36-Day Uganda Birding and Wildlife Tour
Led by expert local guides, this birding journey offers unrivalled opportunities to spot Uganda’s most sought-after species, including the prehistoric Shoebill, dazzling Green-breasted Pitta, and elusive Grauer’s Broadbill. You will also enjoy incredible mammal encounters—track Mountain Gorillas, observe playful Chimpanzees, and witness classic African game on thrilling safaris.
The itinerary is designed for passionate birdwatchers, wildlife lovers, and photographers seeking an immersive experience in one of Africa’s most biodiverse destinations. As you explore Important Bird Areas (IBAs), Ramsar Wetlands, and UNESCO World Heritage sites, expect a slow-paced, traditional birding experience with plenty of time for photography and cultural interaction.
From dawn birding walks and forest treks to serene boat cruises and community visits, this cross-country Uganda safari promises breathtaking landscapes, intimate wildlife experiences, and memories that last a lifetime.
Day 1: AM & PM Birding at Entebbe Botanical Gardens
Start The Uganda Guided Cross-Country Birding Tour
Uganda Birding and Nature Tour begins at the renowned Entebbe Botanical Gardens, located along the northern shores of Lake Victoria. Spanning 40.7 hectares and straddling the Equator, these lush gardens are a paradise for both beginner and seasoned birders.
Morning and Afternoon Birding Sessions
As you wander through this verdant haven, prepare to be captivated by a dazzling array of birdlife. Keep your binoculars ready for magnificent sightings of the Eastern Plantain-eater, a charismatic member of the Turaco family. These gardens are also home to the Splendid Starling, showing off its vibrant, glossy blue plumage, and the cheerful calls of Yellow-fronted and Yellow-rumped Tinkerbirds.
Iconic Birds to Spot
Black-and-white-casqued Hornbill
Shikra and Bat Hawk overhead
Sunbirds galore: Red-chested, Scarlet-chested, Green-headed, Green-throated, and Olive-bellied
Gray Parrot and Crowned Hornbill
The striking Black-headed Gonolek
A Rich Birding and Wildlife Experience
Venture deeper into the botanical gardens, where the White-browed and Snowy-crowned Robin-chats fill the air with their melodious songs. Look out for the Double-toothed Barbet and the flamboyant Ross’s Turaco, while Speckled Mousebirds flit through the undergrowth.
In addition to its avian diversity, the gardens are home to Vervet Monkeys and the elegant Mantled Guereza, adding a rewarding wildlife dimension to your experience.
Day 2: Birding Mabamba Ramsar Site & Nkima Forest Lodge
Uganda Guided Cross Country Birding Tour Continues
Morning: Birding at Mabamba Wetlands
After an early breakfast, we set out for Mabamba Wetlands, an internationally recognized Ramsar site and Important Bird Area. This protected swamp on the shores of Lake Victoria is famed as one of the world’s best locations to see the Shoebill Stork, Uganda’s most iconic bird. With an 80% success rate, Mabamba offers an unforgettable opportunity to observe this prehistoric-looking species up close.
Birding En Route
While driving to Mabamba, we’ll keep an eye out for:
African Green Pigeon
Great Blue Turaco
Lizard Buzzard
Long-crested Eagle, often perched on roadside snags
Boat Safari for Shoebill and Waterbirds
We will take a community-led boat excursion through Mabamba’s papyrus channels. Beyond the Shoebill, you can expect sightings of:
White-backed, Yellow-billed, and White-faced Whistling Ducks
Malachite Kingfisher
Long-toed Lapwing
Blue-breasted Bee-eater
Seasonal migrants, including Blue-cheeked Bee-eater and Madagascar Bee-eater
Afternoon Birding Around Nkima Forest Lodge
In the afternoon, we explore the lush grounds of Nkima Forest, a sanctuary for forest and woodland species. Highlights include:
Purple-throated Cuckooshrike
Olive Sunbird
White-throated Bee-eater
Brown-throated Wattle-eye
African Paradise Flycatcher
The peaceful forest trails around the lodge provide excellent bird photography opportunities as the light softens in the afternoon.
Day 3: Birding Mpanga Forest and Transfer to Mabira Forest
Uganda Guided Cross Country Birding Tour
Morning: Mpanga Forest Birding
Start your day with a two-hour birding excursion in the ancient Mpanga Forest, home to more than 300 species of birds. This forest’s unique habitat supports both Guinea-Congo biome species and endemic forest specialists.
