10 Days Uganda Birding Safari in the Savannahs

Embark on a ten-day birding expedition through Uganda’s most celebrated savannahs and forests a journey that captures the very soul of East Africa’s wilderness. This Uganda Birding Safari in the Savannahs, designed and operated by Deks Safaris and Tours Africa, weaves together the thrill of birdwatching, the comfort of intimate lodges, and the immersive rhythm of Uganda’s vibrant natural world.

 

Highlights of Uganda Birding Safari in the Savannahs

Day

Activities

Accommodation

Day 1

 Arrival at Entebbe Airport and Evening Birding in Botanical Gardens Airport Guest House

Day 2

 Go Birding in Mabamba Swamp and Afternoon Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park Mpogo Safari Lodge

Day 3

 Do Morning Boat Cruise on Lake Mburo and Evening Birding and Game Drive in the Park Mpogo Safari Lodge

Day 4

 Early Morning Birding in Lake Mburo National Park and Road Transfer to Ruhija Sector Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Gorilla Mist Camp

Day 5

 Full Day Birding in Umubwindi Swamp in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Gorilla Mist Camp

Day 6

 Road Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park through Ishasha Sector with Birding Enroute The Bush Lodge

Day 7

 Morning Boat Cruise on Kazinga Channel with Birding and Birding in Savannah of Queen Elizabeth National Park The Bush Lodge

Day 8

 Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park and Afternoon Birding in Bigodi Swamp Bweza Kibale Lodge

Day 9

 Full Day Birding in Kibale Forest and at the Forest Edge Bweza Kibale Lodge

Day 10

 Transfer to Entebbe with Enroute Birding Different Ecological Swamps Like Matiri Forest Reserve and Departure None

 

Tour Quotation Based on Budget Safari

No. of People 1 Person 2 People 4 People 6 People
Rate Per Person US$3,984 US$2,590 US$2,044 US$1,862

 

10 Days Uganda Birding Safari

Shoebill Tracking on a Canoe

10 Days Uganda Birding Safari in the Savannahs

From the tranquil wetlands of Mabamba Swamp, where the prehistoric Shoebill (Balaeniceps rex) reigns supreme, to the rolling grasslands of Lake Mburo National Park, and the mysterious depths of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, this Uganda Birding Safari in the Savannahs is a tapestry of ecological diversity. You’ll trace a route that connects Uganda’s varied habitats papyrus swamps, acacia woodlands, montane forests, and open savannah each alive with unique birdlife.

Expect to encounter over 400 bird species throughout the journey: rare endemics, forest specialists, and iconic East African birds that define Uganda’s reputation as the Pearl of Africa. Beyond the birds, you’ll also experience the country’s warmth and cultural beauty from the gentle smiles of local communities to the breathtaking sunsets over the savannah.

With Deks Safaris and Tours Africa, this itinerary is more than just birding it is a celebration of travel as an art form, merging conservation, comfort, and curiosity into one extraordinary African experience. Expert guides will interpret every call, identify every silhouette, and ensure your days unfold with precision and wonder.

Welcome to Uganda where the sky is never silent, and every dawn sings a new story.

 

Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe International Airport & Evening Birding in Botanical Gardens

Accommodation: Airport Guest House

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be met by your professional birding guide from Deks Safaris and Tours Africa. After a warm welcome and briefing about the upcoming adventure, you’ll transfer to your lodge for relaxation and lunch. The lush surroundings of Lake Victoria immediately set the tone for what lies ahead a country alive with birdsong.

In the late afternoon, you’ll embark on your first birding walk at the Entebbe Botanical Gardens, one of Uganda’s most accessible and rewarding birding spots. This green oasis hosts a wide range of species from water birds along the lake shore to forest and garden specialists. Among the first to greet you might be the African Grey Parrot (Psittacus erithacus), Great Blue Turaco (Corythaeola cristata), and Ross’s Turaco (Musophaga rossae) flashing through the trees.

Listen for the sweet calls of the Black-headed Gonolek (Laniarius erythrogaster) and the chattering of Splendid Glossy Starling (Lamprotornis splendidus). The gardens are also home to Malachite Kingfisher (Corythornis cristatus), Eastern Plantain-eater (Crinifer zonurus), and the Palm-nut Vulture (Gypohierax angolensis) circling lazily above.

