9 Days Classic Uganda Birding Safari Tour

9 Days Classic Uganda Birding Safari Tour

mUganda offers an exceptional opportunity for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. With over 1,000 species recorded, this destination is a birding paradise. Highlights include the majestic shoebill stork found in Mabamba Swamp, the vibrant Great Blue Turaco, and the elusive African Green Broadbill. This 9-day safari captures the essence of Uganda's biodiversity, featuring not only birds but also remarkable mammals such as elephants, buffaloes, and tree-climbing lions. Queen Elizabeth National Park is famous for its resident hippos and herds of antelope, while Kibale National Park is a hotspot for primates, including the remarkable chimpanzee. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park provides a chance to see mountain gorillas and numerous Albertine endemics. The varying habitats across Uganda—from wetlands to forests—offer rich opportunities for observing a range of wildlife. Each day of this tour is designed to maximize bird sightings while ensuring encounters with some of Uganda's most captivating wildlife.


Tour Highlights

  • Mabamba Swamp shoebill stork sightings
  • Lake Mburo zebras and antelopes
  • Queen Elizabeth tree-climbing lions observed
  • Kazinga Channel pelicans and hippos
  • Budongo Forest Blue-shouldered Robin Chat
  • Kibale chimpanzees and primates encountered
  • Bwindi Impenetrable mountain gorilla viewing
  • Bigodi Wetland Papyrus Gonolek heron
  • Ishasha Sector tree-climbing lions
  • Nile boat cruise water birds
  • Entebbe botanical garden tours
  • Equator unique photo opportunities
  • Kibale Great Blue Turaco sightings
  • Murchison Falls cascading river views
  • Ruhija Sector Albertine endemics
  • Uganda Wildlife Education Centre experiences

Detailed Itinerary Day By Day

Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe

On Day 1, you will arrive at Entebbe International Airport and be welcomed by your guide. After settling into your accommodation, you can enjoy an afternoon of birding at the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC) or the nearby Botanical Gardens. Both locations offer an opportunity to observe a variety of bird species, such as the African Grey Parrot, Grey Crowned Crane, and Yellow-billed Kite. In the gardens, you might spot the African Blue Flycatcher and the beautiful Neddicky. The shores of Lake Victoria are alive with water birds, including the African Fish Eagle and the colourful Malachite Kingfisher. The area is also home to primates like the Olive Baboon and Red-tailed Monkey. As you explore, take note of the beautiful butterflies that add to the vibrant atmosphere. After a rewarding day of birding, return to your lodge for a restful night, reflecting on your first impressions of Uganda's wildlife.


Accommodation

Meal Plan

Lunch & Dinner

Day 2: Mabamba Swamp for Shoebill

Day 2 begins with an early departure to Mabamba Swamp, a premier birdwatching site best known for the shoebill stork. This wetland is an essential habitat for a variety of bird species, making it a must-visit destination. While searching for the shoebill, you may also observe the spectacular African Openbill and the elusive Purple Heron. Exploring the swamp by canoe provides a quiet opportunity to spot kingfishers, including the Blue-breasted Kingfisher and the Brown-hooded Kingfisher. Additionally, look for skimmers, storks, and various duck species. After a morning of birding, you will transfer to Lake Mburo National Park, which is home to diverse wildlife, including zebra, eland, and topi. The park’s woodlands also harbor birds such as the Red-faced Barbet and the African Grey Hornbill. After settling in at your accommodation, enjoy an evening walk where you can hear the sounds of nocturnal wildlife, preparing you for the next day's adventures.


Accommodation

Meal Plan

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3: Lake Mburo Boat Trip and Transfer

On Day 3, start your day with a morning boat trip on Lake Mburo. This scenic cruise allows you to observe numerous waterbirds, including the majestic African Fish Eagle and various herons. Look for hippos basking in the sun and crocodiles lounging on the banks. The lake is also a breeding ground for numerous ducks and waders such as the Common Sandpiper and the Little Egret. After your boat trip, you will begin your transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park, which takes about 2 to 3 hours. Upon arrival, enjoy a quick lunch before heading out for an afternoon game drive. Expect to see wildlife like elephants, Uganda Kobs, and buffaloes. Birdwatching continues, with opportunities to spot the vibrant Yellow-throated Longclaw and the spectacular Great Blue Turaco. After a fulfilling day of birding, return to your lodge for dinner. Reflect on the incredible wildlife you have encountered, as this is just the beginning of your adventures in Uganda.


Accommodation

Meal Plan

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4: Birding in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Day 4 is dedicated to birding in Queen Elizabeth National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and one of Uganda's most iconic wildlife habitats. Begin your day with a visit to the Kazinga Channel, where you'll observe an abundance of bird species along the waterway. Look for the African Spoonbill, Great White Pelican, and the striking Pink-backed Pelican. The surrounding shores may reveal large herds of elephants and hippos, adding to the wildlife experience. While exploring, don’t forget to search for passerine birds like the Papyrus Gonolek and the handsome Blue-headed Coucal. An afternoon game drive will provide further opportunities to spot the famous tree-climbing lions, as well as other wildlife such as warthogs, and an array of antelope species. With over 600 bird species recorded in the park, every moment offers potential for thrilling discoveries. Return to your lodge in the evening for dinner and relaxation after a day filled with exceptional wildlife and bird observations.


