11 Days Uganda Birding Safari and Primate Experience

11 Days Uganda Birding Safari and Primate Experience

The 11 Days Uganda Birding Safari and Primate Experience offers a well-rounded exploration of the country’s diverse wildlife, focusing on both its famed primates and rich avifauna. This tour brings you face-to-face with the majestic mountain gorillas of Bwindi, lively chimpanzees in Kibale, and an array of bird species ranging from the iconic Shoebill to resplendent sunbirds. With more than 1,000 species of birds, Uganda is a birdwatcher's paradise, including colorful butterflies and unique mammals like the tree-climbing lions, elephants, and a variety of antelopes. Expect to explore lush forests, wetlands, and savanna grasslands while enjoying the thrill of spotting animals in their natural habitats. Throughout the itinerary, you'll traverse significant national parks, including Queen Elizabeth, Kibale, and Lake Mburo. Each day is designed to maximize wildlife observations and includes exciting activities such as boat cruises and guided treks. Prepare for an enriching experience, where each moment offers a unique encounter with Uganda’s fascinating wildlife.


Tour Highlights

  • Encounter endangered mountain gorillas.
  • Track chimpanzees in Kibale Forest.
  • Birdwatching at Mabamba Swamp.
  • Scenic boat cruise on Kazinga.
  • Explore savanna wildlife in Queen.
  • Search for tree-climbing lions.
  • Visit Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village.
  • Experience breathtaking views of Bwindi.
  • Birding in Ruhija’s Mubwindi Swamp.
  • Relaxing time at Lake Kivu.
  • Explore diverse habitats of Akagera.
  • Discover unique flora and fauna.
  • Enjoy night game drives adventure.
  • Participate in traditional local experiences.
  • Visit Kigali Genocide Memorial site.
  • Capture incredible wildlife photography moments.

Detailed Itinerary Day By Day

Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe

On your arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel for rest and preparation for the exciting adventure ahead. If time permits, you can engage in birding at the nearby Entebbe Botanical Gardens. Here, expect to see a variety of birds: the vibrant Great Blue Turaco, African Fish Eagle, Black and White Casqued Hornbill, and various kingfishers flitting among the trees. The lush gardens are also home to monkeys, including the common vervet monkey, and numerous butterflies. The gardens offer a gentle introduction to Uganda's wildlife, setting the stage for the days to follow. After birdwatching, return to your accommodation for dinner and enjoy reflections on the diverse wildlife you might encounter throughout the 11 Days Uganda Birding Safari and Primate Experience. Prepare your camera and field guides for an adventure filled with extraordinary sights and sounds.


Accommodation

Meal Plan

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 2: Birding at Mabamba Swamp

You will start your day early and head to Mabamba Swamp, known for its rich biodiversity and habitat for the elusive Shoebill Stork. A boat ride through the papyrus channels could reward you with sightings of various waterbirds, including the vibrant African Jacana, Black Crake, and the stunning Malachite Kingfisher. The swamp is also home to hippos and several species of reptiles. As you glide quietly through the water, listen for the calls of distant birds and the rustle of the vegetation along the banks. The tour guides will share insights on bird behavior and habitats, enhancing your appreciation for avian life. After a morning of birdwatching, you may enjoy lunch before heading back to Entebbe to transfer to Kibale Forest. Along the way, anticipate scenic views and stops that could yield additional bird sightings. Ending the day, reflect on your findings and prepare for the adventures of the 11 Days Uganda Birding Safari and Primate Experience.


Accommodation

Meal Plan

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3: Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park

On Day 3, your adventure continues with a scenic transfer to Kibale Forest National Park, renowned for its primate diversity and birdlife. The drive, lasting roughly 5-6 hours, often includes stopovers for birding opportunities. Keep your eyes peeled for birds like the African Grey Parrot, Green-breasted Pitta, and Grey-crowned Crane along the roadside. As you travel through charming towns and pastoral lands, the landscape may offer glimpses of local cattle, typical of Uganda's rich agricultural life. Upon arriving at Kibale, check into your accommodation and prepare for an afternoon of relaxation or an optional nature walk. This evening, you can discuss the expectations for chimpanzee trekking the following day and share insights from the morning's observations. If time allows, you might also spot nocturnal species like bush babies or nightjars around your lodge, rounding out the day in anticipation of further wildlife encounters during the 11 Days Uganda Birding Safari and Primate Experience.


