18-Day Uganda & Rwanda Birding Excursion Safari Itinerary for Birders

Embark on an extraordinary 18-day birding excursion safari and wildlife expedition across Uganda & Rwanda, two of East Africa’s premier biodiversity hotspots. Designed for avid birders, nature lovers, and wildlife enthusiasts, this comprehensive safari traverses diverse habitats, from papyrus wetlands and savannahs to montane rainforests and volcanic landscapes. The 18-Day Uganda & Rwanda Birding Excursion Safari journey is curated to maximize sightings of Albertine Rift endemics, iconic African birds, and rare mammals, including mountain gorillas and chimpanzees.

From the elusive Shoebill Stork at Mabamba Swamp to the lush forest interiors of Budongo and Bwindi, every day promises a new adventure. Riverine corridors, lakes, and wetlands are teeming with waterbirds like African Jacana, African Fish Eagle, and Malachite Kingfisher, while forest trails reveal treasures such as Rwenzori Turaco, Grauer’s Swamp Warbler, Dusky Crimsonwing, and Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher. The itinerary combines swamp walks, guided forest trails, primate trekking, and boat cruises, ensuring a holistic and immersive experience for both birders and wildlife photographers.

The 18-Day Uganda & Rwanda Birding Excursion Safari also offers cultural encounters, from local communities near Bwindi to Kigali city, enriching your journey with history, traditions, and gastronomy. Each destination is carefully selected for its ecological richness, allowing travelers to experience Uganda and Rwanda’s unparalleled diversity in a seamless and comfortable manner.

Detailed 18-Day Uganda & Rwanda Birding Excursion Safari

Day 1 – Arrival in Entebbe, Uganda

Arrive at Entebbe International Airport, where you are greeted by your Deks Safaris 18-Day Uganda & Rwanda Birding Excursion Safari guide. After airport formalities, transfer to your hotel and unwind from your flight. Depending on your arrival time, take a leisurely afternoon birding session at Entebbe Botanical Gardens. These gardens host a variety of urban and forest edge birds, providing a gentle introduction to Uganda’s avifauna. Look for Grey-headed Sunbird, African Pied Wagtail, African Paradise Flycatcher, Superb Starling, and Black-and-white-casqued Hornbill.

Evening preparations include a briefing on the upcoming adventure, covering logistics, safety, and birding objectives. The hotel’s location by Lake Victoria offers a scenic setting and occasional sightings of waterbirds like African Fish Eagle and Malachite Kingfisher. Overnight in Entebbe.

Animals to Spot: Vervet Monkey | Olive Baboon | Monitor Lizard | Nile Crocodile (in Lake Victoria)

Accommodation: Lake Heights Hotel / Papyrus Guesthouse
Meals: Dinner

Day 2 – Mabamba Swamp Birding

Wake early and travel to Mabamba Wetland, Uganda’s premier site for the Shoebill Stork, one of the world’s most sought-after bird species. A canoe excursion through papyrus channels allows you to quietly approach these prehistoric-looking birds, while the surrounding wetlands host African Jacana, African Pygmy Goose, Malachite Kingfisher, Swamp Flycatcher, and Grey-headed Gull.

Guides share insights on wetland ecology and bird behavior, ensuring a fully immersive experience. Morning sunlight highlights the swamp’s beauty, and careful scanning of reed fringes often reveals secretive species such as Greater Swamp Warbler and Black Crake. Afterward, enjoy a picnic lunch and optional afternoon birding along the nearby swamp edges before returning to Entebbe.

Animals to Spot: Nile Crocodile | Hippopotamus (occasionally) | Vervet Monkey | Waterbucks

Accommodation: Lake Heights Hotel / Papyrus Guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Uganda Birding Safari and Gorilla Trekking

Shoebill Tracking on a Canoe

Day 3 – Mabira Forest Birding

Travel to Mabira Forest, a moist tropical forest renowned for its diverse avifauna. Trek along well-marked forest trails in search of canopy, mid-story, and understory species. Here, birding opportunities include African Pitta, Black-and-white-casqued Hornbill, Grey-throated Barbet, African Broadbill, Green-headed Sunbird, and White-spotted Flufftail.

