Ultimate 18-Day Uganda Birding Safari Private Itinerary for Birders

Uganda is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, boasting over 1,050 recorded species, including Albertine Rift endemics and rare wetland birds. This 18-Day Uganda Birding Safari is a meticulously curated adventure that blends Uganda’s diverse avian habitats with world-class wildlife experiences, including chimpanzee tracking, gorilla trekking, boat cruises, and savannah game drives. From the wetlands of Mabamba to the misty montane forests of Bwindi, and the vast savannahs of Murchison Falls and Lake Mburo, every day presents unique birding opportunities and breathtaking landscapes.

Your 18-Day Uganda Birding Safari begins in Entebbe, with early birding opportunities at the Botanical Gardens and Mabamba Swamp, home to the elusive Shoebill Stork. The itinerary then moves through Uganda’s prime birding locales: Budongo Forest, Kibale Forest, Semliki, Queen Elizabeth, and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, punctuated with scenic drives, guided walks, and cultural visits. The experience culminates with lake and forest birding at Lake Mburo and Mabira Forest, before returning to Entebbe for departure.

This 18-Day Uganda Birding Safari is ideal for birders seeking both quantity and quality of sightings, targeting everything from forest specialists and raptors to wetland and savannah species, while also integrating Uganda’s iconic primate encounters. Whether photographing the vibrant Rwenzori Turaco, listening for the haunting call of the Shoebill, or witnessing a gorilla family in Bwindi, this journey offers an unforgettable exploration of Uganda’s natural treasures.

Detailed 18-Day Uganda Birding Safari

Day 1 – Arrival in Entebbe

Your 18-Day Uganda Birding Safari adventure begins upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, where you will be warmly welcomed by your professional Deks Safaris guide. After airport formalities, enjoy a transfer to your lodge near the airport or along Lake Victoria’s serene shores. Depending on your arrival time, you may enjoy a gentle birding walk in the Entebbe Botanical Gardens, which hosts a surprising variety of species in a relaxed setting.

The Botanical Gardens are a haven for resident and migratory birds, with species like African Grey Hornbill, Black-and-white Shrike-Flycatcher, and Little Weaver commonly seen. This first encounter with Uganda’s avian life provides a calm introduction, letting you observe, photograph, and acclimatize to the local environment. As the evening falls, your guide will brief you on the upcoming days, ensuring that your birding objectives and safari goals are clearly outlined. Enjoy a sumptuous dinner at the lodge and rest for the exciting 18-Day Uganda Birding Safari ahead.

Birds to Spot Today:

African Grey Hornbill (Lophoceros nasutus) | Black-and-white Shrike-Flycatcher (Bias musicus) | Little Weaver (Ploceus luteolus) | African Pied Wagtail (Motacilla aguimp) | Paradise Flycatcher (Terpsiphone viridis) | African Green Pigeon (Treron calvus) | Blue-breasted Kingfisher (Halcyon malimbica) | Speckled Mousebird (Colius striatus) | Grey-headed Kingfisher (Halcyon leucocephala) | Pied Crow (Corvus albus)

Accommodation: Entebbe Guesthouse / Lake Victoria Lodge

Meals: Dinner

 

Day 2 – Mabamba Swamp Birding

After breakfast, set out early for a full-day excursion to Mabamba Swamp, one of Uganda’s most iconic birding destinations. Renowned as the home of the legendary Shoebill Stork, Mabamba is a wetland paradise with papyrus swamps, reedbeds, and shallow channels, attracting both resident and migratory species.

The birding experience begins with a traditional canoe ride through papyrus channels, offering a close-up view of elusive species. Watch quietly as the massive Shoebill glides silently, or spot Papyrus Gonoleks, Swamp Flycatchers, and African Marsh Harriers along the water’s edge. Skilled local guides use their extensive knowledge to locate difficult-to-see birds, ensuring a rewarding experience. Mid-morning, take a short walk along the swamp fringes, spotting Malachite Kingfishers, African Pygmy Geese, and Lesser Swamp Warblers. The day continues with lunch at a nearby lodge, followed by afternoon birding along the surrounding woodland edges, scanning for forest-edge species and kingfishers.

This immersive 18-Day Uganda Birding Safari excursion not only showcases Uganda’s wetland biodiversity, but also provides insights into local communities and conservation efforts. Return to Entebbe for overnight stay.

