Ultimate 16-Day Uganda Birding Excursion Safari Itinerary for Birders

Uganda, known as the “Pearl of Africa,” is one of the premier birding destinations on the continent, boasting over 1,000 recorded species across diverse ecosystems, from wetlands to montane forests and savannahs. This 16-day Uganda Birding Excursion Safari is designed for the avid birder seeking a comprehensive experience, combining forest and wetland birding, game drives, primate tracking, gorilla encounters, and boat cruises.

The 16-Day Uganda Birding Excursion Safari begins in Entebbe, where early arrivals can explore the Botanical Gardens and Mabamba Swamp, home to the elusive Shoebill Stork. From there, the tour progresses northward to Murchison Falls National Park and Budongo Forest, prime habitats for Albertine Rift endemics and forest specialists, while offering opportunities for game drives and Nile River boat trips.

Continuing west, the safari ventures into Kibale Forest National Park, famous for chimpanzee tracking and the spectacular African Broadbill, before exploring the Western Rift Valley’s Semliki and Queen Elizabeth National Parks. These areas present savannah and wetland birding, including the African Fish Eagle, Goliath Heron, and Papyrus Yellow Warbler, alongside classic African mammals.

Bird Watching in the Misty Bwindi Impenetrable Forest,

The 16-Day Uganda Birding Excursion Safari then ascends into the misty Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, where participants track mountain gorillas, while observing forest canopy birds like the Ruwenzori Turaco, Dusky Crimsonwing, and Grauer’s Warbler. The safari concludes at Lake Mburo National Park, renowned for its walking safaris, wetland birding, and savannah species, including the rare Brown-chested Lapwing.

Designed to balance intensive birdwatching with iconic Ugandan wildlife experiences, this safari is ideal for travelers seeking both rare bird species and African wildlife photography opportunities. Each day features guided excursions with experienced birding guides, ensuring expert spotting, identification, and optimal photographic conditions.

 

Uganda Birding Safari and Gorilla Trekking

Shoebill Tracking on a Canoe

Detailed 16-Day Uganda Birding Excursion Safari

Day 1 – Arrival in Entebbe & Mabamba Swamp Birding

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be warmly received by your Deks Safaris guide. Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy a short orientation and drive to your hotel or lodge near Entebbe, followed by an optional afternoon birding session at the Entebbe Botanical Gardens. The gardens host a wide variety of resident and migratory species, including African Grey Parrot, Ross’s Turaco, and Black-collared Lovebird.

Later in the day, embark on a sunset excursion to Mabamba Swamp, one of Uganda’s most iconic wetlands. Navigate through the papyrus channels by traditional canoe to locate the legendary Shoebill Stork, a prehistoric-looking bird with immense appeal for photographers and bird enthusiasts. Additional species include Papyrus Gonolek, Malachite Kingfisher, African Swamp Flycatcher, and Papyrus Canary.

The swamp provides an enchanting soundscape of croaking frogs, rustling reeds, and waterfowl calls, enhancing the immersive birding experience. Your 16-Day Uganda Birding Excursion Safari guide will provide detailed insights into behavioral patterns, vocalizations, and habitat preferences, ensuring even the most elusive species are spotted. As the sun sets, return to your lodge for a welcome dinner, where you can review your first sightings and prepare for the adventure ahead.

Birds to Spot Today:

Shoebill Stork (Balaeniceps rex) | Papyrus Gonolek (Laniarius mufumbiri) | Malachite Kingfisher (Corythornis cristatus) | African Swamp Flycatcher (Muscipipraetus rufus) | Papyrus Canary (Crithagra koliensis) | African Grey Parrot (Psittacus erithacus) | Ross’s Turaco (Musophaga rossae) | Black-collared Lovebird (Agapornis swindernianus) | White-winged Swamp Warbler (Bradypterus carpalis) | African Jacana (Actophilornis africanus)

  • Accommodation: Lake Victoria Guest House / Similar
  • Meals: Lunch & Dinner

 

Day 2 – Mabamba Wetland & Drive to Murchison Falls

Begin the day with an early morning birding boat trip in Mabamba Wetland to increase your chances of observing the Shoebill Stork in active foraging, along with Papyrus Yellow Warbler, Greater Swamp Warbler, and African Purple Swamphen. The morning mist over the papyrus channels enhances photographic opportunities, capturing reflections and dramatic light conditions.