The dense forest is also home to small mammals, reptiles, and primates such as Vervet Monkeys and Olive Baboons. Afternoon birding along forest edges often reveals Yellow-throated Woodland Warbler, Grey-headed Oliveback, and African Emerald Cuckoo. Overnight near Mabira provides early access for a pre-dawn forest excursion the next day.

Animals to Spot: Vervet Monkey | Olive Baboon | Monitor Lizard | Forest Duiker

Accommodation: Mabira Forest Lodge / Eco Retreat
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 – Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park via Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Depart Mabira for Murchison Falls National Park, stopping en route at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for rhino tracking. The sanctuary is home to white rhinos and hosts several waterbirds such as African Jacana, Purple Heron, and African Fish Eagle. Upon arrival at Murchison Falls, settle into your lodge, then embark on an evening birding and game drive along the Nile delta’s floodplains.

Murchison Falls is characterized by savannah and riverine forests, hosting Martial Eagle, Bateleur, Red-necked Spurfowl, and White-browed Coucal. The park also supports elephants, lions, hippos, and buffalo, providing a classic African wildlife backdrop for birding photography.

Accommodation: Paraa Safari Lodge / Chobe Safari Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 – Full Day Birding in Murchison Falls National Park

Spend a full day exploring Murchison Falls National Park’s diverse ecosystems. Begin with a morning game drive along savannah plains, followed by a boat cruise to the base of the falls. Birds are abundant along the Nile and floodplains, including African Skimmer, Grey-headed Kingfisher, African Openbill, African Fish Eagle, and Goliath Heron.

The boat cruise allows close observation of hippos, Nile crocodiles, and elephants along the riverbanks. Forest patches near the falls provide habitat for Red-throated Alethe, African Broadbill, and Dusky Crimsonwing, making this an ideal day for both forest and water-associated species. Optional hikes near the waterfall offer additional birding opportunities in rocky and riparian habitats.

Accommodation: Paraa Safari Lodge / Chobe Safari Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6 – Budongo Forest Birding & Afternoon Launch Cruise

Transfer to Budongo Forest, one of Uganda’s premier lowland rainforest reserves. The forest is globally recognized for its high density of chimpanzees, as well as bird species such as African Pitta, Black Bee-eater, Yellow-spotted Barbet, African Broadbill, and White-crested Turaco.

Morning forest walks focus on understory species and canopy birds, while afternoon offers a boat cruise on the Nile, observing waterbirds like African Fish Eagle, African Openbill, and Malachite Kingfisher, as well as hippos, crocodiles, and Nile monitors. Budongo’s trails provide a mix of dense forest, rivers, and small clearings for optimal birding.

Accommodation: Chimpanzee Forest Lodge / Rwenzori Safari Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

10-Day Uganda Birding Safari

Day 7 – Transfer to Kibale Forest & Evening Birding at Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary

After breakfast, depart Budongo Forest for Kibale Forest National Park, renowned for its rich primate diversity and exceptional birding opportunities. En route, keep your eyes peeled for savannah and forest-edge species along the rolling hills and tea plantations. Upon arrival, check in at your lodge and prepare for an evening birding excursion at Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a mosaic of papyrus swamps, open water, and forest edges.

Bigodi is a hotspot for forest and wetland birds, offering sightings of elusive species such as African Broadbill, Green-breasted Pitta, Dusky Crimsonwing, Grey-headed Sunbird, and the striking Blue-headed Coucal. The wetlands also host Malachite Kingfisher, African Jacana, and Black Crake along the water channels. In addition to birds, you may spot Red-tailed Monkey, Olive Baboon, and Vervet Monkey, as well as small mammals like bushbucks and duikers in the dense forest understory.

