Bird Watching Safaris in Uganda
Expert Birding & Wildlife Adventure
Overview
Come with us on a once-in-a-lifetime bird watching safari in Uganda, where the skies and forests are alive with colour, calls and movement. With over 1,000 bird species recorded — including rare endemics and migratory wonders — Uganda ranks among the world’s top birding destinations.
On this tour you’ll glide through papyrus swamps, hike forest trails, explore highland habitats and watch savannah birds by twilight — all while experiencing Uganda’s rich wildlife and culture.
Highlights
- Expert-led birding in key hotspots: wetlands, forests, savannahs and mountains
- Search for the legendary Shoebill Stork, Great Blue Turaco, Papyrus Gonolek and many more
- Combine bird watching with wildlife and nature: elephants, buffalo, wild landscapes
- Stay in comfortable lodges located in prime birding areas
- Travel through diverse landscapes from lakes and swamps to misty highlands and savannah plains
Day 1 – Arrival in Entebbe
Welcome to Uganda! Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, our driver will meet you and take you to your accommodation.
Depending on your arrival time, you may visit the Botanical Gardens or take a short trip to the Mabamba Swamp to spot the rare shoebill stork—a true icon for bird lovers.
Day 2 – Mabamba Swamp & Wetland Birding
Head out early by canoe into the papyrus-rich waters of Mabamba Swamp on Lake Victoria. Observe waterbirds, marsh specialists, and if lucky, the Shoebill.
Day 3 – Kibale Forest & Bigodi Wetlands
Travel to Kibale Forest and explore the nearby Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary for forest birds, monkeys and lush birding trails.
Day 4 – Queen Elizabeth National Park
Enter Queen Elizabeth National Park and explore its many habitats. Afternoon boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel offers birding and wildlife together.
Day 5 – Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Birding
Journey to Bwindi for highland and Albertine Rift bird species. Expect forest endemics and rare sightings.
Day 6 – High-Elevation Birding & Lake Bunyonyi
Spend the day in the highlands around Lake Bunyonyi spotting island and lakeside birds, then relax in the peaceful setting.
Day 7 – Lake Mburo & Return to Entebbe
Journey back via Lake Mburo National Park, enjoy birding drives and wetlands, then drive to Entebbe for your final night or onward travel.
Accommodation
Airport Guest House Entebbe
Kibale Forest Camp
Bush Lodge Queen Elizabeth
Gorilla Valley Lodge Bwindi
Lake Bunyony Eco rRsort
Eagles Nest Lodge Mburo
Safari Vehicle
Travel comfortably in a 4×4 Safari Land Cruiser, designed for long journeys and optimal wildlife viewing.
Included
✅ Accommodation as per itinerary
✅ All meals, snacks, and bottled water
✅ 4×4 Safari vehicle with fuel
✅ English-speaking driver/guide
✅ Park entry fees, game drives, and listed activities
Excluded
❌ Personal expenses and souvenirs
❌ Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
❌ Visa fees and tips
❌ Laundry services
Why Choose This Birding Safari?
Uganda is not only home to gorillas, savannahs and big game — it’s also one of the richest countries in Africa for birdwatching. With its mix of swamp, forest, highland and savannah habitats, you’ll experience a variety of birds in fewer days than many larger countries.
Whether you’re a serious birder or simply love birds and nature, this safari is designed to awaken your curiosity, capture your imagination and fill your memory card with spectacular sightings.
Frequently Asked Questions – Bird Watching Safaris in Uganda
Q1: How many bird species can I expect to see on a Uganda bird watching safari?
Uganda is home to more than 1,070 bird species, making it one of Africa’s top birding destinations. On a well-planned birding safari, you can expect to see between 400 and 600 species, depending on the duration and locations you visit.
Q2: What are the best times of year for birding in Uganda?
The dry seasons from June to September and December to February are ideal for bird watching, as trails are easier to access and visibility is better. Between November and April, migratory species arrive from Europe and Asia, making this period excellent for spotting rare birds.
Q3: Which locations in Uganda are best for bird watching?
Top destinations include Mabamba Swamp for the iconic Shoebill Stork, Queen Elizabeth National Park with over 600 species, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Murchison Falls National Park, Kibale Forest, and Semuliki National Park — each offering a unique ecosystem and bird variety.
Q4: Can a bird watching safari in Uganda also include other wildlife experiences?
Absolutely! Many birding safaris combine game drives, boat cruises, or forest treks, offering the chance to see elephants, hippos, chimpanzees, and even mountain gorillas alongside the incredible birdlife.
Q5: What should I pack for a birding safari in Uganda?
Essential gear includes binoculars, a camera with zoom lens, comfortable walking shoes, light waterproof clothing, insect repellent, a hat, and a field guide or bird list. Long sleeves and neutral colors help you blend into the environment.
Q6: Are bird watching safaris suitable for beginners?
Yes! Uganda’s birding safaris are perfect for both beginners and experienced birders. Professional local guides help identify species, explain bird behavior, and ensure a rewarding experience regardless of skill level.
Q7: How long should I plan for a birding safari in Uganda?
For a rich birding experience, plan at least 7 to 14 days. This allows enough time to explore multiple habitats — from wetlands to rainforests — and maximize your sightings.
Contact us
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