Birds to Spot Today:

Shoebill Stork (Balaeniceps rex) | Papyrus Gonolek (Laniarius mufumbiri) | African Marsh Harrier (Circus ranivorus) | Malachite Kingfisher (Corythornis cristatus) | African Pygmy Goose (Nettapus auritus) | Lesser Swamp Warbler (Acrocephalus gracilirostris) | Black-crowned Night Heron (Nycticorax nycticorax) | Long-toed Lapwing (Vanellus crassirostris) | Grey-headed Kingfisher (Halcyon leucocephala) | Swamp Flycatcher (Muscicapa aquatica)

Accommodation: Entebbe Guesthouse / Lake Victoria Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Uganda Birding Safari and Gorilla Trekking

Shoebill Tracking on a Canoe

Day 3 – Murchison Falls National Park Arrival

Depart early for Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest protected area, covering 3,840 km². En route, enjoy a birding stop at Masindi and possibly a brief exploration of Budongo Forest, home to forest specialists and Albertine Rift endemics. Upon arrival in Murchison Falls NP, check into your lodge, and prepare for an afternoon game drive.

The savannah and riverine habitats of Murchison are ideal for raptors, vultures, and open-country species. The Victoria Nile and surrounding acacia woodlands are hotspots for Western Banded Snake Eagle, African Skimmer, and Grey-headed Kingfisher. Afternoon light provides excellent photography conditions, and with careful spotting, you may also observe elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, and antelopes among the birds. Dinner at the lodge concludes your first day in this iconic Ugandan park.

Birds to Spot Today:

Western Banded Snake Eagle (Circaetus cinerascens) | African Skimmer (Rynchops flavirostris) | Grey-headed Kingfisher (Halcyon leucocephala) | African Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer) | Woolly-necked Stork (Ciconia episcopus) | Red-throated Bee-eater (Merops bulocki) | Northern Carmine Bee-eater (Merops nubicus) | Martial Eagle (Polemaetus bellicosus) | Black-bellied Bustard (Lissotis melanogaster) | Rufous-crowned Roller (Coracias naevia)

Accommodation: Paraa Safari Lodge / Murchison River Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 4 – Murchison Falls Boat Cruise & Birding

Wake early for a spectacular boat cruise along the Victoria Nile to the base of Murchison Falls, where the Nile is forced through a narrow gorge, creating a dramatic cascade. This aquatic habitat is a magnet for waterbirds and raptors, offering up-close photography and observation opportunities.

Spot Goliath Herons, African Fish Eagles, Saddle-billed Storks, and numerous cormorants. Nile Crocodiles and hippos provide additional spectacle. The morning cruise transitions into a game drive along the riverbanks, where forest-edge species and savannah birds like African Grey Hornbill and Abyssinian Ground Hornbill are visible. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the boat before returning to the lodge. Afternoon is reserved for leisure or optional birding walks around lodge grounds.

Birds to Spot Today:

Goliath Heron (Ardea goliath) | African Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer) | Saddle-billed Stork (Ephippiorhynchus senegalensis) | Black-crowned Night Heron (Nycticorax nycticorax) | Grey-headed Kingfisher (Halcyon leucocephala) | Northern Carmine Bee-eater (Merops nubicus) | African Pygmy Goose (Nettapus auritus) | Woolly-necked Stork (Ciconia episcopus) | Abyssinian Ground Hornbill (Bucorvus abyssinicus) | Red-throated Bee-eater (Merops bulocki)

Accommodation: Paraa Safari Lodge / Murchison River Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 5 – Budongo Forest Birding

Depart Murchison Falls NP early and 18-Day Uganda Birding Safari journey toward Budongo Forest Reserve, famous for its primary rainforest and chimpanzee populations. Budongo is also one of Uganda’s premier birding sites, home to species like Nahan’s Francolin, Blue-headed Sunbird, and African Broadbill.

Guided walks along the forest trails allow birders to target mixed-species flocks in the understory, mid-canopy, and upper canopy. Listen for forest duets and calls, which often reveal elusive species like the Yellow-throated Greenbul or Red-tailed Bristlebill. The forest is also rich in butterflies, primates, and mammals, adding diversity to your wildlife observations. Return to your lodge for dinner, recounting the day’s avian highlights.