Birds to look out for include:
White-spotted Flufftail
Blue-breasted Kingfisher
Narina Trogon
Western Nicator
Grey-throated Tit-flycatcher
Birding Deeper into the Forest
As we move deeper into the forest, we search for:
Fire-crested Alethe
Scaly-breasted Illadopsis
Congo Pied Hornbill
Red-headed Malimbe
Chestnut Wattle-eye
Western Black-headed Oriole
Despite being a closed forest, Mpanga occasionally hosts species from nearby open habitats, including:
Hooded Vulture
Palm-nut Vulture
African Harrier-Hawk
Day 4: Birding Mabira Forest
On this day of your Uganda Guided Cross Country Birding Tour, we dedicate our time to exploring the incredible biodiversity of Mabira Forest.
Birding the Trails of Mabira
Our morning begins along the Red-tailed Monkey, Turacos, and Buttress trails, each offering excellent birding opportunities. The forest’s towering canopy and thick undergrowth provide habitat for a rich variety of birdlife. As we walk quietly, we are serenaded by the melodious calls of forest residents.
Highlights of Mabira Forest Birding
Nahan’s Francolin (endangered and endemic)
Lowland Sooty Boubou
Buff-spotted Woodpecker
Golden-crowned Woodpecker
Jameson’s Wattle-eye
Red-capped Robin-chat
Uganda Woodland Warbler
Lesser Bristlebill
As you explore, marvel at the intricate life systems thriving in this forest—an unforgettable experience for any birdwatcher or nature enthusiast.
Day 5: Morning Birding Walk & Transfer to Soroti
Guinea-Congo Biome Birding Adventure
After breakfast, we take one last walk through Mabira to pursue additional species we may have missed. The Guinea-Congo forest biome here supports several elusive forest birds. Our expert guides will lead the search for sought-after species.
Morning Birding Targets
Forest Robin
Brown-chested Alethe
Fire-crested Alethe
African Dwarf Kingfisher
Sabine’s and Cassin’s Spinetails
Raptors including Cassin’s Hawk-Eagle, Ayres’s Hawk-Eagle, and the regal African Crowned Eagle
We scan the upper canopy for Yellow Longbill and Grey Longbill, while colorful species like Great Blue Turaco and Black-billed Turaco call from above.
Afternoon Transfer to Soroti
Day 6: Birding Pakwi for Fox’s Weaver & Karamoja Apalis
Explore Uganda’s Rare and National Endemic Bird Species
Departing early from Soroti, we travel to Pakwi Wetland in the Kumi district. This semi-arid yet thriving habitat is famous for two of Uganda’s most sought-after endemics.
Search for Uganda’s Only Endemic Weaver
The Fox’s Weaver, Uganda’s only true endemic bird, nests in the whistling thorn acacia. We patiently observe the weaver colonies and listen for their distinctive calls. These birds are specialized ant-eaters and can often be seen in small groups or pairs.
Encounter the Elusive Karamoja Apalis
This tiny warbler prefers the dry acacia and Combretum thickets. It may take patience, but the reward of sighting the Karamoja Apalis makes the effort worthwhile.
Other Birding Highlights in Pakwi
Clapperton’s Francolin
Raptors such as Wahlberg’s Eagle and Bateleur
White-headed Buffalo-Weaver
Northern Red-billed Hornbill
Various finches and cisticolas among the dry woodlands
Afternoon Transfer to Sipi Falls
After a rewarding morning, we travel to Sipi Falls, located on the lower slopes of Mount Elgon.
Day 7: Birding Mount Elgon National Park
High-Altitude Birding in Uganda’s Eastern Highlands
Today’s focus is exploring the montane forests of Mount Elgon National Park. While we will not go beyond 2,200 meters, the Mountains rise to over 4,000 meters and harbor unique Afro-montane bird species adapted to cooler climates and higher elevations.
Birding the Forest Trails
Our journey takes us along forested trails, where moss-draped trees and ancient boulders create a magical atmosphere. We listen for the subtle calls of some of Uganda’s most prized montane birds.
Key Birding Highlights
Abyssinian Ground Thrush
Black-throated Wattle-eye
Black-collared Apalis
Scaly-throated Honeyguide
Abyssinian Crimsonwing
Hartlaub’s Turaco
Amethyst and Golden-winged Sunbirds
Delgorgue’s Pigeon
Lemon Dove
Brown Parisoma
We may also spot primates such as Blue Monkeys and Black-and-white Colobus, as they move gracefully through the canopy.
Day 8: Birding to Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve
Uganda’s Untamed Wilderness on the Uganda Guided Cross Country Birding Tour
Today’s journey takes us northeast to Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve, a remote and pristine sanctuary renowned for its vast open plains, dramatic rocky outcrops, and diverse wildlife. As one of Uganda’s largest protected areas, Pian Upe offers a truly off-the-beaten-path birding experience.
Exploring Uncharted Territory
Upon arrival, we begin birding through virgin grasslands and wooded savannahs, habitats that support a remarkable diversity of dry-country bird species. As we traverse the sweeping landscape, the calls of birds echo through the arid plains, creating an unforgettable symphony of nature.
