16-Day Uganda–Rwanda Birding Excursion Safari Itinerary for Birders

Embark on an unparalleled 16-Day Uganda–Rwanda Birding Safari journey into the heart of East Africa, designed for avid birders, wildlife enthusiasts, and nature photographers. This safari combines the vibrant birdlife and dense rainforests of Uganda with Rwanda’s pristine montane habitats. Explore swamps, wetlands, savannas, and forests, seeking rare and endemic species while observing iconic wildlife like mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, and savannah megafauna. From the elusive Shoebill Stork in Mabamba Swamp to the majestic Virunga Volcanoes, this safari balances birding, primate trekking, boat cruises, and game drives across diverse ecosystems.

Uganda and Rwanda lie in the Albertine Rift, a globally recognized biodiversity hotspot. This region is home to over 1,050 bird species, including more than 30 Albertine Rift endemics such as the Ruwenzori Turaco, Grauer’s Rush Warbler, and Red-collared Forest Francolin. The 16-Day Uganda–Rwanda Birding Excursion Safari combines classic birding locations with immersive wildlife encounters: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for gorillas, Kibale Forest for chimpanzees, and Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth for savannah and wetland birding. Rwanda’s Akagera National Park and Volcanoes National Park add montane forest and savannah diversity, rounding out a comprehensive exploration of East African birdlife.

Birding Safari Excursion in the Virunga Massif

Expert 16-Day Uganda–Rwanda Birding Excursion Safari guides lead daily excursions, providing insights into avian behavior, habitat, and conservation while ensuring encounters with Uganda and Rwanda’s most sought-after species. Activities include canoe trips on swamps and lakes, guided forest walks, early morning and evening birding sessions, and game drives. Evenings offer cultural immersion and relaxation in scenic lodges. This safari not only delivers incredible birdwatching opportunities but also an unforgettable journey into the rich natural and cultural landscapes of two of Africa’s most extraordinary countries.

Detailed 16-Day Uganda–Rwanda Birding Excursion Safari

Day 1 – Arrival in Entebbe, Uganda

Arrive at Entebbe International Airport, where your Deks Safaris 16-Day Uganda–Rwanda Birding Excursion Safari guide welcomes you. After transfer to your lodge, enjoy a relaxing afternoon exploring the Entebbe Botanical Gardens, a serene lakeside haven home to numerous bird species. This is an ideal introduction to Uganda’s avian diversity, featuring African Grey Parrots, African Green Pigeon, Black-headed Gonolek, and Paradise Flycatcher.

The gardens’ mature trees, ponds, and pathways allow for easy observation of sunbirds, barbets, and weavers. Small mammals like tree squirrels may also be glimpsed. Spend the evening settling in and preparing for the early start tomorrow.

Animals to Spot: Tree Squirrels | Vervet Monkeys | Monitor Lizards | Occasional Fruit Bats

Accommodation: Protea Hotel Entebbe / Lake Victoria Guest House
Meals: Dinner

Day 2 – Mabamba Wetland Birding: The Shoebill Stork

Today, transfer to Mabamba Swamp, a UNESCO Important Bird Area, for a guided canoe excursion to observe the legendary Shoebill Stork. Paddling quietly through papyrus channels, you will encounter African Jacana, Swamp Flycatchers, Black Crake, and Purple Heron. Early morning is the best time for sightings, as birds are most active and vocal.

The swamp also supports marsh-dwelling mammals, such as waterbuck, sitatunga antelope, and monitor lizards, which may be observed along the water’s edge. After the canoe tour, enjoy lunch and return to your lodge for afternoon birding in nearby wetland areas, targeting species like Long-toed Lapwing and Lesser Jacana. The combination of boat-based and shore-based observation ensures maximum species diversity in a single day.

