Itinerary for the 23 days Uganda birding Safari

Day 1: Arrive in Entebbe for the best of Uganda Birding Safari

Arrive at Entebbe international airport for the best of Uganda Birding Safari. Meet with a Valiant Safaris Driver-guide with top birding experience in the country, greet and transfer to the hotel in Entebbe where we spend an overnight. This is basically a day for meeting and relaxation from the long-haul flight.

Day 2: Bird walk and Rhino walk in Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary then transfer to Masindi

Having had an Early morning breakfast, we leave Entebbe for Nakasongola where we will embark on a birding walk at Ziwa Rhino and wildlife ranch. It is a habitant to over 300 bird species including the crested crane, Shoebill, weavers, parrots with 4 different birding trail which gives a chance of observing diverse species in their natural habitat. You can then embark on a thrilling Rhino walk to get up close and personal with the impressive creatures. Once the walks are completed, we will transfer to the nearby town of Masindi for an overnight.

Day 3: Birding the Royal Mile

Today Early morning, we are birding the famous Royal mile, with its historic buildings and cobblestone streets, a wide forested track, is considered by many to be the country’s premier forest birding locality . The Royal Mile hence offers a unique backdrop and one of the best birding places for observing a variety of bird species. This is the best place in Uganda for Nahan’s Francolin, Cassin’s Spinetail, and Chestnut-capped Flycatcher.

In this area, we can find a variety of forest greenbuls that may be challenging to identify, such as Spotted Xavier’s, White-throated, Red-tailed & Honeyguide Greenbuls. The upper part of the forest is home to groups of Yellow-mantled Weaver, Rufous Thrush and Uganda Woodland-Warbler. The lower part of the forest path is a habitat for a number of secretive birds, including Scaly-breasted, Brown & Pale-breasted Illadopses, Fire-crested Alethe, Blue-shouldered Robin-Chat, Rufous Flycatcher-Thrush, Red-tailed Ant-Thrush, Yellow-browed Camaroptera, Yellow Longbill and Grey-throated Tit-Flycatcher. We will watch for any breaks in the forest canopy as we may spot Cassin’s and Crowned Hawk-eagles, Cassin’s and Sabine’s spinetails, and White-throated Bee-eater.

Day 4: Birding Tour in Budongo forest en-route to Murchison Falls National Park

Embark on a thrilling birding tour through the lush Budongo forest which is part of the Murchison Falls National Park conservation area. This unique experience will allow you to spot a wide variety of species in their natural habitat as we go birding along the forest. Species in Budongo Forest include among others; Cameroon Somber Greenbul, Cassin’s Spine-tail(rare), Sabine’s spine tail,  Pygmy Crake, White-spotted Fluff tail, Kingfishers (Chocolate-backed, Blue-breasted, African Dwarf), Ituri Batis, Forest Robin, Puvell’s Illadopsis, Brown Twin-spot, Cassin’s Hawk-Eagle, Crowned Eagle, Grey-headed Sunbird, Yellow-crested Woodpecker, Little Green Sunbird, Olive Green Camaroptera.

Day 5: Birding in Murchison falls national park

Murchison Falls National park is home to over 550 bird species, in the diverse habitats within the park, from savannah to riverine forests, provide an ideal environment for birdwatching. Birding in Murchison falls National Park comes with great chances to spot a variety of colorful and unique birds including; Shoebill, Abyssinian Roller and Ground Hornbill, Secretary Bird, Pied Kingfishers, Goliath Heron, Red-throated Bee-eaters, Carmine Bee-eater, Blue-breasted Bee-eater, Red-throated Bee-eater, Saddle-billed Stork, Sacred Ibis, Fulvous Whistling-Duck, Senegal Thick-knee, Water Thick-knee, Black-headed Lapwing, Long-toed Lapwing, Little Bittern, Osprey, Red-necked Falcon, Vinaceous Dove and Grosbeak Weaver. Other specials include Buff-bellied Warbler, Yellow-fronted Tinkerbird, Bar-breasted Firefinch, Red-winged Grey Warbler, Spotted Morning-Thrush, Marabou Stork, Silver Bird, Beautiful Sunbird, Black-headed Gonolek, Speckle-fronted and Golden-backed Weavers, Chestnut-crowned Sparrow Weaver, White-rumped Seedeater, Pel’s Fishing Owl, White Crested Turaco, Bruce’s Green Pigeon, and many others.

Murchison falls is the largest National park in Uganda, visiting this park rewards us with a unique opportunity to see the 7 meters wide water fall over a 45metres high fall. We also have chances of seeing mammals including; Elephants, Giraffes, kobs, Oribi , Lions, leopards, Spotted Hyenas, Grass hare, Warthogs,  buffalos and many others on a game drive and boat safari to the bottom of falls.

