-Backed Starling
This small passerine shows deep violet plumage on the back and 
shimmering silver under parts. Found in woodland edges, it often 
perches out in the open early in the day — perfect for the golden-
hour photo.
2. African Paradise Flycatcher
With long tail streamers and contrasting chestnut cap, the male 
flycatcher catches the light beautifully. In flight, the tail ribbons 
create stunning compositions.
3. Lilac-Breasted Roller
One of East Africa’s most iconic colours: lilac breast, turquoise belly, 
and rich blue wings. These rollers often perch on bare horizontal 
branches, giving unobstructed views.
4. Shoebill (on Mabamba Birding Safari)
While the shoebill isn’t bright like a kingfisher, its deep slate-blue 
plumage and prehistoric silhouette make for dramatic photos. On the 
Mabamba marshes, patience often equals a great shot.
5. Golden Sparrow
In dry savanna zones, the golden-sparrow glows. Though tricky to 
approach, the right light reveals feathers like burnished gold — a 
prize for the patient photographer.
6. Malachite Kingfisher
Tiny but brilliant, this bird’s turquoise back and vibrant orange 
under-parts come alive in the right setting. Look for it near reed 
beds and slow-moving water.
7. White-Collared Oliveback
Subtle perhaps, but its glossy black cap, white collar and olive body 
shine in filtered forest light. A hidden gem for those exploring 
montane forest trails.
8. African Firefinch
Glow-red underparts and a contrasting black throat make this finch 
pop against green grass or underbrush. Early dawn or dusk offers 
the best lighting.
9. Narina Trogon
In shaded forest glades the male trogon’s bright turquoise back and 
deep red belly appear almost surreal. Focus stacking helps with low-
light photography here.
10. Superb Sunbird
Sparkling iridescence on the male’s throat changes with angle and 
light. For best results, shoot when the sun is low to catch 
shimmering colours.
Conclusion
The birds of East Africa reward travellers who go prepared. On a 
tailored birding safari with Nature Nest Safaris, and especially during 
a Mabamba Birding Safari, these vivid species become vivid 
memories. With a camera in hand and good light, the region’s 
colours come alive.
Interested in capturing these scenes? Visit Nature Nest Safaris to 
explore the full bird watching safari portfolio and design your next 
visual adventure.
Nature Nest Safaris
Rwanda, kigali ramera giporoso
Kampala, Uganda
Phone: +256 777131912
Email: [email protected]
https://www.naturenestsafaris.com/contact-us/
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