The sanctuary’s boardwalks allow close observation of bird behavior without disturbing the delicate ecosystem. This evening session is ideal for catching species that are more active in cooler hours, and for witnessing the rich calls and songs of the Albertine Rift endemic birds.

Animals to Spot: Red-tailed Monkey | Olive Baboon | Vervet Monkey | Bushbuck | Sitatunga (rare)

Accommodation: Kibale Forest Camp / Ndali Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8 – Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale & Afternoon Birding

Rise early for the highly anticipated chimpanzee tracking experience in Kibale Forest, a prime rainforest habitat. Your 18-Day Uganda & Rwanda Birding Excursion Safari expert guide leads you through dense forest trails in search of habituated chimpanzee troops, providing insights into primate behavior and social structures. The forest canopy is alive with the calls of African Pitta, Black-and-white-casqued Hornbill, White-bellied Kingfisher, Dusky Crimsonwing, and Grauer’s Swamp Warbler, offering incredible birding opportunities as you trek.

After a rewarding encounter with chimpanzees, return to the lodge for lunch and enjoy an afternoon birding session along forest trails or the lodge grounds. This time allows focus on understorey and canopy specialists, including Yellow-throated Woodland Warbler, African Emerald Cuckoo, and Blue-headed Sunbird.

Kibale is also home to numerous mammals, including Red-tailed Monkeys, Grey-cheeked Mangabeys, and the occasional Forest Elephant, which can sometimes be glimpsed in the deeper forest. The combination of primate and bird observation makes Kibale one of Uganda’s most sought-after eco-destinations.

Animals to Spot: Chimpanzee | Red-tailed Monkey | Grey-cheeked Mangabey | Forest Elephant (rare) | Vervet Monkey

Accommodation: Kibale Forest Camp / Ndali Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale

Day 9 – Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park via the Ishasha Sector

After breakfast, depart Kibale for Queen Elizabeth National Park, taking a scenic route through the Ishasha sector, famous for its tree-climbing lions. The journey passes through savannah grasslands, acacia woodlands, and riverine corridors, providing excellent birding along the way. Keep watch for Crowned Eagle, Martial Eagle, Bateleur, Red-necked Spurfowl, and African Hawk-Eagle.

Arrive at your lodge in Queen Elizabeth National Park and enjoy an evening game drive. The park’s diverse habitats support an incredible bird list, including African Fish Eagle, Grey-headed Kingfisher, Goliath Heron, African Jacana, and the rare Grauer’s Rush Warbler along the wetlands. Mammal sightings often include African elephant, Cape buffalo, lions, Uganda kob, and warthogs, making the 18-Day Uganda & Rwanda Birding Excursion Safari an immersive African wildlife experience.

Accommodation: Mweya Safari Lodge / Ihamba Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10 – Morning Game Drive & Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise

Begin the day with a morning game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park, focusing on savannah birds and mammals. Expect to encounter Martial Eagle, African Harrier-Hawk, Yellow-throated Longclaw, African Skimmer, and Long-crested Eagle. Mammals such as elephants, buffalo, lions, and hippos complement the birding experience.

Later, embark on a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway linking Lake George and Lake Edward. The channel is a waterbird paradise, with African Jacana, Malachite Kingfisher, African Openbill, and African Fish Eagle in abundance. Hippos and crocodiles line the banks, and birds like Goliath Heron, Grey-headed Gull, and African Spoonbill are easily observed. The calm waters provide exceptional photography opportunities for both birds and mammals.

Accommodation: Mweya Safari Lodge / Ihamba Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11 – Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest via Ishasha Birding

Depart Queen Elizabeth for Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, passing again through Ishasha for additional savannah birding and the chance to spot tree-climbing lions. Bwindi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is home to over 350 bird species, including several Albertine Rift endemics. Arrival in Bwindi in the afternoon allows for a brief nature walk near your lodge, providing the first glimpse of forest understorey species like Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher, African Green Broadbill, and Dusky Crimsonwing.