As the sun sets over Lake Victoria, the evening breeze carries the distant call of the African Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer) a fitting anthem for the start of your Uganda Birding Safari in the Savannahs journey.

Key Birds to Spot:

  • Great Blue Turaco (Corythaeola cristata)
  • Ross’s Turaco (Musophaga rossae)
  • African Grey Parrot (Psittacus erithacus)
  • Black-headed Gonolek (Laniarius erythrogaster)
  • Malachite Kingfisher (Corythornis cristatus)
  • African Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer)

 

Day 2: Birding in Mabamba Swamp & Afternoon Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park

Accommodation: Mpogo Safari Lodge

The day begins early with a drive to Mabamba Swamp, located along the northern shores of Lake Victoria. This Ramsar wetland site is one of Africa’s most reliable places to see the Shoebill (Balaeniceps rex) the crown jewel of Uganda’s birdlife. You’ll explore the swamp on a traditional wooden canoe, gliding silently through papyrus channels as the morning mist lifts.

The wetlands host an incredible array of species: African Jacana (Actophilornis africanus) walking on lily pads, Purple Swamphen (Porphyrio madagascariensis) foraging along the reeds, and Papyrus Gonolek (Laniarius mufumbiri), a localized endemic that thrives here. The sight of a Shoebill striking with precision at a lungfish is unforgettable a prehistoric spectacle few birders ever forget.

After this rewarding excursion, continue your Uganda Birding Safari in the Savannahs journey westward to Lake Mburo National Park, the only savannah park in Uganda with an acacia woodland ecosystem. Arrive in time for an evening rest at Mpogo Safari Lodge, located within sight of rolling hills and shimmering lakes.

The drive itself offers additional birding opportunities: Lilac-breasted Roller (Coracias caudatus), Grey-backed Fiscal (Lanius excubitoroides), and White-winged Widowbird (Euplectes albonotatus) adorn the roadside trees.

Key Birds to Spot:

  • Shoebill (Balaeniceps rex)
  • Papyrus Gonolek (Laniarius mufumbiri)
  • African Jacana (Actophilornis africanus)
  • Purple Swamphen (Porphyrio madagascariensis)
  • Lilac-breasted Roller (Coracias caudatus)
  • White-winged Widowbird (Euplectes albonotatus)

 

Uganda Birding Safari in the Savannahs

Uganda Birding Safari in the Savannahs

Day 3: Birding Boat Cruise & Evening Game Drive in Lake Mburo National Park

Accommodation: Mpogo Safari Lodge

Wake up to the chorus of Uganda Birding Safari in the Savannahs as sunlight spills over Lake Mburo National Park, Uganda’s smallest but most wildlife-rich savannah reserve. After breakfast, embark on a boat cruise on Lake Mburo, offering a perfect blend of aquatic birding and scenic photography.

Expect to encounter flocks of African Finfoot (Podica senegalensis), White-backed Night Heron (Gorsachius leuconotus), and African Darter (Anhinga rufa) drying their wings on fallen branches. Hippos grunt below while Pied Kingfishers (Ceryle rudis) hover above the water, diving with precision.

After lunch and a short rest, head out for an evening game drive that focuses on the park’s open savannahs and acacia-dotted plains. You may spot Crested Francolin (Dendroperdix sephaena) darting across the tracks, Bare-faced Go-away Bird (Crinifer personatus) calling from treetops, and raptors such as Bateleur (Terathopius ecaudatus) soaring overhead.

The park also supports mammals such as Zebras, Elands, Impalas, and Topis, creating perfect opportunities for wildlife photography against a golden sunset backdrop.

Key Birds to Spot:

  • African Finfoot (Podica senegalensis)
  • White-backed Night Heron (Gorsachius leuconotus)
  • Bare-faced Go-away Bird (Crinifer personatus)
  • Bateleur (Terathopius ecaudatus)
  • Crested Francolin (Dendroperdix sephaena)
  • African Darter (Anhinga rufa)

 

Day 4: Early Birding in Lake Mburo & Transfer to Ruhija Sector, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Accommodation: Gorilla Mist Camp

This morning, you’ll enjoy another round of birding within Lake Mburo National Park before setting off for the misty highlands of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The early hours bring out the park’s most active birdlife from Red-faced Barbet (Lybius rubrifacies) to Rufous-chested Swallow (Cecropis semirufa). The woodland paths and lakeshores are alive with song and color.