After a mid-morning breakfast, depart for Murchison Falls National Park, a scenic drive of approximately 6–7 hours. En route, stop at wetlands, farmland edges, and small forest patches, spotting species such as the Little Weaver, Grey-capped Warbler, and Black-and-white Shrike-flycatcher. This 16-Day Uganda Birding Excursion Safari provides a gradual transition from lowland wetlands to savannah and riverine ecosystems, introducing new species along the way.

Arrive in Murchison Falls in the late afternoon. Depending on energy levels, a short birding walk near the lodge allows observation of African Palm Swifts, Brown-throated Martins, and local sunbirds, while the surrounding riverine vegetation may reveal Grey-headed Kingfishers and African Pied Hornbills. Dinner is served at your lodge with a review of the day’s avian highlights.

Birds to Spot Today:

Shoebill Stork (Balaeniceps rex) | Papyrus Yellow Warbler (Calamonastides gracilirostris) | Greater Swamp Warbler (Acrocephalus rufescens) | African Purple Swamphen (Porphyrio madagascariensis) | Little Weaver (Ploceus luteolus) | Grey-capped Warbler (Eminia lepida) | Black-and-white Shrike-flycatcher (Bias musicus) | African Palm Swift (Cypsiurus parvus) | Brown-throated Martin (Riparia paludicola) | Grey-headed Kingfisher (Halcyon leucocephala)

  • Accommodation: Pakuba Safari Lodge / SimilarMeals
  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

 

Uganda Birding Safari and Gorilla Trekking

Shoebill Tracking on a Canoe

Day 3 – Full-Day Birding & Game Drives in Murchison Falls

The day begins with an early morning game drive, exploring the savannah and riverine habitats of Murchison Falls National Park. Look for typical savannah birds, including Long-tailed Cisticola, Red-throated Wryneck, African Grey Hornbill, and the spectacular African Fish Eagle perched along the Nile. Keep your eyes peeled for lions, elephants, buffaloes, and giraffes, integrating classic safari wildlife with birding opportunities.

Mid-morning, embark on a boat cruise on the Victoria Nile to the base of Murchison Falls, a highlight of Uganda’s riverine landscapes. Here, expect to encounter hippos, Nile crocodiles, and hundreds of waterbirds, including Goliath Heron, African Openbill, and Malachite Kingfisher. Your 16-Day Uganda Birding Excursion Safari guide will point out subtle plumage differences, nesting sites, and feeding behaviors, providing an educational perspective to each sighting.

The afternoon is reserved for additional game drives in drier savannah areas, targeting elusive species such as White-browed Robin-Chat, Grey-headed Kingfisher, and Martial Eagle. Sunset over the Nile offers dramatic views, with birds silhouetted against the river. Dinner at the lodge concludes an immersive day of combined birding and wildlife observation.

Birds to Spot Today:

Long-tailed Cisticola (Cisticola angusticauda) | Red-throated Wryneck (Jynx ruficollis) | African Grey Hornbill (Lophoceros nasutus) | African Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer) | Goliath Heron (Ardea goliath) | African Openbill (Anastomus lamelligerus) | Malachite Kingfisher (Corythornis cristatus) | White-browed Robin-Chat (Cossypha heuglini) | Grey-headed Kingfisher (Halcyon leucocephala) | Martial Eagle (Polemaetus bellicosus)

  • Accommodation: Pakuba Safari Lodge / Similar
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

 

Day 4 – Budongo Forest Birding & Transfer to Kibale

After breakfast, depart Murchison Falls for Budongo Forest, one of Uganda’s most biodiverse lowland rainforests. The morning is dedicated to forest walks and birding excursions, focusing on Albertine Rift endemics, such as African Broadbill, Yellow-footed Flycatcher, and White-naped Pigeon. The dense canopy is alive with mixed flocks, allowing for incredible birdwatching and photography opportunities.