Animals to Spot: Monitor Lizard | Waterbuck | Sitatunga | Nile Crocodile | Hippo

Accommodation: Entebbe / Mabamba area lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Uganda Birding Safari and Gorilla Trekking

Shoebill Tracking on a Canoe

Day 3 – Mabira Forest Birding on Foot

Venture into Mabira Forest, a moist tropical rainforest hosting over 300 bird species. This morning walk introduces forest dwellers such as African Green Broadbill, Little Greenbul, Grey-headed Sunbird, and African Paradise Flycatcher. The dense canopy provides excellent opportunities for photographing elusive species, including Narina’s Trogon and Bar-tailed Trogon, which are rare and sought-after by serious birders.

Forest mammals like Vervet Monkeys, Black-and-white Colobus Monkeys, and various duikers add excitement to the trek. Midday is spent in quiet forest observation, followed by return to the lodge for lunch. The afternoon can include a secondary short walk to record additional species along forest edges, streams, and open glades.

Animals to Spot: Vervet Monkey | Black-and-white Colobus | Duiker | Forest Squirrel | Monitor Lizard

Accommodation: Mabira Forest Lodge / Entebbe
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 – Transfer to Budongo Forest via Kafu Masindi Stretch

Depart Mabira early for Budongo Forest Reserve, passing the Kafu-Masindi stretch, an area renowned for forest edge birding. Stop at key sites to observe forest and savannah edge species, including Blue-headed Sunbird, Black-capped Apalis, and White-spotted Flufftail. The forest’s high diversity and large trees host an abundance of Albertine Rift endemics, making this a prime stop for serious birders.

Budongo Forest is also home to chimpanzees and various monkeys, including Grey-cheeked Mangabey and Vervet Monkey. The afternoon includes a quiet forest walk, looking for canopy species such as African Broadbill, Grauer’s Swamp Warbler, and Red-throated Alethe. Return to the lodge for overnight stay and review of the day’s sightings.

Animals to Spot: Chimpanzee | Grey-cheeked Mangabey | Vervet Monkey | Forest Duiker | Bushbuck

Accommodation: Budongo Forest Lodge / Masindi Guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 – Budongo Forest Birding & Afternoon Boat Cruise on Nile

Begin with a morning birding walk in Budongo Forest, targeting elusive species in bamboo thickets and riverine edges. Expect sightings of White-bellied Robin-Chat, African Broadbill, Grauer’s Rush Warbler, and Dusky Crimsonwing. Forest mammals like duikers, squirrels, and monkeys accompany the 16-Day Uganda–Rwanda Birding Excursion Safari experience.

In the afternoon, travel to Murchison Falls National Park for a sunset boat cruise on the Nile Delta, spotting African Fish Eagle, Malachite Kingfisher, Grey-headed Kingfisher, Goliath Heron, and African Jacana. Large wildlife such as hippos, Nile crocodiles, elephants, and buffaloes can also be observed along the riverbanks, creating an exceptional combination of birding and wildlife viewing.

Animals to Spot: Hippo | Nile Crocodile | Elephant | Buffalo | Bushbuck

Accommodation: Paraa Safari Lodge / Murchison River Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

8-Day Uganda and Tanzania Safari

Day 6 – Full-Day Birding & Game Drive in Murchison Falls National Park

Spend a full day on game drives and birding in Murchison Falls National Park, which combines savannah, riverine forest, and wetlands. Birdwatching includes Martial Eagle, Bateleur, Rüppell’s Vulture, Red-throated Bee-eater, and African Openbill. Game drives present frequent sightings of lions, elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, Uganda kob, and warthogs.

Explore both the southern and northern sections of the park, ensuring diverse habitats are visited. Midday rest at scenic points along the Nile River allows observation of waterbirds while enjoying the view of the thundering falls. Late afternoon offers additional birding in riparian forests or lakeshores before returning to your lodge.