En route to Bwindi, the scenery changes dramatically from rolling savannahs to lush montane forests. Stop at highland villages and forested ridges for birding opportunities, particularly Black-and-white Shrike-flycatcher (Bias musicus) and Mountain Wagtail (Motacilla clara).

Arrive at Ruhija Sector, one of the most beautiful parts of Bwindi, in the late afternoon. This altitude-rich forest is an avian paradise, home to several Albertine Rift endemics found nowhere else on earth. The evening mist descends through towering trees, creating a serene atmosphere that invites rest and reflection.

Key Birds to Spot:

  • Red-faced Barbet (Lybius rubrifacies)
  • Rufous-chested Swallow (Cecropis semirufa)
  • Black-and-white Shrike-flycatcher (Bias musicus)
  • Mountain Wagtail (Motacilla clara)
  • Nubian Woodpecker (Campethera nubica)
  • Spot-flanked Barbet (Tricholaema lacrymosa)

 

Day 5: Full-Day Birding in Umubwindi Swamp, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Accommodation: Gorilla Mist Camp

Today’s adventure takes you deep into Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as Africa’s birding crown jewel. The Umubwindi Swamp Trail is famous for hosting an exceptional collection of Albertine Rift endemics.

Start early, following the forest paths draped in mist. Expect to encounter Grauer’s Broadbill (Pseudocalyptomena graueri) one of Africa’s most sought-after birds alongside African Green Broadbill (Pseudocalyptomena graueri), Rwenzori Batis (Batis diops), and Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher (Melaenornis ardesiacus).

Bwindi’s birdlife is diverse and abundant. The calls of Black-billed Turaco (Tauraco schuettii) echo through the canopy, while the forest floor reveals secretive species such as the Rwenzori Nightjar (Caprimulgus ruwenzorii).

This full-day birding immersion rewards patient observers with lifers that can only be found here. As evening descends, you return to the lodge with a sense of triumph a day spent in one of the world’s richest ecosystems.

Key Birds to Spot:

  • Grauer’s Broadbill (Pseudocalyptomena graueri)
  • Rwenzori Batis (Batis diops)
  • Black-billed Turaco (Tauraco schuettii)
  • Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher (Melaenornis ardesiacus)
  • Strange Weaver (Ploceus alienus)
  • Dusky Crimsonwing (Cryptospiza jacksoni)

 

Uganda Birding Safari and Gorilla Trekking

Birding in Umubwindi Swamp

Day 6: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park via Ishasha Sector – Birding on the Way

Accommodation: The Bush Lodge

Today’s Uganda Birding Safari in the Savannahs journey is a breathtaking transition from the misty highlands of Bwindi to the golden grasslands of Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of Uganda’s most iconic wilderness destinations. You’ll depart Ruhija after breakfast, descending through lush hillsides, tea plantations, and forest corridors that form important bird habitats.

En route, the Ishasha Sector famous for its tree-climbing lions offers a superb opportunity for en-route birding. The drive through this southern extension of Queen Elizabeth reveals species adapted to the savannah-forest mosaic. Along the track, you might spot Lappet-faced Vulture (Torgos tracheliotos), Brown Snake Eagle (Circaetus cinereus), and Grey Kestrel (Falco ardosiaceus) scanning the plains.

The riverine belts attract African Pied Wagtail (Motacilla aguimp), Piapiac (Ptilostomus afer), and Red-necked Francolin (Pternistis afer), while open grasslands reveal the elegant Crowned Lapwing (Vanellus coronatus) and Temminck’s Courser (Cursorius temminckii).

Arrive at The Bush Lodge in the late afternoon, a cozy eco-lodge nestled along the Kazinga Channel. As the sun sets, the soundscape fills with distant hippo grunts, while African Scops Owl (Otus senegalensis) and Fiery-necked Nightjar (Caprimulgus pectoralis) begin their nocturnal calls.