African Fish Eagle in Murchison Falls

Day 6: Birding in the Butiaba Escarpment enroute to Kibale forest National Park

Birding in Murchison Falls National Park offers a diverse range of bird species to observe and experience. With over 550 bird species and 140 mammals recorded, we bird out of the park with last chances of spotting species of this park. The drive to Kibale forest National park  is rather a long drive but with some birdwatching spot enroute, which our professional tour guide will take advantage of. Starting with the Butiaba Escarpment in the Albertine Rift Valley with unique avian species.

Day 7: Birding walk in Kibale forest for the Green breasted Pitta

Join us for an early morning birding in the forest through the lush vegetation cover in search of the elusive Green breasted Pitta. As we trek through the dense foliage, our experienced guides will help you spot various bird species, including the colorful pitta. With its vibrant green and red plumage, the Green breasted Pitta is a sought-after sighting had to find anywhere else in East Africa. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the stunning forest and catch a glimpse of this beautiful bird in its natural habitat, on a full day’s bird watching tour.

Day 8: Chimpanzee trekking and Afternoon birding Bigodi swamp

This morning to the forest for a chimpanzee trekking experience, where you can observe these incredible primates in their natural habitat. Afterward, head to Bigodi swamp for an afternoon of birding, where you can spot a variety of colorful and unique birds primate species.

Some of the other birds we may find here include;  the Black-billed Turaco, African Emerald Cuckoo, Purple-headed Starling, Blue-throated Roller, Yellow-billed Barbet, Grey-throated Barbet, Narrow-tailed Starling, Western Black-headed Oriole, Yellow-throated and Yellow-rumped Scaly-breasted Illadopsis, Tinkerbirds, Fire-crested Alethe, in addition; colorful butterflies and primate species.

Day 9: Birding to Semuliki Wildlife Reserve

We start the drive as we bird our way to Semuliki Wildlife Reserve which is a prime birding spot in the country. Bird enthusiasts have a chance to spot a wide variety of bird species in a diverse range of habitats. With over 440 bird species recorded in the reserve, including the rare lyre-tailed honeyguide and the forest ground thrush, birders are sure to have a rewarding experience. Semliki is the only true tract of a low land forest reserve in Africa, lying in the Albertine rift valley, and unique combination of lowland tropical rainforest and grassland savannah. Continue with birding in the afternoon for a rich and rewarding birding experience for whether novice or experienced birders alike.

Day 10: Birding Kirumia trail in Semuliki

Birding in the Kirumia trail in Semuliki is a truly unforgettable experience for bird lovers. The trail offers the chance to spot a wide variety of bird species, including the rare forest greenbul, pygmy kingfisher, and blue-billed malimbe. The dense foliage and diverse habitats make it a prime location for birding in Semuliki, with expert guides on hand to lead you to the best viewing spots. The Kirumia trail is a must-visit destination for spotting unique and beautiful bird species which will leaves you wondering, Uganda is indeed the pearl of Africa.

Day 11: Birding to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park is the top choice destination visitors to Uganda. The park’s diverse ecosystems with vast savannas, lush forests, beautiful lakes, and rich wetlands, provide the ideal habitats for a wide range of wildlife. 95 recorded mammals including big game, 10 different species of primates (including chimpanzees), and over 600 bird species recorded. The park has best bird watching sites in Uganda but also Africa at large, you can possibly spot upto 300 bird species in a single day, this is overwhelming!

In the afternoon, we will embark on a boat tour on the Kazinga Channel, where we can observe herds of Elephant, Giant Forest Hog, Buffalo, Monitor lizard, Crocodiles, and abundant Hippopotamus. This area is also perfect for birdwatching, offering fantastic opportunities for photography. With luck, we may encounter flocks of African Skimmers, Great-white and Pink-backed Pelicans, Great and Long-tailed Cormorants, Open-billed Stork, African Skimmer, White-faced Whistling Duck, Marsh, Wood and Common Sandpipers, Malachite Kingfisher, African Jacana, African Wattled Plover, and more.

Day 12: Morning birding Imaramagambo forest

The Imaramagambo forest is a haven for birdwatching enthusiasts, especially in the early morning hours. The birds in the forest are most active during this time, making it the perfect opportunity to spot a variety of species. From the towering trees to the winding pathways, there are endless opportunities to catch a glimpse of beautiful and rare birds. Whether it’s the melodious call of the African paradise flycatcher or the vibrant plumage of the Great Blue Turaco, the Imaramagambo forest is a birding paradise worth exploring in the morning. 

weaver bird in Bigodi. Photo by Tara

Day 13: Birding Ishasha to Bwindi Impenetrable forest

Birding in Ishasha offers the opportunity to spot a variety of bird species, including the African grey parrot, white-breasted cormorant, and pink-backed pelican. The journey through Ishasha to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest provides a unique opportunity to spot the tree climbing lions and birds in the lush and diverse landscapes of southwestern Uganda.