Dry Country Birding Highlights
Expect to encounter a variety of specialised bird species, including:
Yellow-throated Bush Sparrow
Stone Partridge
Reichnow’s Seed-eater
Red-winged Pytilia
Foxy Lark
Red-fronted Tinkerbird
Common Ostrich
Secretary Bird
The endemic Karamoja Apalis, often seen flitting among the acacia thickets.
With luck, we may also spot birds of prey such as the Bateleur and Wahlberg’s Eagle soaring above.
Day 9: Birding Drives in Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve
Today, we dedicate our time to in-depth birding drives through Pian Upe’s diverse habitats. From wide-open grasslands to pockets of dense woodland, each area offers its own unique birding opportunities.
Day 10: Birding to Moroto
Journey Through Uganda’s Eastern Drylands on the Cross Country Birding Tour
This morning, we depart Pian Upe and continue east toward Mount Kadam and the Moroto region, areas rich in birdlife and dramatic landscapes.
Exploring the Dry Country
As we drive through acacia-dotted savannahs and thorny scrublands, we search for classic dry-country species. These arid regions are home to many unique birds, perfectly adapted to their environment.
Birding Highlights Along the Route
Rufous Chatterer
d’Arnaud’s Barbet
Blue-capped Whydah
Steel-blue Whydah
Yellow-necked Spurfowl
Raptors such as Lanner Falcon and Dark Chanting Goshawk
We arrive at Moroto, a charming town at the foot of Mount Moroto. Here, we settle in for a two-night stay, preparing for in-depth birding explorations in the surrounding Matheniko-Bokora Wildlife Reserve and mountain slopes.
Day 11: Birding the Lower Slopes of Mount Moroto Towards Kenya
Searching for Restricted Range Species in Uganda’s Northeast
Today, we venture deep into the lower slopes of Mount Moroto, near the Kenya border. These slopes are a haven for restricted-range species and offer birders the chance to tick some of the region’s most localized birds off their lists.
Birding Highlights on Mount Moroto
We focus on spotting:
Little Rock Thrush
Bristle-crowned Starling
Brown-tailed Rock Chat
Red-and-yellow Barbet
Raptors including Lanner Falcon, Peregrine Falcon, and Red-footed Falcon
Songbirds such as Three-streaked Tchagra and Singing Bush Lark
Sunbirds like Shining Sunbird, Hunter’s Sunbird, and Tacazze Sunbird
The landscape here is both rugged and beautiful, offering a rewarding experience for photographers and traditional birders alike.
Day 12: Birding to Kidepo Valley National Park
Journey into the Wild on the Uganda Birding and Wildlife Tour
Today’s highlight is the scenic transfer to Kidepo Valley National Park, Uganda’s most remote and unspoiled savannah wilderness.
The Route to Kidepo
We travel through striking scenery, from ancient kopjes to endless savannah plains, each filled with birdlife and big game. Along the way, we scan for:
Foxy Kestrel
Pygmy Falcon
Yellow-necked Spurfowl
Grey Wren-Warbler
Harlequin Quail
Wildlife Encounters
As we get closer to Kidepo Valley, the chances of encountering large mammals increase. Look out for:
Lions basking in the sun
Buffalo herds grazing on open plains
Zebra, Maneless Zebra, Waterbuck, Uganda Kob, and Lelwel’s Hartebeest roaming freely
Day 13, 14 & 15: Birding Kidepo Valley National Park
Explore Uganda’s Wild Frontier on the Uganda Guided Cross Country Birding Tour
Over the next three days, we explore Kidepo Valley National Park, Uganda’s most remote and breathtaking wilderness. This unspoiled savannah offers rich biodiversity, unique landscapes, and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Each day, we embark on birding excursions across Kidepo’s diverse habitats, from the open grasslands of Narus Valley to the rugged kopjes and acacia woodlands of Kidepo Valley. The park’s position within the Somali-Masai biome makes it a hotspot for bird species rarely seen elsewhere in Uganda.
Birding Highlights in Kidepo
During our time here, we search for:
Black-breasted Barbet
Purple Grenadier
Rosy-ringed Parakeet
Chestnut Sparrow
Chestnut Weaver
African Silverbill
Eastern Paradise Whydah and Straw-tailed Whydah
Red-fronted Barbet
Yellow-bellied Eremomela and Yellow-vented Eremomela
White-fronted Black Chat
Bustards such as Hartlaub’s, Buff-crested, Kori, White-bellied, Denham’s, and Black-bellied Bustards
Hornbills including Northern Red-billed, African Grey, Jackson’s, and Hamprich’s Hornbills
The diversity of birds in this remote park offers both seasoned birders and nature photographers plenty of exciting opportunities.
