20-Day Uganda–Rwanda Birding Excursion Safari Private Itinerary for Birders

Embark on an extraordinary 20-day birding excursion safari across Uganda and Rwanda, two of East Africa’s most biodiverse and scenic countries. This safari is designed for avid birders and wildlife enthusiasts seeking rare and endemic species, combined with iconic African mammals and cultural experiences. Starting in Entebbe, Uganda, the journey moves through wetlands, savannahs, and dense forests, highlighting key birding sites such as Mabamba Wetland, Budongo Forest, and Kibale National Park, before moving to game-rich landscapes in Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth National Park.

In Uganda, the 20-Day Uganda–Rwanda Birding Excursion Safari adventure includes gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, chimpanzee tracking in Kibale, and scenic game drives and boat cruises that reveal species-rich habitats along the Kazinga Channel. The safari continues into Rwanda, where the lush landscapes of Volcanoes National Park and Nyungwe Forest National Park provide opportunities to track mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, and chimpanzees while spotting rare Albertine Rift bird species. Akagera National Park completes the wildlife experience with savannah game drives and boat trips.

Exploring Beyond the Bird Watching Safari Experience

This 20-Day Uganda–Rwanda Birding Excursion Safari expedition is not just about birding but immerses guests in Africa’s wildlife and culture: encounter rhinos at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, interact with the Batwa community in Bwindi, and explore Kigali’s historical sites. The itinerary maximizes birding in over 30 Important Bird Areas (IBAs), giving participants the chance to see iconic species such as the Shoebill, Rwenzori Turaco, Grauer’s Rush Warbler, African Broadbill, and African Fish Eagle. Over 20 days, travelers experience a seamless blend of forest, wetland, and savannah habitats, capturing Uganda and Rwanda’s extraordinary natural diversity.

Uganda Birding Safari and Gorilla Trekking

Shoebill Tracking on a Canoe

Detailed 20-Day Uganda–Rwanda Birding Excursion Safari

Day 1 – Arrival in Entebbe, Uganda

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you are met by your professional Deks Safaris 20-Day Uganda–Rwanda Birding Excursion Safari guide. Depending on your arrival time, there is an opportunity to relax at your hotel or enjoy a short introductory walk in the Entebbe Botanical Gardens, an excellent site for urban and edge species.

The Botanical Gardens are home to birds such as the Speckled Mousebird, African Grey Parrot, Red-faced Crimsonwing, African Thrush, and Little Greenbul. Here, your guide introduces you to field binocular use, bird call identification, and the fundamentals of ethical birding practices.

Late afternoon is ideal for observing waterbirds around Lake Victoria, including the African Fish Eagle, Malachite Kingfisher, and African Jacana, as you enjoy the lake’s scenic vistas. This gentle immersion into Uganda’s birdlife provides a perfect introduction to your upcoming adventure.

What to Spot on Your Adventure?

Animals to Spot: Monitor Lizards | Vervet Monkeys | Agile Mangabeys | Nile Crocodile along the lakeshore

Accommodation: Protea Hotel / Lake Victoria Guesthouse
Meals: Dinner

Day 2 – Mabamba Wetland: The Shoebill Stork

Today’s focus is Mabamba Swamp, the iconic wetland famed for the rare Shoebill Stork. Depart early to avoid the heat and disturbance of later hours. Glide silently in narrow wooden canoes along papyrus-lined channels, guided by locals who know the birds’ secretive habits.

The Swamp hosts over 200 bird species, including African Pygmy Goose, Lesser Jacana, Long-toed Lapwing, and the striking African Darter. With patience, the elusive Shoebill can be observed stalking fish, a prehistoric spectacle unmatched anywhere in the world. Wading birds, kingfishers, and cormorants are abundant, and the tranquil scenery enhances your photographic opportunities.

After lunch, transfer to your lodge for rest, or enjoy evening birding along forest edges near the lodge. The day’s sightings set a benchmark for the rich diversity of species you will encounter throughout the 20-Day Uganda–Rwanda Birding Excursion Safari.

What to Spot on Your Adventure?