Key Birds to Spot:

  • Lappet-faced Vulture (Torgos tracheliotos)
  • Brown Snake Eagle (Circaetus cinereus)
  • Grey Kestrel (Falco ardosiaceus)
  • Red-necked Francolin (Pternistis afer)
  • Crowned Lapwing (Vanellus coronatus)
  • Fiery-necked Nightjar (Caprimulgus pectoralis)

 

Day 7: Birding Boat Cruise on Kazinga Channel & Savannah Birding in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Accommodation: The Bush Lodge

Today’s focus is the legendary Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway linking Lakes Edward and George. It’s one of East Africa’s greatest birding treasures, home to enormous concentrations of aquatic and savannah species.

After breakfast, you’ll embark on a boat cruise that glides past sandbanks teeming with African Skimmers (Rynchops flavirostris), Great White Pelicans (Pelecanus onocrotalus), Yellow-billed Storks (Mycteria ibis), and African Spoonbills (Platalea alba). The shoreline bustles with Water Thick-knee (Burhinus vermiculatus) and Goliath Heron (Ardea goliath)—Africa’s largest heron.

Hippos and crocodiles lounge in the shallows while flocks of African Openbill (Anastomus lamelligerus) and Little Egret (Egretta garzetta) move gracefully across the channel. In the afternoon, a savannah game drive explores Kasenyi Plains, where you’ll look for White-browed Robin-Chat (Cossypha heuglini), Red-capped Lark (Calandrella cinerea), and Black-winged Kite (Elanus caeruleus).

The open plains also host a symphony of wildlife Uganda Kob, buffaloes, elephants, and prides of lions. The combination of vast landscapes and prolific birdlife creates one of the most photogenic days of the safari.

Key Birds to Spot:

  • African Skimmer (Rynchops flavirostris)
  • Great White Pelican (Pelecanus onocrotalus)
  • Yellow-billed Stork (Mycteria ibis)
  • Goliath Heron (Ardea goliath)
  • Red-capped Lark (Calandrella cinerea)
  • Black-winged Kite (Elanus caeruleus)

 

Day 8: Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park & Birding in Bigodi Swamp

Accommodation: Bweza Kibale Lodge

Depart Queen Elizabeth National Park after breakfast, heading northeast toward the primates’ capital of the world Kibale Forest National Park. The drive crosses crater lakes, fertile farmlands, and wooded valleys rich in avian diversity.

Arrive in Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary for an afternoon birding session. Managed by the local community, this swamp is a sanctuary for both birds and primates. Expect sightings of White-spotted Flufftail (Sarothrura pulchra), Speckled Tinkerbird (Pogoniulus scolopaceus), Grey-headed Oliveback (Delacourella capistrata), and Western Nicator (Nicator chloris).

As you walk along the boardwalks, your Uganda Birding Safari in the Savannahs guide will help you identify subtle calls and silhouettes in the papyrus reeds. You might also encounter African Blue Flycatcher (Elminia longicauda) and the exquisite Red-headed Malimbe (Malimbus rubricollis).

Evenings in Kibale are serenaded by the sounds of the forest frogs, crickets, and the occasional hoot of a Verreaux’s Eagle Owl (Bubo lacteus) in the distance.

Key Birds to Spot:

  • White-spotted Flufftail (Sarothrura pulchra)
  • Speckled Tinkerbird (Pogoniulus scolopaceus)
  • Red-headed Malimbe (Malimbus rubricollis)
  • African Blue Flycatcher (Elminia longicauda)
  • Western Nicator (Nicator chloris)
  • Grey-headed Oliveback (Delacourella capistrata)

 

Uganda Birding Safari and Gorilla Trekking

Uganda Birding Safari and Gorilla Trekking

Day 9: Full-Day Birding in Kibale Forest National Park and Forest Edge

Accommodation: Bweza Kibale Lodge

Kibale’s lush evergreen forest is a birder’s dream, offering some of the richest forest birding in East Africa. After an early breakfast, set out for a full day of exploration along the Kanyanchu Trail and the forest edges.

This habitat hosts over 370 bird species, including the elusive Green-breasted Pitta (Pitta reichenowi) one of Africa’s most desired sightings. Other key targets include Black Bee-eater (Merops gularis), Brown Illadopsis (Illadopsis fulvescens), Chestnut Wattle-eye (Platysteira castanea), and Little Greenbul (Eurillas virens).

Canopy birds include Crowned Eagle (Stephanoaetus coronatus) and Afep Pigeon (Columba unicincta). On the forest edge, watch for Grey-throated Flycatcher (Fraseria griseigularis) and Dusky Long-tailed Cuckoo (Cercococcyx mechowi).