Birds to Spot Today:

Nahan’s Francolin (Pternistis nahani) | African Broadbill (Smithornis capensis) | Blue-headed Sunbird (Cyanomitra alinae) | Yellow-throated Greenbul (Chlorocichla flavicollis) | Red-tailed Bristlebill (Bleda syndactylus) | Black Bee-eater (Merops gularis) | Grey-throated Tit-Flycatcher (Myioparus griseigularis) | Chocolate-backed Kingfisher (Halcyon badia) | African Emerald Cuckoo (Chrysococcyx cupreus) | White-spotted Flufftail (Sarothrura pulchra)

Accommodation: Budongo Eco-Lodge / Chimpanzee Guesthouse

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

10-Day Rwanda Birding Safari

10-Day Uganda Birding Safari

Day 6 – Royal Mile and Busingiro Birding Excursion

Today begins with an early morning birding expedition along the Royal Mile and Busingiro trails in Budongo Forest. These trails wind through dense rainforest, offering access to mixed-species bird flocks and providing a true forest birding experience. The forest canopy here is alive with movement, and keen observers may catch glimpses of Albertine Rift endemics that are otherwise difficult to spot elsewhere in Uganda.

The Royal Mile trail, a long stretch connecting Budongo’s primary forest zones, is ideal for spotting elusive forest species, including African Broadbill, Red-tailed Bristlebill, and Black Bee-eater. Busingiro provides a quieter experience with more opportunity for photography and observation, particularly of birds that inhabit the mid-canopy and understory. The morning’s birding is complemented by the calls of monkeys and small primates, offering an additional layer of wildlife engagement.

After a picnic lunch near the forest edge, the afternoon is dedicated to exploring riverine areas and swamp patches, which attract water-loving species such as African Darter, Lesser Jacana, and Malachite Kingfisher. As evening approaches, you may witness forest roosting behavior, an excellent opportunity for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts. Return to the lodge to relax and discuss the day’s highlights over dinner.

Birds to Spot Today:

African Broadbill (Smithornis capensis) | Red-tailed Bristlebill (Bleda syndactylus) | Black Bee-eater (Merops gularis) | Yellow-throated Greenbul (Chlorocichla flavicollis) | Nahan’s Francolin (Pternistis nahani) | African Emerald Cuckoo (Chrysococcyx cupreus) | Grey-throated Tit-Flycatcher (Myioparus griseigularis) | Malachite Kingfisher (Corythornis cristatus) | Lesser Jacana (Microparra capensis) | African Darter (Anhinga rufa)

Accommodation: Budongo Eco-Lodge / Chimpanzee Guesthouse

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 7 – Kibale Forest National Park Birding

After breakfast, depart for Kibale Forest National Park, widely known for its chimpanzees and dense avian diversity, encompassing over 375 bird species. Upon arrival, check into your lodge, then embark on an afternoon birding walk along the forest trails, guided by an experienced naturalist who helps locate elusive forest species.

Kibale’s canopy, midstory, and forest floor layers host a stunning range of species, including the African Green Broadbill, Red-throated Alethe, and Handsome Francolin. Birders should be alert for the calls of Nkulengu Rail and White-spotted Flufftail, particularly near forest streams. The diversity of insect life and small mammals adds extra excitement, as mixed-species flocks often include woodpeckers, flycatchers, and sunbirds, providing a rich visual and auditory experience.

Late afternoon offers a chance to spot forest-edge species, including Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird and African Paradise Flycatcher, in open glades or along trails near the lodge. This day establishes a foundation for more intensive birding tomorrow during chimpanzee tracking. Evening dinner at the lodge is followed by a briefing on the next day’s chimpanzee trekking logistics.

Birds to Spot Today:

African Green Broadbill (Pseudocalyptomena graueri) | Red-throated Alethe (Chamaetylas poliophrys) | Handsome Francolin (Pternistis nobilis) | Nkulengu Rail (Himantornis haematopus) | White-spotted Flufftail (Sarothrura pulchra) | Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird (Pogoniulus bilineatus) | African Paradise Flycatcher (Terpsiphone viridis) | Forest Robin (Stiphrornis erythrothorax) | Blue-headed Sunbird (Cyanomitra alinae) | Black-and-white Shrike-Flycatcher (Bias musicus)

Accommodation: Kibale Forest Lodge / Primate Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 8 – Chimpanzee Tracking and Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary

Today is a highlight of 18-Day Uganda Birding Safari for primate enthusiasts and birders alike. After an early breakfast, proceed to the Kibale Forest Headquarters for a briefing on chimpanzee tracking. You will be paired with a forest ranger, and the trek can last 2–4 hours depending on the location of chimpanzee troops.