Wildlife and Mammal Encounters
Beyond birding, Kidepo Valley National Park boasts some of Uganda’s most iconic mammals. Additional regular sightings include:
African Lion
Leopard, often spotted hunting at dusk
White-eared Kob
Mongela Gazele
Gunther’s Dik-dik
Oribi and African Buffalo
For wildlife photographers, these plains offer an excellent chance to capture big game in striking landscapes.
Day 16: Birding Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park
A Scenic Birding Journey Across Northern Uganda
Today we leave Kidepo behind and make our way south-west to Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and one of its most celebrated wildlife areas. Along the way, we traverse a variety of habitats that offer excellent birding opportunities.
The journey itself becomes a birding adventure as we pass through Kitgum and Gulu, stopping at key locations to stretch our legs and scan for birdlife.
Yellow Bishop
Red-faced Cisticola
Swallow-tailed Bee-eater
Abyssinian Ground Hornbill
Brown Snake Eagle
Red-necked Falcon
Helmeted Guineafowl, often seen in roadside scrub
Day 17 & 18: Birding Murchison Falls National Park
Exploring the Southern Sudan and Congo Savannah Stretch Specialties
We begin with a focus on the Southern Sudan stretch of Murchison Falls, where open savannah habitats and scattered woodlands are home to a wealth of bird species and large mammals.
Key Bird Species to Spot:
Speckle-fronted Weaver
Foxy Cisticola
Orange-winged Pytilia
Red-necked Falcon
Denham’s Bustard
Black-headed Lapwing
Northern Carmine Bee-eater, often in flight
Chestnut-crowned Sparrow-Weaver
Pale and Gambaga Flycatchers
Rare and Threatened Species
With patience and sharp eyes, we may encounter the critically endangered White-headed Vulture, an unforgettable highlight for conservation-focused birders.
Victoria Nile Boat Cruise: A Birding and Wildlife Experience
A scenic three-hour boat cruise along the Victoria Nile brings us close to the base of Murchison Falls, where the Nile squeezes through a narrow gorge in a thundering cascade.
Birds of Interest on the Cruise:
Giant Kingfisher
Dusky Babbler
Red-winged Grey Warbler
Pel’s Fishing Owl (a prized sighting!)
Sulphur-breasted and Grey-headed Bush-shrikes
White-crested Turaco
Rock Pratincole, often on rocky outcrops
Evening Birding and Night Safari
As dusk falls, we embark on an evening birding drive, hoping to encounter nocturnal birds such as:
Long-tailed Nightjar
Standard-winged Nightjar
Swamp and Square-tailed Nightjars
Slender-tailed Nightjar
Pennant-winged Nightjar
Additionally, we may spot nocturnal mammals like:
White-tailed Mongoose
Blotched Genet
Bunyoro Rabbit
Emin’s Gerbil
Day 19: Transfer to Masindi via the Top of Murchison Falls
After breakfast, we visit the top of Murchison Falls, where the mighty Nile River is forced through a narrow 7-meter gorge. The view is breathtaking and provides fantastic photography opportunities.
En Route Birding on the Butiaba Escarpment
As we drive toward Masindi, we pass through the scenic Butiaba escarpment, known for its diverse birdlife and panoramic views.
Birds to Look For:
Mocking Cliff Chat
Black-faced Waxbill
Cut-throat Finch
Shelley’s Rufous Sparrow
Grey and Rock Kestrels
Beautiful Sunbird
Northern Red Bishop
Green-backed Eremomela
Red-collared Widowbird
Raptors and Others
Martial Eagle
Banded Snake-Eagle
Black-chested and Beaudouin’s Snake-Eagles
White Helmet-shrike
Green-winged Pytilia
Black-billed Barbet
Black and Red-shouldered Cuckoo-shrike
Day 20: Birding the Royal Mile, Budongo Forest
Discover Uganda’s Forest Birding Gem on the Uganda Guided Cross Country Birding Tour
We set out early for Budongo Forest’s Royal Mile, one of the best birding sites in Uganda. Named after Omukama Kabalega, this wide forest trail offers exceptional bird photography and birdwatching opportunities.
Edge Habitats Before the Forest
As we approach, we scan cultivation areas for species such as:
Cabanis’s Bunting
Brown Twinspot
Black-bellied, Brown and Black-bellied Firefinch
Grey-headed Oliveback
Compact Weaver
Wahlberg’s Eagle
White-thighed Hornbill
Forest Canopy and Interior Highlights
Once inside the Royal Mile, we search for forest specialists.
Kingfishers:
African Dwarf Kingfisher
Blue-breasted Kingfisher
Chocolate-backed Kingfisher
Forest Treasures:
Chestnut-capped Flycatcher
Rufous-crowned Eremomela
Forest Flycatcher
Ituri Batis
Cassin’s Honeyguide
Nahan’s Francolin
Additional Targets:
Jameson’s Wattle-eye
Fire-crested Alethe
Pale-breasted Illadopsis
Spotted Greenbul
Yellow-browed Camaroptera
Lemon-bellied Crombec
Tit Hylia
This immersive day in Budongo will reward us with numerous Guinea-Congo Forest Biome specialties and lowland forest birds, making it a must-do on any Uganda birdwatching tour.