The drive through forest edges also presents opportunities to see forest mammals such as Black-and-white Colobus, Vervet Monkey, and duikers. Evening birding sessions at lodge gardens often reveal White-bellied Robin-Chat, African Paradise Flycatcher, and Ruwenzori Turaco.

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

Birding in Umubwindi Swamp

Day 12 – Half-Day Birding Buhoma Nature Walk & Batwa Cultural Experience

Start with a morning nature walk along the Buhoma trails, led by experienced bird guides. Forest birds such as Green-breasted Pitta, Dusky Crimsonwing, African Broadbill, White-crested Turaco, and Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher are prime targets. Forest edges and nearby streams also host African Dwarf Kingfisher and White-tailed Blue Flycatcher.

In the afternoon, engage with the Batwa community, learning about their cultural heritage and traditional forest knowledge. Birding continues within the community areas, where African Paradise Flycatcher, Rwenzori Turaco, and Olive-bellied Sunbird may be spotted. This day provides an enriching combination of avifauna, wildlife, and culture.

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

Day 13 – Gorilla Trekking in Buhoma & Transfer to Ruhija

Rise pre-dawn for the highly anticipated gorilla trekking in Buhoma sector. Guided by experienced rangers, trek through the dense rainforest in search of a habituated gorilla family. While observing these magnificent primates, you can also spot forest birds such as Red-throated Alethe, Dusky Crimsonwing, African Broadbill, Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher, and Grauer’s Rush Warbler.

After the trek, return to your lodge for lunch and proceed to Ruhija, via the Northeast Corridor (NECK), a prime birding zone rich in Albertine Rift endemics. Along the route, scan for Rwenzori Turaco, White-bellied Robin-Chat, Handsome Francolin, and African Green Broadbill. Afternoon forest walks in Ruhija provide further opportunities to observe understorey and canopy birds in quieter habitats.

Accommodation: Ruhija Lodge / Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 14 – Half-Day Birding in Mubwindi Swamp & Transfer to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Begin your day with a morning birding excursion to Mubwindi Swamp, one of the richest avian habitats in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. This swamp, characterized by dense papyrus and wetland flora, offers a prime chance to observe several Albertine Rift endemics and rare forest species. Highlights include Grauer’s Swamp Warbler, White-spotted Flufftail, African Green Broadbill, and the Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher. The swamp is especially rewarding in the early hours when birds are most active, and the misty forest creates a serene backdrop.

Mammals are also present in the area, including Black-and-white Colobus, Vervet Monkeys, and occasionally Sitatunga antelopes hidden in papyrus edges. After the swamp walk, depart for Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, crossing Rwanda’s border. This volcanic park offers spectacular montane forest birding, with unique habitats for high-altitude species. Upon arrival, enjoy an evening birding stroll near the lodge, spotting Ruwenzori Turaco, African Broadbill, Mountain Yellow Warbler, and White-bellied Robin-Chat.

Accommodation: Mgahinga Gorilla View Lodge / Mount Gahinga Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 15 – Full-Day Birding in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Today, dedicate a full day to exploring Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, a small but ecologically rich volcanic park offering a variety of habitats including montane forest, bamboo zones, and open grasslands. Guided walks focus on locating high-altitude and endemic bird species such as the Rwenzori Turaco, Mountain Yellow Warbler, African Broadbill, Dusky Crimsonwing, and Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher. The park also supports endemic mammals like golden monkeys, black-and-white colobus, and duikers, making it a paradise for wildlife photographers and birders alike.

The park’s bamboo forests are particularly important for Albertine Rift endemics, providing opportunities to spot elusive species in their natural habitat. Afternoons can include walks along volcanic slopes and forest edges to observe forest flycatchers, sunbirds, and turacos. Mgahinga’s small size ensures that even a short trek can yield impressive sightings. As the day winds down, enjoy the breathtaking views of Virunga Volcanoes, an unforgettable backdrop to your 18-Day Uganda & Rwanda Birding Excursion Safari experience.