During the trek, the forest comes alive with avian activity, and your guide will help identify species like African Broadbill, Black Bee-eater, and various Greenbuls. Keep an eye and ear open for forest raptors such as Cassin’s Hawk-Eagle and monkeys moving through the canopy, providing an unparalleled combination of bird and primate observation. After a successful chimpanzee encounter, return to the trailhead for certificates and a mid-morning snack.

In the afternoon, visit Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a 5-kilometer trail system that traverses swamps and forest edges. Here, wetland birds, forest edge species, and sunbirds are abundant. Bigodi offers some of the best birdwatching in Uganda, with species like Grey-chested Greenbul, Collared Apalis, and Yellow-spotted Nicator regularly seen. End the day with a serene boat ride on nearby waterways before returning to the lodge.

Birds to Spot Today:

African Broadbill (Smithornis capensis) | Black Bee-eater (Merops gularis) | Cassin’s Hawk-Eagle (Aquila africana) | Grey-chested Greenbul (Criniger pogonias) | Collared Apalis (Apalis thoracica) | Yellow-spotted Nicator (Nicator chloris) | Blue-headed Sunbird (Cyanomitra alinae) | Black-and-white Shrike-Flycatcher (Bias musicus) | African Paradise Flycatcher (Terpsiphone viridis) | Red-throated Alethe (Chamaetylas poliophrys)

Accommodation: Kibale Forest Lodge / Primate Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Uganda Birding Safari and Gorilla Trekking

Uganda Birding Safari and Gorilla Trekking

Day 9 – Semliki National Park Birding

Depart early from Kibale towards Semliki National Park, situated along the Rift Valley lowlands. Semliki is renowned for Albertine Rift endemics and rare lowland species, making it a must-visit for serious birders. The park’s mixture of swamps, forests, and savannahs provides a striking contrast to the montane forest of Kibale.

Upon arrival, explore the park with a guided birding walk along forest trails and swamp edges. Key targets include Red-faced Barbet, Black-billed Turaco, and White-crested Turaco, as well as elusive Green-breasted Pitta. The wetlands and floodplains attract herons, egrets, and African Fish Eagle, while forest patches are alive with warblers, sunbirds, and flycatchers. After lunch, continue 18-Day Uganda Birding Safari along the riverine habitats, where the Lesser Jacana and Swamp Flycatcher are common. Evening return to the lodge for rest.

Birds to Spot Today:

Red-faced Barbet (Lybius rubrifacies) | Black-billed Turaco (Tauraco schuettii) | White-crested Turaco (Tauraco leucolophus) | Green-breasted Pitta (Pitta reichenowi) | African Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer) | Lesser Jacana (Microparra capensis) | Swamp Flycatcher (Muscicapa aquatica) | Grey-headed Sunbird (Deleornis axillaris) | Chestnut Wattle-eye (Platysteira castanea) | Yellow-spotted Nicator (Nicator chloris)

Accommodation: Semliki Eco-Lodge / Rwenzori View Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 10 – Queen Elizabeth National Park Arrival

Depart Semliki early for Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of Uganda’s most iconic wildlife and birding destinations. Arrive in the Ishasha sector, famous for its tree-climbing lions and rich birdlife. After checking into your lodge, enjoy an afternoon game drive focusing on both savannah mammals and birds.

The park’s **diverse habitats woodlands, open savannah, and wetlands—**allow for sightings of Bateleur, Martial Eagle, and Ruppell’s Vulture. Forested patches harbor Yellow-billed Oxpecker, Red-necked Spurfowl, and forest-edge species. Sunset views over the savannah provide spectacular photography opportunities, and the lodge surroundings attract weaver birds and sunbirds.

Birds to Spot Today:

Bateleur (Terathopius ecaudatus) | Martial Eagle (Polemaetus bellicosus) | Ruppell’s Vulture (rueppelli) | Yellow-billed Oxpecker (Buphagus africanus) | Red-necked Spurfowl (Pternistis afer) | Village Weaver (Ploceus cucullatus) | Blue-headed Coucal (Centropus monachus) | Black-winged Red Bishop (Euplectes hordeaceus) | African Grey Hornbill (Lophoceros nasutus) | Long-crested Eagle (Lophaetus occipitalis)

Accommodation: Ishasha Wilderness Lodge / Queen Elizabeth Safari Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 11 – Kazinga Channel Birding and Boat Cruise

Today is dedicated to birding along the Kazinga Channel, one of Africa’s most productive waterbird hotspots. Depart the lodge early for a guided boat cruise along the channel connecting Lake Edward and Lake George, home to massive hippo pods, Nile crocodiles, and abundant birds.