Kibale’s ecological richness extends beyond birds you may spot Red Colobus, Black-and-White Colobus, and Grey-cheeked Mangabey as you walk. The interplay between birds and primates makes this a rewarding day for wildlife photography and field observation alike.

Key Birds to Spot:

  • Green-breasted Pitta (Pitta reichenowi)
  • Black Bee-eater (Merops gularis)
  • Chestnut Wattle-eye (Platysteira castanea)
  • Afep Pigeon (Columba unicincta)
  • Dusky Long-tailed Cuckoo (Cercococcyx mechowi)
  • Grey-throated Flycatcher (Fraseria griseigularis)

 

Day 10: Enroute Birding through Matiri Forest Reserve – Return to Entebbe and Departure

Accommodation: None (End of Tour)

After breakfast, begin your Uganda Birding Safari in the Savannahs journey back to Entebbe with en-route birding stops along forested patches and wetlands. One of the highlights is Matiri Forest Reserve, a lesser-known gem located along the Fort Portal–Kampala Road.

This site supports a variety of forest-edge and wetland birds including African Pygmy Kingfisher (Ispidina picta), White-throated Bee-eater (Merops albicollis), Little Greenbul (Eurillas virens), and Brown-crowned Tchagra (Tchagra australis).

As you continue toward Entebbe, the landscapes gradually flatten, marking the end of your birding journey through Uganda’s dynamic ecosystems. The diversity of species recorded spanning wetlands, forests, and savannahs—reflects Uganda’s unmatched ecological variety.

Upon arrival at Entebbe, you’ll enjoy a farewell dinner (time permitting) and transfer to Entebbe International Airport for your evening flight home.

Your Uganda Birding Safari in the Savannahs with Deks Safaris and Tours Africa concludes here leaving you with memories of vibrant plumage, melodic calls, and the timeless rhythm of Uganda’s wilderness.

Key Birds to Spot:

  • African Pygmy Kingfisher (Ispidina picta)
  • White-throated Bee-eater (Merops albicollis)
  • Brown-crowned Tchagra (Tchagra australis)
  • Little Greenbul (Eurillas virens)
  • Common Fiscal (Lanius collaris)
  • African Paradise Flycatcher (Terpsiphone viridis)

 

8-Day Tanzania Birding Safari

Uganda Birding Safaris

Uganda Birding Safari in the Savannahs Inclusions and Exclusions

Safari Inclusions

  • Professional English-speaking birding guide and driver throughout the safari
  • All park entrance fees and birding permits
  • Full-board accommodation in lodges and camps as listed in the itinerary
  • All ground transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle with open roof and guaranteed window seats
  • Bottled drinking water throughout the safari
  • Birding excursions in Mabamba Swamp, Lake Mburo, Bwindi, Queen Elizabeth, Kibale, and Semuliki regions
  • Boat cruises on Lake Mburo and Kazinga Channel
  • Guided forest walks and nature trails
  • En-route birding in ecological swamps and reserves
  • Community birding experiences in Bigodi Wetland
  • Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
  • All government taxes, VAT, and conservation levies

 

Safari Exclusions

  • International flights to and from Entebbe, Uganda
  • Entry visas and travel insurance
  • Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
  • Personal expenses (laundry, drinks, tips, etc.)
  • Meals not mentioned in the program
  • Extra accommodation before or after the safari
  • Gratuities for guides, drivers, and lodge staff
  • Medical expenses and emergency evacuation coverage
  • Government Park fee increases beyond booking date

 

Final Note by Deks Safaris and Tours Africa

This 10 Days Uganda Birding Safari in the Savannahs is meticulously designed for passionate birders and nature lovers who desire both precision and pleasure in their exploration. Each location was handpicked by Deks Safaris and Tours Africa for its birding potential, comfort, and scenic charm.

From the marshlands of Mabamba to the primeval forests of Bwindi, from the acacia plains of Mburo to the crater-lake highlands of Kibale this itinerary celebrates the spirit of Uganda, where every dawn opens with a new call and every forest echoes with life.

Whether you’re adding lifers to your checklist or simply soaking in the melody of Africa’s birdlife, this journey promises a symphony of sights and sounds that will linger long after you’ve returned home.

 

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