Accommodation: Paraa Safari Lodge / Murchison River Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7 – Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park & Bigodi Wetland Birding

After breakfast, depart Murchison Falls National Park and head south towards Kibale Forest National Park, the renowned “Primate Capital of the World.” The 16-Day Uganda–Rwanda Birding Excursion Safari takes approximately 6–7 hours, with stops along the way for roadside birding. You may spot African Grey Hornbill, Northern Pied Babbler, and White-crested Helmetshrike in open areas and farmland edges.

Arriving in Kibale in the afternoon, enjoy a guided walk in the nearby Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a 3–4 km loop trail that offers an introduction to Uganda’s forest and wetland species. Bigodi is home to Albertine Rift endemics such as the Blue-headed Sunbird, Black-and-white Shrike-flycatcher, and Yellow-bellied Waxbill. The wetland’s marshes attract African Jacana, Swamp Flycatcher, and Malachite Kingfisher. Alongside birds, keep an eye out for olive baboons, grey-cheeked mangabeys, and marsh monitors. The trail’s mixture of swamp, papyrus, and secondary forest habitats provides a rich 16-Day Uganda–Rwanda Birding Excursion Safari experience before settling into your lodge for dinner and overnight.

Animals to Spot: Olive Baboon | Grey-cheeked Mangabey | Monitor Lizard | Vervet Monkey | Bushbuck

Accommodation: Primate Lodge Kibale / Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8 – Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest & Afternoon Birding

Rise early for the chimpanzee tracking experience, one of Uganda’s most iconic wildlife encounters. Accompanied by expert trackers, follow these intelligent primates as they forage through primary and secondary forest. While tracking, observe forest birds such as African Broadbill, African Greenbul, White-spotted Flufftail, and African Piculet. Chimpanzees often share canopy space with Red-tailed Monkeys, Blue Monkeys, and Black-and-white Colobus Monkeys, adding to the safari’s primate diversity.

After the morning trek, enjoy lunch and an afternoon birding excursion on forest trails near the lodge. Species you may encounter include Dusky Crimsonwing, Yellow-throated Woodland Warbler, Narina’s Trogon, and African Paradise Flycatcher. Streams and forest edges attract Malachite Kingfisher, African Pygmy Kingfisher, and various sunbirds, making the afternoon productive and rewarding. Return to the lodge for a relaxing evening, reviewing your photographs and species list from the day.

Animals to Spot: Chimpanzee | Red-tailed Monkey | Blue Monkey | Black-and-white Colobus | Sitatunga (in swampy areas)

Accommodation: Primate Lodge Kibale / Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale

Day 9 – Early Morning Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Depart Kibale after an early breakfast for Queen Elizabeth National Park, approximately 3–4 hours’ drive. En route, enjoy forest and savannah birding along the Ishasha sector, known for tree-climbing lions and a mixture of grassland and woodland species. Stop for birding at forest edges and wetlands, where you may spot Rüppell’s Robin-Chat, Little Bee-eater, African Hoopoe, and White-headed Barbet.

Arriving at Queen Elizabeth, check into your lodge and spend the late afternoon on a game drive and birding excursion in the southern Ishasha sector. The open savannahs attract Martial Eagle, Bateleur, African Fish Eagle, and Long-crested Eagle. Antelope species such as Uganda kob and bushbuck are often seen alongside hippos and elephants near waterholes, providing excellent photo opportunities. The 16-Day Uganda–Rwanda Birding Excursion Safari combination of savannah birding and wildlife observation makes this a rewarding introduction to one of Uganda’s most diverse parks.

Accommodation: Ishasha Wilderness Camp / Mweya Safari Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10 – Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise & Game Drive in Queen Elizabeth NP

Start with a morning boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, a 32-km stretch connecting Lake Edward and Lake George. This waterway is home to a staggering array of waterbirds, including Goliath Heron, African Openbill, Shoebill Stork (occasionally), African Jacana, and Malachite Kingfisher. The riverbanks host elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and buffalo, providing superb wildlife observation while birding.