Day 21: Birding Kaniyo Pabidi & Transfer to Fort Portalur
Our morning begins with a visit to the Kaniyo Pabidi Forest, located in the southern sector of Murchison Falls National Park. This tranquil forest enclave offers a unique birding experience, especially for forest specialists and restricted-range species.
Target Species and Highlights
Our primary focus will be the elusive Puvel’s Illadopsis, a range-restricted bird species that thrives in the undergrowth. As we search for this rarity, we may also encounter:
White-naped Pigeon
Pale-breasted Illadopsis
Brown Illadopsis
Scaly-breasted Illadopsis
En Route Birding Opportunities
As we make our way towards Fort Portal, we will pause for birding at strategic spots along the route. We hope to spot charming species such as the Brown Babbler, Red-backed Scrub-Robin and Brown-backed Scrub-Robin, as well as raptors and forest edge birds.
Later in the day, we arrive in Fort Portal, set against the backdrop of the Rwenzori Mountains.
Day 22 & 23: Birding Semuliki Forest
Discover the Easternmost Extension of the Guinea-Congo Biome
Over the next two days, we explore Semuliki National Park, a pristine expanse that represents the easternmost edge of the Guinea-Congo forest biome. This birding hotspot links directly to the Ituri Forest of DR Congo, making it a critical area for restricted-range species.
Canopy Giants and Forest Specials
Among the towering trees, we scan for:
Piping Hornbill
Eastern Long-tailed Hornbill
Red-billed Dwarf Hornbill
Black-casqued Hornbill
Eastern Dwarf Hornbill
Forest Undergrowth and Mid-Level Favourites
On our walks along the Kirumia Trail, we aim for several Semuliki specialities:
Grant’s Bluebill
Yellow-footed Flycatcher
Crested and Blue-billed Malimbe
Red-bellied Malimbe
Chestnut and Pale-fronted Nigrita
Yellow-lored Bristlebill
Red-billed Helmet-shrike
African Paradise Flycatcher
Quest for Endemic and Rare Birds
Our time in Semuliki may reward us with views of highly sought-after birds such as:
African Dwarf Kingfisher
Hartlaub’s Duck
Congo Serpent Eagle
Long-tailed Hawk
Grey-throated Rail
Nkulengu Rail
Lyre-tailed Honeyguide
Shining-blue Kingfisher
Black-throated Coucal
Xavier’s Greenbul
Red-tailed Ant-Thrush
Crested Malimbe
Day 24: Morning Birding & Optional PM Chimpanzee Trekking
Birding and Primate Encounters in Kibale Forest National Park
Today, we explore Kibale Forest, known as the “primate capital of the world,” offering a superb combination of forest birding and primate viewing.
Birding for Uganda’s Star Species
Our focus is on tracking the elusive and highly sought-after Green-breasted Pitta, an African birding jewel. Alongside, we will be on the lookout for:
White-throated Greenbul
Western Nicator
Crowned Eagle
Blue-breasted Kingfisher
Optional Afternoon: Chimpanzee Tracking Experience
For those interested, an optional chimpanzee trekking excursion is available in the afternoon. Kibale Forest is home to over 1450 chimpanzees, offering rare opportunities to observe these intelligent primates in their natural habitat. Watch as they forage, play, and interact in their complex social groups.
Day 25: Birding Bigodi Wetland & Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Explore the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary – Uganda’s Community-Led Conservation Success
Our day begins with a morning birding walk in the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a community-run project that showcases how conservation and local livelihoods can coexist harmoniously.
Birding Highlights in Bigodi
We explore the swamp’s trails and boardwalks, searching for:
Black-and-white Shrike-flycatcher
Blue-throated Roller
Great Blue Turaco
Yellow-spotted and Yellow-billed Barbet
Papyrus Gonolek (seasonal)
White-collared Oliveback
Speckle-breasted Woodpecker
Primate Sightings
As we meander through Bigodi, we also look out for:
Uganda Red Colobus
Uganda Mangabey
Olive Baboon
Mantled Guereza (Black-and-white Colobus Monkey)
L’Hoest’s Monkey
Blue Monkey
Afternoon Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
After lunch, we depart for Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of Uganda’s most scenic and wildlife-rich parks. As we approach, we cross the Equator line and pass through tea plantations and crater lakes, setting the tone for the diverse landscapes we will explore in the coming days.