Animals to Spot: Monitor Lizards | Hippos | Vervet Monkeys | Nile Crocodile

Accommodation: Mabamba Lodge / Lake Victoria Guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Shoebill Tracking on a Canoe

Day 3 – Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park via Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Depart early for Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest park. En route, stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, home to reintroduced white rhinos. A guided walk around the sanctuary provides excellent sightings of rhinos and an opportunity to spot waterbirds along the wetland fringes, including African Jacana, Spur-winged Goose, and Black Crake.

The road to Murchison crosses agricultural landscapes and wetlands, where roadside birding reveals Swamp Flycatcher, African Green Pigeon, and Yellow-throated Leaflove. Upon arrival, enjoy the sunset views over the Nile delta and settle into your lodge overlooking the park.

What to Spot on Your Adventure?

Animals to Spot: White Rhino | Uganda Kob | Nile Crocodile | Monitor Lizard | Hippopotamus

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

Day 4 – Murchison Falls National Park Birding & Game Drive

Spend a full day exploring Murchison Falls National Park. Begin with an early game drive along the northern section, spotting savannah species such as African Elephant, Lion, Leopard, Rothschild Giraffe, and Uganda Kob, while scanning for raptors and iconic savannah birds.

20-Day Uganda–Rwanda Birding Excursion Safari highlights include Shoebill (if not yet seen at Mabamba), Bateleur, Martial Eagle, African Fish Eagle, Black-headed Gonolek, and Abyssinian Ground Hornbill. In the afternoon, a boat cruise to the base of Murchison Falls offers both stunning views and excellent wetland birding. Expect to see African Skimmer, Black Heron, Malachite Kingfisher, Grey-headed Gull, and hippos in the river.

The dramatic scenery of the Nile as it plunges into the gorge provides a memorable backdrop for both photography and wildlife observation.

What to Spot on Your Adventure?

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

Day 5 – Budongo Forest Birding & Afternoon Boat Cruise

Depart Murchison Falls and journey to Budongo Forest Reserve, a primary site for Albertine Rift endemics. Trek through the dense mahogany forest in search of elusive birds like African Pitta, Dusky Crimsonwing, and Black-capped Apalis. Listen for chimpanzee calls echoing through the forest, 20-Day Uganda–Rwanda Birding Excursion Safari provide both birding and primate excitement.

After a morning trek, continue to Murchison Falls River Delta for an afternoon boat cruise, observing waterbirds, kingfishers, and raptors. This dual approach forest and river maximizes diversity and photographic opportunities.

What to Spot on Your Adventure?

Animals to Spot: Chimpanzees | Uganda Kob | Monitor Lizard | Hippopotamus | Nile Crocodile

Accommodation: Masindi Hotel / Paraa Safari Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Uganda Birding Safari and Gorilla Trekking

Day 6 – Royal Mile & Busingiro Birding

Today, venture along the Royal Mile and Busingiro Forest, part of the Budongo Forest complex. Early morning birding offers views of Ruwenzori Turaco, Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher, and Bar-tailed Trogon. These trails are quiet and minimally disturbed, increasing the likelihood of encountering Albertine Rift endemics.

Afternoon drives provide roadside birding opportunities, including Brown-throated Wattle-eye, Mountain Masked Apalis, and Red-tailed Greenbul.

What to Spot on Your Adventure?

Animals to Spot: Chimpanzees | Vervet Monkeys | Blue Monkey | Forest Duiker | Monitor Lizards

Accommodation: Masindi Hotel / Chobe Safari Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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

After breakfast, depart Budongo Forest and head southwest toward Kibale Forest National Park, one of Uganda’s premier primate and birding destinations. The journey takes approximately 5–6 hours, offering numerous opportunities for roadside birding. Stop at small forest fragments and farmland edges to spot species such as African Green Pigeon, Red-headed Bluebill, and Brown-throated Wattle-eye.

Upon arrival, check into your lodge, then head to Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary for an evening birding session. Bigodi is a biodiverse wetland at the forest edge, home to both forest and swamp species. Walk quietly along trails and boardwalks, listening for the calls of African Broadbill, Blue-headed Sunbird, and White-spotted Flufftail. The sanctuary also hosts primates, including red-tailed monkeys, vervet monkeys, and the occasional chimpanzee, adding wildlife variety to your 20-Day Uganda–Rwanda Birding Excursion Safari experience.

The combination of forest edge, wetland, and swamp habitats ensures that your first evening in Kibale reveals a rich bird assemblage. You will likely see Black-and-white-casqued Hornbill and Yellow-spotted Barbet, while the wetland channels are perfect for Malachite Kingfisher and Lesser Swamp Warbler.