Continue westward to Kibale Forest National Park, arriving in the afternoon. Stop en route at farmland and riverine habitats to spot Red-faced Crimsonwing, Blue-headed Coucal, and Green-headed Sunbird. Check into your lodge, with time for evening birding at the lodge edge, observing forest edge specialists like Black-collared Lovebird and White-bellied Robin-Chat. Dinner provides a chance to review the day’s avian highlights.

Birds to Spot Today:

African Broadbill (Smithornis capensis) | Yellow-footed Flycatcher (Muscicapa sethsmithi) | White-naped Pigeon (Columba albinucha) | Red-faced Crimsonwing (Cryptospiza reichenovii) | Blue-headed Coucal (Centropus monachus) | Green-headed Sunbird (Cyanomitra verticalis) | Black-collared Lovebird (Agapornis swindernianus) | White-bellied Robin-Chat (Cossyphicula roberti) | Dusky Tit (Melaniparus funereus) | African Paradise Flycatcher (Terpsiphone viridis)

  • Accommodation: Turaco Treetops Lodge / Similar
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

 

Day 5 – Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest & Bigodi Wetland Birding

Wake up at dawn for a fresh forest morning, the ideal time to witness the lively activity of Kibale’s primates. After breakfast, head to the Uganda Wildlife Authority headquarters for your chimpanzee tracking briefing, where guides review the “do’s and don’ts” for interacting with these fascinating primates. You will be assigned a ranger, and your adventure begins, trekking through dense rainforest trails, listening for the pant-hoots and branches cracking under the chimpanzees’ movement.

Chimpanzee tracking can last 2–4 hours, depending on the location of the family. Once found, observe their playful interactions, feeding habits, and social structures, with plenty of photographic opportunities. After the tracking, enjoy a certification ceremony, commemorating your unique 16-Day Uganda Birding Excursion Safari experience.

In the afternoon, visit Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a prime birding location with swamp, forest edge, and wetland habitats. Look for species such as Papyrus Gonolek, Black-billed Weaver, Grey-capped Warbler, and the Black-crowned Waxbill. Listen for the calls of White-headed Saw-wing Swallows and spot Red-throated Wryneck perched along forest edges. The area also provides opportunities to see other primates, including red colobus and blue monkeys.

Birds to Spot Today:

African Broadbill (Smithornis capensis) | Chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes schweinfurthii) | Papyrus Gonolek (Laniarius mufumbiri) | Black-billed Weaver (Ploceus melanogaster) | Grey-capped Warbler (Eminia lepida) | Black-crowned Waxbill (Estrilda nonnula) | White-headed Saw-wing (Psalidoprocne albiceps) | Red-throated Wryneck (Jynx ruficollis) | Green-headed Sunbird (Cyanomitra verticalis) | African Paradise Flycatcher (Terpsiphone viridis)

  • Accommodation: Turaco Treetops Lodge / Similar
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

 

Uganda Birding Safari and Gorilla Trekking

Uganda Birding Safari and Gorilla Trekking

Day 6 – Transfer to Semliki National Park & Birding in the Western Rift Valley

Depart Kibale early, driving toward Semliki National Park in the Western Rift Valley, known for its Albertine Rift endemics and unique forest-savannah mosaic. En route, stop at forest patches, wetlands, and small rivers, targeting species such as Dusky Crimsonwing, Grauer’s Swamp Warbler, and White-spotted Flufftail.

Arrive in Semliki in the afternoon and enjoy a guided forest trail birding excursion, exploring lowland rainforest, riverine vegetation, and woodland edges. Species highlights include African Broadbill, Grey-throated Tit-Flycatcher, and Blue-headed Coucal, while larger wildlife such as forest elephants and sitatungas may occasionally be glimpsed.