The channel’s wetlands attract species such as African Skimmer, Goliath Heron, African Fish Eagle, and Pied Kingfisher. Forested patches along the banks provide opportunities to spot African Green Pigeon and various sunbirds, while occasional migratory species may pass through. The boat cruise is combined with a game drive along the channel banks, allowing birders to spot open-country species like Black-headed Gonolek and Violet-backed Starling. Lunch is served on board or at a nearby lodge, with the afternoon dedicated to riverbank birding and photography.

Birds to Spot Today:

African Skimmer (Rynchops flavirostris) | Goliath Heron (Ardea goliath) | African Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer) | Pied Kingfisher (Ceryle rudis) | African Green Pigeon (Treron calvus) | Black-headed Gonolek (Laniarius erythrogaster) | Violet-backed Starling (Cinnyricinclus leucogaster) | Grey-headed Kingfisher (Halcyon leucocephala) | Lesser Jacana (Microparra capensis) | Black-crowned Night Heron (Nycticorax nycticorax)

Accommodation: Mweya Safari Lodge / Queen Elizabeth Safari Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

18-Day Uganda Birding Safari

15 Days Uganda Kenya and Tanzania Safari

Day 12 – Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Arrival & Birding

Depart Queen Elizabeth early for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, arriving at Buhoma sector by midday. Bwindi is a UNESCO World Heritage site, home to mountain gorillas and over 350 bird species, including Albertine Rift endemics. Upon arrival, check into your lodge and enjoy a guided afternoon birding walk along Buhoma’s forest trails, focusing on forest specialists like Green-breasted Pitta, Dusky Crimsonwing, and Shelley’s Crimsonwing.

The dense forest offers multiple birding layers: understory, mid-canopy, and emergent trees, each hosting unique species. Listen for chatter of Grey-chested Greenbul and calls of Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher, and watch for Hornbills and Sunbirds flitting through the canopy. This day serves as a gentle acclimatization to the forest prior to gorilla trekking scheduled for Day 13 of 18-Day Uganda Birding Safari. Dinner at the lodge is accompanied by the sounds of the forest at dusk.

Birds to Spot Today

Green-breasted Pitta (Pitta reichenowi) | Dusky Crimsonwing (Cryptospiza jacksoni) | Shelley’s Crimsonwing (Cryptospiza shelleyi) | Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher (Melaenornis ardesiacus) | Grey-chested Greenbul (Criniger pogonias) | African Broadbill (Smithornis capensis) | African Emerald Cuckoo (Chrysococcyx cupreus) | Red-tailed Bristlebill (Bleda syndactylus) | Blue-headed Sunbird (Cyanomitra alinae) | Black Bee-eater (Merops gularis)

Accommodation: Buhoma Lodge / Gorilla Safari Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 13 – Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Today marks a pinnacle of your 18-Day Uganda Birding Safari adventure: gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. After an early breakfast, you are briefed at the Bwindi Forest Headquarters before embarking on a guided trek into the dense forest. Gorilla trekking is a physically engaging activity, as you navigate steep slopes, thick vegetation, and forest trails.

As you move quietly through the forest, the symphony of forest birds accompanies your footsteps. Look for Green-breasted Pitta, Dusky and Shelley’s Crimsonwings, African Broadbill, and Red-tailed Bristlebill. The dense canopy is alive with calls of Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher, Grey-chested Greenbul, and Black Bee-eater, providing excellent birding opportunities alongside the thrill of gorilla tracking.

Once you locate a gorilla family, spend one hour observing their behavior—watching juveniles play, adults forage, and silverbacks assert their dominance. Photographers will find countless opportunities to capture both wildlife and forest habitat. After the trek, return to the lodge for lunch and relax in the afternoon with optional forest-edge birding. The combination of endemic Albertine Rift birds and world-famous mountain gorillas makes this a truly unforgettable day.