Day 26: Wildlife Excursions and Scenic Boat Ride
Morning Game Drive in Kasenyi – Queen Elizabeth National Park
At sunrise, we embark on an exhilarating game drive across the sweeping grasslands and scattered thickets of Kasenyi Plains. This area is a prime wildlife and birding destination within Queen Elizabeth National Park, offering encounters with iconic species and vibrant birdlife.
Birding Highlights
During the game drive, bird enthusiasts can expect sightings of:
Verreaux’s Eagle-Owl
Rufous-naped Lark
White-tailed Lark
Red-capped Lark
Flappet Lark
We may also spot Temminck’s Courser, Black-crowned Lapwing, Senegal Lapwing, and Wattled Lapwing in the open plains. Overhead, White-backed Vultures and Rüppell’s Griffon Vultures circle gracefully.
A special highlight is witnessing the lekking displays of Uganda Kob antelopes, an unforgettable spectacle of wildlife behaviour in this open savannah habitat.
Afternoon Boat Ride on the Kazinga Channel
After lunch, we take a leisurely boat safari along the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway linking Lake George to Lake Edward. This 40-kilometre cruise offers breathtaking scenery and close encounters with aquatic birds and mammals.
Key Birding Species
African Skimmers
African Spoonbills
Gull-billed Terns
White-winged Terns
Yellow-billed Storks
Woolly-necked Storks
Marabou Storks
Great White Pelicans
Pink-backed Pelicans
Watch for Red-throated Bee-eaters, perched along the banks, and enjoy the constant presence of Hippos, Nile Crocodiles, and African Elephants.
Optional Evening Game Drive
For those seeking more adventure, an optional short evening drive may reveal nocturnal species like the Square-tailed Nightjar and Black-shouldered Nightjar, offering a memorable end to an extraordinary day.
Day 27: Birding En Route to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Morning Birding Through the Ishasha Sector
Today’s journey takes us south through Ishasha Sector, the southern wilderness of Queen Elizabeth National Park. While this area is famous for its tree-climbing lions, it also offers rich birdwatching opportunities.
Birding Targets
Gabar Goshawk
White-headed Vulture
Lappet-faced Vulture
Rufous-breasted Sparrowhawk
Banded Snake-Eagle
Among the grasslands and riverine areas, we will look for:
Wing-snapping Cisticola
Croaking Cisticola
Stout Cisticola
White-winged Widowbirds
White-headed Barbets
Pin-tailed Whydahs
Moustached Grass-Warblers
Broad-tailed Grassbirds
Greater Painted-Snipe
Malagasy Pond-Heron
Scaly Francolin
Red-necked Francolin
Day 28: Birding the Buhoma Section of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Exploring the Buhoma Main Trail – Birding the Guinea-Congo and Albertine Rift Transition Zone
Buhoma is the gateway to the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and offers a rich birding experience where Guinea-Congo lowland and Albertine Rift montane species coexist.
Morning Birding in Secondary Forest
As we explore the secondary forest along the Buhoma Main Trail, we listen for the calls of:
Grey-winged Robin-Chat
Red-capped Robin-Chat
Blue-shouldered Robin-Chat
Snowy-crowned Robin-Chat
Grey Apalis
Black-throated Apalis
Buff-throated Apalis
We may also spot:
Grey-headed Nigrita
White-breasted Nigrita
White-bellied Robin-Chat
Cabanis’s Greenbul
Red-headed Malimbe
Dusky Tit
Red-chested Cuckoo
Klaas’s Cuckoo
African Emerald Cuckoo
Chubb’s Cisticola
Northern Shrike
Mackinnon’s Shrike
Afternoon Birding in Primary Forest
Deeper into the primary forest, we’ll seek out:
African Shrike-Flycatcher
African Broadbill
Red-throated Alethe
Red-tailed Bristlebill
Red-tailed Greenbul
Neumann’s Warbler
Kivu Ground-Thrush (rare and elusive)
Mixed flocks may include:
Golden-crowned Woodpecker
Jameson’s Antpecker
Cassin’s Honeyguide
Petit’s Cuckooshrike
Willard’s Sooty Boubou (recently split species)
Day 29: Birdwatching Adventure to Ruhija via “The Neck”
Birding at “The Neck”
The Neck is a narrow, forested corridor linking lowland and highland ecosystems. At 1,500 meters above sea level, this zone offers an extraordinary mix of species. Expect sightings of the Mountain Wagtail and the swift Cassin’s Flycatcher darting over rocky streams.
As we birdwatch along through, we should encounter several Greenbuls such as Plain, Little, Grey, Toro Olive, Red-tailed, Ansorge’s, Shelley’s, and Honeyguide Greenbuls. Sunbirds will brighten the canopy with their iridescent flashes: look for Little Green, Green, Olive, and Blue-throated Sunbirds.
