10 Days Best of Uganda Birding Safari
10 Days
Best of Uganda Birding Safari
- Uganda
This 10 Days Best of Uganda Birding Safari takes you through some of the country’s most iconic birding destinations. From the vibrant Entebbe Botanical Gardens to the awe-inspiring Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to both Mountain Gorillas and hundreds of bird species, this journey promises an unforgettable experience for nature lovers.
Highlights include a thrilling canoe ride in Mabamba Swamp to see the elusive Shoebill Stork, exploring the bird-rich Lake Mburo National Park, and birding in the lush landscapes of Queen Elizabeth National Park. You’ll also have the rare opportunity to trek with Mountain Gorillas in Bwindi, adding a life-changing adventure to your birding experience.
This Uganda Birding Safari is perfect for anyone seeking an in-depth and personal encounter with Uganda’s rich wildlife and birdlife. Let Uganda’s natural beauty captures your heart on this once-in-a-lifetime safari.
Photo Gallery
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Entebbe
Welcome to Uganda! Upon your arrival at Entebbe International Airport, our Solo Safari Update representative will be waiting to greet you with a warm welcome. After a smooth transfer to your hotel in Entebbe, we’ll ease into your birding adventure with a visit to the stunning Entebbe Botanical Gardens, perched on the shores of Lake Victoria. Here, you’ll have your first taste of Uganda’s rich birdlife, with sightings of African Fish Eagles, Gray Parrots, and the dazzling Great Blue Turaco. It’s the perfect start to your journey!
Meal Plan: Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: 2friends Beach Hotel
Day 2
Mabamba Swamp – Home of the Shoebill
After a hearty breakfast, we go on a short drive to Mabamba Swamp, one of Uganda’s most famous birding destinations. This wetland is home to the legendary Shoebill Stork, a bird so unique that it draws birders from across the globe. We’ll glide through the swamp on a canoe, searching for this majestic bird. Along the way, expect to spot Pink-backed Pelicans, Squacco Herons, and Malachite Kingfishers. In the evening, we head to Lake Mburo National Park, where we’ll settle in for the night.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Rwakobo Rock
Day 3
Birding in Lake Mburo National Park
Lake Mburo National Park is a hidden gem for birders. After breakfast, we take a thrilling walking safari through the park, accompanied by an armed ranger guide. The Warukiri Swamps and Miriti Forest are perfect habitats for birds like the Red-faced Barbet, Golden-tailed Woodpecker, and Papyrus Gonolek. Besides the birds, the park’s wildlife is equally captivating—look out for Zebra, Impalas, and even the elusive Eland Antelope. In the afternoon, we take a peaceful boat ride on the lake, where we’ll see African Fish Eagles in action and spot hippos and Nile Crocodiles basking in the sun.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Rwakobo Rock
Day 4
Journey to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
After breakfast, we set off on a scenic drive towards Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, passing through the lush landscapes of Mbarara and Kabale. Arriving at Bwindi, we’ll relax and enjoy the beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site, home to half of the world’s mountain gorillas. In the afternoon, we’ll take a short birding walk in the Ruhija Sector, where we’ll look for Shelley’s Crimsonwing and Mountain Oriole.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Bakiga Lodge
Day 5
Birding at Mubwindi Swamp
Today is all about exploring the breathtaking Mubwindi Swamp in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. This birding hotspot offers a chance to spot the rare Grauer’s Broadbill and Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher. As we wander through the swamp, we’ll also look for vibrant sunbirds, like the Rwenzori Double-collared Sunbird, and the elusive Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater. It’s a day full of color and beauty in one of Uganda’s most pristine environments.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Bakiga Lodge
Day 6
Transfer to Buhoma Sector
This morning, we head to the Buhoma Sector of Bwindi. Famous for its stunning birdlife and dense forests, Buhoma is home to many rare and endemic species. We’ll bird along the trails and search for species like the Great Blue Turaco, Bar-tailed Trogon, and Rwenzori Turaco. Along the way, keep an eye out for the mischievous L’Hoest’s Monkeys.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Haven Lodge Buhoma
Day 7
Gorilla Trekking and Birding in Buhoma
Today is a special day! After an early breakfast, we head to the Buhoma Visitor’s Center for a briefing before embarking on the thrilling gorilla trek. This trek takes us deep into the forest to spend one magical hour with the mountain gorillas—an unforgettable experience! Afterward, we’ll return to the lodge for lunch and more birding, with possible sightings of Rwenzori Apalis, Magpie Mannikin, and Bar-tailed Trogon.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Haven Lodge Buhoma
Day 8
Drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park
After breakfast, we journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park, passing through the famous Ishasha Sector, known for its tree-climbing lions. We stop for lunch at Mweya Lodge, then embark on a boat ride along the Kazinga Channel, where you can spot Hippos, Elephants, and numerous waterbirds like African Open-billed Storks and Pelicans.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Haven Lodge Buhoma
Day 9
Birding in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Today, we explore the vast landscapes of Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of the most biodiverse places in Uganda. From Mweya Peninsula to the Katunguru Bridge area, we’ll search for birds such as the majestic Martial Eagle, the elusive Papyrus Gonolek, and the vibrant Flappet Lark. The park’s mammals are equally impressive, with opportunities to see Lions, Elephants, and Uganda Kobs.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Haven Lodge Buhoma
Day 10
Maramagambo Forest and Departure
On our final day, we take a short birding walk through the lush Maramagambo Forest. This rainforest is home to a variety of forest birds, including the Snowy-headed Robin Chat, Chestnut Wattle-eye, and African Emerald Cuckoo. After our birding adventure, we begin the journey back to Kampala or Entebbe for your departure.
Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch
Itinerary Map
Inclusions & Exclusions
- Full-time English professional safari driver-guide
- 4×4 safari van/ 4×4 Safari land cruiser with
- Full board accommodation
- Gorilla trekking permit fees
- Boat cruise fees
- Wi-Fi Internet on board the safari vehicle
- Bottled water
- International &domestic flight fees
- Visa fees
- Laundry services
- Items of personal nature
- Gratuities and tips
- Other beverages/ drinks
- Other extras not mentioned in the itinerary above
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