Accommodation

Meal Plan

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4: Chimpanzee Trekking and Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary

Day 4 promises an exhilarating day of chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest. After an early breakfast, set out with a knowledgeable guide to locate a troop of habituated chimpanzees. The trek usually lasts about 2-3 hours, offering opportunities to see not only the chimps but also other primates like the familiar L’Hoest’s and Red-tailed Monkeys. The chirping of various birds, including the Blue Monkeys and a range of forest-dwelling species, fills the air as you navigate through the lush greenery. After encountering the chimps, you will visit Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary for further birdwatching. This area is rich with wildlife, featuring species like the Great Blue Turaco, Common Waxbill, and White-collared Olive-back. The sanctuary’s diverse habitats allow for memorable wildlife sightings, including potential views of elephants and reptiles like the Nile Monitor. After an exhilarating day, return to your lodge, sharing stories about your encounters during the 11 Days Uganda Birding Safari and Primate Experience.


Accommodation

Meal Plan

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

After a generous breakfast, you will transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park, taking approximately 2-3 hours. This park, famous for its diverse habitats, includes savannas, wetlands, and lakes, providing habitat for numerous animals. Expect to spot elephants, buffalo, and various antelope species like Uganda Kobs and Waterbucks along the way. Upon arrival, check into your accommodation before heading out for an evening game drive. This drive offers opportunities to see tree-climbing lions, especially in the Ishasha sector, as well as the dainty Bushbuck. Birds such as the African Fish Eagle and the Saddlebilled Stork can be seen around the lakes. As the day ends, the spectacular sunset over the park provides a perfect backdrop to reflect on the day’s wildlife sightings. Following dinner at your lodge, share stories about the diverse animals and birds encountered thus far during your

Accommodation

Meal Plan

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6: Morning Game Drive and Boat Cruise

Day 6 begins with an early morning game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park, where you will search for wildlife exploring the expansive savanna. Expect to see large herds of elephants, Cape Buffalo, Warthogs, and perhaps a glimpse of the elusive Leopard. The park’s rich biodiversity also means you can spot various birds, including the Crested Crane, African Harrier-Hawk, and a variety of sunbirds. After a morning filled with wildlife encounters, return to your lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, where you may observe hippos basking in the sun, crocodiles lurking along the banks, and numerous bird species including the brightly colored African Skimmer. This tranquil cruise is perfect for photography and relaxation while taking in the sights and sounds of the water. Following the boat cruise, enjoy an evening at your lodge, discussing the remarkable wildlife you witnessed during the 11 Days Uganda Birding Safari and Primate Experience.


Accommodation

Meal Plan

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 7: Birding in the Ishasha Sector

On Day 7, you will set off to explore the Ishasha Sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, renowned for its tree-climbing lions. Start your day with birdwatching, where you may spot species such as the Black-headed Gonolek, European Bee-eater, and various raptors. The varied habitats within Ishasha offer countless avian observations. As you search for lions lounging in fig trees, remain alert to elephants and various antelope species along the routes. This area provides ample opportunities for photography, reflecting on how each habitat supports different wildlife. After your exploration, transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, taking approximately 2-3 hours. Upon arrival, check into your lodge and prepare for the excitement of gorilla trekking the following day. As you settle into your lodge, discuss the day’s sightings and refresh yourself in preparation for the next chapter of your 11 Days Uganda Birding Safari and Primate Experience.