The quiet forest allows for focused observation of mixed-species flocks, with guides providing vocalization cues and feeding behavior insights. Evening brings a serene sunset over the forest canopy, perfect for photography.

Birds to Spot Today:

Dusky Crimsonwing (Cryptospiza jacksoni) | Grauer’s Swamp Warbler (Bradypterus graueri) | White-spotted Flufftail (Sarothrura pulchra) | African Broadbill (Smithornis capensis) | Grey-throated Tit-Flycatcher (Myioparus griseigularis) | Blue-headed Coucal (Centropus monachus) | White-bellied Robin-Chat (Cossyphicula roberti) | Black-and-white Shrike-flycatcher (Bias musicus) | Red-faced Crimsonwing (Cryptospiza reichenovii) | African Paradise Flycatcher (Terpsiphone viridis)

  • Accommodation: Semliki Safari Lodge / Similar
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

 

Day 7 – Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park (Ishasha Sector) & Tree-Climbing Lions

After breakfast, head south to Queen Elizabeth National Park, entering via the Ishasha sector, famous for tree-climbing lions. En route, enjoy scenic stops for birding in the open savannah and woodland habitats, targeting species such as Red-necked Spurfowl, African Grey Hornbill, and Black-headed Gonolek.

Arrive in Ishasha in time for an afternoon game drive, searching for lions lounging in fig and acacia trees. Other mammals include elephants, buffaloes, and Uganda kob, which can attract raptors and savannah birds, including Martial Eagle, African Fish Eagle, and Black-headed Heron. The landscape’s diversity offers opportunities for photography of both birds and iconic African mammals.

Evening at the lodge provides a comfortable retreat with views over the savannah, perfect for reviewing the day’s bird and wildlife observations.

Birds to Spot Today:

Red-necked Spurfowl (Pternistis afer) | African Grey Hornbill (Lophoceros nasutus) | Black-headed Gonolek (Laniarius erythrogaster) | Martial Eagle (Polemaetus bellicosus) | African Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer) | Black-headed Heron (Ardea melanocephala) | Red-throated Wryneck (Jynx ruficollis) | Long-tailed Cisticola (Cisticola angusticauda) | White-browed Scrub Robin (Cercotrichas leucophrys) | African Jacana (Actophilornis africanus)

  • Accommodation: Ishasha Wilderness Lodge / Similar
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

 

Day 8 – Queen Elizabeth National Park Birding & Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise

Start the day with an early morning birding drive along the savannah and papyrus swamps, searching for Papyrus Canary, African Swamphen, and Lesser Jacana, as well as forest edge species like Dusky Indigobird. Enjoy the diversity of habitats as the sun rises, creating ideal photographic lighting conditions.

Later, embark on a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, connecting Lake Edward and Lake George. Here, expect hundreds of Nile Hippos, Nile Crocodiles, and birds, including Goliath Heron, African Darter, Great Egret, and African Skimmer. The cruise is perfect for spotting waterfowl, waders, and raptors, with 16-Day Uganda Birding Excursion Safari guides offering tips on behavioral cues and flight patterns.

Return to the lodge for lunch, then enjoy an afternoon game drive, targeting elusive mammals while spotting savannah birds such as African Grey Hornbill, Little Bee-eater, and African Jacana. The combination of birds and wildlife makes Queen Elizabeth one of Uganda’s most versatile birding destinations.

Birds to Spot Today:

Papyrus Canary (Crithagra koliensis) | African Swamphen (Porphyrio madagascariensis) | Lesser Jacana (Microparra capensis) | Dusky Indigobird (Vidua funerea) | Goliath Heron (Ardea goliath) | African Darter (Anhinga rufa) | Great Egret (Ardea alba) | African Skimmer (Rynchops flavirostris) | African Grey Hornbill (Lophoceros nasutus) | Little Bee-eater (Merops pusillus)

  • Accommodation: Elephant Hub Lodge / Similar
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

 

Uganda Birding Safari and Gorilla Trekking

Birding in Umubwindi Swamp

Day 9 – Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Drive from Queen Elizabeth NP toward Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, home to mountain gorillas and dense forest birdlife. En route, stop at farmland edges and forest patches to see species such as Ruwenzori Turaco, Handsome Francolin, and Yellow-throated Nicator.