Birds to Spot Today

Green-breasted Pitta (Pitta reichenowi) | Dusky Crimsonwing (Cryptospiza jacksoni) | Shelley’s Crimsonwing (Cryptospiza shelleyi) | African Broadbill (Smithornis capensis) | Red-tailed Bristlebill (Bleda syndactylus) | Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher (Melaenornis ardesiacus) | Grey-chested Greenbul (Criniger pogonias) | Black Bee-eater (Merops gularis) | African Emerald Cuckoo (Chrysococcyx cupreus) | Blue-headed Sunbird (Cyanomitra alinae)

Accommodation: Buhoma Lodge / Gorilla Safari Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 14 – Guided Nature Walk in Buhoma

Today begins with a guided nature walk around Buhoma, a serene opportunity to explore secondary forest, forest edges, and cultivated areas near the lodge. This day focuses on lesser-known forest species and Albertine Rift endemics often missed during gorilla trekking. Early mornings are ideal for spotting mixed-species flocks, including forest robins, sunbirds, and flycatchers, while the lower canopy attracts species such as African Broadbill, Black Bee-eater, and Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher.

As you move along forest trails, your guide will point out primate activity, insects, and unique plant species, enriching the 18-Day Uganda Birding Safari experience. Keep binoculars ready for rare sightings of Grey-headed Greenbul, Chestnut-throated Apalis, and Blue-headed Sunbird. After lunch, the afternoon is free for rest or optional birding along the lodge trails. The gentle pace today allows for photography, observation, and detailed study of birds’ behaviors. Evening dinner is served back at the lodge.

Birds to Spot Today

African Broadbill (Smithornis capensis) | Black Bee-eater (Merops gularis) | Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher (Melaenornis ardesiacus) | Grey-headed Greenbul (Phyllastrephus poliocephalus) | Chestnut-throated Apalis (Apalis porphyrolaema) | Blue-headed Sunbird (Cyanomitra alinae) | African Emerald Cuckoo (Chrysococcyx cupreus) | Red-tailed Bristlebill (Bleda syndactylus) | White-tailed Blue Flycatcher (Elminia albicauda) | Dusky Crimsonwing (Cryptospiza jacksoni)

Accommodation: Buhoma Lodge / Gorilla Safari Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

18-Day Uganda Birding Safari

Birding in Umubwindi Swamp

Day 15 – Ruhija Birding in Bwindi

Today we transfer to Ruhija sector, in the eastern reaches of Bwindi, renowned for its higher-altitude birding and montane forest endemics. The morning drive offers roadside birding along forest edges, farmland, and bamboo zones. Upon arrival, check into the lodge and prepare for a half-day guided birding walk in the Mubwindi Swamp area.

Ruhija is exceptional for Albertine Rift endemics, including Grauer’s Rush Warbler, Red-faced Woodland Warbler, and White-bellied Robin-Chat. Mixed-species flocks include Blue-headed Sunbird, African Emerald Cuckoo, and Grey-throated Tit-Flycatcher, while occasional sightings of Hartlaub’s Turaco and Black-billed Turaco excite avid birders. The swamp area attracts water-loving species like African Pygmy Goose and Lesser Jacana. Afternoon tea is followed by optional forest-edge walks, concluding the day with sunset photography and evening lodge relaxation.

Birds to Spot Today

Grauer’s Rush Warbler (Bradypterus graueri) | Red-faced Woodland Warbler (Phylloscopus laetus) | White-bellied Robin-Chat (Cossyphicula roberti) | Blue-headed Sunbird (Cyanomitra alinae) | African Emerald Cuckoo (Chrysococcyx cupreus) | Grey-throated Tit-Flycatcher (Myioparus griseigularis) | Hartlaub’s Turaco (Tauraco hartlaubi) | Black-billed Turaco (Tauraco schuettii) | African Pygmy Goose (Nettapus auritus) | Lesser Jacana (Microparra capensis)

Accommodation: Ruhija Gorilla Lodge / Bwindi Overland Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 16 – Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

This morning we depart for Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda’s southwestern gem in the Virunga Volcanoes region. Mgahinga’s montane forests and bamboo zones are home to both mountain gorillas and golden monkeys, alongside a rich assemblage of Albertine Rift bird species.

After arriving and settling into your lodge, embark on an afternoon guided birding walk through bamboo and forest edge, focusing on forest specialists like Stripe-breasted Tit, Dusky Crimsonwing, and Albertine Owlet. The golden monkey habituated groups provide an entertaining primates-and-birds combo experience, as birds flock near feeding primates. The day concludes with sunset views over Mgahinga’s volcano peaks and lodge dinner.