What to Spot on Your Adventure?

Animals to Spot: Red-tailed Monkey | Vervet Monkey | Chimpanzee | Forest Duiker | Monitor Lizards

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

Day 8 – Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest & Afternoon Birding

Begin the day with chimpanzee tracking, one of Uganda’s most iconic experiences. Trek through dense tropical rainforest, guided by expert rangers who know chimpanzee routines and locations. As you track these intelligent primates, your guide points out forest birds that are otherwise difficult to observe, such as the African Pitta, Dusky Crimsonwing, and Grey-headed Oliveback.

After a rewarding morning with chimpanzees, return to the lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, enjoy additional birding along forest trails, where you may encounter Black Bee-eater, Red-throated Alethe, and Olive Sunbird. The 20-Day Uganda–Rwanda Birding Excursion Safari combination of primate tracking and birding provides a unique multi-layered experience: while chimpanzees leap through the canopy, rare birds call or flit through the understory.

Kibale Forest’s mix of primary and secondary growth, along with streams and marshy areas, ensures high species richness. Expect sightings of both Albertine Rift endemics and more widespread African forest birds. Evening is free for reflection or night birding of species like African Wood Owl.

What to Spot on Your Adventure?

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

Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale

Day 9 – Early Morning Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park & Game Drive

Depart early from Kibale and travel to Queen Elizabeth National Park, a journey of approximately 4–5 hours. Along the way, enjoy roadside birding and savannah-forest transition habitats. Species such as African Green Pigeon, Red-faced Crimsonwing, and White-headed Barbet are often encountered along forested stretches and farmland edges.

Upon arrival, settle into your lodge before embarking on an afternoon game drive. Queen Elizabeth National Park is renowned for its diverse wildlife and birdlife, with over 600 bird species recorded. Look for African Fish Eagle, Bateleur, Grey Crowned Crane, and Red-necked Spurfowl as you explore the open savannah and riverine woodlands. The park’s acacia and papyrus habitats create excellent vantage points for raptors and marsh birds alike.

In addition to birding, game drives may reveal elephants, lions, Uganda kobs, buffalo, warthogs, and Uganda mangabeys, making for a rich wildlife experience. Sunset over the savannah is spectacular and offers excellent photography opportunities.

What to Spot on Your Adventure?

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

Day 10 – Morning Game Drive, Boat Cruise & Birding Along Kazinga Channel

Rise early for a morning game drive, exploring Queen Elizabeth’s diverse habitats. The drive focuses on spotting predators and ungulates, but also provides excellent birding in grasslands and woodlands. Birds often observed include Superb Starling, Grey-headed Kingfisher, Martial Eagle, and African Jacana along wetlands.

Mid-morning, embark on a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, one of Africa’s richest freshwater corridors. This cruise provides close-up views of hippos, Nile crocodiles, and elephants coming to drink, alongside abundant waterbirds. Expect Goliath Heron, Malachite Kingfisher, African Darter, Grey Heron, African Skimmer, and African Fish Eagle. The combination of aquatic and terrestrial habitats makes this one of the continent’s richest birding locales.

The afternoon allows for optional guided bird walks along the channel, with chances to see African Marsh Harrier, Pied Kingfisher, Black Crake, and African Jacana. This day is a highlight for both birders and wildlife enthusiasts, combining game viewing, birding, and photography.

What to Spot on Your Adventure?

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

Day 11 – Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest via Ishasha Sector

Today, 20-Day Uganda–Rwanda Birding Excursion Safari journey south to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, approximately 6–7 hours. En route, detour to the Ishasha Sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, famed for tree-climbing lions. While searching for these unique predators, scan the savannah and forest edges for raptors and savannah birds, including Brown Snake Eagle, Yellow-throated Bush Sparrow, and Abyssinian Ground Hornbill.

Arrive in the afternoon at your lodge in the Buhoma sector of Bwindi, where evening birding along the lodge trails can reveal forest-edge species like African Olive Pigeon, White-bellied Robin-Chat, and Red-faced Crimsonwing. The lodge’s gardens are alive with sunbirds and weavers, providing a gentle introduction to the forest’s immense avian diversity.

What to Spot on Your Adventure?