After the cruise, embark on an afternoon game drive, focusing on the savannah and woodland habitats. Look for lion prides, leopards (rarely), Uganda kob, warthogs, bushbuck, and buffalo, while birds include Martial Eagle, Bateleur, Rüppell’s Vulture, and Black Kite. Queen Elizabeth National Park’s diverse habitats offer one of the richest combinations of birding and mammal viewing in East Africa, making today a full day of exploration and photography.

Accommodation: Mweya Safari Lodge / Simba Safari Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11 – Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (Ruhija or Buhoma)

After breakfast, depart Queen Elizabeth National Park for Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The drive takes 6–7 hours, passing scenic tea plantations, hills, and forested valleys. Along the way, stop for birding in forest patches and riverine areas, targeting Red-collared Mountain Babbler, African Green Broadbill, and Ruwenzori Turaco.

Arrive in Buhoma or Ruhija sector, check into your lodge, and enjoy an afternoon nature walk along forest trails, observing forest specialists and edge species such as Dusky Crimsonwing, Grauer’s Swamp Warbler, and Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher. Forest mammals include black-and-white colobus, Vervet monkeys, and duikers. Evening dinner and overnight allow rest for the next day’s gorilla trek.

Animals to Spot: Black-and-white Colobus | Vervet Monkey | Bushbuck | Forest Duiker | Sitatunga (rare)

Accommodation: Buhoma Lodge / Ruhija Gorilla Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12 – Gorilla Tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Rise before dawn for mountain gorilla trekking, an unparalleled wildlife experience. Trekking is guided by experienced rangers who ensure safety and optimal sightings. Gorillas share their habitat with forest birds such as Grauer’s Rush Warbler, African Broadbill, and African Greenbul, offering dual wildlife and birding experiences.

The trek involves moderate to steep forest paths, often rewarding you with close encounters with silverback males, playful juveniles, and infant gorillas. Post-trek, enjoy lunch at your lodge and a short afternoon birding excursion, focusing on forest edge and streamside species. Bwindi’s extraordinary avian diversity ensures a full day of unforgettable 16-Day Uganda–Rwanda Birding Excursion Safari experiences.

Accommodation: Buhoma Lodge / Ruhija Gorilla Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13 – Bwindi Birding & Lake Bunyonyi Visit

Morning birding in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, focusing on the Mubwindi Swamp and high-altitude trails to observe Albertine Rift endemics, including Red-throated Alethe, Dusky Crimsonwing, Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher, and Grauer’s Rush Warbler. Afterward, transfer to Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda’s picturesque “Lake of a Thousand Hills.”

At Lake Bunyonyi, explore island trails and lakeshore habitats, spotting waterbirds like African Jacana, Malachite Kingfisher, and Lesser Jacana. The area also supports cichlid fish in clear waters and occasional sightings of marsh-dwelling mammals. Evening at the lakeside lodge offers a relaxing environment with stunning panoramic views.

Animals to Spot: Bushbuck | Vervet Monkey | Monitor Lizard | Sitatunga (in swampy areas)

Accommodation: Birdnest Resort Lake Bunyonyi / Bunyonyi Overland Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 14 – Transfer to Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda & Golden Monkey Tracking

After breakfast, depart from Lake Bunyonyi and drive approximately 4–5 hours to Volcanoes National Park in northern Rwanda. The 16-Day Uganda–Rwanda Birding Excursion Safari winds through scenic highland landscapes, terraced farmlands, and the foothills of the Virunga Volcanoes. Along the way, stop for birding in forested patches and roadside wetlands, where you may spot Ruwenzori Turaco, African Green Broadbill, and Narina Trogon, as well as Long-crested Eagle and African Goshawk in open areas.