Accommodation

Meal Plan

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 8: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

Day 8 is dedicated to an unforgettable experience: gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. After breakfast, you will receive a thorough briefing from your guide about the trek and safety measures. The excursion usually lasts between 2 to 6 hours as you navigate dense forested terrain in search of mountain gorillas. Encountering these gentle giants is a profound moment; observe their natural behavior and social dynamics from a respectful distance. Along the way, remain on the lookout for other wildlife, including various bird species like the Handsome Francolin and Rwenzori Turaco, along with agile monkeys. After your encounter with the gorillas, return to your lodge for a well-deserved meal. This day may serve as a highlight of the 11 Days Uganda Birding Safari and Primate Experience, providing lasting memories of both the breathtaking landscapes and remarkable wildlife.


Accommodation

Meal Plan

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 9: Birding in the Ruhija Sector

On Day 9, set out for birding in the Ruhija sector of Bwindi, specifically targeting the Mubwindi Swamp Trail. This area is known for its diversity of Albertine Rift endemics, including the rare Blue-headed Sunbird and the inquisitive Neumann’s Warbler. As you hike through the swamp and surrounding forest, you’ll have chances to spot other bird species such as the Great Blue Turaco and African Green Broadbill. The cooler morning tends to be the best time for birdwatching, with vibrant colors and rich calls echoing through the trees. Along the route, note the beautiful flora and occasional wildlife encounters, which may include sighting monkeys or even elephants. After a day filled with birdwatching, return to your lodge and enjoy dinner while recounting the highlights of the day. This aspect of your 11 Days Uganda Birding Safari and Primate Experience will deepen your appreciation for the region's avian diversity and promote conservation awareness.


Accommodation

Meal Plan

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 10: Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park

On Day 10, you’ll transfer to Lake Mburo National Park, a journey that takes approximately 4-5 hours. This park is known for its unique acacia woodlands, wetlands, and savanna landscapes, providing a welcome shift in habitat from Bwindi. Along the way, watch for wildlife such as baboons, impalas, and various bird species. Upon arrival, check into your lodge and prepare for a boat cruise on Lake Mburo. The scenic cruise offers sightings of hippos, crocodiles, waterbuck, and a variety of waterbirds, including the African Fish Eagle and the magnificent Lesser Flamingo. This relaxed pace allows you to absorb the environment and capture stunning photos. Afterward, return to your accommodation for dinner, where you can chat about the diverse creatures you spotted during the day. The sights and sounds of Lake Mburo enrich your journey, completing a significant portion of your 11 Days Uganda Birding Safari and Primate Experience.


Accommodation

Meal Plan

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 11: Morning Birding in Lake Mburo

On your final day, take the opportunity for an early morning birding session in Lake Mburo National Park. Known for its rich avifauna, expect an abundance of sightings, including Yellow-billed Shrike, White-bellied Go-away Bird, and the colorful Great Egret among others. This park is unique as it allows for guided walking safaris alongside traditional game drives. After birdwatching, return to your lodge for breakfast before preparing for your transfer back to Entebbe International Airport. The return trip will take approximately 4-5 hours, and along the way, you may have additional chances for wildlife sightings. Upon arrival at the airport, reflect on the abundant wildlife, memorable encounters with primates, and stunning birds you’ve witnessed throughout the 11 Days Uganda Birding Safari and Primate Experience. Those experiences will surely leave lasting memories and inspire future adventures in wildlife-rich destinations.



Accommodation

Meal Plan

Breakfast & Lunch

Cost Includes

  • Gorilla tracking permit
  • Chimpanzee tracking permit
  • Golden monkey tracking permit
  • Park fees for all locations visited
  • All activities mentioned in the itinerary
  • Ground transport in custom 4x4 safari vehicle
  • Bottled water during all transfers and game drives
  • Full board accommodation as specified in the itinerary
  • Services of a professional English-speaking driver-guide
  • Driver allowances and park entry fee

Cost Excludes

  • Uganda Visa
  • International and Internal Flights
  • Personal needs and beverages
  • Gratitude expenses
  • Optional Activities
  • Laundry fees
  • Tips
  • Life insurance
  • Drinks apart from provided water

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