Over 400 bird species have been recorded in Bwindi, of which 23 are Albertine Rift endemics. Including the globally threatened African Green Broadbill and the iconic African green pigeon, welcome to this region which is a paradise for birders.

Day 14: Gorilla trekking and birding nature walk

Gorilla trekking and birding nature walks are two exhilarating activities that provide a close encounter with nature and wildlife in the Bwindi ecosystem. Trekking through the lush forests of Africa in search of these magnificent creatures offers a sense of adventure and excitement unlike any other. Bwindi has more than half the population of the worlds remaining mountain gorillas. the Trekking experience starts in the morning and lasts for about 3 -8 hours depending on how far the gorillas are feeding.

Depending on the time you complete the gorilla trek, we will go back to the forest for a nature walks with interest of searching for different birding species. this offers an opportunity to explore the diverse ecosystems and landscapes, providing a deeper understanding and appreciation of this habitat for unique birds.

Mountain Gorilla Bwindi, Photo By; Tara

Day 15: Birding Buhoma Sector

The Buhoma sector in Uganda is a popular destination for bird watchers, with its diverse range of bird species and beautiful natural surroundings. On this full day birding in Bwindi,  we look forward to spotting a variety of colorful birds such as the African green broadbill, Shelley’s crimson-wing, and the mountain masked apalis. The Buhoma sector is also home to several endemic bird species, making it a must-visit for area in Uganda for avid birders. The lush green forests and unique landscape provide the perfect setting for birding activities, and visitors can enjoy guided bird-watching tours to make the most of their experience in this picturesque location.

Bwindi national park has 76 species of 144 Guinea – Congo Forest biome species that occur in Uganda, mainly recorded in the Northern sector of the forest. The area is also home to a significant amount of Afro tropical highland biome species, with 68 out of 86, as well as 4 out of 12 Lake Victoria biome species. This park is fortunate to have 90% the Albertine rift endemics, which are rarely seen in any other part of East Africa, as well as seven species listed in the IUCN red data. A good bird watcher can record over 150 species in a single day and tick the bird list.

Day 16: Birding watching to Ruhija via ‘the Neck’ of the forest

On this day birding in the park is amazing as we search for birds along the way from Buhoma to Ruhija, through the forest Uganda is an exceptional experience, especially when you venture through ‘the Neck’ of the forest. This area is known for its diverse bird species, offering birders the opportunity to spot a variety of colorful and unique birds in their natural habitat. As you explore the forest, you may come across the stunning Rwenzori turaco, the vibrant scarlet-tufted malachite sunbird, and the elusive African green broadbill. The lush and diverse landscape of Ruhija provides the perfect environment for birdwatching, making it an important birding area. Whether you are a novice birder or a seasoned expert, the birding experience in Ruhija is truly unparalleled.

Day 17: Birding Mubwindi Swamp trail in Ruhija Sector

The Mubwindi Swamp trail in the Ruhija Sector is a must-visit for birdwatching enthusiasts. This trail offers a unique opportunity to observe a wide variety of bird species in their natural habitat, on this whole day birding tour including the elusive African Green Broadbill and the Grauer’s Rush Warbler. The dense and diverse vegetation surrounding the swamp provides a rich ecosystem for birdlife, making it a prime destination for birders. The trail also offers stunning views of the lush, green landscape and the chance to spot other wildlife such as primates and butterflies. Birding along the Mubwindi Swamp trail is truly a memorable and rewarding experience for nature lovers and birdwatchers alike.

Ruhiija sector of Bwindi is a major highlight of any bird watching safari to Uganda with important birding spots. Hence we cant miss it on this 23 days Uganda birding tour. There are numerous birds in this area, and they are quite easy to spot. Various species of birds often feed together in groups that are active all day long. The best time to spot the Handsome Francolin, Cinnamon-chested bee-eater, western Green Tinkerbird, Mountain and yellow-streaked Greenbuls, Regal Sunbird, Black headed waxibill, Grauer’s warbler, Dusky Crimsonwing, White starred robin, Rwenzori Night jar, Mountain marked and chestnut-throated Apalises, Rwenzori batis, white-tailed crested Flycatcher and many other birds is early in the morning.

Day 18: Birding to Lake Bunyonyi

We leave leave Ruhijja and drive to lake Bunyonyi birding along the way.
Lake Bunyonyi is a home of many small birds, after which the name is derived from the local language. It offers a spectacular opportunity to spot a wide variety of bird species in their natural habitat.