Avian Highlights
As we continue, we hope to spot:
Black Bee-eater
Yellow-throated Tinkerbird
Speckled Tinkerbird
White-tailed Ant-thrush
Black-faced Rufous Warbler
Grey-green and Many-colored Bush-Shrikes
Dusky Blue Flycatcher
Scaly-breasted Illadopsis
Bar-tailed Trogon
Buff-throated Apalis
African Black Duck
Little Grebe
Day 30: Optional Mountain Gorilla Trekking and Avian Exploration
Eastern Mountain Gorilla Trekking
Today offers an extraordinary experience: the chance to track Eastern Mountain Gorillas in their natural habitat. After breakfast, we meet at the ranger station for a safety briefing. Trekking can last from one to eight hours, depending on the gorilla family’s location, and requires a moderate fitness level.
Encounter with the Gorillas
As we navigate through thick forest, anticipation builds. When we find them, watching a gorilla family up close is a profoundly moving moment. We observe their gentle interactions: feeding, grooming, and young gorillas playing under the watchful eye of a silverback. This once-in-a-lifetime experience deepens our appreciation for primate conservation.
Afternoon Avian Exploration
After the gorilla trek, we will continue our birding adventure with a relaxed walk through the community secondary forest.
Look out for:
Barred Long-tailed Cuckoo
Olive Long-tailed Cuckoo
Grauer’s Warbler
Black-tailed Oriole
Lühder’s Bush-Shrike
Other species likely include:
Albertine Sooty Boubou
Rwenzori and Black-faced Apalises
Mountain Yellow Warbler
Banded Prinia
White-browed Crombec
Strange Weaver
Northern Puffback
Mountain Illadopsis
Red-throated Alethe
Doherty’s, Grey-green and Lagden’s Bush-Shrikes
Day 31: Birding Ruhija – Africa’s Top Birding Spot by The ABC
Morning Birding in Ruhija
Situated at over 2,300 meters, Ruhija is among Africa’s top birding destinations. The lush montane forest supports numerous Albertine Rift endemics and other high-elevation specialists.
Key Birding Targets
Along Ruhija’s forest trails, we search for:
White-tailed Blue Flycatcher
Black-throated Apalis
Narina Trogon
Yellow-streaked Greenbul
Mubwindi Swamp Expedition
Descending to the Mubwindi Swamp, we explore a hotspot famous for rare endemics. This wetland area is critical for:
Grauer’s Rush Warbler
Grauer’s Broadbill
Other potential sightings include:
Red-chested Owlet
Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher
Yellow-bellied Waxbill
Waller’s, Sharpe’s, and Slender-billed Starlings
Dusky Crimsonwing
Brown-capped Weaver
Yellow-crowned Canary
Olive Woodpecker
More Elusive Species
Patience may reward us with sightings of:
Grey-chested Babbler
Oriole Finch
White-bellied Crested Flycatcher
We’ll also keep watch for the Black-fronted Duiker, one of Bwindi’s shy but iconic forest antelope species.
Day 32: Birding Journey to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Scenic Transfer into the Virunga Ranges
Today, we journey deeper into the majestic Virunga Mountains, arriving at Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda’s smallest but incredibly diverse national park. The dramatic scenery of volcanic peaks sets the stage for birding adventures in search of Albertine Rift endemics.
Albertine Rift Specials
Mgahinga is home to some of the most elusive and sought-after species in Africa. We’ll search for:
Rwenzori Double-collared Sunbird (Stuhlmann’s)
Rwenzori Turaco
Handsome Francolin
Shelley’s Crimsonwing (rare!)
Stripe-breasted Tit
Rwenzori Batis
White-browed Crombec
The distinctive call of the White-naped Raven often echoes through the valleys, while the Purple-breasted Sunbirddazzles with iridescent colours as it feeds.
Day 33: Exploring Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Montane Birding Adventure
Today is dedicated to exploring the misty montane forests and bamboo zones of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. The high-altitude environment hosts a range of endemic birds rarely seen elsewhere.
Key Birding Targets
We will search for:
Rwenzori Turaco
Dwarf Honeyguide
Kivu Ground Thrush
Ruwenzori Nightjar
Dusky Turtle Dove
Lagden’s Bush-shrike
Bonus Primate Encounters
Besides birds, we may encounter Golden Monkeys, a striking species endemic to the Albertine Rift forests. Their playful behavior and golden coats add extra excitement to the day.