Accommodation: Mgahinga Gorilla View Lodge / Mount Gahinga Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Uganda Birding Safari and Gorilla Trekking

Day 16 – Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park & Evening Birding

After breakfast, depart Mgahinga for Lake Mburo National Park, passing through rolling hills and scenic countryside. Upon arrival, settle into your lodge before heading out for an evening birding session around the lake shores and savannah patches. Lake Mburo is renowned for its wetland and savannah bird diversity, offering excellent opportunities to spot species such as Brown-chested Lapwing, African Jacana, Malachite Kingfisher, Purple Heron, and Grey-headed Kingfisher.

The park is also home to a variety of mammals, including zebra, impala, Uganda kob, eland, and warthogs, often seen grazing near water sources during the cooler evening hours. Walking trails along the lake allow close-up observation of bird behavior and interactions with the wetlands, enhancing your understanding of these species’ ecology. The tranquil waters and grasslands provide an idyllic sunset setting for photography and relaxation after a day of travel.

Accommodation: Rwakobo Rock Lodge / Mihingo Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 17 – Morning Birding & Boat Cruise in Lake Mburo National Park

Start your day with morning birding along the lake’s wetlands and grasslands, targeting early active species such as African Fish Eagle, Malachite Kingfisher, Grey-headed Kingfisher, African Jacana, and African Spoonbill. Walking safaris along the park’s trails allow close encounters with both avian and terrestrial wildlife, including zebra, impala, Uganda kob, and hippos.

Later, enjoy a boat cruise on Lake Mburo, observing waterbirds and shoreline wildlife. The calm waters provide excellent opportunities for photography and birdwatching. Expect to see African Fish Eagle, Goliath Heron, African Openbill, African Jacana, and African Spoonbill, as well as hippos, Nile crocodiles, and waterbucks along the shore. The combination of walking and boat excursions ensures you experience the full spectrum of the park’s wetland and savannah habitats, enriching your 18-Day Uganda & Rwanda Birding Excursion Safari knowledge.

Accommodation: Rwakobo Rock Lodge / Mihingo Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 18 – Mabira Forest Birding & Kigali City Tour, Departure

On your final day, transfer from Lake Mburo to Mabira Forest, a moist tropical forest near Kampala. Spend the morning birding along well-maintained trails, seeking species such as Grey-headed Sunbird, African Green Broadbill, Little Greenbul, Yellow-throated Woodland Warbler, and African Paradise Flycatcher. This lush forest provides a final immersion in Uganda’s rich avian diversity.

After lunch, continue your 18-Day Uganda & Rwanda Birding Excursion Safari journey to Kigali, Rwanda, for a city tour. Explore historical landmarks, cultural centers, and local markets, gaining insight into Rwanda’s history and modern life. Conclude the safari with a transfer to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight, reflecting on a comprehensive 18-day birding and wildlife adventure across Uganda and Rwanda.

Animals to Spot: Vervet Monkey | Bushbuck | Duiker | Forest Squirrel | Occasional Forest Elephants

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Affordable Uganda and Tanzania Safari

18-Day Uganda & Rwanda Birding Excursion Safari Inclusions and Exclusions

Safari Inclusions

Airport transfers in Entebbe and Kigali.
Ground transportation in a private 4×4 safari vehicle.
Accommodation on full board basis as indicated.
Park fees, permits for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking.
Game drives, boat cruises, and guided birding excursions.
Full-time English-speaking safari guide.
Bottled water during game drives and excursions.
Batwa cultural experiences.
Government taxes and service charges.

Safari Exclusions

International and domestic flights.
Visa fees for Uganda and Rwanda.
Personal insurance and medical costs.
Drinks, tips, laundry, and personal expenses.
Optional activities not specified in the itinerary.