This scenic lake in Uganda is home to over 200 species of birds, including kingfishers, weavers, herons, and sunbirds. You can paddle through the tranquil waters in a canoe or hike along the shores to catch glimpses of these beauty as we visit some of the 21 island bird the forests.

Day 19: Birding Lake Bunyonyi and the islands

We spend the whole day birding at Lake Bunyonyi and its islands with unique opportunities of spotting important birds. Some of the species we expect in this area include the African Harrier Hawk, White-tailed Blue Flycatcher, and the Grey-crowned Crane, birdwatchers are in for a treat. The lush surroundings and serene waters of Lake Bunyonyi provide a perfect setting for you to observe and photograph these beautiful of this area with beautiful rolling hills and islands dotted across the lake.

Day 20: Transfer to Lake Mburo and birding

After exploring the south Western arm of the country, we transfer to Lake Mburo National Park for more birding and game experiences. Lake Mburo with other 13 lakes in the region, forms part of a 50 kilometer long wetland system linked by a swamp. 5 of these lakes are located within the borders of the park. The park is known for its diverse birdlife as it is a home to over 350 bird species, making it a great birding destination in Uganda.

En-route to the park we have chances of encountering some of; the Red faced Barbet, Green backed wood pecker, Nubian Woodpecker, Tabora Cisticola,  Barefaced Go-away -bird, Crested Francolin, Emerald spotted wood Dove, Brown Parrot, Blue-napped Mousebird, Lilac-breasted Roller, Green Wood-hoopoe, common Scimitar-bill, African Grey Hornbill, Spot-flanked Barbet, Trilling Cisticola, Yellow-Breasted Apalis, Northern Black Flycatcher, Chin-spot Batis, and the Greater Blue-eared starling.

Day 21: Birding Lake Mburo National Park

Birding in Lake Mburo National Park offers a fantastic opportunity to spot a variety of birds and other wildlife on a game drive, walking Safari and boat trip on lake Mburo. The park’s varied landscapes, from open savannah to acacia woodlands and seasonal wetlands, provide a rich and diverse habitat for birds.

Some of the major birding sites include the Zebra track and the open grasslands to the north of the Rwonyo Camp. yet on the Lake Mburo safari we hope to see animals like Giraffes, Zebras, buffalos, water bucks, Elands, bush bucks, topi, Impala, warthogs mongoose and leopard.

Birds include the shy African Finfoot, white-backed night heron, Black Collard Barbet, Giant Kingfisher, Malachite Kingfisher, yet animals like crocodiles and hippos are commonly seen on a boat trip.

Day 22: Birding Mabamba Swamp and Transfer to Entebbe

Birding Mabamba Swamp is a must-do experience for a bird enthusiasts on any Uganda Safari, not only the bird watching safaris. As it offers a chance to spot the elusive shoebill stork in its natural habitat. We will drive to the equator for a quick detour before heading to Mabamba swamp. Here we will get our guide to the small canoes and hit the waters of Lake Victoria shores. Search for Majestic African bird, the Shoebill. Once we site and enjoy photographic moments, it will mark a happy ending of our 23 days best of Uganda birding safari. Transfer to Entebbe for an overnight or even departure for late night flights.

Shoebill stork in Mabamba. Photo by Tara

Day 23: End of the Best of Uganda birding safari

As the Best of Uganda birding safari has come to an end, filled with memories of vibrant and rare bird sightings in the pearl of Africa, you will transfer to the airport in time to check in for you flight back home or to the next destination. Thank you for choosing to take part in this enriching bird watching experience in the heart of Africa.

What to bring for birding in Uganda: What to Pack for a Uganda Bird watching tour

When preparing for a birding tour in Uganda, there are a few essential items to pack. First and foremost, a good pair of binoculars is a must-have for spotting the diverse avian species. A good Camera and lenses for capturing breathtaking sightings of the beautiful birds.

Additionally, a field guide to Ugandan birds can be helpful for identifying different species, a birding app or checklist. Comfortable walking shoes, lightweight clothing, and a hat for sun protection are also important, as well as insect repellent and sunscreen, a reusable water bottle and snacks for energy during long days of bird watching are also important to have at hand. Some of these are provided as will be advised by you Birding Safari Expert. Do not forget to carry your passport, visa and medication!

Birds of Uganda, for Birdwatching in Uganda East Africa

Uganda is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 1,100 bird species recorded on the Uganda birding list found across her varied habitats. This makes Uganda a top birdwatching destination in East Africa and a prime African birding haven as well. Birdwatchers can spot rare and unique species such as the shoebill stork, African green broadbill, and African finfoot, as well as a variety of colorful kingfishers, turacos, and weavers. On this Birding Tour you have chances of spotting several of these bird species including Albertine endemics.

Check out our article to read more about birds of Uganda.

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