Accommodation

Meal Plan

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5: Ishasha Sector to Bwindi Impenetrable

On Day 5, you will depart Queen Elizabeth National Park and head to the Ishasha sector, known for its unique tree-climbing lions. This 1 to 2-hour drive offers opportunities to spot various wildlife, including Uganda Kobs and other antelope species. While in Ishasha, focus on locating the elusive tree-climbing lions resting on branches, a remarkable sight you won't want to miss. Birdwatching is also fruitful, with chances to see the Eastern Grey Plantain Eater and the beautiful African Harrier-Hawk.

Afterward, continue your journey to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, which takes approximately 2 to 3 hours. Once you arrive, settle into your accommodation, and if time allows, explore the nearby area for additional birding opportunities. You may spot the striking Velvet Monkeys and various forest birds such as the Rwenzori Turaco. Enjoy your evening, preparing for the following day's exciting birding adventures in one of Uganda's premier wildlife parks.


Accommodation

Meal Plan

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6: Birding in Bwindi (Ruhija Sector)

Day 6 is dedicated to birding in the Ruhija sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. This area is renowned for its diverse birdlife, including many endemic species. Start your day early to maximize your birdwatching experience. Look for the beautiful African Green Broadbill, the elusive Mountain Yellow Warbler, and the striking Blue-headed Sunbird. The lush forest is also home to various primates, including the playful chimpanzees and Red-tailed Monkeys.

As you explore the trails, you will encounter a variety of other wildlife, such as duikers and numerous butterflies fluttering by. Birding here offers the chance to spot unique species like the Rare Albertine Rift Endemics. Spend the entire day in this remarkable habitat, taking time to appreciate the rich biodiversity. By evening, enjoy a well-deserved meal at your lodge and share stories of the incredible birds and wildlife observed throughout the day.


Accommodation

Meal Plan

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 7: Full Day Birding in Bwindi

On Day 7, enjoy a full day of birding in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, focusing on various sectors typically rich in birdlife. This is an opportunity to seek out Albertine endemics, such as the Rwenzori Batis and the fabulous Regal Sunbird. The forest's layers create a suitable environment for both resident and migratory birds, offering a rich array of potential sightings.

While wandering the trails, keep an eye out for unique mammals including red duikers and bush pigs. The forest is also alive with the calls of various primates, enhancing your wildlife encounters. Don’t forget your binoculars; you’ll be able to spot a variety of forest-dwelling birds. Return to your lodge in the evening after a fulfilling day of birdwatching and wildlife observation. Reflect on the unforgettable experiences in one of Uganda’s most biologically rich areas as you prepare for the next day’s travels.


Accommodation

Meal Plan

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 8: Transfer to Kibale National Park

On Day 8, you will transfer to Kibale National Park, taking a scenic route that offers additional birdwatching opportunities along the way. This journey takes approximately 3 to 4 hours. Keep your binoculars handy as you may spot various bird species from the vehicle. Look out for vibrant birds such as the African Grey Hornbill and the Black-and-white Casqued Hornbill.

Upon arrival in Kibale, prepare for an afternoon of explorations. Kibale is famous for its chimpanzees and is also home to a wealth of birdlife, including the sought-after Great Blue Turaco. As you enter the park, pay attention to the surrounding black-and-white colobus monkeys and other primates thriving in this tropical forest. The flora and fauna in this area ensure a rich biodiversity experience, and you’ll be ready for the next day’s exciting birding in Bigodi Wetlands.


Accommodation

Meal Plan

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 9: Birding in Bigodi Wetlands and Departure

On the final day of your tour, you will visit Bigodi Wetlands for another round of birdwatching. This area is known for its incredible diversity of birds, including the vibrant Papyrus Gonolek and the elusive Sitatunga antelope. As you walk along the well-maintained trails, keep your eyes peeled for various water birds like the African Black Duck and Great Crested Grebe. The wetlands are also home to numerous butterflies and other wildlife.

After a morning spent birding, you will depart for Entebbe, a drive that lasts around 5-6 hours. Depending on your flight schedule, you might have a chance to stop for lunch along the way. Reflect on the wonderful wildlife observations over the past nine days and the rich variety of Uganda’s birdlife. Once back in Entebbe, prepare for your departure, taking with you many memories and photographs of your time in this incredible country.


Accommodation

Meal Plan

Breakfast & Lunch

Cost Includes

  • Gorilla trekking permit
  • Chimpanzee trekking permit
  • All activities mentioned in the itinerary
  • Ground transport in 4WD custom vehicle
  • Bottled water in a safari vehicle
  • Full board accommodation
  • English-speaking driver-guide
  • Driver allowances

Cost Excludes

  • Visa (available online or on arrival)
  • International and internal flights
  • Personal expenses and gratuities
  • Activities mentioned as optional
  • Laundry services
  • Travel and medical insurance
  • Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
  • Tips for staff and guides

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