The Okapi Faunal Reserve is known for its amazing variety of wildlife, especially the okapi, and is found in the northeast of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It covers about 13,700 square kilometers (5,300 square miles).
The area is home to many types of animals, such as forest elephants, chimpanzees, leopards, and more than 380 bird species, including the rare Yellow-legged Weaver and Golden-napped Weaver.
Okapi Faunal Reserve is the main home to a variety of astonishing tree species including; Cynometra alexandri, Julbernardia seretii, and Gilbertiodendron dewevrei, and these act as great homes to the various bird species in the destination.
This is why the area is considered one of the best birdwatching spots in the DRC, where thousands of visitors come to see the many different bird species.
Below are some of the bird species that are found in the reserve that you are most likely to meet as you carry out your birding safaris in the democratic republic of Congo.
The Congo peafowl, Great Crested Grebe, White-naped Dove, Long-tail Nightjar, Common Swift, African Emerald Cuckoo, Nkulengu Rail, Great Blue Turaco, and Spur-winged Lapwing are all birds found in the Ituri forest. Here are some of the main birds that visitors have not yet seen during birdwatching trips at Okapi National Reserve.
The birding safari can be even more exciting as visitors see different bird species in the Okapi Wildlife Reserve. Some of these species include the Black-winged Pratincole, Bateleur, African Wood Owl, Speckled Mousebird, Bar-tailed Trogon, Crowned Hornbill, Cassin’s Honeybird, Cardinal Woodpecker, Black Bee-eater, Lilac-breasted Roller, Shining Blue Kingfisher, Grey Parrot, Red-headed Lovebird, African Broadbill, African Pitta, and Mountain Oriole. White-spotted Wattle-eye and Albertine Sooty Boubou. Fork-tailed Drongo, Blue-headed Paradise Flycatcher, Collared Sunbird, Fan-tailed Widowbird, Brown Twinspot, Pin-tailed Whydah, African Pipit, Senegal Canary, Dusky Tit, Western Nicator, Lemon-bellied Crombec, Whistling Cisticola, Lesser Swamp Warbler, Red-rumped Swallow, Slender-billed Greenbul, and Tit Hylia, among others.
At Okapi National Reserve, visitors can enjoy many outdoor activities to learn more about the area and its beauty. These activities include:
The area is home is also home to numerous wildlife such as; forest elephants, chimpanzees, leopards, giant forest hogs, water chevrotain, forest buffaloes, golden cats, forest antelopes, giant pangolins, African dwarf crocodiles including the bird’s pieces. Visitors can see wildlife while exploring the national park.
Visitors can enjoy nature walks in the national reserve, where they can see various plant and animal species. These walks are led by knowledgeable safari guides who will take you through beautiful plants, nice trails, and calm streams. This gives you a chance to enjoy the stunning views and variety of nature in the reserve.
During birdwatching trips, visitors can also join community walks. These walks allow them to connect with local people and learn about their culture and daily lives.
When planning a visit to the Great Okapi National Reserve, here are some essential items to pack: – A guidebook – Binoculars for viewing wildlife – A good camera with extra storage – Plenty of drinking water and snacks – Sunglasses – Sturdy waterproof hiking boots – Long socks – A walking stick – Long-sleeved shirts to protect your skin – A hat – A rain jacket – A sweater – A backpack – A first aid kit – Long pants to protect against rough vegetation Make sure you have these items to ensure a comfortable and safe trip.
While visiting the country, tourists have many places to stay during a safari at the national reserve. These options include mid-range, luxury, and budget lodgings. Some options for places to stay include Epulu Lodge, Ituri Forest Lodge, Hotel Kisangani, Vuvuke guest house, Plaza Hotel, as well as camps, mobile tented camps, and guesthouses in local towns for visitors who want to experience life with the indigenous people near the reserve.
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