22 Days Uganda Birding Safari

Our 22-Days trip brings you the best of the birdlife in Uganda. Uganda has a variety of landscapes and over 1000 bird species! This trip brings you to the most important birding sites in Uganda. Habitats to be seen: Forest, Lowland jungle, Swamps, Canals and Lakes, Mountains and Savannahs.

Expect to see over 400 bird species and also the large animals of the savannahs (lion, elephant, buffalo, giraffe, hippo, leopard) and up to 16 primate species, including gorillas and chimps!

Birding sites to be seen: Mabamba Swamp, Entebbe Botanical Gardens, Mabira Forest, The Nile in Jinja, Kaniyo Pabidi (Budongo Forest), Murchison Falls National Park, Kibale Forest National Park, Bigodi Swamps, Semuliki National Park, Semliki Wildlife Reserve, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kazinga Channel, Bwindi National Park, Mubwindi Swamp, Lake Bunyonyi and Lake Mburo National Park.

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Highlights

See the Shoebill Stork in Mabamba Swamp, Semliki Wildlife Reserve or Murchison Falls National Park
Game drives (safaris) on the savannahs of Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth National Park, with chances of seeing the birds and wildlife from close quarters
Boattrip on the Nile to the Murchison Falls, where the Nile is forced through a gorge and drops 60 meters. The boat is the perfect platform to make photos of the birds.
Spectacular bird and wildlife viewing from the boat on the Nile where it reaches the delta into Lake Albert
See the chimpanzees and 12 other monkey species in Kibale Forest
See the unique Bigodi Swamps with spectacular birdlife
Experience the spectacular hot springs and birds in Semuliki National Park. This is the only Lowland jungle in East Africa!
Boattrip on the Kazinga Channel with the biggest concentration of hippos and spectacular birds
Meet the Mountain Gorillas and endemic birds in Bwindi National Park
Enjoy the silence and beautiful landscape in Uganda’s most beautiful lake, Lake Bunyonyi

Day 1 :

Arrive Entebbe

Arrive at Entebbe airport. Your guide will be there waiting for you. Pick up and proceed to your accommodation.

Day 2 :

Entebbe - Mabamba - Entebbe

arly breakfast and transfer to Mabamba Swamp, a large and accessible wetland on the shores of Lake Victoria. This is one of the best places to see the Shoebill Stork. In the afternoon we visit the Botanical Gardens in Entebbe to see many beautiful bird species. Included: birding in Mabamba Swamp, birding in Botanical Gardens

Day 3 :

Entebbe - Mabira Forest - Jinja - Kampala

Transfer to Mabira Forest, 65km east of Kampala. We spend the rest of the day birding in the Mabira forest, pausing for lunch at Jinja and visiting the source of the Nile. Transfer to Kampala afterwards. Included: birding in Mabira Forest, visit source of the Nile

Day 4 :

Kampala - Murchison Falls National Park

Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park. Birding in Kaniyo Pabidi (Budongo Forest) in the afternoon. Afterwards we proceed to Murchison falls and spend the night on the shores of the Nile. Murchison Falls is one of the most beautiful national parks of Uganda. One of the main attractions is the Nile, with the spectacular Murchison Falls, where the whole Nile is forced through a narrow gorge and falls 60 meters. Expect to see elephants, giraffes, lions, hippos, crocodiles, buffaloes and maybe leopards. Included: birding in Budongo Forest

Day 5 :

Murchison Falls National Park

Early game drive in the morning to see the large animals of Africa and also for birding. In the afternoon we make a boat trip on the Victoria Nile up to the bottom of the falls. The boat is an ideal platform to make photos of the birds. Included: game drive, boat trip

Day 6 :

Murchison Falls National Park

Early morning adventure on the Nile on a private boat trip to the delta. Game drive in the afternoon or visit the top of the Falls. Included: boat trip, game drive or visit top of the falls

Day 7 :

Murchison Falls National Park- Hoima

Early transfer to Budongo forest. Birding through the jungle. In the afternoon we drive to Hoima Town were we spend the night. Budongo Forest is also home of many butterflies and chimpanzees. Included: birding in Budongo

Day 8 :

Hoima - Kibale Forest

After breakfast we drive to Kibale Forest. You can make a walk through the forest around the lodge in the afternoon. It is also possible to make a night walk through the forest to see the animals of the night, like bush babies (both activities optional). Kibale Forest is a spectacular jungle, with 13 primate species! Including chimps, baboons, black and white colobus, red colobus, grey cheeked mangabey and L'Hoest monkey.