Animals to Spot: Tree-climbing Lions | Uganda Kob | Olive Baboon | Forest Duiker | African Elephant (rare)

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

Birding in Umubwindi Swamp

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

Spend the morning exploring the Buhoma Nature Walk, a gentle trail near the lodge offering prime birding in the forest understory and along streams. Key species include Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher, Dusky Crimsonwing, Red-throated Alethe, and African Broadbill. The trail passes through bamboo and mixed forest, allowing sightings of both Albertine Rift endemics and common forest birds.

In the afternoon, visit the Batwa community, learning about traditional forest-based culture. This cultural experience is complemented by forest birding along village edges, where sunbirds, weavers, and barbets are abundant. The day provides a unique combination of wildlife, birding, and cultural immersion.

What to Spot on Your Adventure?

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

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

Day 13 – Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi & Transfer to Ruhija

Rise early for the pinnacle experience: gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Accompanied by park rangers, trek through the misty forest to observe a habituated gorilla family. This is one of the most profound wildlife experiences in Africa, and the forest canopy is alive with rare bird species such as Grauer’s Warbler, African Green Broadbill, and Bar-tailed Trogon.

After spending up to an hour with the gorillas, return to your lodge for brunch before transferring to Ruhija, in the northern sector of Bwindi. Along the route, stop for birding in the NECK (Northern Edge Conservation Key) forest fragments, which host Albertine Rift endemics such as Yellow-throated Woodland Warbler and Rwenzori Batis. Afternoon exploration in Ruhija allows easy observation of forest edge species and hummingbirds.

What to Spot on Your Adventure?

Animals to Spot: Mountain Gorillas | Vervet Monkeys | Forest Duiker | Olive Baboon | Blue Monkey

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 an early morning expedition to Mubwindi Swamp, a high-altitude forested wetland in northern Bwindi, renowned for its Albertine Rift endemics. The swamp’s dense vegetation and bamboo patches provide prime habitat for Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher, Grauer’s Swamp Warbler, Bar-tailed Trogon, and Rwenzori Turaco. Skilled local guides help identify the often-secretive forest understory birds, while nearby streams attract African Emerald Cuckoo and Red-throated Alethe.

After an exhilarating morning of swamp birding, transfer south to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, a smaller but biologically rich park in the Virunga volcanic region. The park’s montane forests, bamboo zones, and volcanic slopes host golden monkeys, forest duikers, and numerous forest birds. Afternoon birding along lodge trails may reveal Red-throated Alethe, Dusky Crimsonwing, White-bellied Robin-Chat, and African Broadbill. The volcanic landscapes also allow sightings of Ruwenzori Turaco and Yellow-throated Woodland Warbler, making Mgahinga a unique extension to your 20-Day Uganda–Rwanda Birding Excursion Safari experience.

What to Spot on Your Adventure?

Accommodation: Mgahinga Gorilla Lodge / Virunga Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Uganda Birding Safaris

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

Spend a full day exploring Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, renowned for its rich montane biodiversity. Trekking through bamboo forests and lower montane slopes, you may encounter golden monkeys, an endemic species of the Virunga region. Birding opportunities abound in this mosaic of forest, bamboo, and volcanic terrain. Look for Albertine Rift endemics like Grauer’s Swamp Warbler, Red-throated Alethe, Rwenzori Batis, and Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher.

Streams and wet gullies provide habitats for African Emerald Cuckoo and White-spotted Flufftail, while the higher slopes host Rwenzori Turaco and Dusky Crimsonwing. The combination of primates and birds makes this day a highlight for the 20-Day Uganda–Rwanda Birding Excursion Safari. Optional hikes allow you to reach panoramic viewpoints of the Virunga volcanic peaks, providing spectacular photography opportunities of the surrounding forests and savannah mosaic.

What to Spot on Your Adventure?

Accommodation: Mgahinga Gorilla Lodge / Virunga Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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

Depart early from Mgahinga and journey east toward Lake Mburo National Park, a diverse savannah and wetland ecosystem. The drive takes approximately 6–7 hours, passing through scenic hills and rural landscapes. Upon arrival, settle into your lodge before venturing out for evening birding in the park’s woodland-savannah mosaic.