Arrive in Bwindi in the afternoon and settle into your lodge. The evening allows for forest-edge birding, with potential sightings of White-tailed Blue Flycatcher, African Emerald Cuckoo, and Black-faced Rufous Warbler. Enjoy dinner while reviewing the next day’s gorilla trekking preparations.

Birds to Spot Today:

Ruwenzori Turaco (Ruwenzorornis johnstoni) | Handsome Francolin (Pternistis nobilis) | Yellow-throated Nicator (Nicator vireo) | White-tailed Blue Flycatcher (Elminia albicauda) | African Emerald Cuckoo (Chrysococcyx cupreus) | Black-faced Rufous Warbler (Bathmocercus rufus) | Dusky Crimsonwing (Cryptospiza jacksoni) | Grauer’s Warbler (Graueria vittata) | Mountain Masked Apalis (Apalis personata) | Black-headed Apalis (Apalis melanocephala)

  • Accommodation: Gorilla Mist Camp / Similar
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

 

Day 10 – Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Wake at dawn for the highlight of your 16-Day Uganda Birding Excursion Safari – gorilla trekking. After a briefing by park rangers, set off into Bwindi’s dense forest to track a habituated gorilla family. Trekking can take 2–6 hours depending on gorilla movement. Observe these majestic primates in their natural habitat, watching juveniles play and adults forage.

While trekking, your 16-Day Uganda Birding Excursion Safari guide points out forest bird species including Dusky Crimsonwing, Grauer’s Swallowtail, African Broadbill, and Ruwenzori Turaco, blending primatology with birdwatching. Photography is encouraged, but maintain a respectful distance.

After the trek, return to the lodge to relax. The afternoon offers optional forest walks, targeting species missed during the trek.

Birds to Spot Today:

Mountain Gorilla (Gorilla beringei beringei) | Dusky Crimsonwing (Cryptospiza jacksoni) | Grauer’s Swallowtail (Papilio graueri) | African Broadbill (Smithornis capensis) | Ruwenzori Turaco (Ruwenzorornis johnstoni) | White-tailed Blue Flycatcher (Elminia albicauda) | Black-faced Rufous Warbler (Bathmocercus rufus) | Grauer’s Warbler (Graueria vittata) | White-spotted Flufftail (Sarothrura pulchra) | African Emerald Cuckoo (Chrysococcyx cupreus)

  • Accommodation: Gorilla Mist Camp / Similar
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

 

Day 11 – Bwindi Birding & Golden Monkey Tracking

Spend the morning birding the forest edges and trails, searching for forest specialists such as Mountain Illadopsis, Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher, and White-bellied Robin-Chat. Midday, prepare for an optional Golden Monkey tracking expedition, an endemic primate often seen in bamboo zones.

Tracking provides a rare combination of golden monkey observation and high-canopy birding, with species like Yellow-throated Tinkerbird, Black-and-white Mannikin, and Green-headed Sunbird frequently encountered. Afternoon allows relaxation and lodge birding, perfect for photography.

Birds to Spot Today:

Golden Monkey (Cercopithecus kandti) | Mountain Illadopsis (Illadopsis pyrrhoptera) | Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher (Melaenornis ardesiacus) | White-bellied Robin-Chat (Cossyphicula roberti) | Yellow-throated Tinkerbird (Pogoniulus subsulphureus) | Black-and-white Mannikin (Spermestes bicolor) | Green-headed Sunbird (Cyanomitra verticalis) | Dusky Tit (Melaniparus funereus) | African Broadbill (Smithornis capensis) | Ruwenzori Turaco (Ruwenzorornis johnstoni)

  • Accommodation: Gorilla Mist Camp / Similar
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

 

Day 12 – Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park & Wetland Birding

Depart Bwindi early for Lake Mburo National Park, with stops en route for savannah and wetland birding. Upon arrival, enjoy a boat trip or walking safari along the lake’s shore, targeting species such as Brown-chested Lapwing, African Jacana, African Finfoot, and Malachite Kingfisher.