Day 9 :

Kibale Forest

Chimpanzee tracking in the morning or in the afternoon. Birding in the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary. It is also possible to visit the local people or the crater lakes (optional). Included: chimp tracking, Bigodi Swamp Walk

Day 10 :

Kibale Forest

Birding in Kibale Forest and the area around it. Included: birding in Kibale Forest

Day 11 :

Kibale Forest - Semuliki National Park

Transfer to Semuliki National Park. Visit the Sempaya Hot Springs and make a walk through the jungle for birding. Semuliki is a unique place and the only lowland jungle in East Africa, part of the Congo eco system. Included: birding walk

Day 12 :

Semuliki National Park - Semliki Wildlife Reserve - Fort Portal

Transfer to Semuliki Wildlife Reserve for a Boat trip on Lake Albert. Transfer to Fort Portal afterwards. Semuliki is an interesting area, partly forested and partly savannah. The shores of Lake Albert are well known to see the Shoebill Stork. Included: boat trip

Day 13 :

Fort Portal - Queen Elizabeth National Park

Transfer to the Queen Elizabeth National Park. On our way we pass the equator where we will make a stop. Game drive for birding or optional guided walk on the Mweya Peninsula in the afternoon. Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of the best places in Uganda to see lions. Expect to see elephants, lions, many hippos, crocodiles, buffaloes and maybe leopards. Included: game drive

Day 14 :

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Game drive in the morning, boat trip on the Kazinga Channel in the afternoon. The boat is an ideal platform to make photos of the birds. The Kazinga Channel is one of the highlights of Uganda and has the highest concentration of hippos in the world. Included: game drive, boat trip

Day 15 :

Queen Elizabeth National Park - Bwindi Impenetrable

Birding through the park, leading to Maramagambo Forest. Transfer to Buhoma, Bwindi, in the afternoon. Bwindi Impenetrable is a unique jungle, with many monkey species. Bwindi is one of the 2 places in the world where you can find Mountain Gorillas! Included: birding in Maramagambo Forest

Day 16 :

Bwindi Impenetrable

Birding in Bwindi National Park. Included: birding in Bwindi Impenetrable

Day 17 :

Bwindi Impenetrable

Birding through the Neck area of Bwindi. It is also possible to do a gorilla tracking (optional). Included: birding in Bwindi Impenetrable

Day 18 :

Bwindi Impenetrable

Transfer to Ruhija. Birding in this unique area, with a lot of Albertine endemics. Included: birding in Bwindi Impenetrable

Day 19 :

Bwindi Impenetrable - Lake Bunyonyi

Birding in Mubwindi Swamp and after transfer to Lake Bunyonyi, the deepest and most beautiful lake of Uganda. We sleep on one of the beautiful islands. Possible activities: make a nature walk, go for a birding walk, go for canoeing, take a swim or visit the local community (all activities optional). Included: birding in Mubwindi Swamp

Day 20 :

Lake Bunyoni

Birding on the island and along the lake shores. Optional boat trip on the lake. Included: birding on the island

Day 21 :

Lake Bunyonyi - Lake Mburo National Park

After breakfast we drive to Lake Mburo. Boat trip for birding on the lake in the afternoon. It is possible to do a night game drive with high chances of seeing leopards and nocturnal birds (optional activity). Lake Mburo is one of the 2 national parks with zebras and the only national park with impalas in Uganda. There are no elephants and lions, so walking safaris are possible. Included: boat trip

Day 22 :

Lake Mburo National Park - Entebbe

Early morning game drive or game walk in Lake Mburo National Park. Transfer to the airport for your departure. Included: game drive or game walk, airport transfer

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Why Choose Uganda for a Birding Safari?

Uganda is home to over 1,000 bird species, making it one of the top birding destinations in Africa. Key birding spots include Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Murchison Falls National Park, and Queen Elizabeth National Park.

What is the Best Time of Year for Birding in Uganda?

The best time for birding is during the dry seasons: December to February and June to August. However, birding can be done year-round, with different species visible in different seasons.

What are Some Must-See Bird Species in Uganda?

Shoebill Stork: Often found in Mabamba Swamp.
African Green Broadbill: Best seen in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
Great Blue Turaco, African Pitta, and Green-breasted Pitta: Also popular sightings in various regions.

How Long Should a Birding Safari in Uganda Be?

A typical birding safari lasts between 7 to 14 days, depending on the number of locations visited and the diversity of species you wish to see.

5. What Gear Should I Bring?

Binoculars: Essential for spotting birds at a distance.
Camera with Zoom Lens: For capturing bird photos.
Field Guidebook: Specific to East African birds.
Clothing: Lightweight, neutral-colored clothing and a hat for sun protection.

Do I Need a Guide for Birding in Uganda?

Yes, a professional birding guide is recommended. They have expert knowledge of bird habitats and can greatly enhance your experience by helping identify species and navigating the terrain.

What are the Accommodation Options?

Accommodations range from luxury lodges to mid-range and budget options, often located close to birding hotspots.

Is it Possible to Combine Birding with Other Activities?

Yes, birding safaris can be combined with gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, and general wildlife safaris.

Are There Any Health Precautions I Should Take?

Ensure you’re up to date on vaccinations, and consider malaria prophylaxis. Bring insect repellent and a first-aid kit.

How Safe is Birding in Uganda?

Uganda is generally safe for tourists. However, it is advisable to follow the advice of your guide and avoid venturing into remote areas alone.

How Can I Book a Birding Safari in Uganda?

You can book through a tour operator specializing in birding safaris. They will arrange all logistics, including transport, accommodation, and guiding services.

Do I Need a Visa to Enter Uganda?

Most travelers require a visa to enter Uganda, which can be obtained online or upon arrival at the airport.

22 Days Uganda Birding Safari

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Highlights

Itinerary

Tour Cost Includes