Lake Mburo is home to unique savannah and wetland birds, including Brown-chested Lapwing, African Jacana, Grey-headed Kingfisher, and Black-headed Gonolek. Herds of zebras, impalas, and Uganda kobs graze along the riverine habitats, creating excellent opportunities to combine birding with mammal observation. The park’s smaller size ensures an intimate experience, with easy access to lakes, papyrus swamps, and open savannah for optimal birding at sunset.

What to Spot on Your Adventure?

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

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

Start the day with a morning walking safari or birding drive to maximize sightings of woodland and wetland species. Look for African Green Pigeon, Red-faced Barbet, Bronze Sunbird, and Grey-headed Kingfisher, while the papyrus fringes and lakes host Malachite Kingfisher, African Jacana, and African Swamphen.

In the afternoon, embark on a boat cruise on Lake Mburo, exploring waterways lined with papyrus, reed beds, and floodplains. Expect close encounters with waterfowl and waders, including African Darter, African Spoonbill, Goliath Heron, and African Fish Eagle. The combination of land-based and water-based birding ensures a complete sampling of the park’s 350+ bird species. Game such as hippos, crocodiles, and zebras are regularly observed from the boat, adding excitement to your 20-Day Uganda–Rwanda Birding Excursion Safari expedition.

What to Spot on Your Adventure?

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

10-Day Rwanda Birding Safari

Day 18 – Transfer to Mabira Forest & Birding

Depart early for Mabira Forest, a moist tropical forest near Kampala, providing a rich complement of forest species after the savannah birding of Lake Mburo. Spend the day exploring forest trails, streams, and forest edges. Mabira is home to Black-and-white-casqued Hornbill, African Pitta, Yellow-throated Woodland Warbler, and Grey-throated Barbet, among many others.

Forest floor species include White-spotted Flufftail and Red-chested Owlet, while canopy excursions may reveal Green-headed Sunbird and African Emerald Cuckoo. Mabira’s proximity to Kampala allows for a short afternoon transfer back toward the city for overnight accommodation, making it a convenient final birding stop before departure.

What to Spot on Your Adventure?

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

Accommodation: Forest Cottages / Kabira Country Club
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 19 – Drive to Kigali & City Tour

Cross the border into Rwanda and head to Kigali, approximately 3–4 hours from Mabira. Upon arrival, embark on a Kigali city tour, visiting the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local markets, and cultural sites. Birding opportunities in urban gardens, small parks, and wetlands near Kigali include Black-headed Gonolek, African Green Pigeon, and Malachite Sunbird.

This day provides a blend of cultural immersion and light urban birding, offering final chances to spot common East African species and enjoy local cuisine. Evening at leisure in Kigali, preparing for departure the following day.

What to Spot on Your Adventure?

Animals to Spot: Monitor Lizards | Vervet Monkey | Olive Baboon | Domestic Guinea Fowl | Occasionally small antelopes in peri-urban areas

Accommodation: Kigali Serena Hotel / Heaven Boutique Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 20 – Departure from Kigali International Airport

After breakfast, transfer to Kigali International Airport for your departure. Depending on your flight schedule, there may be a short stop for souvenir shopping or final birding in gardens near the airport. Reflect on the spectacular journey through Uganda and Rwanda’s birding and wildlife hotspots, with unforgettable 20-Day Uganda–Rwanda Birding Excursion Safari memories of gorillas, chimpanzees, and rare Albertine Rift birds.

Animals to Spot (last chance): Vervet Monkey | Olive Baboon | Monitor Lizard

Meals: Breakfast

Shoebill Tracking on a Canoe

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

Safari Inclusions

Airport transfers in Entebbe and Kigali.
4×4 private safari vehicle with English-speaking driver/guide.
All park entrance and conservation fees.
Gorilla trekking permits in Bwindi and Volcanoes National Park.
Chimpanzee tracking permits in Kibale and Nyungwe Forests.
Game drives in Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, Lake Mburo, and Akagera.
Boat cruises on Nile Delta, Kazinga Channel, and Lake Mburo.
Guided birding excursions in all key locations.
Batwa cultural visit.
Full board accommodation as specified in the itinerary.
Mineral water (1 litre per person per day).

Safari Exclusions

International flights and visas.
Travel insurance.
Personal expenses such as tips, drinks, laundry, and optional activities not specified.
Additional gorilla/chimpanzee treks beyond the itinerary.
Airport departure taxes if not included in ticket price.