The park is home to topi, impala, zebras, and Uganda kob, attracting raptors and vultures overhead. Evening at the lodge provides time to review the trip’s bird sightings.

Birds to Spot Today:

Brown-chested Lapwing (Vanellus superciliosus) | African Jacana (Actophilornis africanus) | African Finfoot (Podica senegalensis) | Malachite Kingfisher (Corythornis cristatus) | African Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer) | Long-tailed Cisticola (Cisticola angusticauda) | African Green Pigeon (Treron calvus) | Little Weaver (Ploceus luteolus) | Blue-headed Coucal (Centropus monachus) | Red-throated Wryneck (Jynx ruficollis)

  • Accommodation: Mburo Safari Lodge / Similar
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

 

10-Day Rwanda Birding Safari

10-Day Rwanda Birding Safari

Day 13 – Morning Birding & Return Towards Kampala

After an early breakfast, enjoy morning birding in Lake Mburo, focusing on wetland and savannah species not yet seen, including White-backed Night Heron and African Harrier-Hawk. Depart late morning, stopping at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for a short tour and birding, spotting species such as Yellow-bellied Waxbill and African Grey Hornbill.

Continue towards Kampala/Entebbe, where you may have last-minute shopping or a brief stop at the Equator for photographs.

Birds to Spot Today:

White-backed Night Heron (Gorsachius leuconotus) | African Harrier-Hawk (Polyboroides typus) | Yellow-bellied Waxbill (Coccopygia quartinia) | African Grey Hornbill (Lophoceros nasutus) | Brown-throated Martin (Riparia paludicola) | African Paradise Flycatcher (Terpsiphone viridis) | Papyrus Gonolek (Laniarius mufumbiri) | Malachite Kingfisher (Corythornis cristatus) | Black-headed Weaver (Ploceus melanocephalus) | African Jacana (Actophilornis africanus)

  • Accommodation: Fairway Boutique Hotel / Similar
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

 

Day 14 – Departure from Entebbe International Airport

Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel, then transfer to Entebbe International Airport for your departure flight. Optional short birding along the Nyabarongo Wetlands can be arranged, offering last glimpses of Papyrus Yellow Warbler, African Jacana, and Shoebill (if lucky).

This concludes your 16-day Uganda Birding Excursion Safari, leaving you with memories of rare birds, gorillas, chimpanzees, and Uganda’s breathtaking landscapes.

Birds to Spot Today:
Papyrus Yellow Warbler (Calamonastides gracilirostris) | African Jacana (Actophilornis africanus) | Shoebill Stork (Balaeniceps rex) | African Swamphen (Porphyrio madagascariensis) | Lesser Jacana (Microparra capensis) | Malachite Kingfisher (Corythornis cristatus) | African Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer) | White-winged Swamp Warbler (Bradypterus carpalis) | Papyrus Gonolek (Laniarius mufumbiri) | African Paradise Flycatcher (Terpsiphone viridis)

 

16-Day Uganda Birding Excursion Safari Inclusions and Exclusions

Safari Inclusions

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off.
  • Private 4×4 safari vehicle with English-speaking guide.
  • 15 nights’ accommodation in mid-range/luxury lodges.
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) as indicated.
  • Chimpanzee trekking permit in Kibale Forest.
  • Gorilla trekking permit in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
  • Golden monkey tracking in Bwindi.
  • Boat cruises: Mabamba Swamp, Kazinga Channel, and Lake Mburo.
  • Park entrance fees for all national parks.
  • Bottled water in the vehicle.
  • Experienced birding guides, spotting equipment, and photography advice.

 

Safari Exclusions

  • International flights to Uganda.
  • Uganda visas/entry permits.
  • Travel insurance.
  • Tips to guides and lodge staff.
  • Alcoholic beverages, souvenirs, and personal expenses.
  • Optional activities not listed in the itinerary.

 

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