Upon arrival in Volcanoes National Park, check into your lodge and prepare for a golden monkey tracking excursion in the afternoon. Golden monkeys inhabit bamboo forests at higher elevations, often in mixed troops of 20–50 individuals. The forests are alive with bird species including Mountain Masked Apalis, Chapin’s Flycatcher, White-starred Robin, and African Dusky Flycatcher. These endemic and near-endemic species make Volcanoes a true Albertine Rift birding hotspot. Observing golden monkeys offers both behavioral insight and opportunities for close-range photography. Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight in the misty highlands.

Animals to Spot: Golden Monkey | Black-and-white Colobus | Olive Baboon | Forest Duiker | Giant Forest Hog (rare)

Accommodation: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge / Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari

Day 15 – Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park & Afternoon Birding

Rise early for the highly anticipated gorilla trekking experience in Volcanoes National Park. Accompanied by expert rangers, trek through montane and bamboo forests to locate a habituated gorilla family. These gentle giants provide an unforgettable wildlife encounter while forest birding simultaneously yields sightings of Albertine Rift endemics, such as Ruwenzori Apalis, Red-throated Alethe, and Grauer’s Rush Warbler. Keep an eye on the canopy and understory for Chapin’s Flycatcher and White-bellied Robin-Chat, which are often active near gorilla feeding areas.

The trek lasts 2–6 hours depending on gorilla location and terrain. After spending one hour observing the gorillas, return to the lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, embark on a forest birding trail or nearby volcanic crater rim, seeking additional species such as African Emerald Cuckoo, Narina Trogon, and Black-collared Apalis. Volcanoes NP combines mountain scenery, gorilla encounters, and Albertine Rift endemic birding, offering a holistic highland 16-Day Uganda–Rwanda Birding Excursion Safari experience.

Animals to Spot: Mountain Gorilla | Golden Monkey | Black-and-white Colobus | Forest Duiker | Olive Baboon

Accommodation: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge / Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 16 – Akagera National Park Game Drive & Transfer to Kigali for Departure

After breakfast, transfer to Akagera National Park (approx. 5–6 hours), Rwanda’s premier savannah and wetland ecosystem. Stop along the way for roadside birding and photography of savannah species like White-bellied Bustard, Black-bellied Bustard, and Senegal Lapwing. Upon arrival, embark on a late afternoon game drive to spot the park’s wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, zebras, lions, and buffaloes. Wetlands and lakes provide excellent birding opportunities, including Goliath Heron, African Jacana, Black Crake, Squacco Heron, and African Fish Eagle.

Akagera’s combination of open grasslands, acacia woodlands, and papyrus swamps ensures a diverse bird checklist. After the game drive, enjoy a scenic drive back to Kigali City, approximately 2 hours, reflecting on your 16-Day Uganda–Rwanda Birding Excursion Safari and wildlife adventure. Depending on flight times, enjoy a brief Kigali city tour, visiting Kigali Genocide Memorial, local markets, or craft centers. Finally, transfer to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight.

Accommodation: N/A (Departure Day)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

16-Day Uganda–Rwanda Birding Excursion Safari Inclusions and Exclusions

Uganda–Rwanda Birding Safari – Inclusions

Airport transfers in Entebbe (Uganda) and Kigali (Rwanda)
Ground transportation in a private 4×4 safari vehicle
Full-time English-speaking professional safari guide/driver
All park entry fees and permits, including:
Gorilla trekking permit (Bwindi & Volcanoes NP)
Chimpanzee tracking permit (Kibale & Nyungwe)
Full board accommodation as indicated in the itinerary
Boat cruises on Kazinga Channel, Nile Delta, and Lake Mburo
Guided nature walks, forest trails, and swamp excursions
Mineral water (1 litre per person per day)
Batwa cultural experiences
All government taxes

Uganda–Rwanda Birding Safari – Exclusions

International and domestic flights
Visa fees for Uganda and Rwanda
Travel insurance
Personal expenses (tips, laundry, phone calls, beverages)
Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
Meals not indicated in the itinerary