Birds to Spot Today

Stripe-breasted Tit (Parus fasciiventer) | Dusky Crimsonwing (Cryptospiza jacksoni) | Albertine Owlet (Glaucidium albertinum) | Grauer’s Rush Warbler (Bradypterus graueri) | African Emerald Cuckoo (Chrysococcyx cupreus) | Blue-headed Sunbird (Cyanomitra alinae) | Red-faced Woodland Warbler (Phylloscopus laetus) | White-bellied Robin-Chat (Cossyphicula roberti) | Black-billed Turaco (Tauraco schuettii) | Hartlaub’s Turaco (Tauraco hartlaubi)

Accommodation: Mgahinga Gorilla Lodge / Volcanoes Edge Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 17 – Lake Mburo National Park

We drive northeast to Lake Mburo National Park, a savannah-woodland ecosystem with wetland edges ideal for waterbirds, raptors, and savannah species. The afternoon includes a game drive and walking safari, offering birding and wildlife observation simultaneously.

Lake Mburo hosts species such as Brown-chested Lapwing, African Jacana, Saddle-billed Stork, and Papyrus Gonolek, alongside zebras, impalas, and hippos. Birders can explore the papyrus swamps and acacia woodlands while observing African Skimmer and Grey-headed Kingfisher. The 18-Day Uganda Birding Safari and walking safari provides close-up photography and intimate wildlife encounters, making this a rewarding final inland birding stop. Evening dinner at the lodge concludes the day.

Birds to Spot Today:

Brown-chested Lapwing (Vanellus superciliosus) | African Jacana (Actophilornis africanus) | Saddle-billed Stork (Ephippiorhynchus senegalensis) | Papyrus Gonolek (Laniarius mufumbiri) | African Skimmer (Rynchops flavirostris) | Grey-headed Kingfisher (Halcyon leucocephala) | White-winged Swallow (Tachycineta albiventer) | African Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer) | Black-headed Gonolek (Laniarius erythrogaster) | Red-throated Wryneck (Jynx ruficollis)

Accommodation: Rwakobo Rock Lodge / Lake Mburo Safari Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

18-Day Uganda Birding Safari

Uganda Safari Experience

Day 18 – Mabira Forest and Departure from Entebbe

On the final day, we depart early for Mabira Forest Reserve, one of Uganda’s largest lowland tropical forests. Morning birding along forest trails and swamp edges focuses on forest, wetland, and edge species, providing a satisfying last chance for Albertine Rift and lowland species. Highlights include Nahan’s Francolin, African Broadbill, Black Bee-eater, and Yellow-throated Greenbul.

Afterward, transfer to Entebbe International Airport for your flight home, carrying memories of over 300 bird species, iconic African wildlife, and unforgettable primate encounters.

Birds to Spot Today:

Nahan’s Francolin (Pternistis nahani) | African Broadbill (Smithornis capensis) | Black Bee-eater (Merops gularis) | Yellow-throated Greenbul (Chlorocichla flavicollis) | Grey-headed Oliveback (Nesocharis capistrata) | African Pygmy Kingfisher (Ispidina picta) | Lesser Jacana (Microparra capensis) | African Paradise Flycatcher (Terpsiphone viridis) | African Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer) | Blue-headed Sunbird (Cyanomitra alinae)

 

18-Day Uganda Birding Safari Inclusions and Exclusions

Safari Inclusions

  • Airport transfers (Entebbe)
  • 4×4 private safari vehicle with English-speaking driver/guide
  • Full-board accommodation (15 nights)
  • Park entrance fees and ranger fees
  • Gorilla trekking permit
  • Chimpanzee tracking permit (Kibale)
  • Game drives and guided birding excursions
  • Boat rides (Murchison Falls, Kazinga Channel)
  • Guided nature walks and forest hikes
  • Mabamba Swamp visit (Shoebill)
  • Birding excursions in Budongo, Kibale, Bwindi, Mgahinga, Semliki, and Lake Mburo
  • Batwa community visit
  • 1 litre mineral water per person per day
  • Government taxes

 

Safari Exclusions

  • International flights to/from Uganda
  • Visa fees and travel insurance
  • Personal expenses (drinks, tips, laundry, souvenirs)
  • Optional activities not listed in the itinerary

 

Best and Most Recommendable East Africa Safari Holidays