Days 34 & 35: Exploring Lake Mburo National Park
Scenic Transfer and Birding En Route
We descend from the highlands and travel to Lake Mburo National Park, a scenic savannah and woodland park teeming with birds and mammals. Along the way, we may spot:
Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater
African Stonechat
Red-faced Barbet
Black-collared and Crested Barbet
Long-tailed and Singing Cisticolas
Red-necked Francolin
Verreaux’s Eagle-Owl
Birding in the Papyrus Swamps
The papyrus-lined wetlands host some of Uganda’s most localized species. Expect to find:
Papyrus Gonolek
Papyrus Yellow Warbler
White-winged Swamp Warbler
Papyrus Canary
Greater Swamp Warbler
Wildlife Viewing
Lake Mburo is also excellent for mammal viewing. We’ll watch for:
Bohor Reedbuck
Topi
Waterbuck
Common Eland (Africa’s largest antelope)
Impala (naturally exclusive to this park in Uganda)
Dwarf Mongoose and Common Warthog
Optional activities include a boat cruise on Lake Mburo or a night drive to spot nocturnal wildlife like the Leopard or White-tailed Mongoose.
Day 36: Return to Entebbe for Departure
After a final morning of birding at Lake Mburo, we make our way back to Entebbe, passing through the Equator Line for a memorable photo opportunity. The journey marks the conclusion of our 36-Day Uganda Birding and Wildlife Safari, leaving us with a lifetime of unforgettable experiences and a bird list of remarkable diversity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the best time for the Uganda Birding and Nature Tour?
The tour is ideal year-round, but the dry seasons from December to February and June to August offer the best birdwatching and photography conditions. During these months, forest trails are more accessible, and migratory birds boost species counts.
2. How physically demanding is the tour?
This itinerary is moderately demanding. Some days involve forest hikes and mountain trails, especially during Gorilla trekking and birding in montane areas. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended. Trekking poles can be helpful.
3. Do I need a special permit for Gorilla and Chimpanzee tracking?
Yes. Gorilla and Chimpanzee tracking require permits, which are included in your tour package with Avian Safaris. Early booking is advised as permits are limited and sell out fast.
4. What bird species can I expect to see on this trip?
Expect over 500 species, including Albertine Rift endemics like Grauer’s Broadbill, Shelley’s Crimsonwing, and Rwenzori Turaco. Key highlights include the Shoebill, Green-breasted Pitta, and Fox’s Weaver.
5. What camera equipment is recommended for bird photography?
We recommend a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a telephoto lens of at least 400mm. Don’t forget extra batteries, memory cards, and a rain cover. A tripod or monopod can be helpful for stability.
6. What kind of accommodation should I expect?
Accommodations range from comfortable safari lodges and tented camps to boutique guesthouses, each chosen for proximity to key birding areas and their warm hospitality. All offer en-suite facilities and full board.
7. Is there Wi-Fi available during the tour?
Wi-Fi is available at most lodges and camps, but the connection can be slow or unreliable in remote locations. Disconnecting from the digital world enhances the wilderness experience!
8. Are there health precautions I should take?
Yes. A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for entry into Uganda. We also recommend malaria prophylaxis and carrying insect repellent. Travel insurance that covers medical emergencies is essential.
9. What is the group size for this tour?
Avian Safaris ensures a small group size of 4 to 8 participants. This allows for personalized attention, better birding experiences, and enhanced photographic opportunities.
10. How do I book this tour?
You can book directly through Avian Safaris’ website or contact their customer service team for customized bookings and additional information.
Responsible Travel and Conservation Note
At Avian Safaris, responsible travel and conservation are at the heart of everything we do. We are passionate about protecting Uganda’s remarkable biodiversity and ensuring that our tours contribute positively to local communities and ecosystems.
Supporting Conservation Efforts
By joining our Uganda Birding and Nature Tour, you directly support conservation initiatives that protect critical habitats and endangered species. A portion of our proceeds goes to community-based conservation programs around Mabamba Wetlands, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, and Semuliki Forest.
Gorilla and Chimpanzee Tracking Etiquette
We emphasize responsible wildlife viewing. During Gorilla and Chimpanzee tracking, we adhere to strict guidelines to minimize disturbance to these endangered primates. Group sizes are limited, and we maintain a respectful distance at all times.
Respecting Local Communities
We collaborate with local guides, porters, and conservationists, ensuring that our presence benefits the communities we visit. We encourage respectful interaction with local cultures and advocate for sustainable tourism practices.
Eco-Friendly Practices
Throughout the tour, we minimize our ecological footprint by reducing single-use plastics, responsibly managing waste, and promoting eco-friendly accommodation. We encourage guests to bring refillable water bottles and practice “leave no trace” principles.
Your Role as a Responsible Traveller
By joining us, you play a vital role in conserving Uganda’s rich natural heritage. We encourage you to respect wildlife, support local crafts and products, and become an ambassador for conservation when you return home.
Related Birdwatching Tours and Articles
You can internally link to these related pages/posts on your website (or create them if not yet available):
Uganda Birding Tours Collection Page
Mabamba Shoebill Birding Day Trip
Green-breasted Pitta Trekking in Kibale
Uganda Gorilla Trekking Experiences
Albertine Rift Birdwatching Trips
